Description
The Facel Vega HK500, introduced in 1958, marked the pinnacle of Facel Vega’s original grand touring line and became the most iconic and successful model the French marque ever produced. Combining French craftsmanship with American V8 power, the HK500 embodied the brand’s core philosophy: delivering high-speed performance in a luxurious, stylish package that could rival the finest offerings from Aston Martin, Ferrari, or Maserati.
This particular version of the HK500 was powered by a 5.9-liter (361 cubic inch) Chrysler V8 engine, producing approximately 335 horsepower. It offered exceptional performance for its time, with top speeds exceeding 220 km/h (around 137 mph), and acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in under 8 seconds—an impressive feat for a large luxury coupe of the late 1950s. Buyers could choose between the Chrysler Torqueflite automatic transmission or the French Pont-à-Mousson four-speed manual gearbox, the latter preferred by enthusiasts seeking greater driver involvement.
The car’s exterior design retained the crisp, angular lines established by the earlier FV models, but refined to a more cohesive and elegant form. The HK500 featured quad headlights, a wide and imposing front grille, subtle tailfins, and tastefully applied chrome detailing. The body was hand-formed in steel with aluminum panels, giving it a solid yet slightly lighter construction than earlier cars.
Inside, the HK500 continued Facel Vega’s tradition of luxury and refinement. The cabin was trimmed in fine leather, with deep, comfortable bucket seats, and a beautifully painted dashboard designed to look like engine-turned metal. Jaeger dials, chrome switchgear, and ample soundproofing added to the sense of exclusivity and grand touring comfort. Each car was built largely by hand and could be tailored to the buyer’s specifications.
The HK500 also benefitted from improved braking—four-wheel disc brakes became standard in later production years—and better high-speed handling through refined suspension tuning. Power steering and air conditioning were also available, reflecting the car’s dual role as both a performance machine and a luxurious cruiser.
Approximately 490 examples of the HK500 with the 5.9-liter, 335-horsepower engine were built between 1958 and 1961. These cars represented the most powerful and performance-oriented of the HK500 variants before the introduction of the Facel II.
The Facel Vega HK500 is now widely regarded as one of the finest grand tourers of its era. With its combination of brute American power, elegant French styling, and handcrafted luxury, it offered a unique alternative to its more famous European rivals. Today, it remains highly prized among collectors for its rarity, presence, and the charismatic blend of transatlantic engineering it represents.