The Facel Vega was the brainchild of Jean Daninos, a Parisian-born engineer of Greek ancestry. He worked for Citroën in body engineering and as the head of special vehicles, but he left after the Michelin takeover. He founded Métallon, a fabricator of kitchen cabinets and sinks, and in 1939, he established Forges et Atéliers de Construction d'Eure-et-Loire, or FACEL for short. The two firms combined and made aero engines during World War II.

Costing more than a Mercedes-Benz Gullwing and three times as rare, the Facel Vega HK500 exuded opulent exclusivity and was in its element blasting across continents at three-figure speeds. All frightfully non-PC behaviour these days, but in the late Fifties it was the transport of choice for a select few. Think of it as French Bristol, a large, spacious, big-engined grand tourer.

A modest restyling was introduced in 1959, and the coupé was renamed the HK500. During the year, the 6,279-cubic centimetre Chrysler "wedge" engine, was made available. With twin four-throat Carter carburettors, it made 360 brake horsepower. Tom McCahill, the loquacious auto critic for Mechanix Illustrated, called it "sexier than the Place Pigalle and throatier than a Russian basso".

The HK500 offered here was originally delivered to Facel Inc., of New York City, on 19 August 1960, and was equipped with the highly rated automatic gearbox and power steering, providing a luxurious and pleasant driving experience.

Our Facel Vega HK500 is a stunning example of automotive art, finished in Royal Blue metallic with bright Chrome wire wheels and a beautiful rich Tan hide interior. This elegant vehicle is sure to attract deserving attention wherever it goes. Inside, the fabulous Tan leather upholstered seats emanate a sense of class and luxury and Beige carpets are piped with matching Tan leather. The instrument panel is a stylish Burr Walnut pattern but surprisingly is Aluminium with Jaeger gauges. Both engine and luggage compartments are meticulously detailed and correctly appointed.

This HK500 is a compelling example of one of the most elegant grand tourers of its time, and it would be an interesting addition to any collection.

Year:1961





Colour:Royal Blue Metallic





Transmission:Automatic





Steering:LHD





Engine size:6.3