France vs USA — 1973 vs 1966
| Bagheera S | GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 90 hp | 306 hp |
| Torque | 91 lb-ft | 329 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,442 cc | 4,736 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 10.5 sec | 6.6 sec |
| Top Speed | 115 mph | 127 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.5 sec | 14.7 sec |
| Weight | 2,083 lbs | 2,800 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,340 mm | 2,743 mm |
| Length | 4,063 mm | 4,613 mm |
| Units Produced | 47,802 | 1,001 |
| Original MSRP | — | $4,547 |
| Value (Excellent) | $25,000 | $450,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 8/10 |
The 1966 Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1973 Matra Bagheera S counters with lighter weight, better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
When France engineering meets USA craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1973 Matra Bagheera S and 1966 Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 1966 Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer holds a clear advantage in raw power with 306 hp compared to 90 hp, a 216-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Matra Bagheera uses a Inline-4 OHV displacing 1,442 cc, while the Shelby GT350H relies on a V8 OHV 16V with 4,736 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1966 Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer edges ahead at 6.6 seconds versus 10.5 seconds. The Matra Bagheera carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 717 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 Matra Bagheera's 47,802 examples. On the collector market, the 1966 Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer commands a significant premium over the 1973 Matra Bagheera S, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1966 Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.