1973 Volkswagen Type 181 'Thing' Joins Ron Sturgeon Collection at DFW Car & Toy Museum
TL;DR
The VW Thing offers a unique collector advantage with its military origins, limited US production, and standout orange color that commands attention at car shows.
Built on Beetle and Karmann Ghia components, the 1973 VW Type 181 features a 1,600cc air-cooled flat-four engine with four-speed manual transmission.
The VW Thing brings joy to drivers and spectators alike, preserving automotive history while creating memorable experiences at the DFW Car & Toy Museum.
This brilliant orange 1973 VW Thing combines military utility with civilian fun, delivering smiles with its quirky design and smooth-shifting ride above 60 mph.
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The 1973 Volkswagen Type 181, commonly known as "The Thing," has been acquired for the Ron Sturgeon collection, showcasing its distinctive boxy silhouette and military heritage. With its origins tracing back to a military utility vehicle developed for the German Army in the late 1960s, the Type 181 transitioned to civilian production, reaching U.S. markets by 1972. This particular example, finished in brilliant orange, is built on the rugged foundation of Beetle and Karmann Ghia components, emphasizing the fun, freedom, and functionality that defined Volkswagen's most unconventional creation.
Powered by VW'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 offers a unique driving experience. Ron Sturgeon, founder of the DFW Car & Toy Museum, remarked, "Few cars have as much personality per square inch as the VW Thing. It's quirky, it's capable, and it's impossible not to smile when you see one drive by—especially in orange." This addition underscores the vehicle's enduring appeal and cultural significance in automotive history.
Civilian sales of the Type 181 in the U.S. ended in 1974 due to evolving safety standards, but production continued internationally until 1983, with over 90,000 units produced in total. The vehicle combines utilitarian simplicity with undeniable charisma, capable of cruising above 60 mph, making it ideal for weekend drives and vacation escapes. Displayed among more than 200 classic and collector vehicles at the DFW Car & Toy Museum, the VW Thing stands out not only for its distinct look but for the joy it brings to drivers and spectators alike.
The museum, now located in North Fort Worth at 2550 McMillan Parkway, offers a 150,000-square-foot facility with free parking and admission, providing an entertaining visit for enthusiasts. For more information, visit https://dfwcarandtoymuseum.com. This acquisition highlights the importance of preserving automotive history and the ongoing interest in unique, historically significant vehicles that continue to captivate audiences decades after their production.
Curated from 24-7 Press Release
