1966 Shelby GT350H Fastback

The “Rent-a-Racer” program provided by Shelby and Hertz was a promotional idea to get the Shelby Mustang in the hands of car enthusiasts to really show off the car’s potential. Shelby American pitched the idea of 100 black-and-gold GT350s (Hertz’s corporate colors) that would provide a four-seat sports car component to Hertz’s Sports Car Club. The deal would provide the instant gratification that comes with a guaranteed sale of a large block of cars. In the longer run, it would give the GT350 a huge increase in customer exposure, courtesy of Hertz. Hertz bought the idea, and over the next few months, the purchase quantity rose steadily from 100 to 175, then to 200, then, finally, to just under 1,000 cars.

This Raven Black 1966 Shelby GT350H was shipped to Courtesy Motors in Littleton, Colorado, on March 17, 1966 for dealer prep prior to delivery to Hertz. This new Shelby was invoiced to Hertz for $3,547 plus $105.55 for chrome Magnum wheels, $45.45 for a radio, a $20 predelivery charge and $108.75 for freight for a grand total of $3,826.75. When it was done in the rental fleet, it was sold to its first private owner, who lived in Amarillo, Texas.

Under previous ownership, it underwent a rotisserie restoration and was finished in its original color combination of black with gold stripes. The engine compartment is detailed nicely with correct decals and paint finishes. The undercarriage is finished in red oxide primer with color overspray and inspection markings. Documenting this beautiful Hertz Shelby is SAAC serial number verification and Shelby invoices, and it’s also listed in the Shelby registry. This example also scored a first-place popular vote in the Hertz class at the SAAC Shelby convention. This Shelby is a great example of the rare and unique Rent-a-Racer version of the famous GT350. Once a $12 per day rental and now a desirable collector car, this Shelby GT350H has great history, special features and Shelby pedigree that make it a great car for the discerning collector or Shelby enthusiast.