The VW Typ 82 Kubelwagen won immediate acclaim because of its exceptional all-terrain performance, despite its lack of raw power and rear-wheel drive. The first design goes back to December 1939: it was at first provided a lukewarm reception, being criticised because of its rear-mounted air-cooled motor and not enough four-wheel drive. But following successful trials in Poland, the doubts had been soon dispelled and its performance was considered equal to that of any 4-wheel drive off-road vehicle.