Data Plates and Vins; Part 3 What Does it Say?
Part 3: What Does it Say?
This is part three of a four part series written by guest author Bill Culp. All VINs used in these photos have been altered and do not show all numbers.
If you decipher the data provided by AMC and most other manufactures it will tell you the original color and interior as well as the engine and body type. The good news is that this and similar information is available on most newer vehicles. The bad news is that the information provided will vary from manufacturer to manufacturer and year to year. If that isn’t bad enough the codes used are not universal or even consistent from one year to another with the same manufacturer.
In authenticating a vehicle, this information is vital. It is also critical as supporting documentation and for checking “numbers matching” on components and other serial numbers located on frames and other places. The best documentation is to have the paperwork that supports the data plate information.
While many of you may not be impressed with documenting how a Javelin was built but I bet you would like to know about a 1971 Dodge Charger RT Hemi data plate. The value of the Hemi data plate shown here is worth more than some cars. This plate is attached to the driver’s inner fender with special screws. It can be removed, but is easily damaged. Never rely solely on this data plate for authentication (especially if you are paying Hemi prices)! You will notice that a great deal of information is provided on the vehicle including major accessories. If this plate is missing plate or one of these screws is missing make sure you find out why and then verify the car’s identity with other documentation. If the plate is painted over not to worry, this was standard Detroit practice for some manufacturers. Cleaned off plates are common in restorations. Painting of the letters and numbers to highlight them is also common but not factory correct. The minor damage seen on this plate was probably done at the factory or by a mechanic working over the fender.
