“Runs like a dream, rusts like a nightmare” 1973 VW Thing Project from the Keys

Vehicle Description

Up for auction is my 1973 Volkswagen Thing—a lovable air-cooled freakshow of a car that’s equal parts project and joy machine. It’s not a trailer queen. It’s not concours. But it runs incredible, shifts like butter, and has been the star of more than a few Florida Keys joyrides.

Because I realized I love driving it more than wrenching on it, and it’s time to pass the torch (and the welder) to someone ready to take on the next chapter.

• Original 1600cc engine runs beautifully

• 4-speed manual shifts smooth, clutch feels great

• Drum brakes stop straight and true

• Electrical system mostly works (lights and wipers function, horn is silent—maybe it’s shy)

• Clean Florida title, currently registered and insured

• Comes with:

  • 🪑 Original front seats (included but unrestored)

  • 🧰 Seat rebuild kit from The Thing Shop

  • 🔧 Original rear fenders

  • 🪟 Full set of original side windows

  • 🌞 Aftermarket bimini top (beats no top!)

• Rust is the issue—floor pans are toast. One seat mount has broken through the floor. There's a nasty patch job under the battery.

• Body rust is starting in the usual VW places (bottom edges), but panels are mostly straight.

• Paint job is a backyard blue special over the original orange—some of which peeks through in spots.

• Rear fenders have been swapped with front fenders turned backwards by the previous owner (weird? yes. cool? also yes.)

• Rear tires are old and due for replacement, though fine for rolling/moving.

I shipped this car from Arizona and know what a pain it can be—happy to help coordinate with your shipper, assist with loading, and share my transport contacts.

This Thing is not for everyone—but for the right buyer, it's an awesome entry into the world of air-cooled weirdness. Drive it as-is with caution, or strip it down and do it right. Either way, you’ll have something cooler than 98% of the cars at your next Cars & Coffee.Low reserve. Full payment due within seven days, car is for sale locally and auction can be ended at any time.