Volkswagen Thing

The model 181 "Thing" was a small military vehicle produced by Volkswagen in 1969 for the German army, an updated version of the earlier Kübelwagen.

The 181's rated payload for military use was 400 kilograms and, being a general utility vehicle, its uses included command, patrol, dispatch, and radio vehicle. Standard military equipment included an axe, headlamp blackout covers, military lighting system, map light, radio suppression, four rifle mounts, aspade, a starting handle, towing eye, towing hook, and a wheel chock. For nonmilitary use it was marketed as a fun vehicle. In the USA in 1973 and 1974 it was sold as the Thing (including an 'Acapulco' version), in Mexico as the Safari. A right-hand drive version, the Trekker, was built for the U.K. market.

Between 1969 and 1972 the model 181 was produced in Germany. From 1973 until 1980 production took place in Mexico. Total production numbers are vague, and range from 70,495 to almost double that at 140,768.