DIRTHAMMER SAYS

Knoxville, TN.

The Volkswagen Thing is interesting for more than just its unconventional styling. It's a story of Volkswagen's redemption arc, post-WWII European history, and manufacturing, marketing, and sales efficiency. Officially known as the Type 181, the Thing was conceived to satisfy NATO and West Germany's need in the 1960s for a rugged, light, small military vehicle. But VW quickly figured out that its rugged, utilitarian nature would work well as civilian vehicles. In Mexico, buyers were clamoring for a car that would handle the country's rough roads better than the Beetle did. And in the US, VW saw a path to capitalize on the late '60s and early '70s American obsession with dune buggies and off-roading.

The Type 181 was supposed to be a stopgap until NATO could finish designing its planned Europa Jeep. But that project got scrapped, and the 181 ended up being built for military customers from 1968 until 1983. The first civilian Things went on sale in 1971, before reaching the US in '72 as a '73 model. VW pulled the Thing out of the US after 1974, but kept selling it overseas until 1980.

This 1973 VW Thing is a mechanically sound first-year example. The suspension, brakes, steering, and interior have all been gone through, and the rig recently got new floor pans. The original paint and body work have been left original. As it sits, this '73 Thing is a survivor patina machine that will be a hit at the local cruise night. The worn cosmetics cover a pretty solid car that would be a worth base for restoration.

The seller has its original hardtop, but will be sold separately. The softop and steel softop frame are in good condition.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

• Clean title
• 1600cc dual-port engine