1960 Facel Vega HK500 – French Elegance, American Muscle

A true grand touring icon, this 1960 Facel Vega HK500 represents the pinnacle of French luxury and design, blended seamlessly with American V8 power. Built by hand in Paris, this HK500 is one of the most exclusive high-performance coupes of the era—crafted for the elite few who demanded both refinement and speed.

Key Features:

6.3L Chrysler V8 engine – factory-rated at over 360 hp

Three-speed Torqueflite automatic transmission

Disc brakes – advanced for its time

Hand-built French bodywork with exquisite details

Hardtop coupe design – no B-pillars, full open side profile

Recessed tail lights and exhaust – signature HK500 styling

Capable of 140+ mph – among the fastest production cars of its day

Provenance & Design:

Facel Vega was the brainchild of Jean Daninos, who founded FACEL (Forges et Ateliers des Constructions d’Eure-et-Loir) in 1939. Originally a coachbuilder for prestigious marques like Delahaye and Panhard, the company shifted to full automobile production in 1954. The HK500, introduced in 1958 and named after its estimated top speed in kilometers per hour, was the refined successor to the original Vega.

Finished with aircraft-inspired gauges, Connolly leather, and polished wood trim, the interior reflects British craftsmanship, while the sleek body lines evoke French artistry. Underneath, however, beats the heart of a Chrysler big-block V8, delivering the kind of torque and reliability that made it a favorite among jet-setters and celebrities—Ava Gardner, Ringo Starr, Tony Curtis, and even Pablo Picasso were all known Facel Vega owners.

Legacy:

Only a few hundred HK500s were built, and even fewer survive in excellent condition today. Revered by collectors for its rarity, elegance, and performance, the HK500 stands alone as a continental hybrid—fusing transatlantic influences into a timeless expression of post-war luxury and power.