Volkswagen Thing 1600 CC 1973
General description :
Description
This 1973 Volkswagen Thing is a highly original and quite an affordable rare treat. So if you like cool and classic VW culture, this is just The Thing.
Volkswagen's Type 181 really took the Beetle's rugged persona to the max. The panels are ribbed for strength; there's a higher off-road ground clearance; and the removable doors are interchangeable front and rear for the ultimate in utility. The windshield even folds down like a Jeep. In fact, while its full history goes back to VW's initial German roots, the look of the Thing is as fun and functional as a Willys Jeepster. This example is highly original, which means it shows its flaws. But there's also something undeniably charming about a VW that seems to be so authentic, right down to its rocker stripe showing that even your dealer called this The Thing.
Side curtains and a nice tan folding top allow you to button up this car. But really, this was the VW that was made to be enjoyed open to the world. Just like the exterior, the interior is about rugged utility. Plus, as many components as possible were shared with the Beetle. So replacing the steering wheel, gear shift, VDO gauge, and other essentials is both easy and economical. VW fans know how distinct the heater mechanism is on this vehicle, which makes it great to have all the main components in place here. While this is highly original presentation, you'll also notice some worthwhile investments. Newer seat covers keep this one comfortable, and liner paint on the floor is quite handy. And the full roll cage adds strength and security.
In the rear is what makes this so appealing. Because while the Thing is a unique and rare machine, it has the hardy and mass-produced heart of the Beetle. So it has the familiar 1600cc motor flat-four setup. There have even been nice investments in 2015 that included maintenance on the electrical system, steering box, starter, rebuilt carb, and Pertronix ignition. So it runs strong like a proper VW, and it drives well. There's even a nice tune out of the performance exhaust. The robust setup, control of the four-speed, and the traction advantage of the engine over the rear driving wheels makes this surprisingly versatile and absolutely fun to drive.
Volkswagen only sold these to the USA for two years, and the consignor states that the odometer reflects actual mileage (averaging under 1,600 annually.) So this is a strong-running and highly original example of a very cool VW. Call now!
Features : Seatbelts (Front) , Vinyl Interior , Heat , Manual Convertible Top , Defrost ,
https://www.streetsideclassics.com/vehicles/5758-cha/1973-volkswagen-thing
1973 Volkswagen Thing 1600 CC is listed sold on ClassicDigest in Charlotte by Streetside Classics for $13995.
Car Facts
Car type : Car Make : Volkswagen Model : Thing Model Version : 1600 CC Engine size : 0.0 Model Year : 1973 Location : Charlotte
Sold
Seller Information
Sold
People who viewed this Volkswagen Thing also viewed similar Volkswagen listed at ClassicDigest
Volkswagen Thing
40000 $
Orlando
Volkswagen Thing
25000 $
Nashville
Volkswagen Thing
23000 $
Nashville
Volkswagen Thing
24000 $
Nashville
Volkswagen Thing
28000 $
Tampa
Other cars listed for sale by this dealer
GMC Sierra
26995$
Charlotte
Dodge Challenger
Charlotte
Chevrolet Camaro
54995$
Charlotte
Chevrolet Camaro
94995$
Charlotte
Chevrolet Corvette
61995$
Charlotte
About Volkswagen
The Volkswagen story is indeed an intriguing tale of innovation, resilience, and post-war revival, marked by various models that have become iconic in automotive history.The People's Car (Volkswagen): Initially envisioned by Adolf Hitler in the 1930s as a "people's car" or "Volkswagen" in German, the idea was to create an affordable and practical vehicle for the German people. This concept led to the development of the Volkswagen Beetle (or the Type 1), designed by Ferdinand Porsche.
Post-War Challenges: After World War II, Volkswagen faced significant challenges. The factory was heavily damaged, and the brand's association with the Nazi regime led to a lack of interest in the car in some regions.
British Intervention - The British Army & Ivan Hirst: The British Army took control of the factory in the immediate post-war period. Major Ivan Hirst, a British Army officer, played a crucial role in reviving Volkswagen. He recognized the potential of the Beetle and advocated for its production, convincing the British military to order several thousand cars. This decision helped jumpstart the brand's revival.
Export Success and the Beetle's Global Appeal: The Beetle gained popularity not only in Germany but also globally, becoming an icon of affordable motoring. Its simple, reliable design and unique appearance made it a favorite among consumers worldwide.
Model Evolution: Over the years, Volkswagen introduced various models alongside the Beetle, each contributing to the brand's growth:
Type 2 (VW Bus or Transporter): Introduced in the 1950s, it became an iconic symbol of the hippie movement in the 1960s, loved for its spaciousness and versatility.
Golf (Rabbit in the U.S.): Launched in the mid-1970s, the Golf (or Rabbit in the U.S.) marked a shift towards front-wheel-drive, modern design, and hatchback practicality, becoming a cornerstone of the brand's success.
Passat, Jetta, and Other Models: Volkswagen expanded its lineup with models like the Passat and Jetta, catering to different market segments.
Challenges and Innovations: Despite success, Volkswagen faced challenges, including quality issues in the 1970s. However, the brand continued to innovate and develop new models and technologies.
Rise of the GTI and Global Expansion: The 1980s saw the rise of the iconic Golf GTI, a high-performance version that sparked the hot hatch trend. Volkswagen also expanded its global presence during this period.
The British intervention in reviving Volkswagen after World War II played a pivotal role in the brand's resurgence. While there might have been some tensions or competition among automotive companies in the 1950s and 1960s due to Volkswagen's post-war success, the brand's ability to produce innovative and popular models solidified its place in automotive history.