Alfa Romeo Giulia

vs

Shelby GT350H

Italy vs USA — 1963 vs 1966

Alfa Romeo Giulia (1963)
Shelby GT350H (1966)
Specifications
Giulia Sprint GTA 1600GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer
Horsepower115 hp306 hp
Torque101 lb-ft329 lb-ft
Engine Size1,570 cc4,736 cc
0-60 mph8.2 sec6.6 sec
Top Speed117 mph127 mph
¼ Mile16.1 sec14.7 sec
Weight2,800 lbs
Wheelbase2,350 mm2,743 mm
Length4,120 mm4,613 mm
Units Produced5001,001
Original MSRP$4,547
Value (Excellent)$300,000$450,000
Collectibility5/109/10
Rarity9/108/10
The Verdict

The 1966 Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1963 Alfa Romeo Giulia Sprint GTA 1600 counters with greater rarity, 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.

Overview

Putting the 1963 Alfa Romeo Giulia Sprint GTA 1600 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 — Italy versus USA. The 1966 Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer holds a clear advantage in raw power with 306 hp compared to 115 hp, a 191-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Alfa Romeo Giulia uses a Inline-4 DOHC 8V displacing 1,570 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 8.2 seconds. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1966 Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.