Vehicle Description
In 1954, French Industrialist and all-around car enthusiast Jean
Daninos expanded his rapidly growing coachbuilding operation into a
full-fledged automobile manufacturer. Applying the experience
gained while building bodies for the Ford Comete and a brief
partnership with Pininfarina, he created the Facel Vega. It was a
distinctly French GT car with lavish trimmings and sophisticated
style, powered by reliable and potent Chrysler V8 engines. With
Delahaye and Delage out of business and Talbot-Lago on the brink of
closure, Facel Vega was left to carry the torch as France's only
home-grown prestige car. As soon as deliveries began, the Facel
Vega's highly exclusive image endeared it with the wealthy and
famous, and the impressive roster of customers included Pablo
Picasso, Christian Dior, Frank Sinatra, Tony Curtiss, and Ringo
Starr. Even racing drivers like Maurice Trintignant and Stirling
Moss owned Facels, which they used for high-speed continental
drives between Grands Prix. This outstanding Facel Vega HK500 is
one of just 190 cars produced in 1959. Once completed by Facel, it
was shipped to the United States and sold through the highly
influential dealer Max Hoffman Imports. Build records show it came
equipped with the 6.3-liter Chrysler V8 backed by a Torque-Flite
pushbutton automatic transmission. The first owner was a passionate
and enthusiastic owner from day one, and it remained in his care
for roughly fifty years. In the late 2000s, it was treated to a
comprehensive restoration by a group of marque specialists led by
WGM Restorations in Illinois. The original Chrysler engine and
Torque-flite gearbox were rebuilt, and the cosmetics treated to a
high-quality restoration, culminating in a beautiful pale-yellow
paint scheme over lush red leather upholstery. Noted European
specialist Hans Ruhe supplied many of the rare factory parts needed
for the project. In 2013, the Facel Vega traded hands to another
dedicated enthusiast who commissioned several mechanical
improvements. The car now features dual-circuit, vacuum-assisted
brakes with Wilwood discs in front and cast-iron drums in the rear,
wire wheels, and improved cooling. The most recent owner carried on
the task of maintaining the HK500 in excellent mechanical and
cosmetic condition. Resplendent in its pale yellow over red color
scheme, this HK500 remains in superb condition thanks to its
previous owners' attentive care. Paint quality is excellent, and
the body exhibits superb fit and finish, with beautiful trim all
around, including the stainless steel bumpers which have been
chromed for a bright and long-lasting finish. The chrome wire
wheels are in excellent condition, fitted with black wall radial
tires. The luxurious cabin is a particular high point of this Facel
Vega. Gorgeous red leather features on the seats, dash, console,
and virtually every interior panel, including the quilted
headlining. The hides are accented with red carpets and the broad,
woodgrain-finish dash with aircraft-inspired Jaeger instruments
with chrome bezels. The switchgear and controls are correct
originals pieces, and equipment includes power windows, power
steering, and a period-correct Becker Grand Prix radio. Like the
body, the quality of the interior trim reflects the
no-expense-spared restoration. Powering the Facel is the original,
matching-numbers 6.3-liter Chrysler "Wedge" V8, bearing the correct
factory "TY" stamping per production records. The engine bay is
well detailed, with modern additions such as the updated brakes,
electric cooling fans, and Edelbrock carburetor appearing
well-integrated without spoiling the authentic feel. The mighty
Chrysler V8 propels the HK500 down the boulevard with ease, with
vast reserves of torque making for relaxed progress in ultimate
style. With just 490 built, the Facel Vega HK500 is highly prized
for its rarity as much as its quality and distinctive style. This
outstanding example is ready for comfortable long-distance touring
and would be a welcome addition to any grouping of the finest
Frenchgrand routiers. Offers welcome and trades considered For
additional details please view this listing directly on our website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/6768-1959-facel-vega-hk500-coupe/
