yvonnejim

I was looking to buy a 356 and noticed they sellers usually give a 6 digit number as the VIN. I assume this is the chassis #. Is this the official VIN number?

If so, how can I do a Carfax, etc. as they require a 14 digit number.

Jim

Steve Jensen

Yeah, the 6 digits is the VIN. Carfax was designed around the "new" cars of the 80s and up, where a standard VIN format is used. If you are looking at a 356, checkign the Registrys database (also available somewhat at 356a.com or in the members-only section ofthe Reg website) and having a PPI done by a knowledgeable person is about the best you can do....

Pedro356C

Hi Jim...356s had 4 digits VIN#s in 1950...then 5 digits from model 1951 until mid 1957 and 6 digits from 1957 to the production's end in 1965 (except for a couple of Cabs they made in 1966)...Steve is right on, Carfax will not help you with your "hunt"...get a 356 Registry's membership, then join the 356Talklist...be aware of the 356 Registry's classified ads and the cars regularly advertised at the Talklist...take your time and as Steve said, when you find your princess, get someone that knows more than you do to check her for you...356s are terrific cars, almost impossible to believe they are at least 40 years old now as they behave like a modern car (actually better than most)...besides that, a 356 is the most fun you'll ever have with your clothes on!

If the car you are looking for is a 356C (model 1964 or 1965), contact me as I have a huge database of the C cars from 1970 to the present and maybe you get lucky and I can find some records for your car to be...

Good luck and enjoy the search...

RJT

You have to have your clothes on to enjoy a 356???? I never knew that.

I'M BACK!!!!!

JoAnne

Now back to our regularly scheduled programing.....

Jim, listen to the guys. Join the Registry. It the best bang for your buck in the 356 world..... Hope you find one soon. We just did!!!!

Pedro356C

Hi JoAnne...Touché!!!! What can I say? You are right...the interior is pretty roomy actually!!! A 356 could really be fun regardless of attire...especially when you are stuck in Amarillo - TX! ;- )

Take care and welcome back...