Description
The Facel Vega HK500 fitted with the 6.3-liter Chrysler V8 producing 390 horsepower is the rarest and most potent iteration of this luxurious French grand tourer. Introduced toward the end of the HK500’s production in 1961, this high-performance version pushed the limits of what a European GT could offer in terms of speed and refinement.
The 6.3-liter engine in this configuration was Chrysler’s 383 cubic inch V8, specially tuned to deliver 390 horsepower—an extraordinary figure for the time. It provided the HK500 with explosive acceleration and a top speed exceeding 240 km/h (about 150 mph), placing it among the fastest four-seater production cars of its era. Torque delivery was smooth and immense, making the car effortless to drive at speed on the open road. Transmission options included the reliable and responsive Chrysler Torqueflite three-speed automatic or the more engaging four-speed Pont-à-Mousson manual gearbox.
Although mechanically upgraded, the car’s design remained largely faithful to the established HK500 styling. The long, low hood, prominent grille, and elegant proportions gave the car an imposing but tasteful presence. Subtle exterior updates during the final production phase included revised lighting elements, optional Borrani wire wheels, and small trim enhancements that distinguished the later models.
Inside, the cabin remained a showcase of French luxury. Rich Connolly leather, deep carpeting, and a dashboard painted to resemble engine-turned aluminum emphasized the bespoke nature of each vehicle. The full suite of Jaeger instruments, aviation-style switches, and optional air conditioning and power windows further enhanced the car’s appeal as a high-speed long-distance cruiser.
Chassis refinements included power-assisted four-wheel disc brakes, power steering, and improved suspension tuning, all designed to manage the increased output and maintain the car’s balance between luxury and performance. These changes made the 6.3/390 HP variant not just faster, but more controlled and enjoyable to drive.
Production numbers for this exact specification were extremely limited—only a handful are believed to have been delivered with the 390 horsepower tune. Most were likely custom orders, built for well-heeled clients who wanted the very best Facel Vega could offer.
Today, the 6.3/390 HP HK500 is considered the ultimate expression of Facel Vega’s ambition—a car that combined refined French aesthetics and luxury with the brute force of American V8 power, delivering a uniquely bold and glamorous take on the grand tourer concept. Its rarity and performance ensure its place as one of the most desirable postwar European cars ever made.