VIN Plate
The Vehicle Identification Number plate—a small metal tag riveted to the driver's side inner fender, visible through the windshield when standing outside the car. Contains the unique 11-digit code (1964½-1967) or 13-digit code (1968-1973) that identifies your specific Mustang, including year, assembly plant, body style, engine, and sequential build number. Also: the single most important piece of metal on your car for establishing identity, value, and authenticity—which is why VIN fraud exists and why you should photograph it before buying.
What 'VIN Plate' Actually Means
The VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) plate is the primary identification for your Mustang, stamped by Ford at the factory.
VIN plate location:
- 1964½-1967: Driver's side inner fender, visible through windshield
- 1968-1973: Top of dash on driver's side, visible through windshield from outside
VIN format (1965-1967 example):
``` 5F08C123456 │││││││││││ ││││││└─────── Sequential build number (100001-999999) │││││└──────── Assembly plant (C=Dearborn, F=Dearborn, R=San Jose, T=Metuchen) ││││└───────── Model year (5=1965, 6=1966, 7=1967) │││└────────── Engine code (C=289-2V, K=289 Hi-Po, etc.) ││└─────────── Body style (08=Convertible, 07=Coupe, 09=Fastback) │└──────────── Car line (F=Mustang) └───────────── Manufacturer (5=Ford) ```
What VIN tells you:
- Year of manufacture
- Assembly plant
- Body style (coupe, convertible, fastback)
- Engine originally installed
- Sequential production number
What VIN doesn't tell you:
- Transmission type
- Rear end gearing
- Options (A/C, GT package, etc.)
- Interior color
- Paint color
The VIN is permanent:
Once stamped, can't be changed legally. Title, registration, and insurance all tied to VIN.
I bought a Mustang advertised as a "1967 K-code" (289 Hi-Po). VIN showed "C" code (regular 289). Seller claimed "engine swapped." Maybe. Or maybe fraud. VIN revealed the truth before I paid. Always check the VIN.
Why It Matters for Your Mustang
VIN determines value, legality, and authenticity.
Value impact:
- K-code (Hi-Po engine): +$15,000-$40,000 value
- GT equipment code: +$8,000-$20,000 value
- Factory 4-speed: +$5,000-$15,000 value
- Specific rare combinations: +$20,000-$60,000 value
Legal importance:
- Title must match VIN
- Registration tied to VIN
- Insurance based on VIN
- Mismatched VIN = legal problems
Authentication:
- VIN proves year and original configuration
- Prevents fraud (claimed "rare" cars)
- Supports numbers-matching verification
- Required for Marti Report
Concours judging:
- VIN must match build documentation
- Correct VIN plate mounting required
- Rivet type and finish checked
- Wrong VIN = disqualification
Cost Impact
| Repair Type | Typical Cost (LA) | Labor Hours |
|---|---|---|
| VIN verification (DMV) | $0-$50 | Required for title transfer |
| Marti Report (VIN authentication) | $40-$75 | 1-2 week turnaround |
| Expert VIN inspection | $200-$500 | For high-value cars |
| VIN fraud cost (if undetected) | $20,000-$50,000+ | Buying fake rare car vs actual value |
*VIN verification costs $40-$550 but prevents $20,000-$50,000+ fraud losses. Always verify VIN matches title and order Marti Report before buying.
Ask me how I know these numbers.
Common Issues
VIN Fraud
VIN plate swapping, re-stamping, cloning - fake rare cars sold at inflated prices
Title Mismatch
VIN doesn't match title - can't register legally, requires DMV correction process
Non-Original Rivets
Wrong rivet style indicates VIN plate replaced - concours deduction, possible fraud
Engine Derivative Mismatch
Engine stamp doesn't match VIN - not numbers-matching, replacement engine
VIN Not Found
Marti Report shows VIN not in database - major red flag, possible fraud
See This in Action
- Mustang VIN Decoder Guide
Complete VIN breakdown, engine codes, and what your VIN reveals about your car
Want to Learn More?
Download the Mustang Restoration Starter Kit (LA Edition) for:
- Complete terminology reference guide
- Cost estimation worksheets
- Pre-purchase inspection checklist
- Shop interview questions
- Project timeline planning tools
No upsells. No bait-and-switch. Just the information Dorian wishes he'd had before he bought his first project car.