Among BMW’s most fascinating and rarified post-war production models are those with coachbuilt bodies provided on a sub-contracted basis, like the E9 3.0 CSL done by Karmann, Baur’s E10 Cabriolet, and even the 3200 CS from Bertone. But none of these stellar limited-production BMW’s rival the mystique and rarity of Maggiora’s 1600 GT from 1968.

With its wonderfully proportioned fastback coupe bodywork styled by none other than Pietro Frua, this bizarre but beautiful model was in production for fewer than 14 months, during which only 1,259 examples escaped Maggiora’s factory in Chivasso, outside Turin.

Prior to BMW’s purchase of Hans Glas’ eponymous vehicle manufacturer in 1966, Maggiora was churning out bodies of this grand touring design as the Glas 1300. After BMW’s purchase, Frua’s design was lightly updated with the marque’s signature kidney grille, badges, and compound taillights in addition to new 12-volt electrics, an independent rear suspension, as well as a four-speed transmission and 1.6-liter carbureted four-cylinder engine producing 103 horsepower.

The resulting 1600 GT had both improved power and better handling when compared to its predecessor but sold relatively poorly. Nixed by BMW after the 1968 model year, the 1600 GT was never formally made available in the United States, and very few have since been imported by collectors or enthusiasts.

This very late, and correctly presented 1968 BMW 1600 GT is finished in the factory-correct color combination of Granada Red over black leatherette upholstery. Having only recently been treated to its current state of beautification by renown marque specialist Oldenzaal Classics in the Netherlands, the exceptional attention to detail is highlighted by 14-inch wheels finished in chrome with Roundel hubcaps, front disc brakes, a perforated leatherette headliner, metric VDO instrumentation, a wood-rimmed steering wheel, and pushbutton radio.

Because of its tremendous rarity, fascinating production method, lovely coachbuilt bodywork, and enjoyable driving dynamics, the 1600 GT by Maggiora is now greatly prized around the world. A closely comparable offering to this very late, correctly recommissioned 1600 GT is unlikely to be repeated in the marketplace anytime soon—a fact of which the world’s foremost BMW collectors are no doubt keenly aware.