Facel Vega Facel II Sports Coupe (1962-64)

The Facel Vega Facel II Sports Coupe, while a stunning and luxurious car, does have some common faults that owners and enthusiasts should be aware of:

1. **Electrical Issues**: The car's electrical system can be prone to faults, including issues with the wiring and electrical components.
2. **Cooling System**: Overheating can be a problem, especially in warmer climates. The cooling system may require upgrades or regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance.
3. **Rust**: Like many classic cars, the Facel II is susceptible to rust, particularly in the chassis and body panels. Regular inspections and rust-proofing treatments are recommended.
4. **Transmission Problems**: The automatic transmission, particularly the Chrysler Torqueflite, can sometimes be problematic and may require rebuilding or replacement.
5. **Suspension and Steering**: The suspension and steering components can wear out over time, leading to handling issues. Regular maintenance and replacement of worn parts are necessary.
6. **Brake System**: The brake system, including the disc brakes, can be prone to wear and may require regular servicing to ensure safety and performance.
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Generations/Trim Levels
The Facel Vega Facel II Sports Coupe was produced between 1962 and 1964. It was a single generation model with no distinct trim levels, but it did offer different engine options and features throughout its production run. Here are some key details:

1. **Engine Options**:
- **6.3 L Chrysler V8**: This engine produced 355 hp with the TorqueFlite automatic gearbox and 390 hp with the manual transmission.
- **6.7 L Chrysler V8**: Later models were equipped with this more powerful engine.

2. **Transmission Options**:
- **3-speed Chrysler automatic**
- **4-speed all-synchromesh Pont-a-Mousson manual** (optional)

3. **Standard Features**:
- Dunlop disc brakes on all four wheels
- Hydrosteer power steering
- Leather seats
- Electric windows
- Radio aerial
- Armstrong Selecta-Ride shock absorbers (adjustable from the dash in right-hand-drive models)

4. **Design**:
- The Facel II was known for its luxurious and elegant design, with a curvaceous wrap-around dash meticulously painted to look like wood and airplane-inspired controls.

The Facel Vega Facel II was a grand touring car that combined luxury, performance, and style, making it a standout in its era.
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Engines
The Facel Vega Facel II Sports Coupe was powered by two different Chrysler V8 engines:

1. **6.3 L Chrysler V8**: This engine produced 355 hp with the TorqueFlite automatic gearbox and 390 hp with the manual transmission.
2. **6.7 L Chrysler V8**: Later models were equipped with this more powerful engine.

These engines provided the Facel II with impressive performance and made it one of the most powerful and luxurious grand touring cars of its time.
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Performance
The Facel Vega Facel II Sports Coupe was known for its impressive performance. Here are some key performance figures:

- **Top Speed**: The 6.3-litre Chrysler V8 engine with the TorqueFlite automatic gearbox could reach a top speed of over 135 mph (217 km/h). With the manual transmission, it could achieve over 150 mph (240 km/h).
- **Acceleration**: The Facel II could out-accelerate many of its contemporaries, including the Aston Martin DB4 and the Mercedes 300SL Gullwing, to 60 mph (97 km/h) and to 100 mph (160 km/h).
- **Power Output**: The 6.3-litre engine produced 355 hp with the automatic gearbox and 390 hp with the manual transmission.
- **Handling**: Despite its weight, the Facel II was praised for its handling, thanks to features like Dunlop disc brakes on all four wheels and Hydrosteer power steering.

These figures highlight the Facel II's capabilities, making it one of the fastest and most luxurious grand touring cars of its time.
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Spares/Specialists NI
For locating spares for the Facel Vega Facel II Sports Coupe in the UK or Ireland, you can check out the [Facel Vega Shop](https://www.facelvega.shop/en/), which offers a wide range of parts for Facel Vega models. They have been a leading supplier since 1990 and provide both new and used parts.

As for garage services, there are several options available:
1. **Classicar Garage**: They specialize in the restoration and maintenance of classic cars, including the Facel Vega Facel II. You can find more information about their services [here](https://www.classicargarage.com/projects/facel-vega-facel-ii-1964-restoration).
2. **JB Classic Cars**: This workshop maintains and restores classic cars, including the Facel Vega. They offer comprehensive services from bodywork to mechanical repairs. More details can be found on their [website](https://jbclassiccars.com/).

These resources should help you keep your Facel Vega Facel II in top condition.
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Racing
The Facel Vega Facel II Sports Coupe was primarily designed as a luxurious grand touring car rather than a racing car. While it was not specifically built for competitive racing, it did have impressive performance capabilities that made it a standout on the road. The Facel II was known for its high speed and powerful engine, which allowed it to out-accelerate many of its contemporaries.

However, there are no notable records of the Facel Vega Facel II being used extensively in competitive racing events. Its primary appeal was its combination of luxury, style, and performance, making it a favourite among enthusiasts and collectors.
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Valuation
In 2024, the Facel Vega Facel II Sports Coupe has a median price of approximately £143,229. The highest recorded price for this model is £435,456. This makes it one of the more valuable classic cars on the market.
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