USA vs USA — 1973 vs 1966
| Trans Am SD-455 | Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 310 hp | 306 hp |
| Torque | — | 329 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 7,456 cc | 4,736 cc |
| 0-60 mph | — | 6.6 sec |
| Top Speed | — | 130 mph |
| ¼ Mile | — | 14.9 sec |
| Weight | — | 2,850 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,746 mm | 2,743 mm |
| Length | 4,902 mm | 4,613 mm |
| Units Produced | 252 | 1,001 |
| Original MSRP | — | $4,547 |
| Value (Excellent) | $280,000 | $450,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 9/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1973 Pontiac Trans Am SD-455 excels in greater rarity, while the 1966 Ford Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer stands out for stronger collectibility. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Among Muscle Car enthusiasts, the matchup between the 1973 Pontiac Trans Am SD-455 and 1966 Ford Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer is one for the ages. These Muscle era machines competed directly for buyers' attention and continue to vie for collectors' affections today. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1973 Pontiac Trans Am SD-455 producing 310 hp and the 1966 Ford Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer delivering 306 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Pontiac Trans Am uses a V8 displacing 7,456 cc, while the Ford Shelby GT350H relies on a V8 OHV with 4,736 cc. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 252 units built, the 1973 Pontiac Trans Am SD-455 is considerably scarcer than the Ford Shelby GT350H's 1,001 examples. 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 Ford Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.