Facel built the Excellence at the behest of the French government, which wanted a large, impressive car that would look the part in any diplomatic situation; the traditional Citroen DS was seen as being a little under-endowed. Production took a while to get going, and there were serious problems with the doors. The Excellence's body was pillarless, and the absence of conventional latches to lock onto made it difficult to keep them closed. When the Excellence heaved over bumps or rounded a corner they were prone to bursting open - a feature political opponents probably considered an advantage. DeGaulle could never come to terms with the car because it had an American engine, although his Interior minister (and his wife) had one. Various French diplomats used the car, however, along with royalty such as the King of Morocco.
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