A Volkswagen Type 181 emerges from decades of storage, showing just 6,800 miles and surprising originality.
After sitting untouched in a barn for over 50 years, a Volkswagen Type 181—better known in the U.S. as the "Thing"—has been revived in near-original condition. The low-mileage survivor was recently uncovered by the team at WD Detailing, who documented the process of bringing the quirky off-roader back to life.
Originally developed for military use by the West German Army in the late 1960s, the Type 181 quickly evolved into a civilian oddity. Known globally by various names—“Kurierwagen” in Germany, “Trekker” in the UK, and “Safari” in Latin America—the boxy four-door gained cult status during its brief U.S. run from 1973 to 1974 as the Volkswagen Thing.
Despite its short American lifespan, the Thing left a lasting impression. Based on a mashup of Beetle and Microbus mechanicals, the Thing’s design paid homage to the WWII Kübelwagen. With flat body panels, removable doors, a fold-down windshield, and a convertible soft top, it was as utilitarian as it was eccentric.
The recently unearthed example is believed to have just 6,800 original miles on the odometer. According to WD Detailing, the vehicle was left in storage shortly after purchase and never saw regular road use. Though coated in decades of dust and grime, the Thing's interior and mechanicals remained surprisingly well preserved.
Once cleaned and carefully inspected, the VW started up, a testament to its robust air-cooled flat-four engine. Videos of the cleanup and first startup have since gone viral among classic car enthusiasts, especially those with a fondness for oddball German engineering.
With its retro-futuristic looks and unusual history, the Thing is enjoying renewed appreciation. Whether as a conversation piece or a collectible, this barn find proves some cars never really go out of style.
