USA vs USA — 1966 vs 1962
| Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer | Cortina Lotus Mk2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 306 hp | 109 hp |
| Torque | 329 lb-ft | 107 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,736 cc | 1,558 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.6 sec | 9.9 sec |
| Top Speed | 130 mph | 108 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.9 sec | 17.2 sec |
| Weight | 2,850 lbs | 1,960 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,743 mm | 2,489 mm |
| Length | 4,613 mm | 4,267 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,001 | 4,032 |
| Original MSRP | $4,547 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $450,000 | $150,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 8/10 |
On balance, the 1966 Ford Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer makes a stronger case on paper with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. However, the 1962 Ford Cortina Lotus Mk2 counters with lighter weight, better value, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1966 Ford Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer for outright capability, or the 1962 Ford Cortina Lotus Mk2 for a more distinctive ownership experience.
Ford has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1966 Ford Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer with the 1962 Ford Cortina Lotus Mk2 highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1966 Ford Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer holds a clear advantage in raw power with 306 hp compared to 109 hp, a 197-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Ford Shelby GT350H uses a V8 OHV displacing 4,736 cc, while the Ford Cortina relies on a I4 DOHC with 1,558 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1966 Ford Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer edges ahead at 6.6 seconds versus 9.9 seconds. The Ford Cortina carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 890 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,001 units built, the 1966 Ford Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer is considerably scarcer than the Ford Cortina's 4,032 examples. On the collector market, the 1966 Ford Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer commands a significant premium over the 1962 Ford Cortina Lotus Mk2, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.