Description
The Glas 1304 TS was the sportiest and most performance-oriented version of the Glas 1304 series, introduced in the mid-1960s as part of Hans Glas GmbH’s push to establish itself as a serious competitor in the compact car market. Building on the innovative engineering of the earlier Glas 1004, the 1304 TS combined the company’s advanced overhead camshaft engine technology with a more powerful setup, giving it the edge in both performance and style over the more modest 1304 and 1304 CL.
Visually, the 1304 TS distinguished itself with a sportier appearance. While it shared the same compact two-door body styles—saloon, coupé, and cabriolet—it often featured subtle design elements that emphasized its more dynamic character. Additional chrome details, sportier trim lines, and sometimes brighter paint options set it apart, while the coupé and cabriolet versions in particular highlighted its role as the lively, spirited sibling of the range. Its styling was clean and modern, carrying the boxy yet elegant Glas design language, but with an extra touch of flair befitting its TS badge.
Inside, the 1304 TS featured the same general layout as the standard 1304, but with enhancements that made it feel more purposeful. Sportier upholstery options, improved instrumentation, and a slightly more driver-focused cabin gave it a different character compared to the more restrained CL. Seating remained practical for four occupants, but the TS carried itself with a greater emphasis on driving enjoyment rather than pure comfort.
The biggest differences lay under the bonnet. The Glas 1304 TS was powered by the same 1,290 cc four-cylinder overhead camshaft engine as the other 1304 models, but in TS specification it was tuned to produce up to 85 horsepower—substantially more than the 60 hp of the base car. This gave the TS a top speed of around 160 km/h (99 mph), making it one of the quickest cars in its class at the time. Power was delivered through a four-speed manual gearbox, and thanks to the car’s light weight, acceleration was brisk for a compact of the mid-1960s. The OHC design not only gave it smoother power delivery but also established Glas as a technical innovator, years ahead of many competitors.
On the road, the 1304 TS delivered a much livelier and more engaging driving experience than the standard models. Its stronger engine made it suitable for longer journeys and higher-speed cruising, while its nimble handling and small size made it fun to drive on winding roads. Though not a sports car in the traditional sense, it captured the spirit of sporty motoring in an affordable, practical package, appealing to younger buyers and enthusiasts alike.
Production of the Glas 1304 TS continued until 1967, when Glas was taken over by BMW. The TS remained one of the most exciting cars in the Glas lineup, showcasing the company’s ambition to move beyond economy cars into more dynamic territory. After the BMW acquisition, Glas’s own identity quickly faded, but the TS models stood out as proof of what the small Dingolfing manufacturer was capable of.
Today, the Glas 1304 TS is a rare and highly collectible classic. Its combination of technical innovation, spirited performance, and scarcity makes it especially prized among enthusiasts of 1960s European cars. As one of the final expressions of Glas’s independent engineering vision, it remains a reminder of the company’s creativity and boldness during a time of fierce competition in the compact car market.