1973 Volkswagen Type 181 Thing

Volkswagen’s “Thing” had its roots in a military project. Based on the mechanicals of the Type 1 Beetle, it used a Karmann Ghia floorplan and 1,500 and 1,600 cc versions of the familiar air-cooled flat four engine. Transmissions were all VW’s four-speed manual.

Production began in 1969 in Germany, with early units delivered, ironically to the German Army as well as Dutch and Belgian forces. Civilian sales began in 1971, by which time Mexican production had started.

Marketing in the U.S. commenced in 1972. In all, more than 90,000 were built through 1983, though civilian sales halted in 1980. Difficulty in meeting safety requirements resulted in withdrawal from the United States market after 1974. So, square it’s cool, this “Thing” is about the most fun you can have with your pants on. 

On the road ‘The Thing’ is reported to drive beautifully with a smooth transmission and the ability to cruise at over 60mph with ease. Between this and its tidy aesthetics, it creates a smile for driver, passengers and those that you pass by on the road, all in all a great weekend/vacation car.

The Ron Sturgeon Collection