The German GLAS Goggomobil Sedan was introduced at the 1954 IFMA, the international bicycle and motorcycle exhibition. Towards the end of 1957 the first larger design modifications were introduced. The sedan got a second windshield wiper, cranking instead of sliding side windows and external taillights. Since this time also, besides the 250cc motor, a 300cc or 400cc motor were offered. In 1964 Glas changed the suicide doors to conventional doors using hinges up front.

This was the last large modification until production stopped on June 30, 1969. Between 1955 and 1969 altogether 214,313 sedans were produced. The prices in Germany were between US$775 and US$1000. This car was also exported to the US. For these models a 400cc motor with an oil automatic, to add the 2-cycle oil automatically to the fuel, was fitted. Have you ever seen one in Malaysia?

The highlight of the German Glas production was seen in 1966 with the Glas V8. A sporty four-seat Coupe with V8-Motor, De Dion rear axle and a Frua body kept in Maserati style, therefore the nickname in Germany: Glaserati! However a very short wheelbase did not help the handling characteristics of this grand touring car.

The prototype (2.6 liters - 140 HP) was introduced in September 1965 at the Frankfurt IAA. The price given at the time was sensational, a relative affordable US$4,500, but could not be realized at the production stage. The Glas 2600 V8 was built from August 1966 until the beginning of 1967. The planned increase in engine displacement to 3.0 liters was only implemented once the company was taken over by BMW.

The BMW roundel on top of the hood and the trunk lid certainly helped the image of the car. This model was produced between September 1967 until May 1968. Altogether only 706 copies were built: 317 GLAS 2600 V8 and 389 BMW (GLAS) 3000 V8. In Germany the cars were priced at US$4,850 for the 2600 V8 and US$5,960 for the 3000 V8.

Regards.