1973 Volkswagen Thing Type 181

This 1973 Volkswagen Thing, a.k.a. Type 181, has been recently restored and features new orange paint and a fresh black interior to complement the new top. It also retains its unique four removable doors, fold-down windshield and VW's charismatic flat-four engine for the purest of open-air driving experiences. The odometer currently shows 18,167 miles and functional items, such as the folding top mechanism and gasoline-fueled heating system, are said to be in good working order. Measuring in at 1,600cc, the air-cooled, horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine in this 1973 Thing came from the factory with dual-port heads and a single-barrel Solex carburetor and was rated at 60 hp when new. An alternator provides reliable charging duties and can be seen connected to the repainted fan shroud assembly. The engine is noted as being in good running condition with some oil weeping from underneath. The four-speed transaxle is said to be free of noises or leaks and is said to shift well through the gears. Refinished in orange, the steel body panels appear to be original to this 1973 Thing, including the rectangular bumpers and doors. All glass, chrome and polished aluminum trim are conveyed as being in good condition and the recently replaced windshield and black convertible top are said to be free of issues or stains. - Inside, the upholstery was replaced during the restoration and appears to be in good condition, based on the images provided . The original four-spoke steering wheel has an aftermarket wrap on it and sits in front of the VDO speedometer, which shows 18,167 miles on its odometer. A trio of VDO gauges monitor voltage, cylinder-head temperature and oil pressure. - The Type 181 shares the chassis architecture and torsion bar suspension of other contemporary Type 1 Volkswagens. The front/rear-drum braking system is said to respond well to driver input while the manual recirculating-ball steering system is functioning properly. Solid steel wheels, which are finished gloss black, are wrapped in Douglas Xtra-Trac II tires measuring 185/70R14. The floor pans have been replaced recently and the remainder of the undercarriage shows minimal corrosion, based on the images provided . Additional paperwork includes some receipts for the recent restoration work. This refurbished 1973 Volkswagen Type 181 Thing seems certain to be a crowd pleaser for both those riding inside and those watching it from the outside.