Facel-Vega Facel II Coupé 1964

The purposefully applied American influence on a European car brand

Facel Vega was established in 1954, but sadly, it was shuttered as early as 1964. The Facel II was unquestionably one of the most exquisite "big" Grand Tourers ever produced at the Facel Vega factory in Paris. It was considered by many to be the best Facel Vega V8 coupe of its era. With approximately only 180 examples of this version produced, the Facel II is rather a rare sight.

The Facel Vega HK500 was its predecessor which was used to construct the next and commonly seen as the best Facel Vega model, the Facel II. It was initially powered by the same 6,3 liter Chrysler V8, and it was built on a comparable tubular frame with disc brakes all around. A new method of installing the anti-roll bar was included along with a modest modification to the suspension. The Facel II is equipped with even more refined options such as power steering. Comfort instantly took on a new meaning…

The Facel II is unmistakably a 1960s vehicle with its low roof and streamlined design. It could compete with any of the competitors of its time, including the Aston Martin DB4 and Maserati 3500 GT, in terms of both beauty and performance.

It is stunning to see the list of famous people who have owned Facels back in the days. To mention a few, Ringo Starr, Stirling Moss, Pablo Picasso, Fred Astaire, and Frank Sinatra. For a certain amount of time, Sir Stirling Moss was president of the Facel Vega Car Club.
The exact car we are offering here was owned by Ernie Heckscher (1916-1996). Heckscher was a musician, a composer and leader of His Fairmont Orchestra.

In April 1964, Hekscher's Facel II was delivered in Paris and almost immediately transported to his home in San Francisco. All documentation has been preserved, including the purchase deed, the bill of sale, and the correspondence.
So special to be able to go back in time and experience the tension that sir Heckscher felt!

According to what we know, the car was brought back to France in 2009 and then arrived in 2013 at a Dutch collector who had various mechanical components of the vehicle restored.
A well-documented work fille comes with the car.

On behalf of our French customer we have the privilege of presenting this car to the next Facel Vega enthusiast. Someone who will appreciate the stunning design, opulent style, and remarkable power of one of the most extraordinary cars from the sixties. Will you soon follow Mr Heckscher's footsteps?