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History of the Glas 1300 GT

The Glas 1300 GT emerged from the German manufacturer Glas, making its mark in the 1960s as a direct counterpart to Italian sport coupés such as the ASA. With its body designed by renowned Italian stylist Pietro Frua, the 1300 GT seamlessly combined aesthetic flair with solid German engineering. The model gained additional significance when the Glas marque was absorbed by BMW, with production subsequently rebranded as BMW Glas. This period marks the 1300 GT’s unique position bridging two storied automotive lineages.

Model History

The Glas 1300 GT is rooted in Glas’s push into the compact sports coupé segment. No direct predecessor existed—this model was Glas’s effort to compete with continental rivals. After the BMW takeover, the vehicle’s design and ethos lived on briefly under the BMW Glas badge before being replaced as BMW focused on its own model lineup.

Highlights of the Glas 1300 GT

Key distinguishing features include the low-slung Frua-designed coupé body, twin-carburettor 1300cc engine, and comprehensive dashboard instrumentation (tachometer, oil pressure, water temperature, fuel and oil temperature gauges). The 1300 GT is often compared to exclusive Italian projects of its era, yet remains distinct for its German mechanical foundation. The model's exterior regularly showcases authentic period patina, while factory or period-correct seats are popular among enthusiasts for preservation.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

Several 1300 GTs have been carefully restored, sometimes featuring hollow cavity preservation or subtle modifications such as the installation of sports seats in place of originals. Vehicles exhibiting matching numbers and period-correct details are especially sought after by connoisseurs, although true 'limited edition' variants are not formally documented.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

Oil-tightness is a trademark of the model, with engine, gearbox, and axle generally remaining dry. Hohlraumversiegelung (cavity sealing) may be present—an advantage for long-term rust protection. The availability of original seats varies, as sports seats may have been fitted by previous owners. Look out for vehicles offered without essential components such as windscreen, side windows, or passenger seats, often due to ongoing restoration projects. The dashboard and period instruments should be checked for completeness and authenticity.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

The Glas 1300 GT is built around a responsive 1300cc engine with dual carburettors, lending itself to spirited cornering and dynamic country road performance. Owners praise its agile handling, especially when equipped with wider rims and modern 175 tyres. The car’s rear-wheel drive layout, balanced chassis, and short wheelbase invite enthusiastic driving typical of 1960s sports cars. Among Glas’s output, the 1300 GT stands unparalleled, making it the clear highlight for enthusiasts seeking the marque’s definitive sportscar.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

With bodywork crafted by Pietro Frua, the 1300 GT delivers unmistakable Italian design cues within a compact German sports coupé. The interior showcases a period dashboard hosting a full suite of analogue instruments essential for spirited motoring. Seat options vary from original comfort seats to later sport seats, reflecting owner preferences across decades. Typical exteriors maintain original badges and the characteristic Glas typenschild under the bonnet. Colour choices and optional accessories reflect the preferences of the first owners and the style of the late 1960s.

Other Notable Features

Restorations are frequent, with preference given to originality and period-correct patina. Some models receive additional cavity protection for improved longevity, and modifications for motorsport use—such as seat swaps—appear in certain examples. The GT can sometimes be purchased in incomplete condition, ideal for restoration enthusiasts.

Summary

The Glas 1300 GT merges Italian design excellence with robust German engineering, offering a concentrated driving experience and a unique position in postwar automotive history. Its focused collector appeal is underscored by high demand and low supply, with each example reflecting the character and heritage of its era.