Description
The Facel Vega HK500 equipped with the 6.3-liter Chrysler V8 producing 360 horsepower represents the final and most powerful evolution of the HK500 line. Built near the end of the model’s production run between 1960 and 1961, this variant combined elegant French design with serious American muscle, achieving performance figures that few other luxury grand tourers of the time could rival.
At the heart of this version was Chrysler’s 6.3-liter (383 cubic inch) V8 engine, tuned to deliver 360 horsepower. While this power rating matched the highest output of the earlier 5.9-liter version, the larger displacement offered greater torque and smoother power delivery. Coupled with either a four-speed Pont-à-Mousson manual gearbox or Chrysler’s three-speed Torqueflite automatic transmission, the 6.3-liter HK500 was capable of reaching 100 km/h in just over 7 seconds and a top speed of approximately 230–240 km/h (143–149 mph), depending on configuration.
Externally, the car remained nearly identical to earlier HK500s. The distinctive styling featured sharp, angular lines, an imposing chrome grille, quad headlights, and subtle tailfins at the rear. Chrome details and sculpted body panels reflected Facel Vega’s dedication to precision and luxury. The overall design had matured by this stage in production, and small refinements in trim and lighting gave the later models a more finished and confident look.
The cabin continued to showcase French craftsmanship at its peak. The interior was trimmed in high-quality leather, with plush carpeting and a signature dashboard styled to resemble turned aluminum—though it was cleverly painted steel. Full Jaeger instrumentation, chrome toggle switches, and personalized features like air conditioning and electric windows made the HK500 feel more like a bespoke luxury cruiser than a mass-produced GT.
Underneath, the HK500’s chassis featured a front double-wishbone suspension and a live rear axle with leaf springs. Later production cars, especially those equipped with the more powerful engines, came with standard four-wheel disc brakes and power steering, helping to control the car’s considerable speed and weight. These upgrades made the 6.3-liter HK500 a more manageable and enjoyable driver’s car compared to earlier versions.
The total production run of HK500s was around 490 units, and only a portion of those were built with the 6.3-liter engine, making this variant relatively rare. Its performance, elegance, and exclusivity have made it one of the most desirable Facel Vegas for collectors.
The 6.3-liter HK500 stands today as one of the most compelling examples of a transatlantic grand tourer—offering American horsepower cloaked in hand-built French luxury and style. It represents the culmination of Facel Vega’s vision and remains a symbol of the unique flair the company brought to the world of high-performance motoring.