[{"id": 8415223, "authorName": "Roger911", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/roger911/", "bidAmount": 5000, "content": "$5,000 bid placed by Roger911", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1650669801, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 8415258, "authorName": "Hood4788", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/hood4788/", "bidAmount": 15000, "content": "$15,000 bid placed by Hood4788", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1650670369, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 8415271, "authorName": "Jollyrogersbite", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jollyrogersbite/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "In Pic #171 a grey box on the engine? What is it?", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1650670561, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8415321, "authorName": "gauldingr", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/gauldingr/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Amarzullo517 (The Seller) , The intro states that the prior owner had a professional repaint. I am curious about all the scratches on the vehicle ! The roll bar, window frame, and other areas show heavy scratches ? What happened ? Thanks and GLWTA !", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1650671231, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8415430, "authorName": "Jfp58", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jfp58/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@jollyrogersbite, that grey box is for the EGR system (exhaust gas recirculation), which has been disconnected.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1650672688, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8415500, "authorName": "utahone", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/utahone/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "2500 documented original Thing miles, unfarfinugin believable!!!", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1650673564, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8416195, "authorName": "Tailwheelguy", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/tailwheelguy/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "The EGR box isn\u2019t something I\u2019ve seen before. I have a \u201873 VW Thing that I purchased new in \u201873 (in Texas) and it does not have, and never had, an EGR box. So, I\u2019m really not sure whether it was required in some states but not others. I don\u2019t think this particular is represented as an actual 2,500 mile car, is it?", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1650684539, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8416238, "authorName": "pablo2nd", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/pablo2nd/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "lot of scratches. looks like it was originally orange.\ndoes heater work?", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1650685770, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8416540, "authorName": "Jfp58", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jfp58/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Tailwheelguy, EGR was only standard on California bound VW Things in 1973.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1650707378, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8416667, "authorName": "Gmanmycar2020", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/gmanmycar2020/", "bidAmount": 15500, "content": "$15,500 bid placed by Gmanmycar2020", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1650715290, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 8416858, "authorName": "Amarzullo517 (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/amarzullo517/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Morning all and welcome to our Thing auction! This might be one of the most fun cars we've had the pleasure of selling. This one comes from our private collection and is truly a pleasure to drive. So far the scratches seem to be the talking point. The frame of the soft top can rub against the roll bars if the top is isn't put up and down with patience. Around the window frame, some of the marks are from top operation as well along with nudges from probably putting the windscreen up and down. Regarding documentation, the Thing is nicely sorted, we're very happy to have the original bill of sale (showing the color as yellow @pablo2nd). We hope our photos and videos give an accurate idea how good this Thing is, please let us know if more shots are needed of any details. Thanks to all!", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1650719320, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8416905, "authorName": "TedLitvin", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/tedlitvin/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Very well done 181. We get more thumbs up per mile in our 73 than my 51 Jeepster, 65 roadster c2 & 71 914 combined. These make for a great tow behind with a motor home.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1650719909, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8417169, "authorName": "vpchianese", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/vpchianese/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "So we are worried about the horrible scratches? Where the top and the front windshield meet and on the roll bar. Really!\r\n\r\nYet no one has asked the really elephant in the room question. Less that 2000 miles and an engine rebuilt? What happened there? Even a valve job at that milage is questionable least of all an engine overhaul.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1650723416, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8417273, "authorName": "ItsYourThing", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/itsyourthing/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I'm watching this one closely because it looks identical to the one I'll be selling here as soon as it gets on the schedule. Mine has a similar story too, except that it shows 17K miles and was stored 36 years. I don't have documentation to the degree this one has and all the scratches and nicks have been touched up. \r\nInteresting that the car rolled down a hill, was damaged and needed a paint job. I guess by that time orange was not as popular a color and they decided to go with yellow. I agree with the other poster about the engine, should have been fine at 2500 miles. If able to see each individual piece of documentation, maybe you could figure out the puzzle. I expect this one to bring top dollar as it is well presented and probably mechanically excellent.