The Shelby GT500-H with over 900 horsepower.
A Complete Guide to All Shelby Mustang Models
Shelby Mustangs are among the most iconic American muscle cars. Known for their power and speed, they have a special place in automotive history. From the original 1960s models to today’s high-tech versions, let’s explore each Shelby Mustang ever built.
The First Shelby Mustang: 1965 GT350
The 1965 GT350 was the first Shelby Mustang. Carroll Shelby took the already successful Ford Mustang and enhanced it. The GT350 came with a 289-cubic inch V8 engine that produced 306 horsepower. It could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.6 seconds.
Design and Features
This model was designed for racing. It had a lightweight build and came only in white with blue stripes. The car’s design included side-exit exhausts and a hood scoop for better airflow.
The 1966 Shelby GT350H: The “Rent-A-Racer”
In 1966, Shelby teamed up with Hertz to create the GT350H. Customers could rent these powerful cars. The GT350H came with the same 289-cubic inch engine, but with a few tweaks. It produced around 306 horsepower and could reach 60 mph in under 7 seconds.
Unique Features
The GT350H came with black paint and gold racing stripes. It became known as the “Rent-A-Racer” because people rented it for weekend races.
The 1967 Shelby GT500: Bigger and Stronger
The 1967 Shelby GT500 introduced more power. It had a 428-cubic inch V8 engine that produced 355 horsepower. This was a step up from the GT350 and gave drivers even more speed. The GT500 could go from 0 to 60 mph in 6.5 seconds.
Design and Changes
This model had a more aggressive design, with a longer hood and larger air intakes. It was also one of the first Mustangs to feature dual headlights, setting it apart from earlier models.
The 1968 Shelby GT500KR: “King of the Road”
The 1968 Shelby GT500KR was a special edition of the GT500. The “KR” stood for “King of the Road.” This model featured a 428 Cobra Jet engine that boosted horsepower to 360. The GT500KR could hit 60 mph in just 6.3 seconds.
Special Features
The GT500KR had unique badging, along with a special hood design. It also featured a more luxurious interior, making it a blend of both speed and comfort.
The 1969-1970 Shelby Mustang: The End of an Era
The 1969 and 1970 Shelby Mustangs were the last to be built by Shelby for several years. These models featured a range of engines, from the 351-cubic inch V8 to the 428 Cobra Jet. They could produce between 290 and 335 horsepower.
Design Shifts
By 1969, the Shelby Mustang had grown in size, with a longer body and wider stance. These models had a more muscular look, with new front-end designs and rear spoilers.
The Return: 2007 Shelby GT500
After a long break, the Shelby Mustang returned in 2007 with the GT500. Powered by a 5.4-liter supercharged V8 engine, it delivered an incredible 500 horsepower. The 2007 GT500 could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds.
Modern Features
This model combined the classic Shelby design with modern technology. It came with advanced suspension systems, better brakes, and a sleek, modern look.
2011 Shelby GT350: A New Beginning
In 2011, the GT350 name was revived. This new model featured a 5.0-liter V8 engine, producing 430 horsepower. With an upgraded suspension and brakes, the GT350 could go from 0 to 60 mph in 3.7 seconds.
New Design Elements
The 2011 GT350 had a refreshed look with more aerodynamic features. It came with updated LED headlights, modern interior touches, and a smoother ride.
2013-2014 Shelby GT500: Breaking New Records
The 2013-2014 Shelby GT500 was a game-changer. It came with a 5.8-liter supercharged V8 engine that produced 662 horsepower. This made it the most powerful production Mustang at the time. The car could go from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds.
Top Speed
With a top speed of 200 mph, this Shelby Mustang was not only powerful but also incredibly fast. It set new records for performance and speed in the muscle car world.
2016 Shelby GT350 and GT350R: Track-Ready Performance
In 2016, Shelby introduced two new models: the GT350 and GT350R. Both featured a 5.2-liter V8 engine with a flat-plane crank, producing 526 horsepower. These cars were built for performance, with advanced suspension and aerodynamics.
Track-Ready Design
The GT350R was even more track-focused, with lighter materials and enhanced performance features. Both models could go from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.0 seconds.
2020 Shelby GT500: The Most Powerful Mustang Yet
The 2020 Shelby GT500 took things to the next level. It came with a 5.2-liter supercharged V8 engine that produced an incredible 760 horsepower. This Shelby could hit 60 mph in just 3.3 seconds, making it the fastest production Mustang ever built.
Advanced Technology
The 2020 GT500 came with high-performance brakes, adaptive suspension, and modern safety features. It also had a top speed of 180 mph, making it one of the fastest cars in its class.
Special Editions and One-Offs
Throughout the years, Shelby has produced various special editions and one-off Mustangs. These include models like the Shelby Super Snake and Shelby GT-H. Each of these cars offers unique performance and design features that make them stand out.
