UK vs USA — 1971 vs 1966
| E-Type Series III V12 Roadster | GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 272 hp | 306 hp |
| Torque | 304 lb-ft | 329 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 5,343 cc | 4,736 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.4 sec | 6.6 sec |
| Top Speed | 150 mph | 127 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.5 sec | 14.7 sec |
| Weight | 3,307 lbs | 2,800 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,667 mm | 2,743 mm |
| Length | 4,686 mm | 4,613 mm |
| Units Produced | 15,287 | 1,001 |
| Original MSRP | $6,900 | $4,547 |
| Value (Excellent) | $180,000 | $450,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 8/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1971 Jaguar E-Type Series III V12 Roadster excels in quicker acceleration, higher top speed, better value, while the 1966 Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer stands out for more power, lighter weight, greater rarity. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Putting the 1971 Jaguar E-Type Series III V12 Roadster against the 1966 Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — UK versus USA. The 1966 Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer holds a clear advantage in raw power with 306 hp compared to 272 hp, a 34-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Jaguar E-Type uses a V12 SOHC displacing 5,343 cc, while the Shelby GT350H relies on a V8 OHV 16V with 4,736 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1971 Jaguar E-Type Series III V12 Roadster edges ahead at 6.4 seconds versus 6.6 seconds. The Shelby GT350H carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 507 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,001 units built, the 1966 Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer is considerably scarcer than the Jaguar E-Type's 15,287 examples. On the collector market, the 1966 Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer commands a significant premium over the 1971 Jaguar E-Type Series III V12 Roadster, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.