Description
The Facel Vega Facel II, introduced in 1962 and produced until 1964, was the final and most advanced grand tourer produced by the French luxury marque. Considered by many enthusiasts and historians to be Facel Vega’s masterpiece, the Facel II combined brutal American V8 power with sleek European styling and a level of craftsmanship rarely matched at the time.
Visually, the Facel II was a dramatic evolution of the earlier HK500, with sharper lines, a lower and wider stance, and a more modern, aerodynamic silhouette. The front featured twin headlights recessed into sculpted fenders, flanking a simplified grille and an elongated hood that hinted at the massive engine beneath. Chrome trim was used sparingly and with more restraint than its predecessors, giving the car a cleaner and more purposeful appearance. At the rear, subtle tailfins and wide tail lamps maintained a touch of American influence without overwhelming the design.
Under the hood, the Facel II continued Facel Vega’s tradition of using Chrysler-supplied V8 engines. Early models were fitted with a 6.3-liter (383 cubic inch) unit producing around 355 horsepower, while later examples were equipped with the larger and more potent 6.7-liter (413 cubic inch) engine delivering up to 390 horsepower. With these engines, the Facel II was one of the fastest four-seater cars of its time, capable of reaching over 240 km/h (150 mph) and accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in under 7 seconds.
Transmission options included the robust Chrysler Torqueflite three-speed automatic and the rare, performance-oriented four-speed manual gearbox built by Pont-à-Mousson. Power-assisted disc brakes on all four wheels, power steering, and improved suspension geometry helped to manage the car’s performance and make it more controllable at high speeds.
Inside, the Facel II offered a lavish environment filled with fine materials and bespoke details. The dashboard was painted to mimic machine-turned metal and featured an aircraft-inspired instrument cluster with a full set of Jaeger dials and toggle switches. Deep leather seats, thick carpeting, and refined wood or aluminum trim elevated the cabin into a space more akin to a luxury yacht than a sports car. Options included electric windows, air conditioning, and a radio, though each car was typically customized to the buyer’s wishes.
Only around 180 Facel IIs were built before the company ceased automobile production in 1964. Despite its excellence, the high price and limited production meant it remained an exclusive choice, favored by celebrities, aristocrats, and motorsport legends such as Stirling Moss and Ringo Starr.
Today, the Facel II is remembered as one of the greatest grand tourers ever made—a true fusion of style, speed, and exclusivity. It represents the final, ambitious flourish of a company that dared to challenge the best of Europe and America with a uniquely French vision of luxury and performance.