Conclusion: Shelby Mustangs Through the Years
Shelby Mustangs are more than just cars—they are a part of American muscle car history. From the original 1965 GT350 to the modern-day GT500, each model has pushed the limits of speed and design. Whether you’re a car enthusiast or a casual driver, the Shelby Mustang continues to inspire and excite drivers around the world.
Where to Rent the 2022 Shelby Mustangs
Hertz has made these cars available at select locations. Here are some locations that the Mustang Shelby GT500-H can be rented in Fort Myers, Las Vegas, Miami, Orlando, Phoenix, and Tampa.
Shelby and Hertz: A History of High-Performance Cars
Hertz and Shelby’s partnership started decades ago. In 1966, they introduced the legendary Shelby GT350-H, a car known as the “Rent-A-Racer.” The 2022 models pay tribute to this history while pushing the boundaries of performance even further.
The Shelby GT500-H: A Powerful Experience
The Shelby GT500-H is the star of this lineup. With over 900 horsepower, this car is the most powerful Shelby rental car ever made. Only a limited number of these cars are available, making it a rare experience for drivers.
Availability of Shelby GT-H Models
The Shelby GT-H models, available as fastbacks or convertibles, can be found in several major cities, including Atlanta, Dallas, and San Francisco. These cars offer a mix of performance and style, with each one customized by Shelby American.
Design and Features: What Makes These Cars Stand Out?
The 2022 Shelby Mustang models come with unique styling and performance upgrades. These features celebrate Shelby American’s 60th anniversary, honoring the brand’s rich legacy.
Shelby GT500-H Design
Nineteen Shelby GT500-H fastbacks are painted in shadow black, and six in oxford white to mark the anniversary. Each car is fitted with gold “Le Mans” racing stripes, adding a classic Shelby touch. Inside, you’ll find Hertz and Shelby logos on the seats and floor mats, along with a numbered badge under the hood.
Shelby GT-H Fastbacks and Convertibles
The Shelby GT-H models come in four colors: rapid red metallic, oxford white, carbonized gray, and shadow black. Like the GT500-H, they sport the iconic gold racing stripes. The interior is just as stylish, with custom features that remind you you’re driving something special.
Performance Upgrades: Built for Speed
Shelby didn’t hold back when it came to performance. The GT500-H fastbacks boast a 5.2-liter V8 engine, producing over 900 horsepower. Shelby even swapped the stock hood for a dry carbon fiber version, which cuts 30 pounds from the car’s weight.
Performance Exhaust and Wheels
Both the GT500-H and GT-H models feature performance exhaust systems from Borla. This not only adds to the car’s power but also delivers an aggressive sound that Shelby fans love. The GT-H models come with 20-inch aluminum wheels and Michelin tires, ensuring they handle as well as they look.
Shelby GT-H: A Tribute to the Past
The GT-H models may not have the same horsepower as the GT500-H, but they are no less impressive. Their 5.0-liter V8 engines, combined with performance exhaust systems, deliver an exhilarating driving experience. These cars are a modern take on the original “Rent-A-Racer” concept.
Exclusive to Hertz
These Shelby Mustangs are not available for sale. They are part of a limited production run, built exclusively for Hertz rental fleets. This makes renting one a rare opportunity to experience a piece of automotive history.
A Legendary Collaboration Continues
Shelby and Hertz have worked together for decades, creating some of the most exciting rental cars ever made. From the original 1966 GT350-H to the 2022 GT500-H, this partnership has left a lasting mark on the car rental world.
The Future of Hertz and Shelby
Both Hertz and Shelby have hinted that this partnership will continue to produce exciting results in the future. With each new collaboration, they push the limits of what a rental car can be. Drivers can look forward to more high-performance vehicles as this partnership evolves.
Renting a Shelby Mustang: An Unforgettable Experience
Renting one of these Shelby Mustangs isn’t just about getting from point A to point B. It’s about enjoying the thrill of driving a high-performance vehicle. For those lucky enough to get behind the wheel of a Shelby GT500-H or GT-H, it’s an experience they’ll never forget.
Locations for the Best Driving Experience
Whether you’re cruising the streets of Miami or taking in the sights of San Francisco, these cars are built for excitement. Renting a Shelby Mustang from Hertz is an opportunity to enjoy legendary performance in some of the most iconic cities in the U.S.
Conclusion: Shelby and Hertz’s Ongoing Legacy
The Hertz and Shelby partnership is a perfect blend of performance and history. The 2022 Shelby Mustang models are not just cars—they are a celebration of American muscle and the thrill of the open road. With limited availability and custom performance upgrades, renting one of these cars is a unique opportunity for car enthusiasts.
Whether you’re a Shelby fan or simply looking for an unforgettable driving experience, Hertz has made it possible to enjoy some of the best cars ever built. From the powerful Shelby GT500-H to the stylish GT-H convertibles, there’s no doubt that Hertz and Shelby have created something truly special.
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