Evaluation: Delivered new with unique transparent removable roof, although it isn’t configured that way now. Restored many years ago but has been badly neglected. Rough original chrome. Tired but not terrible paint with several light scratches, chips, and dings. Surface rust on the wheel spokes. Well-kept interior with what looks like newer leather but original everywhere else. Huge crack running all the way down the right side of the windshield. A little grubby underneath but not rotten. A rare, graceful car and at least any Chrysler bits will be straightforward to source, but this Facel Vega needs and deserves a restoration.
Bottom Line: One of many rare and interesting but also rough, long-dormant and mostly undocumented automobiles offered by Bonhams in recent years, this Franco-American hybrid is one of only about 180 produced. The Facel II was the company’s last V8 model and regarded by many, including the company’s founder, as the best. This is a restorable example bought realistically, but it will be a long time before it’s back in action.
