Glas Other Sport "Platje" 1948

Glas was a German automotive manufacturer known for producing stylish and innovative cars during the mid-20th century. The company gained recognition for its design and engineering expertise, with notable models like the "V8 Coupe Glaserati." Here's an overview of Glas cars, their history, key models, and why the company was eventually sold to BMW:

1. History of Glas:

Glas was founded by Hans Glas in 1883 as a repair shop for agricultural machinery.
The company diversified into producing sewing machines, motorcycles, and scooters.
In the 1950s, Glas entered the automotive manufacturing industry, focusing on small cars and microcars.
2. Notable Models:

Goggomobil: One of Glas's most iconic cars, the Goggomobil, was a series of microcars produced from 1955 to 1969. These compact and affordable cars gained popularity in post-war Germany.
Isar and 1700/1600: The Glas Isar was a compact car introduced in the early 1960s, known for its distinctive styling. The Glas 1700 and 1600 models were larger sedans featuring Glas's characteristic design elements.
3. V8 Coupe Glaserati:

The "V8 Coupe Glaserati" was not a formal model name used by Glas. Instead, it appears to be a reference to the Glas V8 Coupe, which was sometimes playfully nicknamed "Glaserati" by enthusiasts.
The Glas V8 Coupe, introduced in 1965, was a sports car with a stylish design and a V8 engine. It was praised for its performance and handling.
4. Sale to BMW:

In the mid-1960s, Glas encountered financial difficulties, and it struggled to compete with larger automakers.
Recognizing the potential of Glas's engineering and design expertise, BMW acquired the company in 1966, with the acquisition completed in 1967.
BMW continued to benefit from Glas's engineering talents, which influenced the design and development of some BMW models.
While the Glas brand itself gradually faded away under BMW ownership, its legacy in design and engineering lived on within BMW.
The acquisition of Glas by BMW allowed the latter to tap into the engineering and design skills of Glas, contributing to BMW's development as a premium automaker. Although the Glas brand is no longer in existence, its influence on BMW's design and engineering heritage remains evident in certain classic BMW models.