Unbelievable Makeover: From Luxury Sedan to Mini Truck – BMW 3 Series Chopper
The Forgotten BMW Pickup: Karmann’s E36-Based K2 Concept
In the world of BMW, there have been many unconventional creations, but few as intriguing as the Karmann K2 concept. This unique pickup truck was based on the E36-generation 3 Series, with a design that blended the lines of a coupe and a truck. While it may not have been mass-produced, the K2’s existence is a fascinating footnote in the history of BMW’s design experiments.
A Pickup with a Twist
Unveiled in 1998, the K2 was designed by German coachbuilder Karmann, which had a history of creating bespoke vehicles for BMW. The concept was based on the E36 3 Series, but with a few key modifications. The body was extended to create a pickup bed, complete with a tailgate and a large glass panel that could be removed or slid under the roof. The result was a vehicle that was both practical and stylish.
A Peek into the Past
Unfortunately, high-resolution photos of the K2 are scarce, and BMW’s archives are tight-lipped about the project. However, a few low-resolution press shots have surfaced, giving us a glimpse into the K2’s design. The images show a vehicle with a bold, angular design, complete with 3 Series Compact-sourced lights and a body-colored roof panel that slides down to unlock unlimited headroom.
Power and Performance
While we don’t know what powered the K2, it’s likely that it was equipped with a stock E36 drivetrain. However, had it been built, many enthusiasts would have probably opted for the 3.2-liter S52 straight-six from the E36 M3, which would have given the K2 a significant boost in power and performance.
A Concept That Never Was
Unfortunately, the K2 concept never made it to production, and it’s unclear whether BMW ever seriously considered building it. Given the investment required to bring such a unique design to market, it’s likely that the project was deemed too niche and too expensive to justify. Despite this, the K2 remains an intriguing footnote in the history of BMW’s design experiments, and we can only hope that it’s still out there somewhere, waiting to be rediscovered.
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If you have any information about the Karmann K2 or any other unusual BMW projects, send them our way at [email protected]. We’d love to hear from you!
