On the street, the GT350 was quite a challenging drive, thanks to its stiff ride, high-effort competition brakes, cop-baiting exhaust, and squealing rear tires at the mercy of the Detroit Locker rearend assembly. Several revisions for 1966 successfully maintained the basic character of the GT350 while making it somewhat less demanding on its drivers and passengers.
Taking advantage of the greater production capacity offered by Shelby American’s move to larger production facilities, General Manager Peyton Cramer looked to the Hertz rental-car company as a potential fleet buyer for the GT350. Cramer figured Hertz would be receptive, since it had recently switched its rental fleet from Chevrolet to Ford. Knowing that Hertz had built its own cars until 1927 and finished them in black and gold, Cramer suggested a special GT350 for Hertz in similar colors. An initial order for 200 cars quickly grew to 1,000 units, ultimately representing nearly 40 per cent of total GT350 production for 1966.
An unqualified success, the Hertz program spurred untold amounts of free publicity for Shelby American and drew thousands of potential buyers to new-car showrooms. In 1967, Hertz advertised its 1966 Shelby fleet for sale, with some sold directly from Hertz and a number sold via Ford dealers. Shelby continued to supply Hertz through 1969 and the cars remain highly collectible and famous – perhaps infamous – as “Rent-A-Racers.”
Photographed for Randy Leffingwell’s “Shelby Mustang: Racer for the Street,” this 1966 GT350 H is one of the nicest examples anywhere, and it is now offered for sale after 15 years of single ownership with less than 1,000 miles accumulated over that timeframe. It clearly remains simply excellent overall, with body and paint by Stretch Cunningham, the engine by Mike Eisenberg at Maeco Motorsports, and consistent maintenance by Steve Beck at Checkpoint Automotive. It is rust-free, with all body panels lining up perfectly and only a few minor imperfections due to limited use. The current owner also states that the Shelby is eminently reliable and ready to be driven anywhere.
With its glovebox door graced by the late Carroll Shelby’s instantly recognized signature, this 1966 GT350 H is simply impressive throughout. A formidable race-bred performer, the GT350 was recommended in period by Motor Trend testers as “…a sure cure for all strains of boredom.” Once behind the wheel, this rare and iconic thoroughbred is sure to deliver the same adrenaline-laced driving experience today, plus guaranteed collectability to boot.
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