BMW 3000 Classic Cars for Sale

History of the BMW 3000

The BMW 3000 has its origins with Hans Glas GmbH, a company initially recognised for its agricultural machinery before venturing into the automotive field. Glas introduced the V8 coupe in 1965, styled by the celebrated Italian designer Pietro Frua and instantly recognised for its striking similarities to contemporary Maserati models—a nod that earned it the nickname 'Glaserati.' When BMW acquired Glas in 1966, the coupe was rebranded as the BMW 3000, keeping much of its original engineering and style while receiving the prestigious BMW badge. This transition cemented the car's status as a meeting point of Italian flair and Bavarian engineering.

Model Lineage and Serial Development

The Glas V8 was the immediate predecessor of the BMW 3000, powered by a V8 engine and introduced just before BMW's takeover. Following the 1966 acquisition, production continued under BMW, labelled as the BMW 3000 or BMW-Glas 3000 V8. Apart from the badge, the model saw little change, serving as a direct descendant of the Glas concept. Approximately 400 units were manufactured between 1967 and 1968. The BMW 3000's role in history was as a transitional model, preceding the more performance-oriented and modern BMW 2800 CS, introduced in 1968.

Highlights and Unique Features

The BMW 3000 stands out for its Italian-designed bodywork by Pietro Frua and its robust 2.6-litre V8 with triple carburettors—an unusual combination for its era and segment. It also features original interiors often well-preserved, and could be retrofitted with contemporary improvements such as electric fuel pumps and fans. Notably, passing modern German technical inspections (TÜV) is considered straightforward for these models, thanks to their robust engineering.

Technical Specifications

Special Editions and Collectible Models

After Glas's closure in 1968, approximately 70 examples of the 'Glas 3000 V8' were first registered as BMWs, making this variant especially rare. Cars with original registration documents from this transitional period or models kept in as-delivered condition carry additional collector appeal.

Engine, Transmission, and Driving Dynamics

With its V8 engine, the BMW 3000 balances smooth power delivery and genuine 1960s sports coupe character. The carburetted setup requires precise tuning for optimal performance, but once set, the car offers notable high-speed touring ability. The four-speed manual gearbox and traditional rear-wheel drive layout create a driving experience firmly rooted in the era, with handling that rewards period-correct expectations—more grand tourer than outright sports car. The most highlighted versions are those with authentic BMW registration papers from 1968 and cars equipped with subtle modern upgrades such as electric fuel pumps or cooling fans. These examples stand out due to their blend of collectability and enhanced usability.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

Styled by Pietro Frua, the coupe's bodywork is marked by clean GT lines, long bonnet and a classic fastback rear. Interiors often remain original, echoing 1960s German luxury with both sophistication and practicality. Period accessories, such as wood trim, original switchgear, and factory-correct upholstery, are typical. Some models may have been upgraded with discreetly modernised components for better reliability. The BMW badging replaced the original Glas emblems post-1966, signalling the transition and adding to the car’s hybrid charm.

Other Notable Aspects

It is noteworthy that the BMW 3000 can successfully pass the modern German TÜV inspection, denoting a robustness and maintainability that many other classics from the era may lack.

Summary

The BMW 3000 bridges the worlds of Glas innovation and BMW engineering in a low-volume, Frua-designed V8 coupe from the late 1960s. Its rarity, factory pedigree, and authentic period-correct features combine to create a compelling proposition for collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate the confluence of Italian styling and German mechanical development.