Exploring the Legacy of the 1966 Shelby GT350H: How Hertz Transformed a Rare Collector’s Mustang into a Cultural Icon

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1966 Shelby GT350H
1966 Shelby GT350H

The Ford Mustang, a cultural touchstone introduced in 1964, quickly captured the world’s imagination. However, beneath its sleek exterior, Ford executives recognized a void: a high-performance variant worthy of the car’s iconic status. Turning to their racing partner, Carroll Shelby, they commissioned a creation that would redefine the Mustang.

The resulting Shelby GT350, revealed in 1965, was a limited-production masterpiece, catering to a select few enthusiasts. A pivotal moment arrived in 1966 when Hertz, the car rental company, entered the picture. By offering the Shelby GT350 to the public, Hertz democratized performance driving, allowing countless individuals to experience the thrill of owning a piece of automotive history.

1966 Shelby GT350H
Exploring the Legacy of the 1966 Shelby GT350H (Shelby)

This unprecedented partnership transformed the Shelby Mustang from a rare collector’s item to a cultural icon. Legends of missing performance parts and rental cars adorned with race numbers further cemented the car’s mystique, solidifying its place in automotive lore.

The 1966 GT350 Hertz rental cars, a fleeting one-year experiment, have changed into automotive legends. Once their initial lease period concluded, these Mustangs were returned to Ford, underwent reconditioning, and were subsequently offered to the public.

Unbeknownst to the original purchasers, they were acquiring future automotive icons. In the present day, pristine, meticulously documented examples of these cars are coveted collector items carrying hefty price tags. One such vehicle, adorned in classic black and gold livery and boasting 92,268 miles on the clock, is currently available for acquisition.

1966 Shelby GT350H
Exploring the Legacy of the 1966 Shelby GT350H (Shelby)

Despite a previous valuation of $150,000 at the 2016 GT350 Hertz jubilee, this untouched gem has yet to find a new owner in the intervening eight years. The current asking price surpasses $105,000, a testament to its desirability and investment potential.

Published
Dana Phio

By Dana Phio

From the sound of engines to the spin of wheels, I love the excitement of driving. I really enjoy cars and bikes, and I'm here to share that passion. Daxstreet helps me keep going, connecting me with people who feel the same way. It's like finding friends for life.

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