Matchbox Volkswagen - Type 181

The Matchbox – Volkswagen Type 181 “Jungle Safari” is a 1:59 scale die-cast released in 2009 as part of the Jungle Explorers segment of the Matchbox 69/75 in the mainline. With its tan body, brown doors, dark green camouflage and tiny “Jungle Safari” and “Stay In Vehicle” warnings, it captures the feel of a rugged safari run deep in the rainforest.

Confirmed 2009 Jungle Explorers Release

This Volkswagen Type 181 variant debuted in 2010 as MB98 in the USA and MB69 in the rest of the world, listed as Jungle Explorers. Card art and catalog data identify it as the “Jungle Safari” version, tying it directly to Matchbox’s jungle-adventure theme that year.

Tan Body with Brown Doors, Camo and Warning Text

The model features a tan body with contrasting brown doors and dark green camouflage along the sides, plus tiny printed text reading “Jungle Safari” on the rocker panel and “Stay In Vehicle” on the rear door, giving it a fun, story-driven safari look straight off the card back.

Classic 1974 Volkswagen Type 181 Open-Top Casting

Based on the real Volkswagen Type 181 utility vehicle, the casting shows the boxy open-top body, flat front end and simple military-inspired lines of the original “Thing,” making it instantly recognisable to VW fans even under the jungle paint scheme.

Black Plastic Base, Smoke Windows and Brown Interior

This release pairs its metal upper body with a black plastic base, smoke-tinted windows and a brown interior, adding depth and contrast to the tan and green exterior while keeping the overall look grounded and utilitarian.

Ringed-Disc Wheels in Adventure-Ready 1:59 Scale

White ringed-disc wheels sit under the fenders, suggesting classic off-road tyres and helping the small 1:59 scale model read as a capable jungle explorer, whether it’s displayed carded as a Jungle Explorers piece or parked alongside other safari and VW castings.