Description
The Glas Goggomobil TS 300 Cabriolet was one of the most charming and desirable models produced in the Goggomobil TS line, offering the same sporty style as the coupé but with the added appeal of open-top motoring. Introduced in the late 1950s, it was aimed at buyers who wanted a fashionable, affordable, and efficient car that could still deliver the glamour of a convertible. With its compact dimensions, cheerful looks, and modest but capable performance, the TS 300 Cabriolet captured the spirit of lighthearted postwar European motoring.
The design of the TS 300 Cabriolet mirrored that of the coupé, with smooth curves, a rounded front end, oval headlamps, and neatly proportioned lines that echoed the appearance of larger European sports cars. The roof, however, was replaced with a folding fabric top that could be lowered to transform the car into an open-air runabout. Despite its small scale, the proportions were well-balanced, giving the car a sporty and stylish character. Chrome accents and optional two-tone paint schemes added to its sense of flair, making it stand out on the roads of 1950s and 1960s Europe.
Inside, the TS 300 Cabriolet was simple but well thought out. It offered two main seats up front, with a small rear parcel shelf for luggage or occasional use. The dashboard layout was minimalist, typically including just a speedometer and a few switches, but Glas gave the car bright interiors and trim details that made it feel fun and cheerful. For many buyers, it provided a taste of open-top sports car glamour at a fraction of the cost of larger, more powerful convertibles.
Under the bonnet, the Cabriolet used the same powertrain as the coupé. The 293 cc two-cylinder, two-stroke engine produced about 15 horsepower, which was enough to propel the lightweight car to a top speed of around 95 km/h (59 mph). The engine was paired with a four-speed manual gearbox, giving the driver just enough flexibility to make the most of its modest power. While not quick by conventional standards, the TS 300 Cabriolet felt lively in city traffic and was easy to maneuver thanks to its light weight and compact size. Fuel economy was excellent, reinforcing its role as an efficient, economical runabout.
On the road, the TS 300 Cabriolet delivered a fun and engaging driving experience. Its small engine encouraged the driver to work the gears, while the open-top design heightened the sense of freedom and enjoyment. The car was best suited to city driving and leisurely country trips rather than long-distance touring, but its charm lay in its simplicity and personality.
Production numbers for the Cabriolet were far lower than those of the coupé, making it a rarer sight even when new. Building a convertible required more craftsmanship and added cost, which limited its appeal to a niche group of buyers. As a result, surviving examples today are scarce and highly sought after by collectors.
The Glas Goggomobil TS 300 Cabriolet remains one of the most endearing microcars of its time. Combining style, affordability, and the pleasure of open-air motoring, it represents the optimism of the late 1950s, when even the smallest cars could carry a sense of glamour. Today it is cherished as a collectible piece of automotive history, admired for its rarity, cheerful character, and the unique way it blended practicality with a dash of carefree sophistication.