1973 Volkswagen Type 181 Thing

1973 Volkswagen Type 181 Thing
Chassis no. 1832839860
1,584cc OHV Flat 4-Cylinder Engine
Single Carburetor
46bhp at 4,000rpm
4-Speed Manual Transmission
4-Wheel Independent Suspension
4-Wheel Hydraulic Drum Brakes

*Professionally restored by The Thing Shop in Chandler Arizona
*Finished in the original striking color of Pumpkin Orange
*Reliable, Volkswagen Beetle underpinnings
*Iconic and charming recreational vehicle, ideal for the ranch or beach house

VOLKSWAGEN TYPE 181 - THE THING

Volkswagen's Type 181 Thing had its roots in a military project loosely based on the World War II "Kubelwagen". Although VW decided not to enter the competition for this "Europa Jeep," company management felt that a "fun vehicle" in that formula could be popular in the consumer market. Based on the mechanicals of the Type I Beetle, it used a Karmann Ghia base and 1.5 and 1.6-Liter versions of the familiar air-cooled engine. Production began in 1969 in Germany, while civilian sales began in 1971, by which time Mexican production had started. 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.

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

Offered here is what must be considered one of the most accurately restored Volkswagen Type 181 Thing's in existence. Constructed at the Mexico-based Volkswagen plant in 1973, this lovely example of the iconic model was treated to the works carried out by the marque experts at The Thing Shop in Chandler Arizona in recent years. The Thing was carefully disassembled, media blasted, and refinished inside and out in the original color of Pumpkin Orange. The undercarriage was finished in gloss black epoxy paint, as were all the suspension components. The running gear has been refurbished, including the 1.6-Liter Dual Port engine, gearbox, axles, bearings, shocks, fuel system and so forth.

Many rare "Thing" parts are fitted, including the correct single oil bath air filter, gas fired heater, tool kit, jack, instruments, gear shift lever lock, driver's door locking "cubby box" and weather equipment. A comprehensive restoration file accompanies the sale of the car, documenting the comprehensive restoration in detail. This charming Type 181 Thing would be a fun and entertaining ride on Sundays near the beach house or around the ranch, and a better restored example will be hard to find.