Ford “Rent-a-Racer” Program Returns with Shelby Hertz GT-H Mustang

Ford Motor Co. is teaming up with Carroll Shelby International Inc.'s Shelby American unit and Hertz Corp. on a new limited-production version of the 2016 Mustang GT that will be available at select Hertz rental car locations at airports around the U.S.

The partnership is a throwback to the 1960s-era “Rent-a-Racer” program that featured the Mustang-based Shelby GT350-H. The companies revived the 50-year-old program briefly in 2006.

Shelby will convert 140 Mustang GTs into the Ford Shelby GT-H performance coupe at its Las Vegas facility. Upgrades will include a throaty “cat-back” exhaust system with a chrome tip, 19-inch aluminum wheels wrapped by Michelin Pilot Sport all-season tires and a Shelby-designed body kit that features a carbon fiber front splitter, side skirts, and a trunk-mounted spoiler.

The car also gets Ford’s racing handling package with specially tuned dampers, adjustable springs and sway bars. Styling is highlighted by gold dual racing stripes over a black body—mirroring the original GT350-H—with an abundance of special badging inside and out.

Power is provided by the Mustang GT’s stock 5.0-liter V-8 engine that makes 435 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque. The engine is expected to be paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.

The rental cars will be available beginning Memorial Day weekend. Pricing rates haven’t been announced.