Description
Volkswagen 181 Kübelwagen | 1978
Highlights:
– Rare civilian version of the military-inspired VW Kübel
– Repainted in factory red with
– New engine and braking system
– Standalone petrol heater and glass side windows
– Regularly maintained and stored indoors
The seller offers for sale this 1978 Volkswagen VW 181, commonly known as the Kübelwagen. Originally designed for military and utility use, this civilian version is presented in good condition and features a renewed 1.3-litre four-cylinder petrol engine paired with a manual transmission.
In 2013, the car was repainted in a classic Volkswagen red, its original factory colour. The paint remains in good condition. A matching spray can and touch-up stick are included.
The car is fitted with a replacement engine installed prior to the current ownership. During the seller’s tenure, the vehicle received a set of new drum brakes, new tyres, and a new battery. The car has a valid Dutch registration and roadworthiness inspection.
The Kübel’s interior is deliberately spartan. The seller notes that while the front seats could use some repair, the rest of the vehicle remains intact. The convertible top is in working order but shows age-related wear. Its plastic windows have hardened over time due to sun exposure. For weather protection, the top is usable for storage or brief parking, but may need replacement for regular use. Notably, the car is equipped with a rare set of glass side windows, considered safer and more durable than the usual soft inserts. There is also a functional petrol-fuelled auxiliary heater and a maintenance kit under the hood, including tools and a spare wheel.
The Volkswagen 181 was originally developed for military and governmental use, derived from the Beetle platform. Its origins can be traced to the 1960s, with the civilian version emerging in the 1970s under various names, including the “Thing” in the United States. Combining simple mechanicals with a rugged, open-air design, it was marketed as an adaptable, all-terrain vehicle for both practical and recreational use. The 181 retained the air-cooled rear engine and basic drivetrain of the Beetle but featured a reinforced chassis and angular body panels, designed for ease of maintenance and durability.
Production lasted from 1968 to 1983, with civilian models becoming popular among outdoor enthusiasts and collectors. The Kübel’s quirky design, removable doors, and fold-flat windshield made it a favourite for beach towns, countryside excursions, and sunny climates. Its off-road capabilities were modest but sufficient for light terrain, helped by a high ground clearance and rear-wheel-drive layout.
Over the years, surviving examples have become increasingly collectible, especially those that remain in solid mechanical and cosmetic condition. Restored or modified Kübels often appear at classic car events, where their distinctive look and utilitarian heritage set them apart. Enthusiast communities continue to support the model with spare parts and restoration resources, ensuring the 181’s legacy remains accessible to a new generation of owners.
Condition of the Bodywork and Paint
4. Very Good: Small dents or scratches; may require minimal bodywork or paint correction.
Condition of the Interior
1. Requires Restoration: Significant damage is present, with some parts possibly missing.
Technical Condition
4. Very Good: Mechanically solid, with possible minor maintenance required.
Overall Condition
3. Good Condition: May need some mechanical and cosmetic repairs, but can drive.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
We encourage all potential bidders to inspect the vehicle before placing a bid. Please contact us by phone or email to schedule an appointment.
All auction cars offered have a reserve price. You have only won the item if the seller accepts your bid.
Price changes and errors reserved. The 14-day right of withdrawal does not apply to this auction.
This car is currently located in Noord Brabant, Netherlands.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has a Dutch registration. The buyer is responsible for registration in his own country and responsible for delivery and collection of any vehicle purchased at the auction.
The description of this car is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Route 66 Auctions requests a range of detail about the car from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. We strongly advise potential buyers to view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy.
Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible cars to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be hard to see even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork. Photographs may not reflect the exact true colour or exact full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to assure themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy.
