Back in the 60s, those who wanted to drive a fast Mustang but didn’t own one could go down and rent one from Hertz. The car rental agency is doing the same thing again, offering the Shelby 500-H with 900 horsepower as a rental car in some of its fleets. This car will give new meaning to “drive it like a rental.”
The price tag is $399 per day, and the cars are available in convertible or coupe forms. However, it’s not an actual Shelby GT500 made by Ford. Rather, it’s a standard Shelby GT based on the Mustang GT Premium using a 5.0-liter V-8. The cars are hopped up for GT500-H duty lightly with the supercharger.
The Legacy of Hertz and Shelby
The collaboration between Hertz and Shelby dates back to the 1960s with the “Rent-A-Racer” program. This initiative allowed car enthusiasts to experience high-performance vehicles without the commitment of ownership. The original program featured the Shelby GT350H, which became a legend in its own right. These cars were often rented for a weekend of racing and then returned, sometimes with a bit more wear and tear than when they left the lot. Despite this, or perhaps because of it, the GT350H models have become highly sought after by collectors, fetching high prices at auctions.
Modern-Day Performance and Features
Fast forward to today, and Hertz is reviving this iconic partnership with the Shelby 500-H. This modern iteration is not just a nod to the past but a full-throttle leap into the future of performance rentals. The 5.0-liter V-8 engine, enhanced with a supercharger, delivers a staggering 900 horsepower. This makes the Shelby 500-H one of the most powerful rental cars available on the market.
The car comes equipped with advanced features such as a high-performance suspension system, Brembo brakes, and a custom exhaust that gives it a distinctive roar. Inside, the Shelby 500-H offers a blend of luxury and sportiness with leather-trimmed seats, a state-of-the-art infotainment system, and unique badging that sets it apart from standard Mustangs.
Certainly, these cars will be sold down the road, but I’m not sure it would be wise to purchase a rental car with 900 horsepower. That said, some of the 60s Shelby Mustangs from Hertz are extremely valuable.
Considerations for Potential Buyers
While the idea of owning a piece of modern automotive history is tempting, potential buyers should exercise caution. Rental cars, especially high-performance ones, are often driven hard. The 900 horsepower under the hood of the Shelby 500-H is likely to have been tested to its limits by renters. However, for those who are willing to take the risk, these cars could offer a unique blend of performance and history.
Moreover, the Shelby 500-H comes with a suite of modern safety features, including advanced traction control, multiple airbags, and a reinforced chassis, making it a safer option compared to its 1960s predecessors. This could make it a more appealing choice for those looking to own a high-performance vehicle with a storied legacy.
The revival of the Hertz and Shelby partnership with the Shelby 500-H offers car enthusiasts a unique opportunity to experience a high-performance vehicle without the long-term commitment of ownership. Whether you’re looking to relive the glory days of the 1960s “Rent-A-Racer” program or simply want to feel the thrill of 900 horsepower, the Shelby 500-H is sure to deliver an unforgettable driving experience.
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