The iconic TV show “Fantasy Island” featured customized Dodge Aspen station wagons as island transportation. However, the Volkswagen Thing, a rugged and versatile vehicle, would have been a more fitting choice. This article explores why the VW Thing, despite its potential, was overlooked in favor of the Chrysler Das (Dodge Aspen station wagon). We’ll delve into the Thing’s features, compare it to the modified Aspens, and consider the possible influence of Chrysler’s relationship with Ricardo Montalban, the show’s star.
The VW Thing: A Superior Island Car
The VW Thing, essentially a four-door, four-seat utilitarian Beetle, boasted simplicity, durability, and open-air design perfect for island life. Sharing mechanical components with the Beetle and a wider floor pan with the Karmann-Ghia, the Thing offered a unique blend of practicality and fun. Its rugged, water-resistant interior, reminiscent of a Jeep Willys, further emphasized its suitability for a tropical setting.
The Thing’s lineage can be traced back to the WWII-era Kubelwagen, a military vehicle known for its off-road capabilities. While the Dodge Aspen required extensive modifications, including door removal and custom roofs, the Thing was ready for island adventures straight from the factory. Its open design, removable top, and readily available colors made it an ideal beach cruiser and a natural fit for Fantasy Island.
Chrysler’s Influence and Montalban’s Role
Ricardo Montalban’s endorsement of “rich Corinthian leather” for Chrysler might have played a role in the selection of the Dodge Aspen. While purely speculative, it’s possible that Chrysler leveraged this relationship to secure product placement on the show. This decision, however, overlooked the VW Thing’s inherent advantages for the island setting. The Thing offered Volkswagen reliability, fuel efficiency, and rugged construction, surpassing the Dodge in key areas.
The Thing’s Enduring Appeal
The VW Thing’s simplicity and ease of maintenance made it a favorite among enthusiasts. Its affordability and practicality as a family-friendly fun car further enhanced its appeal. The Thing embodied the spirit of adventure and carefree living, perfectly aligned with the Fantasy Island theme. Its air-cooled engine, while lacking air conditioning, provided ample heat for cooler evenings.
Conclusion
The VW Thing, with its unique blend of practicality, ruggedness, and open-air design, presented a compelling alternative to the Chrysler DAS used on Fantasy Island. While the reasons for choosing the Aspen remain open to speculation, the Thing’s inherent suitability for the island environment is undeniable. It remains a testament to a time when Volkswagen represented peace, love, and happiness, embodying a spirit of adventure perfectly suited for a fantasy island escape.
