1973 Volkswagen Thing Project

Description

OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE

The 1973 Volkswagen Thing, sold elsewhere as the Type 181, began as a military utility vehicle developed in the late 1960s using familiar Beetle and Karmann Ghia components. Its flat body panels, removable doors, and folding windshield reflected its rugged, low‑cost purpose. When Volkswagen introduced it to the U.S. in 1973, the Thing fit right into the growing market for recreational off‑road vehicles. Powered by a reliable air‑cooled 1.6L four-cylinder engine and equipped with a torsion‑bar suspension, it offered simple, durable fun on and off the pavement. However, tightening American safety and emissions standards quickly ended its U.S. run after 1974. Even so, the 1973 Thing remains a beloved, quirky icon known for its charm and versatility.

This 1973 Thing is a non-running project that was acquired by the seller in August 2019. Finished from the factory in Pumpkin Orange, the body features a fold-down windshield, “The Thing” side decals, black-painted bumpers, removable doors, and dual side mirrors. The 1.6L flat-four is fitted with electronic ignition and paired with a four-speed manual transaxle, while the interior features a Volkswagen Sapphire radio and seating surfaces upholstered in black vinyl.

This Volkswagen Type 181 project is offered at no reserve with a clean Texas title in the seller’s name.

Highlights

• 1973 Volkswagen Thing Type 181 non-running project

• Finished in Pumpkin Orange

• 1.6L air-cooled flat-four

• Four-speed manual transaxle

Factory Equipment

• Fold-down windshield

• Removable doors

• Dual side mirrors

• “The Thing” side decals

• Black-painted bumpers

• 14” steel wheels with VW-stamped hubcaps

• Black vinyl upholstery

• Folding rear seats

• Cabin heater

Modifications

• Electronic ignition

• Volkswagen Sapphire XVIII radio

• Various modifications to the front and rear bumpers

Known Imperfections

• Last driven in August 2019

• Imperfections in the finish include dents, scratches, paint chips, and peeling decals

• Corrosion on underbody components

• No convertible top or frame

Ownership History

The seller acquired this 1973 Volkswagen Thing from a family member in August 2019 and reports that the car has not been driven under current ownership. Long-expired Texas registration stickers are visible on the windshield.

Included Items

• Two ignition keys

• Tools