Preserve? Restore? Custom? Ratrod? Those are the types of questions facing the new owner of this 1965 Ford F100 Camper Special. It is a dry-climate classic that would form a sound foundation for any of those approaches. It runs and drives well, with a healthy V8 under the hood. Therefore, the winning bidder could take their time considering their choices as they enjoy all that this Ford has to offer. The seller has listed the F100 here on eBay in Fall River Mills, California. Bidding sits below the reserve at $500 for a Pickup that has much to offer.

Ford’s F-Series has been an integral part of the company’s model range since 1948, and with the F150 continuing to whip up a storm in showrooms, that is unlikely to change. Ford’s Fourth Generation hit the market in late 1960, with the final examples leaving the factory in 1966. The company made the most profound change for the 1965 model year, introducing a new frame that would serve faithfully for over a decade. Our feature F100 left the line that year, and although it is hard to tell today, the first owner ordered it in Black. The seller purchased the vehicle in April 2025 after the Pickup had spent its entire life as part of the same family. The exterior looks tired and baked, but that is a consequence of long-term exposure to a dry climate. While this exacted a high toll on the paint, it has done an admirable job of preserving the steel. Yes, this baby is rust-free. The panels are surprisingly straight for a classic of this type and age, making it an ideal candidate for a straightforward cosmetic refresh. The trim generally looks quite respectable, and there are no major glass issues.

The seller doesn’t supply any engine bay shots, but it appears that this F100 may be mechanically original. It features Ford’s venerable 352ci V8, which, according to the company’s Sales Brochure, delivers 208hp and 315 ft/lbs of torque to the rear wheels via a three-speed automatic transmission. One of the greatest advances that the new frame brought was an upgrade to the front suspension. Previously featuring a straight front axle, this F100 features the new-for-1965 “Twin I-Beam” system that improves handling and ride comfort. The Pickup’s exterior may look tired, but beneath the faded paint beats a heart of pure gold. The F100 has been meticulously maintained since Day One. The V8 leaps into life instantly, the transmission is smooth, and this gem is ready for immediate adventures with its new owner behind the wheel.

I give the seller an “A” for effort with their decision to replace the tired seatcover and door trims. However, I probably wouldn’t have chosen the materials they used, because they don’t suit the vehicle’s character…unless the buyer selects a custom approach to their build. Of course, that’s a matter of personal taste, and I respect you if your view differs from mine. The rest of the interior shows its age via UV damage, making it a prime candidate for a refresh. The beauty of these vehicles is that dismantling and reassembling an interior is surprisingly straightforward, providing the perfect opportunity for a DIY approach.

The classic world is full of vehicles offering a multitude of possibilities to their owner. This 1965 Ford F100 Camper Special is a perfect example of this, allowing the winning bidder to tailor the Pickup to their taste and needs. The lack of rust makes it a prime candidate for a straightforward restoration, although preservation is a worthwhile consideration. For me, that would be the approach that I would choose, perhaps applying a satin clear coat to prevent further deterioration. Do you agree, or are there other visions swimming in your head?