When buying or restoring a classic car, one of the first things enthusiasts and collectors look for is the term “matching numbers.” This term can have a huge impact on a car’s authenticity and its market value. But what exactly does “matching numbers” mean, and why is it so important?
For classic cars, authenticity is paramount. Shouldn’t most collectors and buyers want that car to be as close to original as it can get? That’s the reason they place so importance in the engine, transmission, and several other important items bearing serial numbers that are indicated in factory records.
But how can you verify if the numbers actually match? Don’t worry! This guide will help you understand the process and the tools that can assist you along the way.
What Does ‘Matching Numbers’ Mean in a Car?
A “matching numbers” car refers to a classic vehicle whose major components—like the engine, transmission, and rear axle—still carry the same serial numbers they had when the car left the factory. These numbers, typically stamped onto the car’s parts, help identify whether the vehicle still has its original engine and other significant pieces.
Why? Because the value of a car could depend upon its originality to a large extent. Having matching numbers for the engine, transmission, and rear axle thereby certifies the highest authenticity of the car, which generally translates to higher worth in market price. This is more so in the case of muscle cars and rare vintage models. The more original a car gets, the more valuable it becomes from the perception of collectors.
The most commonly checked components for matching numbers are:
- Engine block: The engine is the heart of the car, and its serial number is one of the most important identifiers.
- Transmission: This part of the drivetrain has also a number stamped in it, which needs being matched with the factory records.
- Rear axle: The rear axle, which houses the differential, often carries a number that should match the original factory specs.
When these components have all original numbers on them, that car counts as “numbers matching”.
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How to Tell if a Car is Numbers Matching
Checking whether the car has matching numbers may seem like a Herculean task, but it’s pretty easy if you only follow the right steps. Here’s a detailed guide to help you verify the authenticity of a classic car:
Step 1: Locate the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)
The first step is to find the VIN, a unique identifier for every vehicle. The VIN is typically located on the dashboard, near the windshield, and can also be found on the driver’s side door frame or inside the door jamb.
For classic cars, the VIN is usually a 5 to 13-digit code that provides information about the car’s model, make, and year of manufacture and can be used to confirm past records too. Such a number is of great value in verifying matching numbers because it can be cross-referenced with factory records to confirm what the car should have under the hood.
Step 2: Check the Engine Number
Next, look for the engine number. It is usually stamped on the engine block. Its location varies by make and model, but it is often found on the front or side of the engine.
Once you’ve located the engine number, compare it with the VIN. If the engine number matches the number in the factory records associated with the VIN, then the engine is likely original to the car.
Step 3: Verify the Transmission
Next, you’ll need to verify the transmission. Like the engine, the transmission will have a unique serial number stamped on it. Depending on the vehicle, you should be able to find it on the transmission case, typically near the bell housing.
Again, check the transmission number against the VIN. If they match, that’s a good sign that the car has its original transmission.
Step 4: Inspect the Rear Axle
Don’t forget the rear axle. The rear axle also has a serial number that needs to match the factory records. Just like the transmission number, the location of the rear axle number varies, but you should find it stamped on the axle housing.
Make sure the rear axle number corresponds with what’s in the factory records; that way you’re verified that the classic car still possesses its original axle.
Step 5: Consult the Build Sheet
The build sheet is an extensive list of everything that was put into the car while it was being made. One of the best ways of proving standard in-built components of a classic car is through the build sheet. The build sheet typically includes information about the car’s engine, transmission, rear axle, and more.
In some cases, you might be able to find the build sheet inside the car—often under the seat or inside the glove box. If the build sheet is missing, don’t worry. There are plenty of online resources that can help you find this information. You can also use tools like Classic Decoder’s Build Sheet tool to get detailed information on your car’s original specifications.
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Tools and Resources to Verify Matching Numbers
There are several tools and resources that can make the process of verifying matching numbers much easier. Here are some of the most useful:
1. Classic Vehicle History Reports
A Classic Vehicle History Report provides detailed past records of a car. This report can help you trace the history of the car, including any modifications or changes that may have been made over the years.
With a vehicle history report, you can track auction and sales history, accidents, title history, theft records, mileage records, and more.
It also enables you to confirm if the vehicle still has its original parts or if major components had been replaced. View all past records with a detailed Classic Decoder’s History Report.
2. Classic Car Build Sheets
As mentioned earlier, a build sheet stands out as another important tool for verifying matching numbers because it lists all the factory-installed components.
Original build sheets are utilized to confirm whether the engine, transmission, and rear axle have original parts or whether they have been swapped. Our instant Build Sheet tool can help you retrieve this necessary data and verify authenticity using any classic car VIN..
3. Online Databases and Forums
Apart from official reports and build sheets, you can also cross-reference VINs or serial numbers with online databases and forums.
Websites dedicated to classic car enthusiasts also have large communities populated with specialists who can verify your matching numbers in these forums. These forums are also great for sharing information and asking questions on different makes and models with specific queries.
Why Matching Numbers Matter for Classic Cars
Matching numbers are important when it comes to the value assessment and authenticity of a classic car. Matching numbers cars are always going to be more valuable than those that have been altered, especially those that fit into rare or high-demand categories.
Consider muscle cars manufactured in the 1960s and 1970s: the Chevrolet Camaro, Dodge Charger, and Ford Mustang are sure to be in demand with collectors. If any one of these classic vehicles turns out to be a “numbers matching” version, they can easily take many thousands of dollars more than a non-matching engine or transmission version.
For collectors, originality is key, and a matching number car can command a premium price in the marketplace.
What to Do If the Numbers Don’t Match
If you find that a classic car doesn’t have matching numbers, don’t panic. A car with non-matching numbers can still be valuable, especially if it’s a rare model or has been well-maintained over the years.
The truth is, with time, wear, and tear, it becomes natural to change vehicle parts. Classic cars are old vehicles and there’s a huge chance that it may have had some repairs and part replacements in this past. This doesn’t make it a bad purchase.
Since matching numbers show that these cars have been properly preserved over time, they tend to have more value than their non-matching counterparts, but they are still good buys as long as you check the history and authenticity with the right tools.
Before making any final decisions, use a tool like Classic Decoder’s History Report to verify the car’s history and get a better understanding of any modifications it may have undergone.
Conclusion
When buying or restoring a classic car, checking for matching numbers is one step you shouldn’t miss if you want to ensure a vehicle’s authenticity and value. By verifying the engine, transmission, and rear axle numbers with our tools, you definitely have a chance to make an informed decision.
