Description
The Facel Vega Excellence EX1, introduced in 1956 and produced until 1958, was one of the most daring and distinctive luxury cars of its era. It was not only Facel Vega’s flagship model but also a bold expression of postwar optimism, combining American power with French elegance in an avant-garde four-door pillarless saloon that challenged the design norms of the time.
The EX1 featured a unique blend of European sophistication and American flamboyance. Its most striking attribute was its design—an imposing, angular body with tailfins, a wide chrome grille, and rear-hinged “suicide” doors that created a completely open side profile when all doors were open. This pillarless construction was extremely rare, particularly in a four-door format, and gave the Excellence an air of futuristic elegance that few cars of the 1950s could match.
Under the hood, the EX1 was powered by a Chrysler Hemi V8 engine—initially a 5.4-liter (331 cubic inch) unit, followed by a 5.8-liter (354 cubic inch) version later in production. These engines delivered between 250 and 285 horsepower, providing strong performance for such a large vehicle. The car could reach speeds of around 200 km/h (124 mph), which was impressive given its size and luxury focus. Customers could choose between Chrysler’s smooth Torqueflite three-speed automatic or a four-speed manual transmission by Pont-à-Mousson.
Inside, the Excellence EX1 was every bit as luxurious as its exterior suggested. The cabin was lavishly appointed with hand-stitched leather upholstery, deep carpeting, polished wood trim, and a full set of Jaeger instruments housed in a dashboard finished to resemble aircraft-grade aluminum. Rear passengers were treated to generous legroom and individual armchairs, underlining the car’s role as an elite chauffeur-driven saloon, although many were driven by their owners.
The chassis was derived from the Facel Vega FV series and reinforced to accommodate the car’s larger body. Independent front suspension and a live rear axle offered a comfortable ride, while power steering and brakes ensured that the Excellence remained manageable despite its size.
Only around 137 units of the EX1 were built, making it extremely rare. Most were sold to heads of state, celebrities, and industrial magnates. Its exclusivity, bold design, and combination of French and American automotive ideals made it one of the most interesting and unconventional luxury cars of its time.
The Facel Vega Excellence EX1 remains a remarkable chapter in automotive history—a car that dared to combine grace, power, and innovation in ways that few manufacturers would ever attempt. Its rarity and audacity have earned it a cult following among collectors who admire its unique position between the worlds of haute couture and Detroit muscle.