1966 Ford Shelby Mustang GT350-H: A Classic American Icon
The 1966 Ford Shelby Mustang GT350-H is a car that has left an indelible mark on the American automotive landscape. This high-performance vehicle, born out of a unique collaboration between Ford and Hertz, has become a symbol of American muscle and a coveted collector's item. This article delves into the legacy, design, performance, and market value of this classic car.
The Legacy of the 1966 Ford Shelby Mustang GT350-H
The 1966 Ford Shelby Mustang GT350-H is more than just a car; it's a piece of American history. This vehicle, with its distinctive black and gold paint job, was the result of a unique partnership between the Ford Motor Company and the Hertz Corporation. The "H" in GT350-H stands for Hertz, as these cars were initially part of a "Rent-A-Racer" program where customers could rent high-performance vehicles directly from Hertz. This innovative program brought the thrill of driving a high-performance vehicle to the masses and cemented the GT350-H's place in automotive history.
"The 1966 Ford Shelby Mustang GT350-H is more than just a car; it's a piece of American history."
Design and Aesthetics
The 1966 Ford Shelby Mustang GT350-H is a sight to behold. The standard color scheme for the GT350-H was black with gold stripes, a nod to Hertz's corporate colors. However, a small number of cars were produced in other colors, making these variants particularly sought after by collectors. The car's design didn't just stop at the exterior. Inside, the GT350-H retained many of the creature comforts of the standard Ford Mustang it was based on, making it a high-performance vehicle that didn't sacrifice comfort.
"The standard color scheme for the GT350-H was black with gold stripes, a nod to Hertz's corporate colors."
Performance and Specifications
Under the hood, the 1966 Ford Shelby Mustang GT350-H was a beast. It was powered by a K-code, Cobra 289 High-Performance V8 engine that produced 306 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque. This power was sent to the rear wheels through a three-speed automatic transmission, a departure from the standard GT350's four-speed manual. The GT350-H was more than capable of holding its own on the racetrack, but it was also a car that you could drive to the grocery store.
"Under the hood, the 1966 Ford Shelby Mustang GT350-H was a beast."
The GT350-H as a Rental Car
The idea of a high-performance rental car may seem strange today, but in the 1960s, it was a revolutionary concept. Ford and Hertz launched the "Rent-A-Racer" program in 1966, allowing anyone with a valid driver's license and a small fee to drive away in a Shelby Mustang GT350-H. This program brought the thrill of driving a high-performance vehicle to the masses and created a new group of performance car enthusiasts.
"Ford and Hertz launched the "Rent-A-Racer" program in 1966, allowing anyone with a valid driver's license and a small fee to drive away in a Shelby Mustang GT350-H."
For more on the history and impact of the Ford Shelby Mustang, check out our review of the 1965 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 and the 1967 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500. If you're interested in how the Shelby Mustang has influenced modern vehicles, our review of the 1967 Revology Shelby Mustang GT500 provides an interesting perspective.
A Collector's Dream
Continuing our journey into the fascinating world of the 1966 Ford Shelby Mustang GT350-H, we now turn our attention to its market value, buying considerations, and its lasting impact on the automotive industry. This classic American muscle car has not only captivated car enthusiasts but also proven to be a valuable asset for collectors.
The GT350-H in the Market
The 1966 Ford Shelby Mustang GT350-H has become a highly sought-after vehicle in the classic car market. Its unique history, combined with its limited production run, has made it a valuable collector's item. Prices can vary greatly based on factors such as condition, mileage, and originality, but well-preserved examples can fetch high prices at auction.
"The 1966 Ford Shelby Mustang GT350-H has become a highly sought-after vehicle in the classic car market."
For a broader perspective on car prices, you can check out our articles on USA car prices and the price for leasing a car.
Buying Guide for the 1966 Shelby GT350
If you're considering purchasing a 1966 Shelby GT350, there are several factors to keep in mind. First and foremost, verify the car's authenticity. Each GT350-H has a unique serial number that can be used to confirm its legitimacy. Additionally, consider the car's condition. While some wear and tear can be expected for a vehicle of this age, excessive rust or signs of poor restoration should be red flags.
"Each GT350-H has a unique serial number that can be used to confirm its legitimacy."
For more detailed reviews and guides on classic and modern cars, you can explore our reviews section.
