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LOT 206

1974 Volkswagen Type 181 – Beach Thing Chassis no. 184252287

Estimate: US$18,000 - US$24,000
Lot 206

1974 Volkswagen Type 181 – Beach Thing

1974 Volkswagen Type 181 – Beach Thing
Chassis no. 184252287


1,584cc Air-Cooled OHV Flat 4-Cylinder Engine
Single Solex 34 PICT 3 Carburetor
46bhp at 4,000rpm
4-Speed Manual Transmission
4-Wheel Independent Suspension
4-Wheel Hydraulic Drum Brakes

*Fresh restoration completed in December of last year
*Beach-ready interior trim
*Reliable, Beetle underpinnings
*Nary a more perfect summer ride exists


THE TYPE 181—THE THING

Volkswagen's "Thing" had its roots in a military project. Based on the mechanicals of the Type 1 Beetle, it used a Karmann Ghia floorpan and 1,500 and 1,600 cc versions of the familiar air-cooled flat four engine. Transmissions were all VW's 4-speed manual. Production began in 1969 in Germany, with early units delivered, ironically, to the German Army, as well as Dutch and Belgian forces. Civilian sales began in 1971, by which time Mexican production had started. Marketing in the U.S. commenced in 1972. In all, more than 90,000 were built through 1983, though civilian sales halted in 1980. Difficulty in meeting safety requirements resulted in withdrawal from the United States market after 1974.

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

Now, the Volkswagen Type 181 "Thing" attracts crowd's wherever it goes, and the example here is no exception. Offered from a private collector and ready for enjoyment, it is a beautiful example that benefits from a restoration completed in December 2018. Finished in striking Atlas White (code # L-90C) paint, over a weatherproof Sunbrella brand Acapulco inspired Blue and White interior, it is additionally fitted with full, waterproof, custom vinyl tonneau and custom aluminum supports.

This example is reported to run strong and provide fun for the entire family. The restoration includes, but is not limited to replacement 1600cc engine, rebuilt transmission, rebuilt suspension, new ignition, new starter, new battery and cables, new metal and fiberglass floors sprayed with "tuff coat" to match the exterior, new front pan, new gas tank and lines, new upper steering column bushings and bearings, new brakes, hydraulics, master cylinder, drums, hoses, wheel cylinders, and shoes. Also, new wheels, tires, and correct Volkswagen caps and new tinted windscreen.

Between this and its tidy aesthetics, it creates a smile for the driver, passengers and those that you pass by on the road- all in all a great weekend/vacation car.

Saleroom notices

Please note, the correct chassis number is 1842542287 and the title will be in transit. Additionally, the restoration on this car is largely cosmetic and buyers are advised to satisfy themselves as to the quality of the work and condition before bidding.

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