The VW 181 “Kübelwagen”

Driving, but different: the name "Kübelwagen" derives from "Kübelsitzwagen" – bucket-seat car – a term for open military vehicles with seats resembling upturned buckets. As a four-door convertible it belongs to the phaeton class of cars.

The history of the VW 181

The car was first built during the Second World War as the Type 82 Kübelwagen and the Type 166 amphibious car. It was not until 1969 that production restarted under the designation VW 181. Figures for the versatile convertible vary: VW itself speaks of around 73,000 vehicles, other sources of roughly 97,000 units – built in Germany from 1969 to 1972 and in Mexico from 1973 to 1980.

In Indonesia the Kübelwagen is known – as in Mexico – as the "VW Safari". From 1976 it was imported to Indonesia in parts from Mexico and assembled locally; estimates put the number at about 35,000 cars.

In the 1970s the "Kübel" was a popular vehicle for Indonesia's then still poor roads. In the late 1980s and 1990s it was almost completely displaced by more modern Japanese cars, and today only a handful of enthusiasts still drive it – including, of course, us.

The technology

Sharing many parts with the Beetle, the roughly 900-kilogram car is powered by the proven 1600 cc boxer engine with 48 hp. Mounted above the rear axle, the engine provides enough traction that four-wheel drive was never needed.

There is no luxurious interior – but plenty of driving fun is guaranteed. And with the top down, a few drops of rain simply don't matter.

VW enthusiasts will find more information at our partners Ralfs VW-Teile and the Kübel Club (links in the footer).