Glas 1700 GT Coupe
Hans Glas GmbH produced innovative cars in Bavaria until BMW absorbed the company in 1966. The 1700 GT represented Glas at its peak, with elegant Pietro Frua coachwork covering sophisticated mechanical specification. The SOHC four-cylinder engine featured unusual toothed-belt cam drive decades before it became common. Independent suspension all around and four-wheel disc brakes (later models) provided excellent dynamics. The styling was graceful and distinctive with Frua's characteristic clean lines. BMW acquired Glas primarily for factory capacity and badge-engineered some models as BMWs before killing the brand entirely. Only about 1,000 1700 GTs were produced, making them extremely rare. The 2600 V8 version is even more collectible.
Extremely rare with few surviving examples. Parts availability is severe problem as nothing is shared with common cars. Frua bodywork makes panel replacement nearly impossible. Mechanical components are well-engineered but specialist knowledge required. Four-wheel disc brake models preferred. Most cars outside Germany. Values have risen strongly as rarity becomes recognized. Only for dedicated collectors with deep pockets.
Only 1,026 units produced 1963-1969. Early cars had drum rear brakes, later models got four-wheel discs. A more powerful 1300 GT and V8-powered 2600 V8 GT shared the basic design. BMW continued limited production after 1966 acquisition but gradually eliminated Glas models. The Dingolfing factory became BMW's largest production facility.