The 1973 Volkswagen Type 181, commonly known as "The Thing," has been added to the Ron Sturgeon Collection at the DFW Car & Toy Museum, showcasing one of Volkswagen's most distinctive and historically significant vehicles. With its unapologetically boxy silhouette and military roots, this brilliant orange example continues to capture imaginations decades after its production ended.
The Type 181 traces its origins to a military utility vehicle developed for the German Army in the late 1960s, with civilian production following shortly after. By 1972, U.S. customers could purchase this open-top oddity, which was built on the rugged foundation of Beetle and Karmann Ghia components. The vehicle reflects the fun, freedom, and functionality that defined Volkswagen's most unconventional creation, offering both practical utility and undeniable character.
Powered by Volkswagen's air-cooled 1,600cc flat-four engine and equipped with a four-speed manual transmission, the Type 181 delivers more than just charm—it provides a unique driving experience. The car offers a smooth-shifting ride capable of cruising above 60 mph, making it suitable for weekend drives and vacation escapes despite its utilitarian appearance.
Ron Sturgeon, founder of the DFW Car & Toy Museum, emphasized the vehicle's distinctive appeal, stating that few cars have as much personality per square inch as the VW Thing. Its quirky design and capable performance make it impossible not to smile when seeing one drive by, particularly in the vibrant orange finish of this specific example.
Although civilian sales in the United States ended in 1974 due to evolving safety standards, the Type 181 continued international production until 1983, with over 90,000 units produced in total. This particular vehicle now joins more than 200 classic and collector vehicles at the museum, standing out not only for its distinct look but for the joy it brings to both drivers and spectators.
The DFW Car and Toy Museum, located at 2550 McMillan Parkway in Fort Worth, Texas, occupies a 150,000 square foot facility with free parking and admission. The museum offers secure climate-controlled car storage and facilities for events, maintaining hours of operation from Tuesday through Saturday, 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. More information about the museum and its collections can be found at https://dfwcarandtoymuseum.com.
