Chevrolet El Camino

vs

Ford Shelby GT350H

USA vs USA — 1970 vs 1966

Chevrolet El Camino (1970)
Ford Shelby GT350H (1966)
Specifications
El Camino SS 454Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer
Horsepower450 hp306 hp
Torque500 lb-ft329 lb-ft
Engine Size7,440 cc4,736 cc
0-60 mph5.4 sec6.6 sec
Top Speed125 mph130 mph
¼ Mile13.1 sec14.9 sec
Weight2,850 lbs
Wheelbase2,946 mm2,743 mm
Length5,245 mm4,613 mm
Units Produced1,001
Original MSRP$4,547
Value (Excellent)$150,000$450,000
Collectibility5/1010/10
Rarity8/109/10
The Verdict

This matchup is remarkably close. The 1970 Chevrolet El Camino SS 454 offers more power, quicker acceleration, better value, while the 1966 Ford Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer counters with higher top speed, stronger collectibility. Neither holds a decisive advantage, making this a true enthusiast's dilemma. Your choice ultimately depends on which driving philosophy resonates more with you.

Overview

The 1970 Chevrolet El Camino SS 454 and 1966 Ford Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer stand as two of the most notable Muscle Car cars from Muscle era. Both emerged during a period of intense competition, and choosing between them remains a passionate debate among collectors. The 1970 Chevrolet El Camino SS 454 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 450 hp compared to 306 hp, a 144-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Chevrolet El Camino uses a V8 OHV 16V displacing 7,440 cc, while the Ford Shelby GT350H relies on a V8 OHV with 4,736 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1970 Chevrolet El Camino SS 454 edges ahead at 5.4 seconds versus 6.6 seconds. On the collector market, the 1966 Ford Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer commands a significant premium over the 1970 Chevrolet El Camino SS 454, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1966 Ford Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.