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Tue May 06, 2025 7:25 am

Does anyone have the specifics of the thing low-backs versus the beetle low-backs? I tried searching and found a lot on that they are different. But, not a ton on what is actually different. I am looking to get mine refinished and want to know what size differences are compared to Beetle low-backs.

Thanks!

Tue May 06, 2025 1:37 pm

The only Beetle seats that fit the Thing's "tracks" are from model years 1971-1972.

I believe those Beetle seats will be "high backs" but some people modify the seat backs to convert them to "low backs".

Good luck.

Tue May 06, 2025 2:19 pm

Thanks! I mostly meant the differences in the bucket of the seat. If bug seat covers were used on thing seats, would they fit or be noticeable differences in the size? I have my stock things seats and am looking to use a seat cover kit to recover them. But the source I am using believes they are the same seat size

Tue May 06, 2025 2:59 pm

Sorry for the misunderstanding.

I have used Beetle (low back) seat covers seat covers successfully.
On my '74, which I owned for 37 years, I used "basketweave" seat covers, even going so far as to use the the same basketweave material on the rear seats.

If you look carefully at the owner's manual, you will notice the basketweave upholstery in the early European civilian model used for the manual's illustrations.

The basketweave material is much nicer than the original smooth vinyl because it doesn't get as hot when parked in the sun, and it keeps your butt from sliding around.

The coconut fiber, coir, what ever it's called... from the Thing Shop has always fit perfectly for me. It's the stuff to use on the front seats.

Good luck.