Germany vs West Germany — 1950 vs 1969
| Type 2 Samba Bus (23-Window) | Type 181 Thing | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 42 hp | 46 hp |
| Torque | 75 lb-ft | 78 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,493 cc | 1,584 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 0.0 sec | 23.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 65 mph | 72 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 0.0 sec | — |
| Weight | — | 2,006 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,400 mm | 2,400 mm |
| Length | 4,280 mm | 3,780 mm |
| Units Produced | — | 90,883 |
| Original MSRP | — | $2,750 |
| Value (Excellent) | $400,000 | $45,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 6/10 |
The 1969 Volkswagen Type 181 Thing emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering higher top speed, stronger collectibility, better value. The 1950 Volkswagen Type 2 Samba Bus (23-Window) counters with quicker acceleration, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
The Volkswagen Type 2 lineage tells a fascinating story of automotive evolution. Comparing the 1950 Volkswagen Type 2 Samba Bus (23-Window) with the 1969 Volkswagen Type 181 Thing reveals how Volkswagen refined and reimagined one of its most important nameplates over the years. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1950 Volkswagen Type 2 Samba Bus (23-Window) producing 42 hp and the 1969 Volkswagen Type 181 Thing delivering 46 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Volkswagen Type 2 uses a Flat-4 OHV 8V displacing 1,493 cc, while the Volkswagen Type 181 relies on a Flat-4 Air-Cooled OHV with 1,584 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1950 Volkswagen Type 2 Samba Bus (23-Window) edges ahead at 0.0 seconds versus 23.0 seconds. On the collector market, the 1950 Volkswagen Type 2 Samba Bus (23-Window) commands a significant premium over the 1969 Volkswagen Type 181 Thing, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1969 Volkswagen Type 181 Thing rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.