Triumph GT6

vs

Shelby GT350H

UK vs USA — 1966 vs 1966

Triumph GT6 (1966)
Shelby GT350H (1966)
Specifications
GT6 Mk IIIGT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer
Horsepower104 hp306 hp
Torque116 lb-ft329 lb-ft
Engine Size1,998 cc4,736 cc
0-60 mph10.1 sec6.6 sec
Top Speed114 mph127 mph
¼ Mile17.2 sec14.7 sec
Weight1,949 lbs2,800 lbs
Wheelbase2,108 mm2,743 mm
Length3,784 mm4,613 mm
Units Produced40,9261,001
Original MSRP$3,100$4,547
Value (Excellent)$40,000$450,000
Collectibility6/109/10
Rarity6/108/10
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 1966 Triumph GT6 Mk III counters with lighter weight, better value, 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 1966 Triumph GT6 Mk III 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 — UK versus USA. The 1966 Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer holds a clear advantage in raw power with 306 hp compared to 104 hp, a 202-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Triumph GT6 uses a Inline-6 OHV displacing 1,998 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 10.1 seconds. The Triumph GT6 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 851 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,001 units built, the 1966 Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer is considerably scarcer than the Triumph GT6's 40,926 examples. On the collector market, the 1966 Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer commands a significant premium over the 1966 Triumph GT6 Mk III, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1966 Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.