A Hertz Mustang That’s Just As Immaculate As The Day Shelby Signed It | Carscoops

      The classic black-and-gold Mustang GT350-H has been restored recently, allowing it to shine once more.

      A 1966 Ford Mustang GT350H, formerly a rental, has undergone complete restoration.

      Carroll Shelby's signature on one of the sun visors adds significant collector value.

      Ford's partnership with Hertz has lasted several decades, producing a range of special-edition vehicles that have become legendary. Among the most famous is the original Ford Mustang GT350H, which was initially supposed to be limited to just 100 units for Hertz’s rental fleet to promote the Mustang to a broader audience.

      However, Hertz embraced the idea and ended up ordering nearly 1,000 of these special Mustangs. Now, one of the original GT350Hs is set to be auctioned off later this month.

      Like all 1966 GT350Hs created for Hertz, this one features a stunning black and gold paint job, complete with gold racing stripes and gold trim along the rocker panels. According to Mecum Auctions, this specific GT350H was delivered to a dealership on March 17, 1966, and was prepared before being added to the Hertz fleet.

      The listing does not specify how long the car was available for rental, but it eventually made its way to its first private owner in Amarillo, Texas.

      You might be surprised at how an almost 60-year-old former rental car can look this pristine. This is due to a complete rotisserie restoration and a repaint in the original black and gold color scheme. The undercarriage has also been coated with red oxide primer, and most suspension components have been replaced.

      Mecum Auctions

      Like its exterior, the interior of this muscle car is in excellent condition. In fact, it would be difficult to find another Mustang from this era with a cabin as pristine as this one. The seats have been reupholstered in black leather that shows almost no wear. There are also new carpets, a three-spoke wooden steering wheel, and the original gauge cluster. The odometer reads 82,168 miles (132,236 km).

      The powertrain consists of the original 289 cubic-inch V8 engine, which produced an impressive 306 horsepower (likely gross, not SAE net), paired with a four-speed automatic transmission that drives the rear wheels. According to magazines from that time, it could reach 60 mph (96 km/h) in a commendable 6.6 seconds. To add appeal, the sun visor is signed by Carroll Shelby himself, enhancing the allure of this already coveted vehicle.

      So, if you're financially prepared and interested in owning a piece of rental car history (without the usual stale air fresheners), you can view this remarkable car. Just click here to see the full listing at Mecum.