You just never know what you are going to see at our dealership! This vehicle is from the collection of a long time customer. It is a 1973 VW Type 181, commonly called "the Thing" here in the U.S. This is a real German military radio vehicle originally assigned to a medical unit.  It has just 43k kilometers making it a very low mileage piece. Apparently the radio cars were only used during manuevers which may be why the mileage is so low. The current owner purchased the vehicle from a dealer that specializes in importing European trucks and military vehicles. It has been here in NC since 2002 and does have a proper NC title, registration, insurance etc. So transferring ownership will be no problem. This vehicle is roadworthy and has just had a thorough service necessary after a few years of non use. This included cleaning the engine, a new carb, tune up, oil change, fuel tank cleaning, fuel lines & filters, shocks, brake master cyl, wheel cylinders, shoes, new tires etc. The vehicle is very complete and original as seen in the photos. The military version is slightly different from the "Things" we got here. The tranmission is set up with reduction gearing (like a split window bus) and of course it has gun holders and specific equipment. This example, being a radio car obviously has radios & antennas but also has a suppressed ignition system and an extra alternator. It also comes with an array of German military  "accessories" many of which are specific for this VW. Not original to the 181 is the roll bar which as an accessory sold by "The Thing Shop" in Chandler, AZ - the place to go for VW thing parts and accessories. This vehicle is in good condition but not perfect. The gas heater does not work and the fuel guage is inconsistent. There are a few minor rust spots, and the floor mats have deteriorated. Please feel free to contact us for more information. Note that are 9 more photos on our site that were too large for ebay.

At Auto Focus you'll find a variety of quality, pre-owned automobiles, both import and domestic. All of which have been thoroughly inspected and serviced by the experts at our shop, Foreign Accents. We have come a long way since opening the first small shop here in 1974. Today our operation is still family owned and encopasses all aspects of the automobile business including sales, vehicle loaction, service, restoration, parts and accessories.

1. NC residents

In addition to the sale price, North Carolina residents are also responsible for: NC Highway Use Tax which is 3% of the vehicle's sale price; License and title fee of $73.00; Auto Focus documentation fee of $169.  NC residents must have a valid NC drivers license and must have at least liability insurance coverage on the purchased vehicle before it can leave the Auto Focus lot. Auto Focus will complete all title work for NC residents.

2.Out of state buyers

All buyers who take personal delivery, and drive their vehicle from the Auto Focus lot must have at least liability coverage insurance on the vehicle purachased as this is a requirement in NC. The title and registration process and associated costs will be the responsibility of the buyer. We provide airport pick up from GSO at no charge.

3. Deposit and final payment

A deposit of $500 is required within 24 hours of sale. Payment in full is required before a sold vehicle can be released. Vehicles can be paid for in cash, by certified funds, by personal check, once cleared, and by loan check. Auto Focus must be notified within 36 hours of sale as to how the vehicle will be paid for. An important note about the deposit: We try very hard to accurately represent our vehicles. If you are the winning bidder, or agree to purchase a vehicle and are dissatisfied with the condition of the vehicle once you arrive, we will return your deposit. If you simply change your mind, or fail to even come look at the vehicle you have agreed to buy, your  $500 deposit will not be refunded.

4. Shipping

Shipping cost and arrangements are the responsibility of the buyer.

5. Warranty

All vehicles sold by Auto Focus have been inspected and serviced by Foreign Accents, a Bosch Service Center in Greensboro, NC. All vehicles have a current NC inspection unless otherwise noted.

Vehicles sold by Auto Focus are sold AS-IS with no warranty unless there is factory warranty coverage remaining.

An aftermarket extended warranty plan by Easy Care is available at the buyers expense on some of our vehicles.  Please contact us for more details and to see if the car you have chosen qualifies.