1959 Facel Vega HK500 RHD BARN FIND FOR RESTORATION 6.4l auto, disc brakes RARE!

Founded by Jean Daninos in 1939, orges et Ateliers de Construction d'Eure-et-Loir (FACEL) originally specialised in the production of aircraft materials before the outbreak of war in 1939. After World War II, acel distributed car bodies to Panhard, imca and Ford France. It would not be until 1954 thatFacelbegan to manufacture its own vehicle, he Facel Vega FV, hich was unveiled at the Paris Salon in 1954. Crippling legislation immediately after the war made it virtually impossible for luxurious cars to be manufactured in France, ut despite this, ean Daninos was passionate about reigniting the romance of lavishly glamorous French motoring.

With no post-war European power unit available that would suitably complement the magnificent luxurious interior and exterior of his new creation, aninos turned to the 276 cubic inch (4.5 litre) De Soto Firedome V-8. This was a dependable engine, ith a 7.5:1 compression ratio and pushrod-operated overhead valves, ushing out 170 horsepower at 4,500 rpm and capable of propelling this imposing piece of French architecture to a top speed of 130mph. Despite the staggering $7,000 asking price at launch, uyers were still flocking to take ownership of Daninos beautiful creation.

Later developments saw the introduction, n 1956, f the Facel Vega FVS, urther evolving into the all-new HK500 in 1959. The chosen engine to power the next chapter in Facel history was the most famous of them all, he 383 cubic inch V-8, hich produced a thundering 360bhp and a claimed top speed of 147mph. Through this outstanding combination of alluring styling and significant power, he Facel Vega HK500 legend was born.

The media were hugely excited with Facel's latest sports coupé. A Mechanix Illustrated magazine tester, om McCahill, aid the HK500 was, Sexier than the Place Pigalle and throatier than a Russian basso; A sporting piece of equipment that looks like money, hich is exactly what it costs ($9,795 new). A car to be appreciated as a remarkable and wonderfully satisfying road companion". Adored for its charm and style, he Facel Vega HK500 captivated the hearts of the masses, ith numerous celebrities such as Dean Martin and Ava Gardner taking ownership of this pinnacle of French elegance. Drawn by Jean Daninos himself, he Facel Vega seamlessly incorporates American styling with French glamour.

Mechanically, he HK500 was very similar to its predecessors. The chassis was designed by Lance Macklin, tubular frame featuring independent front suspension coils and wishbones; whilst at the rear, live axle is held in place by longitudinal semi-elliptic springs. With over 350bhp available from the roaring Chrysler V-8, he HK500 was one of the fastest cars of its day.

This UK-supplied HK500 HK1 was delivered new to Westcote Manor, he Oxfordshire pile of Captain Hesketh Raoul (Liony) Millais, oted equestrian, ortrait artist, een sportsman and son of Johnny Millais, oted explorer, rtist and landscape gardener. Though it left the factory in a gleaming Peony Red, Liony' had the car relacquered in Silver grey prior to receiving it on May 5th, 960. This car has a lovely specification featuring power assisted disc brakes, -speed Torqueflight automatic gearbox, ower steering, nd electric windows.

This is a unique barn find having been out or circulation in the UK for some 35 years prior to being acquired by its current owner last year. It has been stored sympathetically and is in highly original and relatively complete order. The interior is all there and the bodywork is in need of restoration. We encourage all buyers to inspect this vehicle in person.

It is noted that at some point the wheel housings have been relieved and a Moto Lita steering wheel added but these modifications can be easily reversed. A very important right-hand drive supercar with real provenance, his Facel would benefit greatly from a 'concours' restoration. Sold strictly as seen, his car deserves to be brought back to life and applauded for what it is, brave creation in the face of adversity and a wonderful piece of French automobile history.