Facel Vega Excellence EX 1 1958. Facel Vega Excellence EX 1 1958
During the 1950’s Facel Vega became known as a manufacturer of luxurious and trustworthy automobiles. After the successes of the Facel Vega FV and HK500 models, 1958 saw the birth of an even bigger and more exclusive model. Although the model’s prototype was already launched at the 1956 Paris Salon, it took until October 1958 when the first Excellences were ready for delivery.
The Excellence was presented as a true ‘diplomat car’: (French) ministers and diplomats would finally have the opportunity to be driven around in a French made automobile that matched their position and prestige. Other famous customers were the King of Morocco, the President of Mexico, actress Ava Gardner and many industrial tycoons worldwide. With its 5.9 liter ( Chrysler V8 (Wedge) LS-3 - 5907cc/335bhp) engine, automatic transmission and a top speed of 200 km/h, the Excellence was a strong and powerful car. Most notable of course, is its pillar-less saloon with the ‘suicide doors’. This made stepping in and out of an Excellence not only easy and graceful, but also offered the occasional man on the street a glimpse of the car’s beautiful interior, with its mock walnut dashboard, chrome handles, electric windows and leather seats.
