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For Sale: 1974 Volkswagen Thing in Collegeville, Pennsylvania

Vehicle Description

1974 VW German Federal Army and NATO Type 181

You are looking at an all original 1974 cold war survivor Bundeswehr Type 181. This beauty has less than 17,000 original miles and is in prime condition. Imported it directly from Germany where it spent most of its life in a military warehouse.  The original military options are still intact and working well.  

Made for the Bundeswehr (German Federal Army) in Wolfsburg Germany.  Used by all branches of the German military, especially the army and the Feldjäger (military police).  This vehicle also saw service during the Cold War under NATO. This vehicle was made in Germany, NOT I Mexico like the VW THING.

NEW:  All drum brake components (except the hard lines) have been replaced. Entirely new interior. New tires.

The original numbers matching 1600 dual port engine still has the suppressed ignition system, which is water tight. It is very difficult to find any Kubel still fitted with this system in perfect working order. The generator has stainless braided noise suppressing wires and the go to a series of noise canceling, stealth mode boxes. The engine runs great and is also fitted with the original crank-start pulley with an accessory drive belt groove. The hand crank is ready to go to work strapped down on the passenger side of the engine compartment. On the drives side is the factory wheel chock. Going down the road you can tell this is a nearly new VW. The Kubel feels very solid and the ride is smooth. The suspension is tight and it tracks perfectly with no slop in the steering.  Drives straight, stops straight.

Inside you will find everything as it should be for a low mileage car. Original shovel in back, complete military first aid kit strapped under the dash, fire extinguisher between the seats, rifle mounts next to the seats, all stickers and badges in place, and front seats that fully recline. Original rubber floor mats protect the shiny black painted rust-free floor. Also included is the ash tray, and a 12-volt accessory port.

The convertible top is original and in almost new condition, being stored inside has really preserved this top you can even make out the VW logo in the rear window. The front side curtains are also original and very clear with fully functional vent wings . The original rear side curtains are not as clear so I have purchased new ones for Germany if you would like to change them out. The German Military also included outside mirror blackout covers, headlight covers and a windshield cover from the same material as the top. All of these items are in the original storage bag located under the front hood.

Since this is a military vehicle it is painted with radar scattering, flat green paint. It did receive a very nice re-spray while in service with the German Military. The floor pans are rust free.

This is a very unique vehicle that should be left all original. These Kubels are becoming increasingly popular and almost impossible to find in this condition. This is a sound investment as prices are rising quickly. Here is your chance to own a unique piece of VW German Army memorabilia.  Left rear fender has slight surface rust.

Specifications:

  • Two-wheel rear drive
  • Air cooled original numbers matching 1600cc dual port engine with suppressed ignition system
  • Four speed manual transmission
  • Four-wheel independent suspension
  • Self-locking differential
  • Speedometer/odometer in kilometers
  • Drum brakes
  • Side curtains

Military Options:

  • Radar scattering, flat green paint
  • Spark-proof 7 position light switch with lock-out cam for blackout lights
  • Blackout covers 
  • Crank start 
  • Wheel chock
  • Front skid pan
  • Shovel
  • First aid kit
  • Rifle mounts
  • Brush bars
  • Spare fuel can inside spare tire

 

 

 

Vehicle Details

  • 1974 Volkswagen Thing
  • Listing ID: CC-1242274
  • Price: $17,500 (OBO)
  • Location:Collegeville, Pennsylvania
  • Year:1974
  • Make:Volkswagen
  • Model:Thing
  • Exterior Color:Green
  • Interior Color:Green
  • Transmission:Manual
  • Odometer:17000
  • Convertible:Yes
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