Posted: 08-August-2008 at 08:04 | IP Logged

Hi,

I know this may seem a strange question, but can anyone tell me where i can find the VIN/Chassis number on my 1970 BMW 3.0 CSI Coupe?

The only number i can find is the Engine number, which is stamped on a steel plate under the bonnet, and also in the middle bracing accross the back of the engine bay.

Any assistance would be greatly appreciated!!

Posted: 14-August-2008 at 19:22 | IP Logged

Hi

I think the one you're after is in the 2265xx6 type of range which is noted on my car's log book, and also on a metal plate in the engine bay top left hand corner fixed to the inner wing.

RG

'73 3.0 CSi

Posted: 15-August-2008 at 07:38 | IP Logged

Hi Roland,

The number on the metal plate on the inner wing is a 7 digit number, which on my log book is noted as the Engine Number...

The chassis number, according to the log book, begins with the prefix BMWPL and is followed by 8 digits and i cant seem to find it anywhere!!

We've checked everywhere - lifted carpets, edges of doors and sills, even the boot, but with no joy...

Posted: 15-August-2008 at 20:18 | IP Logged

Curtis,

I'll tell you one reason I think that's the VIN (2265... etc), as I had it quoted back at me as the 'vin' when I contacted BMW Mobile Tradition to see when my car was manufacured (Sept '73).

RG

Posted: 18-August-2008 at 08:53 | IP Logged

Ok mate...

The reason i'm asking is that when the car went for an MOT, the garage put that number on the certificate.  I then got a letter from the DVLA saying that there was conflicting information on the certificate...

The V5 document says the VIN number as BMWPL########, and the engine number is #######.

Its all very confusing!!!

Posted: 21-October-2008 at 20:35 | IP Logged

Curtis,

I haven't logged on for ages as I've been busy, but the number you mention on the plate riveted to the inner wing should match that which is stamped on the back of the bulkhead by the brake fluid reservoir, and this is the chassis number.  If the car has its original engine (stamped into the block on the casting by the starter motor lugs), that too will match the numbers above.  If there has been a replacement engine, then the engine number will be different.

I would suggest that DVLA have it wrong!  Mobile Tradition should be able to confirm this.  Dealers aren't so good with these old chassis numbers, as they always seemed to say the VIN on my CSL was invalid!

Good luck.