Facel Vega HK500 (1960)

We are pleased to offer you this Facel Vega HK500 for Sale. "In the world of motoring some few cars come to deserve the adjective 'great' because, although they have faults like everything else in this imperfect world, they provide such a highly desirable combination of virtues. The most famous and successful of the various Facel Vega models, the HK500 was introduced in May 1958. True to company founder Jean Daninos' vision of a hand built 'grand routier' that could compete on the world stage, the newcomer counted the likes of the Ferrari 250GTE, Maserati 3500GT and Aston Martin DB4 among its rivals. Derived from that of the preceding FVS, the sport saloon's tubular steel chassis was equipped with independent double-wishbone front suspension, a 'live' rear axle and four-wheel finned drum brakes (though, discs were soon optional). Maintaining the short-lived manufacturer's reputation for performance, the HK500 was powered by a 5.9 litre (later 6.3 litre) Chrysler V8 OHV engine allied to automatic transmission. While, those looking for even greater thrills could specify a four-speed Pont-a-Mousson manual gearbox and dual four-choke Carter carburettors. One of the fastest cars of its generation, Autocar found a manual HK500 to be capable of 0-60mph in 8.4 seconds, 0-100mph in 19.1 seconds and a theoretical 140mph. Beautifully wrought the 2+2 seater's steel body was characterized by a dramatic three-piece grille, wraparound windscreen, stacked headlights, cut-away tail lights and imposing bumpers. As stylish inside as out, the Facel Vega's cabin boasted sumptuous leather upholstery, electric windows and a wood-effect painted steel dashboard. With a select clientele that included Pablo Picasso, Ava Gardner, Sir Stirling Moss, Ringo Starr, Tony Curtis, Maurice Trintignant, Joan Fontaine, Danny Kaye, Franþois Truffaut and Rob Walker, the HK500 remained in production until 1961 by which time some 548 are thought to have been made. Though, according to the Facel Vega Car Club's website just 98 of these were supplied new to the UK. Facel Ownership is a very exclusive club.********************************************************************************************** This car is a Right Hand Drive HK500 finished in Golden sand with a black roof and scrumptious Toro Forest Green Leather Interior. The car is the highly sort after four speed manual gearbox and dual four-barrel Carter Carburettor model. This 1960 HK500 has had a ground up restoration, including having the 6.3 litre Chrysler V8 OHV engine rebuilt over the last three years and is now present in superb condition. This car was original sold new in the UK to the Colman’s of the Famous Colman Mustard Family and after several more owner’s, the last being UK registered to Bruce White, the car was exported to Australia and many years later to New Zealand, where it has been restored back to it’s former glory. A matching number car - Chassis #. HK1 DB3. Body #. 589 and Engine #. TY730324. *RESTORATION PHOTOS AVAILABLE ON REQUEST* Many more photos on www.classics.co.nz

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