1957 | Facel Vega FV3B

• A car that combines French design elegance, American power, and handcrafted exclusivity

• A meticulously restored example by marque specialist Amicale Facel Holland at a cost of €425,000

• Driven approximately 2,000 kilometers since restoration

• One of the rarest and most sought-after Facel Vega variants, one of 91 examples built

• Upgraded for improved drivability: modern GM Hydramatic 4-speed automatic gearbox, air conditioning, electric power steering

• Facel Vega attracted a number of high-profile and famous owners such as Tony Curtis, Ringo Starr, Pablo Picasso, Stirling Moss and Ava Gardner

• A genuine French motoring icon and one of the most elegant grand tourers ever made

The Facel Vega FV3B, introduced in 1957, epitomized the blend of French sophistication and American muscle.

Produced by Facel S.A., a luxury coachbuilder turned automaker, the FV series was a bold move to position France in the arena of world-class grand tourers.

With the FV3B, Facel Vega hit its stride, combining a lightweight, beautifully styled small body with the brawn of Chrysler’s powerful 5.8-liter (354 cu in) V8 engine.

What made the FV series unique was not just performance, but presentation.

Aircraft-inspired dashboards, exotic wood trim, sumptuous leather interiors, and razor-sharp design language made them favored by celebrities, artists, and racing drivers alike.

Despite its allure, the FV3B remained an exclusive machine, just 91 examples were produced, making it one of the rarest and most sought-after Facel Vega variants today.

ABOUT THIS SPECIFIC EXAMPLE

This 1957 Facel Vega FV3B Coupé is a rare and beautifully restored example, representing the most desirable combination in the FV series: the elegant short wheelbase “small body” paired with a high-performance Chrysler HEMI V8.

Originally delivered to the United States, one of just 12 shipped to renowned US importer Charles Hornburg, this car was later discovered as a restoration project by Hans Ruhe, owner of Amicale Facel Holland, one of the world’s foremost Facel Vega specialists.

Under his direction, the car underwent a comprehensive nut-and-bolt restoration, completed to concours-level standards.

Every element, from chassis to cosmetics, interior to drivetrain, was meticulously rebuilt or renewed.

Enhancing its performance and usability, the car was upgraded with:
a modern GM Hydramatic 4-speed automatic gearbox, an additional four-barrel Carter carburetor for increased power, an electric power steering and an high-efficiency air conditioning system, discreetly integrated for comfort.

This car looks spectacular and also feels precisely assembled, demonstrating the quality and depth of its specialist restoration.

CONDITION EXTERIOR

Finished in elegant Tudor Grey Metallic, the car’s exterior exudes timeless French luxury.

Thanks to the extensive restoration and limited mileage since, the paintwork retains exceptional gloss and depth.

The panel fit on the car is excellent. The doors, hood and trunk open easily.

It is easy to recognize that this Facel is restored by a marque specialist resulting in excellent finishes of the windshield and side glass molding.

The bumpers and decorative rocker panel trim are nicely plated and polished revealing both the labor-intensive original construction and restoration efforts on this fine Facel.

The wired wheels are in as new condition.

Exterior cosmetics are done to a very high standard, fitting to a car of this stature when new.

CONDITION INTERIOR

The interior is a true showcase of French craftsmanship and aviation-inspired design.
The interior is finished in deep green leather.

The burled walnut look dashboard is a highlight, housing full instrumentation behind a chrome-trimmed aircraft-style layout.

Every switch, meter, and vent functions as intended, including the modernized air conditioning system, which performs flawlessly. We drove the car home with 34 degrees and were in a superb cool ambiance.

Every element, from the wool carpeting to the headliner, is in “as new” condition, reflecting the car’s careful use post-restoration.

DRIVING EXPERIENCE

Behind the wheel, the FV3B delivers a driving experience that few 1950s grand tourers can match.
The Chrysler V8, enhanced with a four-barrel Carter carburetor, delivers immense torque and effortless acceleration.
The modern 4-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and makes long-distance cruising a pleasure.
With electric power steering and fully restored suspension, the car feels both agile and composed.
Thanks to its refined ride quality and commanding presence, the FV3B isn’t just a collector’s item, it’s a genuinely usable and exhilarating car.
Whether you’re carving through countryside lanes or turning heads at concours events, this Facel Vega offers a journey as memorable as the destination.
This 1957 Facel Vega FV3B Coupé is an exceptional opportunity to acquire one of the rarest and most elegant GT cars of the 1950s.
With just 91 examples produced, expert restoration by a world-renowned marque specialist, tasteful upgrades for modern usability, and an illustrious ownership legacy, this FV3B represents a pinnacle of post-war European luxury motoring.

Disclaimer

The information provided on this website has been compiled by The Houtkamp Collection with the utmost care. The information contained within this advert is provided ‘as-is’, without warranties as to its accuracy whether expressed or implied and is intended for informational purposes only. The Houtkamp Collection is not liable for any errors or mistakes.