The Shelby variety of the Mustangs in the late ’60s are incredibly valuable and rare. There aren’t many of them left, so finding one that has been squirreled away for decades is a big deal. Perhaps even more unique than your average Shelby GT350 of 1966 vintage is one of the few Shelby GT350H Hertz “rent-a-racer” cars.
The Unique History of the Shelby GT350H
The Shelby GT350H was a special edition of the GT350, created in collaboration with Hertz for their “Rent-a-Racer” program. This program allowed customers to rent high-performance cars, giving them a taste of racing without the commitment of ownership. The GT350H models were equipped with powerful V8 engines and distinctive styling, making them highly sought after by collectors today. Only about 1,000 of these cars were produced, adding to their rarity and desirability.
This particular Shelby was owned by a “little old lady” and was stored away in an old cinderblock building for who knows how many decades. The car appears to be rust-free, but the reason it was initially stored away seems to be an accident.
You can see in images that the front fender and driver door were replaced. The car did have a real Shelby GT350 VIN plate and appears to be a real Shelby car. This thing will be very valuable once restored.
The Restoration Potential
Restoring a classic car like the Shelby GT350H is no small feat, but the rewards can be immense. Given its rarity and historical significance, a fully restored GT350H can fetch a high price at auctions. The restoration process involves meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that every component is either restored to its original condition or replaced with authentic parts.
For example, the engine would need to be carefully rebuilt to match its original specifications, and the interior would require period-correct materials and finishes. The exterior paint job would also need to replicate the original color scheme, often black with gold stripes for the GT350H models. Once restored, this car would not only be a valuable collector’s item but also a piece of automotive history.
Why the GT350H Stands Out
The GT350H stands out not just because of its rarity but also due to its unique place in automotive history. The “Rent-a-Racer” program was a bold marketing move by Hertz and Shelby, aimed at car enthusiasts who wanted to experience the thrill of driving a high-performance vehicle without the long-term commitment. This program also helped to cement the Shelby brand’s reputation for producing powerful, race-ready cars that were still street-legal.
Moreover, the GT350H models were often used in amateur racing events, adding to their storied past. Many of these cars have fascinating histories, having been driven hard and put away wet, so to speak. Finding one in relatively good condition, like the one owned by the “little old lady,” is a rare and exciting discovery.
The Shelby GT350H is more than just a car; it’s a piece of American automotive history. Its unique background, combined with its rarity and performance capabilities, make it a highly sought-after collector’s item. The discovery of one in a cinderblock building, owned by a little old lady, adds another layer to its intriguing story. Once restored, this car will not only be valuable but also a testament to the enduring appeal of the Shelby brand.
via Barn Finds
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