The GT350-H's Impact on the Automotive Industry
The 1966 Ford Shelby Mustang GT350-H had a significant impact on the automotive industry. Its "Rent-A-Racer" program was a novel concept that brought high-performance cars to a wider audience. Moreover, the GT350-H's success paved the way for other manufacturers to create their own high-performance variants, contributing to the birth of the "muscle car" era in America.
"The 1966 Ford Shelby Mustang GT350-H had a significant impact on the automotive industry."
An Enduring Icon
As we conclude our exploration of the 1966 Ford Shelby Mustang GT350-H, we delve into its cultural significance, personal stories associated with this classic car, and its status in today's classic car market. This iconic vehicle continues to captivate car enthusiasts and collectors, standing as a testament to a golden era of American automotive history.
The GT350-H's Role in Pop Culture
The 1966 Ford Shelby Mustang GT350-H has left a lasting impression not just in the automotive world, but also in popular culture. Its distinctive design and high-performance capabilities have made it a favorite among filmmakers and artists, featuring in numerous films, TV shows, and songs over the years. This cultural presence has further cemented the GT350-H's status as an iconic American muscle car.
"The 1966 Ford Shelby Mustang GT350-H has left a lasting impression not just in the automotive world, but also in popular culture."
Personal Stories and Anecdotes
Over the years, the 1966 Ford Shelby Mustang GT350-H has been the centerpiece of many personal stories and anecdotes. From thrilling road trips to memorable moments at the racetrack, these stories add a personal touch to the GT350-H's legacy. They highlight the emotional connection that owners and enthusiasts have with this classic car, further enhancing its appeal.
"From thrilling road trips to memorable moments at the racetrack, these stories add a personal touch to the GT350-H's legacy."
The GT350-H Today
Today, the 1966 Ford Shelby Mustang GT350-H is a prized possession for any classic car collector. Its unique history, coupled with its impressive performance and iconic design, make it a standout in any collection. Despite being over half a century old, the GT350-H continues to captivate car enthusiasts around the world, a testament to its enduring appeal.
"Today, the 1966 Ford Shelby Mustang GT350-H is a prized possession for any classic car collector."
For more on the enduring legacy of the Shelby Mustang, check out our review of the 1966 Ford Shelby Mustang GT350-H. If you're interested in how the Shelby Mustang has influenced modern vehicles, our reviews of the 2024 Lotus Eletre, 2024 Acura Integra Type-S, and 2024 Buick Envista provide interesting perspectives.
This concludes our deep dive into the 1966 Ford Shelby Mustang GT350-H. From its inception as a high-performance rental car to its current status as a classic car icon, the GT350-H's journey is a fascinating tale of American automotive history.
FAQs
What makes the 1966 Ford Shelby Mustang GT350-H unique?
The 1966 Ford Shelby Mustang GT350-H is unique due to its history as a "Rent-A-Racer" car. Ford and Hertz partnered to offer these high-performance vehicles as rental cars, allowing the general public to experience the thrill of driving a race-ready vehicle. This unique program, combined with the car's impressive performance and distinctive black and gold color scheme, has made the GT350-H a standout in automotive history.
How many 1966 Ford Shelby Mustang GT350-H cars were made?
Approximately 1,000 units of the 1966 Ford Shelby Mustang GT350-H were produced. This limited production run has contributed to the car's rarity and desirability among collectors.
What engine does the 1966 Ford Shelby Mustang GT350-H have?
The 1966 Ford Shelby Mustang GT350-H is powered by a K-code, Cobra 289 High-Performance V8 engine. This engine produces 306 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque, providing the car with impressive performance capabilities.
How much is a 1966 Ford Shelby Mustang GT350-H worth today?
The value of a 1966 Ford Shelby Mustang GT350-H can vary greatly depending on factors such as condition, mileage, and originality. However, well-preserved examples can fetch high prices in the classic car market. For a more detailed look at car prices, you can check out our articles on USA car prices.
What is the significance of the "H" in GT350-H?
The "H" in GT350-H stands for Hertz. The 1966 Ford Shelby Mustang GT350-H was part of a unique program between Ford and Hertz, where these high-performance vehicles were offered as rental cars. This "Rent-A-Racer" program allowed the general public to experience driving a race-ready vehicle, contributing to the GT350-H's unique legacy.
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