Highlights

In current ownership since 1983
Recently been fitted with a new fan belt, ignition switch and rear brakes
Rare UK-registered example of the Volkswagen Type 181
Charming patina of age
Fabric roof, fold-flat windscreen - perfect for summer
Features VW's range-topping 1.6-litre twin-port flat-four

The Appeal

The Volkswagen Type 181 was originally developed for the West German Army and subsequently also became available as a passenger vehicle. Known by various names, including Kurierwagen in West Germany and Thing in the USA and Canada, it has since acquired a cult following amongst fans who appreciate features such as its removable and interchangeable doors, flat-folding windscreen and removable convertible roof.

This example, which was purchased by the current owner in 1983, who regularly used between the UK and mainland Europe until 2018. After a period in storage in Italy it was driven to the UK in 2022, where it has remained since.

The car is described by the owner as being "in fairly good condition with some very small spots of rust, and paintwork that is somewhat dulled in areas". The roof and windows are claimed to be original; the roof has been repaired in places.

Inside, the seats are usable but lightly scuffed. The interior is largely original, with the exception of an additional attachment for a radio and a new key holder. The speedometer is currently not working.

Since 2022, when it received new tyres, the car has been driven on short journeys regularly. It has recently been fitted with a new fan belt, ignition switch and rear brakes. The owner advises that the car can sometimes stall if the driver is braking and changing from 4th to 1st gear, but can always be restarted straight away. Its most recent service was in May 2026, when a pipe was replaced.

The owner states:

"It is great fun to drive: you do receive a lot of attention! Its bright yellow colour is fantastic and adds a spirit of fun and a sense of summer adventure. It certainly has done the rounds in Europe and has been through three generations in the same family - we have even slept in the car, with the seats go down. On a lovely day, it can be stripped back so the wind can fly in your hair, but it has also been used for daily commuting during the UK rainy seasons. Its simple Beetle engine means that anyone who understands basic mechanics can enjoy looking after it."

Key Information

Mileage: 19,373 km (indicated)
Country of registration: United Kingdom
Technical inspection status: MOT exempt
Technical specs: 1,584cc naturally aspirated flat four, 4spd manual
Paperwork: V5C, original documents and some service documents

Most recent work:

03/26 – Combe Down Garage Ltd – £240.00 (Invoice #010937) Rear brake fitment
05/26 – Combe Down Garage Ltd – £48.00 (Invoice #011653) Pipework replacement
07/23 – Combe Down Garage Ltd – £237.10 (Invoice #148226) Service
07/22 – Progetto Service SrL – €275.00 (Invoice #1094) Repair
07/22 – Monsieur Eugene Pomeroy – €408.40 (Invoice #FA00006664) 4 x new tyres

The Detail

Acquired by the current owner in 1983 and kept in the family for three generations
Driven between the UK and Europe until 2018, stored in Italy, and returned to the UK in 2022
Finished in bright yellow paint that is faded in areas, alongside minor spots of rust
Retains its original windows and an original but repaired convertible roof
Interior remains mostly original, with a currently non-functional speedometer
Seats are scuffed but usable, and the cabin has an added radio attachment
Fitted with new tyres in 2022 and driven regularly on short journeys
Recently updated with a new fan belt, ignition switch, and rear brakes
Serviced most recently in May 2026 to replace a pipe
Prone to stalling when braking and shifting from fourth to first gear, though it reportedly restarts immediately

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic's own Terms and Conditions..

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