To Be OFFERED AT AUCTION WITHOUT RESERVE at RM Sothebys' Monterey
event, 15 - 17 August 2019.
Estimate:
$250,000 - $300,000
- One of 67 examples built
- Estimated to be one of 36 with the 325 hp dual-quad Typhoon
Hemi
- High-quality restoration completed in 2012
- Formerly owned by noted collector Wayne Davis
- Stunning European style with reliable American power
Forges et Ateliers de Construction d'Eure et de Loire SA (FACEL),
was founded in 1938 as a maker of machine tools for the aircraft
industry, later diversifying by making car bodies for Panhard and
Simca. Most famously, it introduced the Vega in 1954, a handsome
and luxuriously appointed four-seater powered by a 180 hp DeSoto
Hemi. Production of the French-American hybrids continued through
ten versions, including an original sports car called the Facellia
in 1962. By late 1962 the company was in receivership and declared
bankrupt by 1965.
Facel built a total of 67 FV4s between May 1957 and February 1958,
including this car, which was produced very early in the production
run. All were left-hand-drive and, except for two cars, were
destined for the North American market. Of those, 59 were equipped
with the Chrysler Power-Flite push-button automatic transmission.
In total, 46 FV4s are accounted for today. Adding to its
exclusivity, this gorgeous example is believed to be one of just 36
examples (Series 2 through Series 4) to include the dual-quad 325
hp Chrysler 300 FirePower "Typhoon" Hemi.
The Facel Vega was the perfect grand tourer of its time. Power,
style, and exclusivity�decadently fashionable, much like the
Dual-Ghia, which catered to the aristocracy of the Hollywood elite.
According to noted collector Wayne Davis, a former owner of this
car, it was originally delivered to Texas and was regularly used
until 1968, when it was disassembled for restoration by an
enthusiast who recognized its uniqueness and future value. Still
apart when Davis acquired it, he commissioned this show-quality
restoration for his collection in 2012.
This four-owner car has been restored to a high standard and comes
complete with a set of fitted luggage, proper wire wheels shod with
Michelin radial tires (for enhanced driving safety), power windows,
and a Motorola AM/FM radio. As the epitome of luxury in 1958, the
stunning exterior is complemented by an equally handsome cordovan
leather interior with sumptuous Wilton carpets. All the factors
that made this car desirable when new are the same today, some 60
years later.To view this car and others currently consigned to this
auction, please visit the RM website at
rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/mo19.
