With a name like the 1974 Thing, it is hard to ignore this classic Volkswagen.
Volkswagen is pretty much known for bringing unique design ideas to the vehicle industry. Officially named the Kubelwagen, the Volkswagen Thing has a military style design and was manufactured between 1969 and 1983. It was a direct descendant of the Kubelwagen military vehicle used in World War II.
The Basic Idea
The Thing was born from the idea of creating a military style jeep vehicle. It was to be light weight and mass produced to supply the military's need. In the 1950s Volkswagen was offered the chance to make these military jeeps, but they did not do it at that time. However, it likely sparked the imaginations of the developers at Volkswagen who were looking for a similar type vehicle to meet demands of the Mexican market where the need was high for a vehicle that could handle rough rural roads.
Volkswagen decided to create a vehicle that would be light weight, could handle rough rural roadways and that they could make cheaply using parts they already had on hand. Thus, the Thing was born. They used parts from the Type 1 to create the Thing.
Resurrection of the Thing
The Thing has really soared in popularity since it has been out of production. The Thing has a cult following. The utilitarian design makes people desire a Thing of their own. The features of the Thing also add to its desirability. People like the angular deign, the easy to remove windows and doors and the fold down windshield. The inside also has some desirable features with painted steel door panels and flat bench seats for an industrial chic look. You just won't find such features in today's market, so people long for the Thing.
It also helps that the Thing has shown up in various pop culture spots. It has been on the big screen, helping main characters get about in various movies. It has also been shown in television on several shows, including The Simpsons and Burn Notice.
Buying Your Own Thing
You can't buy a Thing from Volkswagen anymore so you have to get creative in finding one if you have your heart set on driving a Thing. You can find them as low as $3000, but be aware that at this price you will be looking at a lot of restoration. If you want one that is road ready then you are looking at about $15,000 or more. Recent sales have seen Things going for as much as $40,000.
There is little doubt that the Volkswagen Thing is an amazing blast from the past.
Its interesting design and style has not been duplicated. For someone that wants to drive something a little different a 1974 Thing or any year of Volkswagen Thing could be the right choice. It can take some luck to find one, but if you do then hold onto it and treat it well. Soon Things will just be a memory of a great vehicle of the past.
Its interesting design and style has not been duplicated. For someone that wants to drive something a little different a 1974 Thing or any year of Volkswagen Thing could be the right choice. It can take some luck to find one, but if you do then hold onto it and treat it well. Soon Things will just be a memory of a great vehicle of the past.
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