USA vs USA — 1963 vs 1966
| Corvette C2 Sting Ray Coupe | GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 360 hp | 306 hp |
| Torque | 352 lb-ft | 329 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 5,359 cc | 4,736 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.6 sec | 6.6 sec |
| Top Speed | 143 mph | 127 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.1 sec | 14.7 sec |
| Weight | 3,050 lbs | 2,800 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,489 mm | 2,743 mm |
| Length | 4,445 mm | 4,613 mm |
| Units Produced | 117,964 | 1,001 |
| Original MSRP | $4,252 | $4,547 |
| Value (Excellent) | $250,000 | $450,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 8/10 |
The 1963 Chevrolet Corvette C2 Sting Ray Coupe holds an edge across most measurable criteria, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. That said, the 1966 Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer brings lighter weight, greater rarity and remains a compelling choice for enthusiasts who value Shelby heritage. The right pick depends on whether you prioritize specifications or the intangible qualities that make a car truly special.
The 1963 Chevrolet Corvette C2 Sting Ray Coupe and 1966 Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer stand as two of the most notable Sports Car cars from Muscle era. Both emerged during a period of intense competition, and choosing between them remains a passionate debate among collectors. The 1963 Chevrolet Corvette C2 Sting Ray Coupe holds a clear advantage in raw power with 360 hp compared to 306 hp, a 54-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Chevrolet Corvette uses a V8 OHV (small-block) displacing 5,359 cc, while the Shelby GT350H relies on a V8 OHV 16V with 4,736 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1963 Chevrolet Corvette C2 Sting Ray Coupe edges ahead at 5.6 seconds versus 6.6 seconds. The Shelby GT350H carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 250 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 Chevrolet Corvette's 117,964 examples. On the collector market, the 1966 Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer commands a significant premium over the 1963 Chevrolet Corvette C2 Sting Ray Coupe, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.