Rare 1959 Facel Vega HK500 (w/ startup)

A rare red 1959 Facel Vega HK500 arriving at and leaving Cars & Coffee at Singleton Classics. The HK500 is powered by a Chrysler V8 engine and features pillarless coupé styling by Jean Daninos who had previously assisted in designing the Citroen Traction Avant. This example is one of less than 850 built including earlier FV/FVS models.

Here's a car you certainly don't see very often. As with many cars of this era, the Facel Vega combines European styling with an American powerplant. It has both the imposing stature of a luxury car and a sleek cabin and rear profile fitting for a performance car. I especially love the pillarless side windows, the unique taillight styling, and the rear bumper with integrated exhaust tips. The front end looks busy but elegant, letting people know this is a car that means business. And it certainly sounds as muscular as you'd expect with a big Chrysler V8 under the hood. There were several other European grand tourers from this era present at this event, including an Aston Martin DB5, a Maserati Sebring, and two Ferrari 250s. But while this Facel may not have the Aston's iconic status or the Ferraris' brand mystique, it represents a unique and worthy French entry in a class known for luxury, performance, and elegance.

Would you choose this Facel Vega over a contemporary Aston Martin or Ferrari? Leave a comment on YouTube and let me know!