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Matching Numbers

Verifying matching numbers on a vehicle is important to anyone concerned with authenticating the originality of a car or the restoration of a car to its true original condition. A truly original car will consist of only parts (down to the smallest nut and bolt) that are from its time of manufacture. This basically means that the parts will all be either from the assembly line at the time of production or have been replaced with authentic NOS (new old stock) parts - not always an easy thing to find for older cars. (Cars that have been customized or those interested in building a customized vehicle will normally have no interest in this issue.)

So what are "matching numbers"? Every car is stamped at the time of production with several numbers to verify the essential facts about the car. Most people are familiar with the VIN (vehicle identification number) found inside the driver's side windshield pillar of every car today. This is only one of several such numbers that appear on cars. The problem is that while today's VINs are relatively standard, with older cars, there was no standard with VINs or any other numbers. These numbers would not only vary widely from make to make but over the years within any given company.

This having been said, all cars will have a VIN (formally called a serial number). The location may vary, but on classics, it was often found inside the driver's door jam. This number will contain information about the car such as the body style, place and date of manufacture, and engine type. Additional numbers containing details about the specific components were normally placed on the engine block, transmission, rear end, and body giving similar information. By comparing the numbers and (matching the information found in these numbers), it is possible to determine, for example, not only if the engine is the correct type, but also if it was from the right date lot or if has been replaced with a newer one.

Note that a particular component may have more than one number. For example, an engine block may (but not necessarily, have a casting number which gives the part number (identifies the type of engine), a date stamp, and a partial VIN. Also, newer cars will have numbers stamped on many of the other mechanical components such as the alternator, water pump, distributer, carburetor, window glass, and more.

As stated, the exact numbers and their interpretation will vary widely. Also the placement of some of the numbers can present a challenge. Unfortunately, all of this combined with the lack of uniformity makes this a difficult area for the novice which makes it no wonder that many unsuspecting people have been the victims of matching number Fraud. Even professionals can be fooled so it's no wonder that the non-initiated are as well.

If you find yourself with the need to verify the numbers on a car, either one you presently own or are interested in purchasing, you should do one of the following:

take the time to educate yourself on the interpretation and placement of the numbers on that specific model car, or
contact a professional who knows that particular model car to either check the numbers for you or assist you in finding and interpreting the numbers.

One very good resource for such information are the many model-specific clubs; these members are usually very knowledgeable about their cars and willing to help. And, sometimes, the needed information may be on their Web site. Check our Clubs and Organizations page for a list. (Also, check the Publications page for related publications which may also maintain such information.)

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