The 1966 Shelby GT350H Fastback occupies a legendary space in American automotive folklore as the famous Rent-A-Racer. While the majority of the 1,001 units built for Hertz featured automatic transmissions, a tiny fraction was delivered with a four-speed manual. This specific example, chassis SFM6S568, is one of those rarified few, specifically one of approximately 85 manual cars produced. It presents a unique opportunity to own a piece of the initial 150-car order that prioritized performance over rental convenience. History suggests many of these cars were campaigned on local tracks before being returned to rental lots on Monday morning. Consequently, surviving examples with their original mechanical components are highly prized by collectors around the world. This Raven Black beauty carries the full weight of Carroll Shelby’s mid-sixties ambition and marketing genius. It arrives at Kissimmee 2026 as a documented, registry-listed icon of the Ford-Shelby-Hertz partnership. Bidders will encounter a machine that successfully bridged the gap between a Sunday afternoon racer and a Monday morning commuter.
Raven Black Finish and Expert Restoration Details
The exterior of this 1966 Shelby GT350H Fastback is finished in the quintessential Hertz livery of Raven Black with Gold stripes. Recently, the car underwent a comprehensive restoration freshening performed by the experts at Level One Restoration. This process involved a meticulous polish and detailing to ensure the finish meets show-quality standards. Iconic elements like the functional rear brake cooling scoops and Plexiglas quarter windows are present and correct. Up front, the fiberglass hood with its functional scoop sits perfectly flush against the fenders. The car rides on chrome Magnum 500 wheels wrapped in Wide Whitewall tires, maintaining its authentic 1966 appearance. Chrome bumpers and polished trim pieces provide the necessary contrast against the dark, lustrous paintwork. Because this car was born as a manual example, it avoids the common conversion questions often found in the market. Every visual aspect of the car has been tuned to reflect its status as a premier collector vehicle. It stands as a perfect representative of the aesthetic that made the GT350H an instant classic.
Mostly Original Interior and Shelby Registry Heritage
Stepping inside this 1966 Shelby GT350H Fastback reveals a cabin that remains mostly original, offering a tactile link to 1966. The black vinyl bucket seats and the dash-mounted Cobra tachometer are central to the high-performance driving experience. A wood-rimmed steering wheel provides a premium feel while navigating through the gears of the aluminum T10 transmission. The interior layout is purposefully simple, focusing on the essential controls needed to manage a 306-horsepower machine. According to the Shelby Registry, this car has a well-documented ownership trail that supports its historical significance. Details like the three-inch competition lap belts and the Ford push-button radio remain intact. The fold-down rear seat adds a layer of practicality that Carroll Shelby introduced for the 1966 model year. This specific cockpit feels sheltered from the passage of time, preserving the sights and smells of a true vintage Shelby. It is a space designed for those who truly appreciate the raw, analog nature of sixties performance. The combination of original materials and fresh detailing creates an inviting atmosphere for any pilot.
HiPo 289 V-8 Engine and 4-Speed Manual Specifications
The mechanical heart of SFM6S568 is its born-with K-Code HiPo 289 CI V-8 engine, complete with the VIN stamp on the block. This high-performance powerplant was factory rated at 306 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque. It features the correct aluminum intake manifold and a Holley four-barrel carburetor to maximize airflow and power delivery. This engine is uniquely paired with a T10 aluminum four-speed manual transmission, making it a purist’s dream. Power is sent to the original rear end housing, ensuring that the car’s acceleration remains as sharp as it was in 1966. The dual exhaust system produces a crisp, aggressive note that is unmistakable to any Mustang or Shelby enthusiast. During the restoration, the engine bay was nicely detailed to highlight the Cobra-branded valve covers and air cleaner. This drivetrain represents the ultimate specification for the GT350H, offering a level of engagement that automatic versions cannot replicate. It provides the mechanical confidence needed for high-speed rallies or spirited canyon drives. Every component under the hood has been vetted for authenticity and performance reliability.
1966 Shelby GT350H Fastback Summary
This 1966 Shelby GT350H Fastback is a standout offering that combines rarity, provenance, and exceptional restoration quality. As one of roughly 85 manual examples built, it represents the absolute peak of the Hertz rental program’s performance. The car retains its matching-numbers 289 V-8 engine and original drivetrain components, a feat for any former rental vehicle. Its history is fully documented in the Shelby Registry, providing the peace of mind that serious investors require. The recent work by Level One Restoration ensures it is ready for immediate display at any top-tier concours event. It avoids the typical wear found on many “Rent-A-Racers” while maintaining its authentic, born-with character. Raven Black and Gold remains the most recognizable and desirable color combination for the Hertz series. This Shelby is more than just a car; it is a survivor from a time when you could truly rent a piece of racing history. Bidders at Kissimmee 2026 will be looking at one of the finest manual GT350H examples in existence. It is a definitive cornerstone for any collection focusing on the legend of Carroll Shelby.
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Source: mecum.com
