1974 Volkswagen Thing

This 1974 Volkswagen Thing is a highly customized vehicle with extensive modifications performed by a long-term previous owner. It features a rear-mounted 215ci Buick aluminum V8 engine, paired with a VW Bus-sourced four-speed manual transaxle rebuilt during a comprehensive overhaul. The engine includes an Edelbrock 4-barrel carburetor, an Accel HEI distributor, a remote-mounted oil filter, and a dual exhaust system, all supported by a custom-fabricated tubular frame. An aluminum radiator with electric fans is mounted in the front trunk to ensure efficient cooling. The body includes widened front and rear fenders, a custom-fabricated engine cover, a rear skid plate, and tubular bumpers. It also features a 5″ body lift, 16″ Fuchs-style wheels, side curtains, removable doors, running boards, auxiliary lighting, a roll bar, and a fold-down windshield. The widened front axle beam (extended by six inches) is paired with raised spindles, rear air shocks, and rear suspension limit straps for enhanced off-road capability. Stopping power is provided by Wilwood disc brakes with drilled and slotted rotors at all four corners. 

The dashboard houses a 100-mph speedometer with an inset fuel-level gauge, a tachometer, and auxiliary readouts for amperage, voltage, coolant temperature, and oil pressure. 

The Ron Sturgeon Collection