Post-World War II, government legislation had dealt a severe blow to France’s luxury car manufacturers, rendering them almost extinct. Undeterred by this setback, Facel’s CEO, Jean Daninos, boldly endeavored to revive France’s rich automotive heritage with the introduction of the Vega. This opulent Grande Routière boasted gracefully designed coupé bodywork seamlessly integrated with a tubular-steel chassis. Faced with the absence of a suitable French-built power unit, Daninos looked across the Atlantic to the United States.
The initial engine choice for the Vega was Chrysler’s 4.5-liter, 180bhp V8, complemented by the option of either a push-button automatic or a Pont-à-Mousson four-speed manual transmission. Swiftly addressing the need for enhancements, the FV1 model made its debut in March 1955. It featured an elongated wheelbase, providing more rear seat space, and upgraded to a 4.8-liter, 200bhp Chrysler V8.
Later in the same year, the FV2 model was introduced, showcasing a wraparound windscreen and a meticulously crafted ‘trompe-l’œil’ metal dashboard, artfully painted to mimic burr wood veneer. Power saw a considerable increase, reaching 250bhp and escalating further to 285bhp with the 1956 FV2B. Despite these improvements, the reliance on Chrysler engines led to a power decrease, settling at 200bhp with the revamped FV3. This setback was rectified in 1957 with the introduction of the FV3B, featuring a switch to a 301ci (4.9-liter) 253bhp V8 and mild restyling.
The model range expanded in 1958 with the addition of the 5.8-liter FV4, but the FV3 and FV3B remained in production. The total output for the FV-series cars culminated in 357 units, marking Facel’s ambitious attempt to breathe life back into France’s luxury car sector.
Source: Bonhams Cars
