1973 Volkswagen Thing

Thanks for stopping by to take a look at our very cool 1973 Volkswagen THING.  Summer will be here before you know it and this THING is the perfect: Beach buggy. RV tow behind. Camp buggy. Cool ride.  Get your Retro on with this throwback to the 1970's.  Sold for just two years in the US. this is the one you want with the rare gas heater. in excellent condition and with very low miles.  

Odds are that this has always been a Southern California car. The clear California “Pink Slip” bears the original Blue Plate license tag number and matches the VIN. Registration tags are 2017.

Rarity

Imported for just two years the type 181 was a civilian version of the VW Europa Jeep and Type 82 Kübelwagen. Approximately 25000 were imported in 1973 and 1974.  Rust was the primary reason many did not survive.  Many have been modified but those that remain close to their OEM standard retain the highest values.

Exterior

Beautiful recent white paint shines like new.  See photos and video.  Convertible top is good.  Windshield is excellent.  Nice stripes.  Contrasting bumpers with hitch for a light trailer or boat launching.  Tow behind wiring harness.

Floors

Floors are California solid.  

Wheels. Tires

Upgraded 15” EMPI Wheels.  Radial tires. Chrome lugs

Engine

The 1600cc engine runs awesome. This super lightweight scoots right out.

Transmission

4 speed Manual full synchromesh transmission.  The transmission is  smooth and responsive. No noises or unusual behavior.  

Service

Fresh service. turnkey and ready to go.

Trim

The trim is in good to excellent shape.  See pics and video.  

Glass

The glass is in good to excellent condition.

Interior

Optional factory roll bar.  NIce clean interior with no rips or tears.  Front seats upholstered in cloth to save your bare legs in hot weather. Nice Sony audio system. Great heater that will keep you warm on those cool evenings.

Odometer

The odometer shows 40700 miles. (Plus whatever we put on it in the meantime. This is the new shop favorite!)   

DMV / Documentation

The California “pink slip” title is clear and all documentation is included.  Two matching license plates. No smog is required. Very low cost Antique registration and insurance for most US States.  A binder is included with pictures. detailed information. receipts and specs.

Comparables

There are very few comparable VW Things offered in this outstanding condition. much less running and complete.  Maybe you can find a car that needs work. Find one in dependable. original condition that has not been abused and you have a very few cars indeed.  Given the scarcity of nice cars. this THING represents an outstanding value that can be enjoyed immediately as well as being an appreciating investment in automotive art.

Had one of these back in the day?  Yep. they were everywhere and now you hardly see one.  The feel and sound of this ride will melt the years away at the first turn of her key.

Please come inspect this great 1973 VW THING before the listing ends. We are happy to meet you and show her off. Please keep in mind that this is a used car.  It is not a new car and will not be fresh and perfect like that new soul sucking Camry your Aunt Betty drives.  If that's what you are after. this is not your era. nor your car.

Want DRIVEN to build you a sweet ride?   Check out some of our previous builds at www. driven. co  

Please enjoy this walk around tour and test drive.