1958 Facel Vega FVS Series 4 Sport Coupe
A unique grand tourer that merged French elegance with American muscle emerged in the form of the 1958 Facel Vega FVS Series 4 Sport Coupe.
This luxurious vehicle turned heads with its sleek profile and chrome accents. A long, sculpted hood flowed into a gracefully curved roofline, ending in subtle rear fins. Quad headlamps and a wide grille dominated the front, projecting confidence and power.
Beneath the hood lurked a Chrysler-sourced 354 cubic inch OHV Hemi V-8 engine. Equipped with dual Carter four-barrel carburetors, it churned out 325 horsepower.
This powerplant gave the Facel Vega excellent performance, propelling it from 0-60 mph in under 10 seconds (impressive for that era). A Powerflite pushbutton automatic transmission managed this considerable output.
The FVS Series 4’s chassis was engineered to handle its potent engine. Independent front suspension with unequal-length A-arms, coil springs, and telescopic dampers provided precise control. A live rear axle with semi-elliptical springs managed power delivery. Lockheed-Bendix hydraulic drum brakes at all four corners brought the substantial machine to a halt.
Inside, the Facel Vega was all luxury. Plush leather upholstery covered comfortable seats, while elegant wood trim adorned the dashboard. A full set of gauges kept the driver informed. The spacious cabin offered ample room for long-distance travel, true to its grand tourer nature.
In the late 1950s luxury performance market, the Facel Vega FVS Series 4 faced off against the Aston Martin DB4 and Ferrari 250 GT. Its blend of American V8 power and European craftsmanship set it apart, offering a unique driving experience that was both thrilling and refined.
The FVS Series 4 was rare, with only 36 of the approximately 357 FVS models believed to have the 325-horsepower, dual-quad Typhoon Hemi engine. This scarcity has made it highly sought after by collectors.
Technically, the car was advanced for its time. The Hemi engine’s combustion chamber design boosted efficiency and power output. The pushbutton transmission, while unusual today, was cutting-edge technology in 1958.
On the road, the Facel Vega FVS Series 4 impressed with its versatility. It could sprint to 60 mph quickly and reach speeds around 130 mph, outpacing many sports cars. Yet it maintained comfort at highway speeds, showcasing its grand touring credentials.
Credit: RM Sotheby’s
