Facel Vega FV4 Typhoon
A 1958 Facel Vega FV4 Typhoon is for sale, powered by a 392 Hemi V8 engine
The Facel Vega FV4 Typhoon is a rare and powerful car, with only a few examples produced in 1958. According to the source, Silodrome, this particular model is powered by a 392 Hemi V8 engine, capable of producing over 325 bhp.
The Facel Vega series was known for its luxury and exclusivity, with owners including Kings, Shahs, and Hollywood elite. The company's history dates back to 1939, when it was founded as a subsidiary of Bronzavia, a French military aviation subcontractor. Jean Daninos, the company's Chief Executive, designed the Vega himself and ran the company for 16 years.
History of Facel Vega
The Facel Vega company has a rich history, with Daninos starting out at Citroën and later moving to Morane-Saulnier and Bronzavia. The company pressed steel for other manufacturers, including Panhard, Simca, and Ford, before deciding to build its own cars. The first Vega prototype was designed in 1951, and the car reached the Paris Salon in 1954.
The Facel Vega FV Series
The FV series was produced from 1955 to 1958, with various engine swaps and minor design tweaks. The FV1, FV2, and FV3 models were produced, with the FV4 being the final and fastest variant. The FV4 received French type approval in 1957 and was built in limited numbers, with all but two examples going to North America.
The Facel Vega FV4 Typhoon
The FV4 Typhoon was powered by either a 354 cubic inch Chrysler FirePower Hemi V8 or a 392 cubic inch Hemi V8, with the latter producing 375 bhp at 5,200 rpm. The car weighed around 3,860 lbs and had a top speed of 142 mph. Only eight FV4s were produced with a 4-speed manual gearbox, while 59 had a push-button automatic transmission. The car was priced at $9,750, which is equivalent to around $85,000 today.
The following table compares the specifications of the Facel Vega FV4 Typhoon with other models:
| Model | Engine | Horsepower | Top Speed | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FV4 Typhoon | 392 Hemi V8 | 375 bhp | 142 mph | $9,750 |
| Chrysler 300D | 392 Hemi V8 | 380 bhp | 140 mph | $5,173 |
| Facel II | 383 V8 Chrysler | 355 bhp | 140 mph | - |
The Facel Vega FV4 Typhoon is a rare and highly sought-after car, with its powerful engine and luxurious interior making it a true classic. As reported by Silodrome, this particular model is for sale, offering a unique opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts to own a piece of automotive history.
