Originally designed as a utilitarian military vehicle based on the VW Beetle, the VW 181 became a cult convertible in the 1970s, especially in the U.S. A journey from Charlotte to Los Angeles reveals why “The Thing,” especially in bright yellow, continues to captivate enthusiasts today.
A Thing of Its Own
In the U.S., no one calls the VW 181 by its official name. Here, it’s affectionately known as “The Thing” a nickname born in the 1970s. True to its name, the car looks like… well, a thing – unapologetically boxy, functional, and almost indestructible. The cheerful nickname fits, particularly when paired with a striking yellow paint job.
As we cruise out of the Charlotte airport in North Carolina, the bright yellow 181 immediately draws attention. Passersby point, and even police officers give approving thumbs-ups. Few remember its cameo in the 1994 Hollywood blockbuster Speed alongside Sandra Bullock and Keanu Reeves. But the quirky convertible is still a beloved relic of its era. Originally designed in the late 1960s as a rugged military workhorse, the VW 181 was built for durability rather than off-road prowess. It lacked both ground clearance and all-wheel drive but was intended to replace the outgoing DKW Munga.
While it began life as a military tool, its straightforward design and charm quickly captured the imagination of civilian markets, especially in the U.S., where it was marketed as the VW Safari before the nickname “The Thing” took over.
On the Road Through the South
Our journey begins in Charlotte, North Carolina, heading west through the lush greenery of the Pisgah National Forest and Knoxville, Tennessee. The VW 181 is no speed demon, with its 1.6-liter flat-four engine producing just 44 hp and 98 Nm of torque. Cruising between 50–60 mph is ideal, as anything faster makes the engine sound strained.
The 181 thrives on slower, scenic routes, and the meandering country roads deliver. Small towns like Sparta and Alexandria feel almost European, and cafes along the way, like the Southern Creamery, become social hubs where “The Thing” turns heads. Everyone wants to chat about the car, especially in its striking yellow hue.
In Memphis, Tennessee, a visit to Graceland pays homage to the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. The iconic site is a nostalgic detour before we head west again, passing through towns like Stuttgart, Arkansas, and indulging in local barbecue at Kibb’s Bar-B-Que. With the 181’s 40-liter fuel tank and a temperamental fuel gauge, we stop frequently – every 1.5 to 2 hours – to refuel and stretch our legs, a rhythm akin to traveling in an EV.
Through the Open Plains
Crossing into Texas, the landscape flattens and opens up. Amarillo serves up hearty steaks at the legendary Big Texan Steak Ranch, a welcome pit stop before tackling the 60 Highway, which stretches through seemingly endless plains. Rain and nightfall bring their challenges; the 181’s headlights are more like dim marker lights, and fogged-up windows add to the difficulty.
In New Mexico, the journey takes us past the Very Large Array, a collection of massive radio telescopes listening to the cosmos. The cold, high-altitude morning reinforces the spartan nature of the 181: no heated seats, minimal insulation, and a defunct heating system. Gloves and a winter coat are a must.
The Final Stretch in the VW 181
Descending into Arizona, the rising temperatures finally allow us to lower the top, soaking up the desert sun. As we near California, the scenery transitions to the iconic landscapes of the Joshua Tree National Park and the dusty roads of Twentynine Palms.
Arriving in Los Angeles, the 181 blends effortlessly into the laid-back, surfer-friendly vibe of the West Coast. Over the course of 4,500 kilometers (2,800 miles) and 11 states, “The Yellow Thing” proved why it remains a symbol of carefree adventure.
A Cult Classic, Then and Now
The VW 181 may have started as a utilitarian army vehicle, but it evolved into a beloved cultural icon. Its charm, resilience, and quirkiness resonate as much with Malibu surfers as they do with Southern road-trippers. Few vehicles manage to transcend their original purpose so completely, but “The Thing” does it effortlessly, one bright yellow mile at a time.
