A Facel Vega is a special car no matter what condition it is in. However, when it is as original as this convertible, we are talking about something rare. An incredibly original Facel in the, by all accounts, original paint. With beautiful patina, it should actually be forbidden to restore this car.Somewhat back in time, to 1954 to be exact. Facel presented the Vega in 1954 at the Paris Motor Show. A very exclusive French car for which buyers are sought who would normally find a Rolls-Royce and cost even more new. Not only the design has a somewhat American feel to it, under the hood things are also "typical USA" with a 4.5 liter Hemi V8 engine from DeSoto. Over the years, the Facel changes in small ways, with the biggest change being the magnificent panoramic windshield, which makes its appearance in 1956. Technical conveniences are also added, such as power steering and power brakes in 1957.That year is also the year this stately gray convertible is handed over to its first owner, a lawyer in Switzerland. After five years, the car moves to France, where it spends the rest of its life. The car does not remain unseen, with a major report in Auto Retro magazine (1991, present at the documentation) and a role in the 2008 film Sagan. Not only is the Facel featured in the film, there are photos present of "the making off."The current condition can be called unique. The bodywork of the FV3 is simply brilliant. This time brilliant does not refer to the gloss but to the originality of the car. The paint is quite matte and we dare to claim that it is totally original. Here and there a little damage can be found but it would be wonderful if these age characteristics are preserved. The same goes for the rest of the exterior, which may not be described as "new condition" but does provide a real time machine effect. The chrome, steel and stainless steel parts have all stood the test of time remarkably well, which is typical of Facel's high quality. Also the logos, lighting parts and rubbers are in a healthy condition so we would not replace anything on this car ourselves.

Also for the interior, 'originality' is the magic word. The upholstery was renewed once in the past and is completely intact and in very nice condition. The dashboard is original, with the woodwork showing beautifully the elapsed time. Steering wheel, gauges, controls: everything is original and in functioning condition.The roof closes fine but quite honestly: we would only drive open with this 'voiture magnifique'. Waterproof the roof will not be but replacing it for a new soft-top would be a shame.The engine, in this FV3 a gigantic 6,279 cc Chrysler Typhoon V8 with 365 hp is in a well maintained condition. In terms of external condition obviously matching the rest of the car but definitely in a healthy condition. Not surprising with a mileage of 76,334 which, given the extensive documentation, appears to be original.The underside of the Facel is also original and very healthy. It is clear to see that the chic four-seater convertible has not had a very hard life.Concluding, really only ééone word comes to mind that describes the car: unique! We consider it very unlikely that you will find a more original example in such pleasant condition.