To Be OFFERED AT AUCTION WITHOUT RESERVEEstimate:
$175,000 - $225,000
- One of 190 built in 1959; one of 490 total examples
- Modestly driven example benefiting from 35 years of extended
storage
- Believed to retain the original 6.3-liter Chrysler V-8
engine
- Comprehensive late 2000s restoration, subsequently dialed in by
marque specialist Ken Brody
- Reportedly owned by no more than five dedicated caretakers
throughout its life
- Tastefully upgraded for improved performance and
reliability
In 1959 the French manufacturer Facel Vega updated the FV4 into the
HK500, carrying over the prior model's elegant design cues.
Continuing to utilize big-displacement American engines, the
manufacturer upgraded to a larger 6.3-liter Chrysler engine, and
front disc brakes became standard equipment. Only 190 examples of
the HK500 were produced in 1959, adding rarity to the model's list
of desirable attributes.
After spending its first 48 years under the ownership of just two
caretakers, this Facel Vega was acquired by its third owner in 2007
after reportedly being placed in storage for 35 years. The HK500
was then treated to a substantial restoration by a group of marque
enthusiasts led by "Facel Larry" Gesiakowski of WGM Restorations in
Chicago, Illinois. Cosmetic considerations were addressed by Dave
Shutten while the engine and transmission were rebuilt by Chrysler
300 Club president George Riehl. Numerous parts were sourced from
Facel experts, including the noted Hans Ruhe in The
Netherlands.
In 2013 the car passed to its fourth owner, Ed Harley of
Charleston, South Carolina, and he retained a local business to
considerably perfect the car before commissioning marque specialist
Ken Brody to conduct a series of tasteful mechanical upgrades. This
work included installing a dual-circuit master cylinder, vacuum
assisted front disc brakes, cast-iron rear drums, and new
custom-made wire wheels, as well as updates to the cooling and
electrical systems.
In early 2018, Mr. Brody sold the HK500 to the consignor, who has
continued to maintain the car while accruing limited mileage.
Currently displaying approximately 42,000 miles, this beautifully
presented Facel Vega would make a stunning addition to any
gathering of French grand routiers, and an ideal acquisition for
the collector of European-American sports hybrids.To view this car
and others currently consigned to this auction, please visit the RM
website at
rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/mo20.
