Der Camino: 1965 BMW 1800 Ti Pickup

For decades, automotive philosophers have pondered the eternal question: What if BMW built an El Camino? Behold the answer—this 1965 BMW 1800 TI Pick-Up, the lovechild of Bavaria’s Neue Klasse and a Milwaukee hardware run. This TI was reportedly one of two converted into service pickups for a BMW dealership, because even Bavarian mechanics needed a parts hauler with twin Solex carbs and rear doors that open like they’re hiding bratwurst. It’s got white paint, Martini-style stripes, a full rear cargo bed, and more storage compartments than a Snap-on trailer. It may look like a fever dream conjured after too much schnitzel and torque wrench fumes, but it’s real—and it hauls parts, tail, and conversation. Find this 1965 BMW 1800 Ti Pickup bidding for €350 reserve-not-met located in France via carandclassic.com.

From the seller:

Highlights
Fascinating classic pick-up built for a BMW dealership
Believed to be one of two specially ordered from BMW
Remarkable high-performance TI version prepared by Alpina
Vehicle in good condition with period decals
Interesting classic vehicle for personal or commercial use
A plus
This is a 1965 example of the BMW 1800 TI, a high-performance saloon prepared by Alpina – but not as you know it. The seller tells us that this vehicle is part of a special series of two, created for use as service vehicles by a BMW dealership.

A full pick-up conversion has been carried out, including several storage compartments for parts and a flat rear bed with supports. It is finished in a white colour with BMW Martini Racing-style decals, and is in good overall condition, ready for use.

The TI version is one of the rarest and most sought-after models in BMW’s ‘Neue Klasse’ series. This example takes exclusivity one step further. It would be perfect as a support vehicle for a BMW collection or could offer commercial opportunities if you run a workshop specialising in vintage vehicles. Either way, expect to strike up fascinating conversations wherever you go with this vehicle.

History and Documents
First registered in 1965
Seller states that the vehicle was special ordered from BMW
VIN plate confirms it is an original 1800 TI
Believed to be one of two produced
Used by a BMW dealership as a service vehicle

General condition
1800 TI saloon modified as a pick-up with white paintwork and Martini style stickers
Body and paintwork in generally good condition, some defects visible in photos
Including around wheel arches as shown
BMW style alloy wheels, non-matching sheet metal spare wheel included
Rear section fitted with opening rear doors and sunroof, as seen
Storage compartments behind rear doors and under tray
Two blue metal brackets fitted, as seen in photos
Hitch installed, supplied with a fixed tow bar
Some tools included, as seen in photos
Exterior chrome and lights in presentable condition for the age of the vehicle
Underbody in fair condition, with no reported structural problems
Blue/black cloth interior with visible wear to seats
Original wooden dashboard in fair condition
Vehicle converted to two-seater with glass partition behind seats
Grey carpets with some visible stains
Roof lining showing its age but still presentable