Genuine ex-German army Volkswagen 181, delivered new to Koblenz for the German Ministry of Defence in July 1973
Matching numbers with Volkswagen certificate and Histones report
Never fully restored, retaining original manufacturer's plates and original configuration with accessories
Current ownership since 2012
French Carte Grise de Collection and Contrôle Technique valid to May 2028
The Appeal
The Volkswagen 181, known variously as the Kurierwagen, Thing, or Trekker depending on market, occupies a unique place in automotive history. Born from a NATO requirement for a light military vehicle, this utilitarian machine combined the mechanical simplicity of the Type 1 Beetle with go-anywhere practicality. Its angular, no-nonsense design and military heritage have earned it a devoted following among collectors who appreciate its honest, functional character.
This particular example is especially noteworthy as a genuine ex-German army vehicle with impeccable provenance. Built in July 1973 and delivered new to the German Ministry of Defence in Koblenz, it retains its original manufacturer's plates and remains in its original configuration with period accessories—a rarity that the vendor emphasises. The boot interior still wears its original olive green military finish, a tangible connection to its service history. Crucially, this is a matching numbers vehicle accompanied by both a Volkswagen certificate and a Histones report, providing documentary evidence of its authenticity.
The 181 reportedly arrived in France in 1992 and has had just four registered keepers since, with the current custodian acquiring it in 2012. Rather than subjecting it to a full restoration, they have maintained it sympathetically, preserving its character whilst ensuring mechanical reliability through comprehensive maintenance. Major work has been carried out at regular intervals, including engine internals in 2015, suspension and steering components in 2020, and CV joints as recently as May 2025. The mileage of 97,000 kilometres is certified by technical inspections, and the vehicle benefits from French collection registration with a technical inspection valid through May 2028.
For collectors seeking an authentic piece of military automotive history with proper documentation and a well-maintained mechanical condition, this Volkswagen 181 represents a compelling opportunity.IMG_5845 Classic Cars Company.jpg4.33 MB
History and Paperwork
Built 09/07/1973 in Germany, delivered new 19/07/1973 to Koblenz for German Ministry of Defence
Genuine ex-German army vehicle, originally olive green
Arrived in France in 1992
Four former registered keepers since arrival in France, the current owner purchased in 2012
Matching numbers vehicle with Volkswagen certificate and Histones report included
Carte Grise de Collection
Serial numbers match
Contrôle Technique valid to May 2028
Hood and side-screens replaced by the current owner
Indicated mileage of 98,889 kilometres reportedly warranted by technical inspections
Extensive maintenance history with major work in 2015, 2019, 2020, and 2025
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