Facel Vega HK500 remains one of the beautiful grand touring coupes. It was a French vehicle launched between 1958 to 1961 for a short time. Facel Vega HK500 was a successor to the Facel Vega FV. Apart from designs, the vehicle was known for its strong Chrysler V8 engines. Here is everything about the 1958 Facel Vega HK500.
Engines
The Facel Vega HK500 remained one of the best performing GT cars during its time. Backed by Chrysler V8 engines, the vehicle had a great run. This model was built using V8 engines like Typhoon V8 and Wedge V8. The horsepower was great around 350. The major attraction of the Facel Vega HK500 was its speed which was around 150mph. This was one of the fastest cars of its time as the top speed was on par with muscle cars. The only reason was the V8 engines of Chrysler.
Technology
Facel Vega HK500 was one of the innovative French vehicles with highly advanced technology. This model featured independent suspension with wishbones, telescopic shock absorbers, and coil springs. It was built on a tubular steel chassis which gave the vehicle high endurance. There was a hydraulic braking system which enhanced the handling. Another interesting addition was the Worm-and-roller steering system. For gearbox, the available options were French Pont-à-Mousson 4-speed fully synchronized manual gearbox and Chrysler TorqueFlite automatic transmission.
Interior Features
The interior styling was exceptional and world class. Facel Vega HK500 had one of the best interior features not only for a French vehicle but also for an European car of its time. The seating was great with the connolly leather seats, carpeting, and armrest. The metal dashboard featured speedometer, jaeger instruments, ammeter, clock, and tachometer. There were comfortable features like radio, AC, heater system, ventilation, electric windows, glovebox, and power steering.
Unbelievable Designs
One couldn’t get away from the appearance of the Facel Vega HK500. It was eye pleasing and mesmerizing in all aspects. The vehicle featured designs from the popular French automobile designer Jean Daninos. It was a mix of European styling and American designs. The exterior had quad headlights, sculpted hood, long hood, and wide stance. In the rear area, the tailfins, badges, and ornamentation were the attractions. Everyone raved the designs and hailed it as a masterpiece. The next generation french cars followed the pattern of Facel Vega HK500 and this was a big win for the brand.
Ultra Rare Unit
The Facel Vega HK500 was a rare vehicle and the favorite of collector market owners. The estimated production units were only around 490 which was very small. Facel Vega confirmed this model was built to reveal their engineering and designs to the world rather than making profit. It was an expensive vehicle for around $9,700 USD. Though it was produced in small units, the Facel Vega HK500 was distributed to countries like the USA, Germany, Italy, England, Netherlands, and Belgium.
