Before BMW AG acquired vehicle manufacturer, Hans Glas GmbH, Maggiora produced bodies for the Glas 1300, a grand touring automobile produced in Dingolfing, Germany, and sold in limited numbers. With its distinctive fastback coupe body designed by the renowned Pietro Frua, this peculiar yet aesthetically pleasing model was manufactured for less than 14 months, during which a mere 1,259 units were produced at the Maggiora factory located near Turin, Italy. In 1966, BMW took over Glas's operations and continued to manufacture the GT from September 1967 to August 1968. During this time, BMW utilized their own drivetrain and rear axle components. These updates to Frua's original design, including the automaker's signature double-kidney grille, roundel badges, and taillights shared with the BMW 1602 distinguished the BMW 1600 GT from the original Glas models. BMW also improved the vehicle with a 12-volt electrical system, an independent rear suspension, four-speed manual transmission, and a 1.6-liter carbureted four-cylinder engine generating 103 horsepower. The resulting 1600 GT offered enhanced power and handling compared to its predecessor, but it did not sell well. BMW discontinued the 1600 GT after the 1968 model year, and it was never officially made available in the United States. Since then, only a few have been imported by collectors or enthusiasts.
This 1968 BMW 1600 GT is fully restored in its original Granada Red exterior color over black vinyl upholstery. It has recently been expertly renewed by European specialists, Oldenzaal Classics in the Netherlands. Their exceptional attention to authentic detail is evident in features like the 14-inch chrome wheels with BMW hubcaps, front disc brakes, perforated headliner, metric VDO instrumentation, wood-rimmed steering wheel, and period-correct radio. Included with the vehicle are comprehensive German ownership and restoration records, German-language owner's manual, and two sets of keys.
