VIN's and model/year

[Carl Beck]

I've done the search with no results. Somewhere in the past I saw a list of VIN's as they apply to production dates and models but can't locate it now. I picked up a 240Z(?) rust bucket for $50 to strip parts off I know it's a 240Z because of the L24 indicated on the plate under the hood. It also has retractable lap belts but fixed shoulder belts. The VIN is HLS30-155955. Could someone tell me more? Just curious...

hi ezzzzzz:

The VIN sequence for the North American 240Z's ended around HLS30 100xxx for the 1972 Model Year. The highest VIN we have found to date for a Series III 1972 Model Year Z for the North American models, is HLS30 100262. (Date of Manufacture is 08/72)

For the 1973 Model Year (Series IV cars).. Nissan started the VIN's HLS30 120001. Why leave such a large gap in serial numbers? We don't know for certain, but older Nissan Service Tech's tell me it make it far easier for them to spot the 73 Models, which had some significant changes as far as setting emissions and tuning the cars.

The 1973 Model Year cars had to meet significantly more strict emissions and safety standards than previous models. (so we got the "Flat Top Carb's and 2.5mph bumpers plus steel headlight buckets).

So any time you see a VIN on a North American 240-Z above 120xxx you know right away that it's a 73 Model... (I guess you also know you need a set of older SU's to make it run right;)

As Carl S pointed out - it is most likely an 03/73 production car. If you get a chance, record the original engine serial number off the engine compartment data tag and let me know what it is...I can add it to the data base..

FWIW,

Carl B.

Carl Beck

Clearwater, FL USA

http://ZHome.com