France vs Italy — 1954 vs 1948
| HK500 | 166 Inter Touring Barchetta | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 360 hp | 110 hp |
| Torque | 400 lb-ft | 108 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 6,286 cc | 1,995 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 8.5 sec | — |
| Top Speed | 150 mph | 118 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.0 sec | — |
| Weight | 3,704 lbs | 1,874 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,660 mm | 2,420 mm |
| Length | 4,530 mm | 3,900 mm |
| Units Produced | 490 | 37 |
| Original MSRP | $10,000 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $400,000 | $8,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 10/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1954 Facel Vega HK500 excels in more power, higher top speed, better value, while the 1948 Ferrari 166 Inter Touring Barchetta stands out for lighter weight, greater rarity, stronger collectibility. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Putting the 1954 Facel Vega HK500 against the 1948 Ferrari 166 Inter Touring Barchetta is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — France versus Italy. The 1954 Facel Vega HK500 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 360 hp compared to 110 hp, a 250-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Facel Vega HK500 uses a V8 OHV displacing 6,286 cc, while the Ferrari 166 Inter relies on a V12 SOHC with 1,995 cc. The 1954 Facel Vega HK500 claims a higher top speed at 150 mph compared to 118 mph. The Ferrari 166 Inter carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1830 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 37 units built, the 1948 Ferrari 166 Inter Touring Barchetta is considerably scarcer than the Facel Vega HK500's 490 examples. On the collector market, the 1948 Ferrari 166 Inter Touring Barchetta commands a significant premium over the 1954 Facel Vega HK500, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.