Volkswagen Thing (1973)
Sale price: US $18,000.00 Make an Offer
| Used |
| “Excellent, show room-like condition - very much a stock VW Thing” |
| Year: | 1973 | Mileage: | 58800 |
| Model: | Thing | Vehicle Title: | Clean |
| Make: | Volkswagen |
Woodland, California, United States
Vehicle description
VW Things were somewhat of a redesign of the German Kubelwagen used during WWII. In the 1960s, some NATO forces wanted a new “Jeep” type vehicle. VW came up with the Type 181. American GIs stationed in Europe would purchase surplus military versions and ship them back to the US. VW decided to make a civilian version and gave it several names depending on which country they were shipped to. Safari was a common name, but was already in use in the USA, so for our market it was called the Thing. Components were made in Germany and shipped to Mexico for assembly. VW Things were imported to the United States for only two years: 1973 and 1974. · 1973: distinguished by a gas heater mounted in the trunk and no “boxes” over the engine air intake. · 1974: discontinued the gas heater in favor of the more traditional heat exchange boxes (pulling heat from the engine), distinguished by large air “boxes” over the engine air intake vents. VW Things used the tried and true 1600 dual port engine, with a raised ground clearance and a beefed up VW Karmann Ghia floor pan. It is a four door, four passenger vehicle and can be easily configured without any doors, convertible top or windshield, which readily folds forward and clips to the front hood. It is a fun car that puts smiles on the faces of everyone who sees it. My 1973 VW Thing is as near to stock as you can want, right down to the rubber floor mats, simple dash board, and utilitarian layout. I believe I am its third owner. It is a 100% California car. Here is a listing of recent improvements: · Rebuilt 1600 dual port engine (by the previous owner, likely in 2016) · AM/FM Radio installed under the dash with speakers in the side kick panels Since I have owned it: New electronic distributor/rotor New Empi carburetor New fuel pump New Ball Joints & Tie Rod Ends New soft top New boot for the convertible top New sun visors Side windows are nearly new Installed new fog lights and switch Installed and custom made brackets for VW mud flaps Replaced thermostat in gas heater so that it is now working properly Cleaned up engine compartment wiring It has an alternator vs. the old fashioned generator, but the previous owner did a poor job of modifying the wiring to eliminate the generator and regulator LINK TO YOUTUBE VIDEO OF THIS VW THING: https:/ www.youtube.com/watch?v=ma9YfgVTIGM
Car is For Sale locally; I reserve the right to stop this listing early if it sells locally.
Car is For Sale locally; I reserve the right to stop this listing early if it sells locally.