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1650724942, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8417492, "authorName": "mhn56", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/mhn56/", "bidAmount": 16500, "content": "$16,500 bid placed by mhn56", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1650728056, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 8417614, "authorName": "Jollyrogersbite", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jollyrogersbite/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Regarding the odometer. The back of the speedometer will have stamped in blue the month and date. Maybe it was changed or disconected at some time?", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1650729672, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8417654, "authorName": "gauldingr", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/gauldingr/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Amarzullo517 (The Seller) , In the walk around Video with the windshield lowered, it appears that the Wipers are resting on the Hood. Since there are no photos of the Hood, can you tell us if there are any scratches or dents where they are touching the Hood ? Please provide photos if possible. Thanks !!", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1650730158, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8417959, "authorName": "Amarzullo517 (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/amarzullo517/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@gauldingr - We just went into our storage and took a bright LED bar to the hood. (Pardon the artificial light). The hoods in great shape, no dents or dings. The paint is equally as nice and the only mark is a previously touched up chip at the top of the second rib from the right (looking at the hood from the front). We highlighted that spot in the uploads.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1650733770, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8418004, "authorName": "Amarzullo517 (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/amarzullo517/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "As for the engine rebuild- mileage aside, it was over 20 years old at the time. The previous owner was a bit of an engineering fanatic and the Transporter Werks \"sheet\" tells the story. Engines don't like sitting for extended periods.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1650734280, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8420590, "authorName": "rkell", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/rkell/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "You reference the \"Transporter Werks \"Sheet\"\". Sorry if I missed it, but is there anything more specific (like a detailed invoice showing the work and costs)? All I see is a cover sheet with no details. It would be nice to see the specifics. Thanks", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1650748590, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8421628, "authorName": "Amarzullo517 (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/amarzullo517/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@rkell Unfortunately we did not get those records with the sale. We will reach out to TW in hopes something can be found or somebody remembers the car. If anyone is local to Atlanta and wants to schedule an appointment to see/inspect the Thing they are more than welcome.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1650756411, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8422081, "authorName": "Tikicar", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/tikicar/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "It appears that the windshield frame was off an orange car. The screws on the right side hinge are straight and should be Phillips like the driver's side. The front and rear seams on the right side where the rocker meets the body are not as they should be. The right front looks like it is almost completely filled. On photo 135 showing the inside area of that spot there should be seam sealer along the complete bottom edge and it isn't. This area looks to have been repaired. It is a common rust area for these cars. You can so see a fender bolt threads which originally was painted when the car was manufactured. It is missing the heat shield around the gasoline heater exhaust tube. The 12 volt outlet is missing in the dash. A close up of the VIN decal on the driver's B pillar would be nice. Other than the paint issues the car appears to be a very nice and complete and very stock Thing. It is a 49 year old car and very complete compared to many VW Things that have been on BAT lately. It is listed as TMU so I don't see why anyone would think the miles are correct.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1650765116, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8422271, "authorName": "pablo2nd", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/pablo2nd/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "does the heater work?", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1650768887, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8422897, "authorName": "Jollyrogersbite", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jollyrogersbite/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Engine #00006466 on the invoice. Shows engine #AM 0038xx in it now. (can't see the last digits in the photo).", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1650803208, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8423106, "authorName": "vpchianese", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/vpchianese/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "\"As for the engine rebuild- mileage aside, it was over 20 years old at the time. The previous owner was a bit of an engineering fanatic and the Transporter Werks \u201csheet\u201d tells the story. Engines don\u2019t like sitting for extended periods.\"\nWell it always amazes me as why would anyone want an engine from a VW, Porsche, or in fact any car rebuilt for frivolous things. I don't care who is doing the rebuilt it is very rare that they are as good as the guy at the plant where the engine was built the first time. That said, VW engines can sit a long time and obtain no real damage. Maybe not under water, I'm not saying this was but you get the point. Aircraft engines do the same. Some for years without running. They start and are certified to fly. There are u-tubes galore demonstrating this. \n\nIf this engine sat for 20 years in a shed there was no reason why it could not have been started. Yes some prestart work is needed but no where near the expense of a rebuild. Less than a morning and a few tool and products with a little knowledge and \"Bob's your uncle\" it would run.\n\nI'm not saying that this is a horrible or bad car. But's there is way more to this story than is being told. Maybe it is truly unknown but there is more to it.