Beschreibung:

Volkswagen's "Thing" had its roots in a military project. Loosely based on the World War II Kübelwagen, it was intended as a lightweight, four-wheel drive utility car for several European armies. Although Volkswagen 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. Thus was born the Type 181 Kurierwagen, called "Trekker" in the U.K., "Safari" in Mexico, where many were built, and "The Thing" in the United States. Based on the mechanicals of the Type 1 Beetle, it used a Karmann Ghia floorpan 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. Completely restored, this 1973 Volkswagen Thing is gorgeous in yellow, with correct black vinyl interior and convertible top. The sides have the correct blue-and-green "strobe stripes" that were offered by U.S. dealers on green, white, yellow and orange vehicles. The odometer shows just over 73,000 miles, understood to be correct. The rust-free shell has new paint, an all-new interior, top, side curtains and tires. The original owner's handbook and tool kit are included in the sale. The car runs and drives superbly, and offers open air fun with the windshield folded and doors removed... an ideal car for reliving your youth. Without reserve