 1957 Facel Vega FVS Hardtop Coupe. See more pictures of Vega cars. |
Styling was probably influenced by the Simca Sport and other cars built by Facel in the late '40s and early '50s. Engineered in limited-production Italian style, the Facel Vega had a large-tube fabricated chassis carrying independent front suspension and a conventional live axle rear end. The separate bodyshells were built by Facel.
The FVs were considered costly, but very fast thanks to Chrysler Hemi-head V-8s, which were supplied with increased displacement in 1956 and again in '58. Top speed was at least 130 mph, more on later models with the larger engines.
It was usually recognized by a distinctive "face" with a vertical eggcrate grille flanked by oval head/parking lamp clusters, and usually rode on wire wheels. Most FVs were thin-pillar two-door coupes, but a few convertibles were also constructed.
Pluses of the 1954-1959 Facel Vega FV:
- Individual French styling
- Performance
- Reliable Detroit engines
- Low-production appeal
Minuses of the 1954-1959 Facel Vega FV:
- Heavy and thirsty
- Few parts available now
- Drum brakes
- Only modest appreciation
Production of the 1954-1959 Facel Vega FV:
352 (includes 11
convertibles)
Specifications of the 1954-1959
Facel Vega FV:
Wheelbase, inches: 103.5/104.7
Length, inches: 179.0-181.0
Weight, pounds: 3,585-4,105
Price, new: $7,000 U.S. (Vega); $7,500/$9,750 (FV)
Engines for the 1954-1959 Facel Vega FV:
| Type | Size | Horsepower | Years |
| ohv V-8 | 4,528 cc 276 cid | 170 | 1954-1955 |
| ohv V-8 | 4,768 cc 291 cid | 180 | 1954-1955 |
| ohv V-8 | 5,407 cc 330 cid | 250 | 1956-1957 |
| ohv V-8 | 5,801 cc 354 cid | 325 | 1958-1959 |
Want more information about classic cars? See:
- Classic Cars
- Facel Vega Sports Cars
- Muscle Cars
- Sports Cars
- Consumer Guide Auto
- Consumer Guide Auto Used Car Search
