USA vs USA — 1968 vs 1965
| Corvette C3 Stingray | GT350 R-Model | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 300 hp | 306 hp |
| Torque | 350 lb-ft | 329 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 5,736 cc | 4,736 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.7 sec | 5.7 sec |
| Top Speed | 139 mph | 135 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.1 sec | 14.0 sec |
| Weight | 3,300 lbs | 2,800 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,489 mm | 2,743 mm |
| Length | 4,635 mm | 4,613 mm |
| Units Produced | 542,861 | 562 |
| Original MSRP | $4,663 | $4,547 |
| Value (Excellent) | $120,000 | $500,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 3/10 | 8/10 |
Numbers favor the 1965 Shelby GT350 R-Model with quicker acceleration, lighter weight, greater rarity. The 1968 Chevrolet Corvette C3 Stingray offers higher top speed, better value, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.
In the world of Sports Car cars, few comparisons generate as much discussion as the 1968 Chevrolet Corvette C3 Stingray versus the 1965 Shelby GT350 R-Model. Both hail from Muscle era and represent the pinnacle of their respective manufacturers' ambitions. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1968 Chevrolet Corvette C3 Stingray producing 300 hp and the 1965 Shelby GT350 R-Model delivering 306 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Chevrolet Corvette uses a V8 OHV (small-block) displacing 5,736 cc, while the Shelby GT350 relies on a V8 OHV (Ford 289 Hi-Po) with 4,736 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1965 Shelby GT350 R-Model edges ahead at 5.7 seconds versus 5.7 seconds. The Shelby GT350 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 500 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 562 units built, the 1965 Shelby GT350 R-Model is considerably scarcer than the Chevrolet Corvette's 542,861 examples. On the collector market, the 1965 Shelby GT350 R-Model commands a significant premium over the 1968 Chevrolet Corvette C3 Stingray, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1965 Shelby GT350 R-Model rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.