What's that Thing?

I saw a yellow Volkswagen Thing today. Remember those? Made from 1969 to 1983, the "Type 181" was sold in the U.S. only in 1973-74. They had a short life in the U.S. because of increasing safety regulations--which sent the regular Beetle packing by the end of the 1970's too.

Things were essentially VW Beetles built for a more rugged life--and they looked the part. All the rounded, 1930's styling was banished and replaced by flat reinforced panels. It's almost like someone decided to build a VW out of lumber in their back yard.

They were a continuation and improvement over the Kübelwagen, which was used by the German military during World War II.

Nowadays Things are about as rare as seeing a silver quarter, but they always bring out a smile.

See DasTank.com, the Thing fan website, for much more information.