Is The Thing's Driving Position Really So Bad?

[nicholastanguma]

I've been seriously considering a Type 181 lately. I've liked them for years and years, and now I'm seriously considering finally pulling the trigger on a purchase.

However, according to this review the 181's driving position is not just awkward, but verging on terrible. Is this genuinely a problem that 181 drivers simply chalk up to quirky vintage VW character?

The fellow in the video seems kind of tall, perhaps 6' or more, with a lot of that being long legs; perhaps this is what puts him into such contortions in the 181 driver's seat?

He specifically states there's not enough leg room underneath the ridiculously low position of the steering wheel and the foot pedals are placed ridiculously far off center of the driver so that both feet are ridiculously off kilter in trying to operate said pedals.

I myself am only 5' 8" tall, with a 30" inseam, so definitely not a tall fellow. Maybe I would not find the cockpit and driving position of a 181 to be awkward?


Link

[mondshine]

I drove my '74 from Detroit to LA (and back) in the year I turned 65, and I am a big palooka; 5'10" / 240.

[TDCTDI]

Have you ever driven a Beetle? It’s the same as a Beetle except for having more shoulder room.

Yes, as a taller person, I find it necessary to reposition the seat tracks on most VWs about 3” rearward to get more legroom.
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[HMVWNAB]

Could have something to do with being a left hand drive car being evaluated by a driver in a predominantly right hand drive country.

Other than that, the driving position is a non factor.
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[nicholastanguma]

[nicholastanguma]

[nicholastanguma]

[HMVWNAB]

The reviewer specifically states there's not enough leg room underneath the ridiculously low position of the steering wheel and the foot pedals are placed ridiculously far off center of the driver so that both feet are ridiculously off kilter in trying to operate said pedals.

You haven't found these criticisms to be true in your case?

I'm 6'4, long legged and have no issues with pedals. I did however install a smaller diameter steering wheel for ease of egress.
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What are the last 2 words of the National Anthem?
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[mondshine]

[nicholastanguma]

Thank you all, gents!

[Joe 20]

Don't believe everything you read...
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[nicholastanguma]

[Joe 20]

Good lord man! I'm telling you the guy who made the video gave you his opinion and in my opinion he is full of crap! No more no less... it's an old saying. I guess I could say don't believe everything you watch...
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[nicholastanguma]

[Wildthings]

I cut a couple of extra notches in the seat rails so I can slide the seat back a bit further. I'm 6'5" and about to turn 69 and have no problems with the sitting position.

The worst car I have ever driven as far as seating was a Ford T-bird I got as a rental 20ish years ago. It was plain torture on a long drive. I have also had a couple of other Ford rentals that were bad in one way or another though not as bad as the T-bird.

[BNMike]

I'm 6'2", 77 years old, and I have no problem with the driving position. It requires a little 'pre planning' to get in, under the wheel, but other than that, it's fine.

BNMike

[pallettman]

I'm 6'1, 220 and 69 years old. Aside from having to fold and unfold myself to get in the darn thing, my only complaint is there is no good place to put your left foot. Around town it is not a problem since you are constantly shifting. But on a longer run, it can get a little uncomfortable for your left foot, especially if you have duckboards.

[Hot Rod Harp]

I'm 6'3" and 72 yo 218 lbs with a damaged left leg/knee. I had to replace the rear section of the pans and used The Thing Shop's
seat tracks which I welded further back about an inch. Also converted to a smaller 13.5" steering wheel and a 2" extension which
aided getting in and out greatly. Once I'm in there's enough room and feels comfortable to me.

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[nicholastanguma]

[Joe 20]

Well, I'll say it as sweetly as I can...buy the car if you want. You will have no problems, in my opinion, if you are indeed 5'8 and 30 inch inseam as you stated. (even a smiley face).
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