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1650806997, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8431165, "authorName": "Joshree", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/joshree/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I have a long purchase history with this dealer (including winning an auction here on BaT) and always check out their auctions. I can attest to the fact that they do things the right way and will be as transparent as possible when describing a vehicle. Everyone here seems to be banging on what I could only describe as a super-cool perfect summer cruiser. If you haven\u2019t driven a VW Thing, you\u2019re missing out and this looks like a good one to me!", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1650906535, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8431998, "authorName": "merlinautogroup", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/merlinautogroup/", "bidAmount": 20000, "content": "$20,000 bid placed by merlinautogroup", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1650909618, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 8432029, "authorName": "merlinautogroup", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/merlinautogroup/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Amarzullo517 thank you for the hospitality and allowing me to drive the car. Looking forward to an exciting 4 days of bidding.....", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1650909719, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8433019, "authorName": "Amarzullo517 (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/amarzullo517/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "In an effort to build some confidence, we got the Thing out of storage yesterday and shot a longer driving video and extended walk around. We also had two appointments over the weekend to show/demo the Thing and it's performed exactly as both parties have hoped. Obviously with our short (by comparison) ownership we can't claim to know if there's more to the story than was shared with us but we can attest that this is one of the nicest driving classic VW's we've had the pleasure of enjoying and are confident the next owner will enjoy just as much. The underside is in great shape along with all the nooks and crannies. Also in the works is a video showing the records given to us with the Thing.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1650913241, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8433593, "authorName": "Jollyrogersbite", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jollyrogersbite/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Can you add a pic of the manufacture date info sticker. Located on the inside \"B\" piller driver side. Very nice 181. Only issue is the documentation shows a engine vin different from what's in it now.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1650915459, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8433785, "authorName": "Jollyrogersbite", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jollyrogersbite/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Regarding the gas heater timer. The blower should come on when the ignition is on. Also if the heater spark plug is igniting the gas you get the heat. Timer, fan, and spark, all have too work for heat.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1650916473, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8437384, "authorName": "saleenmagic", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/saleenmagic/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Amazing! Just look at this thing.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1650951961, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8439219, "authorName": "Amarzullo517 (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/amarzullo517/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Jollyrogersbite we snapped a photo of the VIN plate and attached. To those asking about the heater, we tried it this morning and tested components in the system. The switch (egg timer) isn't getting power to spark or blower but all fuses, relay, thermostat are intact and tested. Our expert says a new switch should do the trick.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1650991421, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8439244, "authorName": "Amarzullo517 (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/amarzullo517/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "For those following the comments, we spoke with the owner of Transporter Werks via email and phone. While records have dated out of the system he does recall the car and the owner. He's given us permission to share his thoughts exactly as they came to us so we've quoted his email below: \r\n\r\n\"The story I remember is this. The car was damaged and then put in storage for several decades. It was purchased then taken to a so so shop before it arrived at TW. We did some work to the windshield frame as the previous repair was subpar.The previous shop had done a poor job with the engine as well. The customer had told me that the engine was run briefly with no oil and seized, that is why it was rebuilt the first time. \r\n When the car arrived at the shop it ran poorly, the original distributor, air filter, exhaust had been removed as well. It had a \"high performance\" camshaft that was not designed to work with a small engine. We were able to source all the factory stock components including the exhaust to bring the engine back to its original condition. Also the engine block was still in perfect shape and did not need to be machined in any way. \r\nOther than the poor quality damage repair, it is a beautiful car. I have never seen another VW in such perfect shape otherwise. One could eat off the floor pans, they are so nice. \r\nGood luck with the sale\"", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1650991680, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8439698, "authorName": "tedtbg11", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/tedtbg11/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Very nice, very original looking Thing", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1650993773, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8454017, "authorName": "Amarzullo517 (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/amarzullo517/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "We're pleased to announce we've located a new heater switch and have ordered it. Thanks to all for the good questions so far.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1651156254, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8459880, "authorName": "RexWilson1955", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/rexwilson1955/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Funny how these cars were oddballs when they first came out and now they have transitioned into the COOL car club! \r\n Come on man! You know..the Thing the Thing! \r\nGLWTHA !", "likes": 4, "timestamp": 1651186015, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8460700, "authorName": "a990dna", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/a990dna/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I remember seeing one of these Things in Azusa Canyon back in the 70s. The father that owned it had his kids with him and he was going everywhere the big 4x4s were going. His kids were having a blast in that Thing. \n\nI learned to never underestimate a Thing off-road. \n\n\ud83d\ude09", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1651197644, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8461561, "authorName": "Rus5152", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/rus5152/", "bidAmount": 21000, "content": "$21,000 bid placed by Rus5152", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1651235604, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 8461642, "authorName": "Striklybizness", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/striklybizness/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Could you post the serial number of the engine.