Cruising onto the scene in 1965, the Shelby GT350 carved a distinct path as a powerful and exhilarating American muscle car. However, it was the following year that truly cemented its place in automotive history.
1966 saw a groundbreaking marketing collaboration that surprised the industry. Shelby teamed up with rental car giant Hertz to create a fleet of 1,000 specially designed GT350s, designated as the GT350H, specifically for customer rentals.
This unprecedented partnership between a high-performance car manufacturer and a rental company captured the public’s imagination.
For a surprisingly affordable price tag of $17 a day and an additional charge per mile, everyday Americans with a need for speed could experience the thrill of getting behind the wheel of a Shelby Mustang.
While membership in a Hertz club added a minor hurdle, it did little to deter driving enthusiasts from this unique opportunity. Despite a few scratches on the windshield hinting at past adventures, this unassuming Hertz rental car holds a surprising story.
Andy, a veteran racer himself, defied expectations by never pushing this car to its limits on the track. Instead, he recognized its historical significance and chose to cherish it as a time capsule.
After its rental days were over, he acquired the Shelby, transforming it from a fleet vehicle into a trusty companion for countless road trips.
The car’s longevity is a testament to both its inherent durability and the care Andy has showered upon it.
Though Andy has stepped away from competitive racing, his passion for high-performance vehicles remains undimmed, as evidenced by his collection of track-exclusive cars.
