Description
The Facel Vega FV3B was introduced in 1957 as an evolution of the earlier FV3, offering more power, greater refinement, and improved design detail. It represented a critical step toward the development of the famous HK500, incorporating much of what would become the hallmark characteristics of Facel Vega’s grand tourers in the late 1950s.
Visually, the FV3B retained the signature Facel Vega styling: clean, angular lines, a strong and upright front grille, and a low-slung grand touring silhouette. However, subtle improvements gave the car a more modern and cohesive look compared to its predecessors. The front end was slightly reshaped, with updated bumper design and better-integrated headlights, while the rear featured modest changes to the tail treatment and trim.
Under the bonnet, the FV3B came equipped with a Chrysler 5.8-liter (354 cubic inch) Hemi V8 engine, delivering a robust 285 to 300 horsepower, depending on the specific configuration. This power was transmitted through either a 4-speed manual Pont-à-Mousson gearbox or Chrysler’s Torqueflite automatic transmission. With this setup, the FV3B could achieve top speeds near 210 km/h (130 mph), making it one of the fastest and most powerful GT cars of its time.
The FV3B’s suspension and braking systems were also upgraded to cope with the added performance, offering better high-speed handling and more secure stopping power. It remained a rear-wheel-drive platform, with independent front suspension and a live rear axle.
Inside, the FV3B was consistent with Facel Vega’s reputation for luxury. The cabin featured deep leather seats, high-quality trim, and a striking dashboard finished in painted metal to resemble engine-turned aluminum. Full Jaeger instrumentation and toggle switches added an aviation-inspired flair. Comfort and elegance were priorities, with the car marketed as a long-distance cruiser that could effortlessly cover great distances at speed.
Production of the FV3B was still limited but slightly more substantial than the earlier models, with approximately 90 to 150 examples built, depending on the source. Each was assembled with great attention to detail and often tailored to individual customer specifications.
The Facel Vega FV3B serves as an important bridge between the early, more experimental FV series and the soon-to-arrive HK500. It solidified many of the styling and engineering elements that would become central to Facel Vega’s identity, offering a compelling mix of French sophistication and raw American power. Today, the FV3B is regarded as a rare and desirable example of postwar European luxury motoring.