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1651236572, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8461802, "authorName": "Jmleavelle", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jmleavelle/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Lift it ! Method wheels with BFG\u2019s\u2026\u2026.Drive it like a rental\u2026..", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1651238556, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8462503, "authorName": "Amarzullo517 (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/amarzullo517/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Striklybizness Photo 147 shows the number as AM003817. We've uploaded a close-up as well. Thanks.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1651245543, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8463456, "authorName": "Amarzullo517 (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/amarzullo517/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "As we near the final hours of the auction we'll be available for any last-minute questions and photo needs. This Thing will make the next owner and driver very happy. We appreciate all the positive comments!", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1651252307, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8466271, "authorName": "porschefileone", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/porschefileone/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Please help me out here. I have always liked these and never owned one. I'm not a VW guy but fancy owning this one. Is this the original numbers matching engine or a replacement?", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1651263853, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8466476, "authorName": "Chadkd", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/chadkd/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Nice car. I\u2019ve got a yellow 73 and it is a blast to own and drive. If you love VWs you\u2019ll love the thing!", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1651264739, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8466509, "authorName": "Moonshine912", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/moonshine912/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "AM would have been a replacement engine. If an engine blew it was cheaper and quicker just to replace the entire engine. Quite common.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1651264895, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8466552, "authorName": "Jollyrogersbite", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jollyrogersbite/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "AM was original for type 181.oddly it's a typo on the invoice, first two 00 should be AM making it a 07/73 production engine. What's in it now is from around 04/73.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1651265066, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8466604, "authorName": "Heyimsam", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/heyimsam/", "bidAmount": 21250, "content": "$21,250 bid placed by Heyimsam", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1651265292, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 8466660, "authorName": "jimber", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jimber/", "bidAmount": 21500, "content": "$21,500 bid placed by jimber", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1651265511, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 8466687, "authorName": "Rus5152", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/rus5152/", "bidAmount": 21800, "content": "$21,800 bid placed by Rus5152", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1651265607, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 8466703, "authorName": "jimber", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jimber/", "bidAmount": 22100, "content": "$22,100 bid placed by jimber", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1651265648, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 8466706, "authorName": "Heyimsam", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/heyimsam/", "bidAmount": 22500, "content": "$22,500 bid placed by Heyimsam", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1651265651, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 8466712, "authorName": "jimber", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jimber/", "bidAmount": 22750, "content": "$22,750 bid placed by jimber", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1651265674, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 8466723, "authorName": "Heyimsam", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/heyimsam/", "bidAmount": 23250, "content": "$23,250 bid placed by Heyimsam", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1651265713, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 8466743, "authorName": "jimber", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jimber/", "bidAmount": 23500, "content": "$23,500 bid placed by jimber", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1651265805, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 8466771, "authorName": "Heyimsam", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/heyimsam/", "bidAmount": 24000, "content": "$24,000 bid placed by Heyimsam", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1651265890, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 8466803, "authorName": "Heyimsam", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/heyimsam/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Sold on 4/29/22 for $24,000 to Heyimsam", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1651266011, "type": "bat-bid-reserve"}, {"id": 8466812, "authorName": "JeffsGarage", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jeffsgarage/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Backdate it to a kubbelwagen.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1651266067, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8469027, "authorName": "tedtbg11", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/tedtbg11/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "All Things have the AM block", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1651291018, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8476188, "authorName": "ItsYourThing", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/itsyourthing/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "If you missed this one, my '74 is nearly identical and has been submitted to BAT, should be on the schedule in a few days. Stored for about 36 years, now road ready!", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1651414126, "type": "comment"}]