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6 Digit VIN Number Lookup: Decode Classic Vehicle VIN

There are an estimated 48 million classic cars in the world, with the United States accounting for the largest number (over 16 million), these vehicles have found their way into the market. Some have a non-standard 6-digit VIN, so decoding and searching for their classic car vehicle history report has been challenging. But the solution is right here on this page, you can decode a 6-digit VIN using this tool.  

A vehicle identification number (VIN) is your car’s unique identifier, like a fingerprint. It reveals its origin, features, and history. 

Cars made 1981 or later have a standardized 17-digit VIN. But prior to 1980, VINs aren’t standardized. This causes manufacturers to have a wide variety of VIN formats, ranging from 5 – 13 digits. 

Our 6-digit VIN decoder allows you to decipher the non-standard VINs of classic cars to reveal its year, make, model, equipment lists, and more.

Where 6 digit VINs Appear Today?

Today, 6-digit VINs or serial numbers are typically encountered in three scenarios:

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    Pre-1981 vehicles in the US and Canada: Vehicles manufactured before 1981 in these countries might have a 6-digit VIN according to the manufacturer’s codes original system.
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    Vehicles outside the US and Canada: Some countries still use their own VIN formats, which could be 6-digit or longer. For example, South Africa historically used a 6-digit system.
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    Special cases: For certain special vehicle types, like motorcycles or trailers, specific formats might apply, which could involve 6 digits.

What you get after a 6-digit VIN Number check ?

Our VIN Decoder tool gives detailed information including the following:

Standard specifications
Standard specifications

Explore key details like the year, make, model, trim level, body style, dimensions, engine size, suspension, gear ratios, capacities, exhaust, ignition, wheels, rims, tires, fuel economy, and more.

Title Checks
60+ Title Checks

Gain access to comprehensive 60+ title checks, covering DMV salvage title, rebuilt, junk title, insurance, and more.

Auction Records
Ownership records

Query a vehicle's VIN to view its total number of owners, locations, and duration of ownership.

Lien and loan records
Lien and loan records

Avoid future financial complications by checking for outstanding lien and loan records associated with the vehicle.

Accident Records
Accident and damage records

Ensure the vintage car has a clean history by checking for past accidents and hidden structural damages to make an informed purchasing decision.

Sales history
Sales listing history

View historical sales listings of the classic car, showing Classifieds or digital marketplace data, mileage, color, and pricing information.

Title History
Title change history

Track the number of times the car's title has changed, including type, odometer reading, and VIN details.

Mileage records
Mileage records

Before making a purchase or sale, verify the number of miles on the vehicle to identify any potential mileage discrepancies.

Get the industry's premier classic VIN decoder app.

Get the classic VIN number lookup free app and enjoy the following benefits:

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    It is the first of its kind in the industry
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    Precision and speed converge - delivers results in mere seconds
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    Provides detailed classic vehicle specifications with the VIN decoder feature.
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    Comprehensive vehicle history reports tailored for classic automobiles.
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    Affordable Build Sheets, and or window stickers.
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    Extensive support for over 50 classic car brands.
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    Compatible with 5-13-digit VIN numbers.
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    Utilize the garage feature and add classic vehicles to the garage.
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Download The Classic Decoder App now.

Benefits of a 6-digit VIN check

The following benefits will suffice, for the category of persons mentioned below:

Classic Vehicle Owners:

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    Finding past history: A VIN check can reveal a car’s complete history, including accidents, repairs, and ownership changes. This information can be valuable for understanding your car’s condition and value.
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    Peace of Mind: Ultimately, VIN lookup provides classic car owners with peace of mind, knowing that they have thoroughly researched and verified the history and authenticity of their cherished vehicles.

Classic Vehicle Buyers

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    Avoid scams: Although most classic cars must have undergone a major rebuild 6-digit VIN check can help you avoid buying a car that has been overly damaged or stolen. 
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    Negotiate a fair price: Knowing the car’s true history and condition will give you a stronger bargaining position when negotiating the price.
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    Ensure peace of mind: Buying a classic car is a big investment. A VIN check can give you peace of mind knowing that you’re buying a car that is worth the money.

Classic Vehicle Sellers:

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    Increase buyer confidence: A clean VIN check can help you attract more buyers and sell your car faster. Potential buyers will be more likely to make an offer if they know that the car has a clean history.
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    Get a higher price: A car with a clean VIN history is generally worth more than a car with a questionable history. A VIN check can help you get the most money for your car.
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    Avoid legal trouble: In some cases, selling a car with a known defect or undisclosed history can lead to legal trouble. A VIN check can help you avoid these risks.

Get Build Sheets With Production Data

Build Sheets With Production Data

If you are seeking a satisfying buying experience, consider exploring the option of obtaining an accurate build sheet featuring precise production data, manufacturer details, technical specifications, engine specifics, build location and country of origin, transmission particulars, drivetrain information, suspension details, and beyond.

Top Classic Car Facts

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Classic vehicle definitions vary, but the generally accepted range is 20-40 years old.

antique car

Some consider vehicles 50+ years old as antique.

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The global classic car market is estimated at $327 billion in 2022, expected to grow 5.9% per year to $525 billion by 2027.

classic cars in market

There are about 40 million classic vehicles worldwide.

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Muscle cars and European sports cars from the 1960s and 1970s remain highly sought-after.

most expensive classic car

Most valuable classic car: Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupé sold for €135 million in 2023.

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The average annual mileage for classic cars is less than 2,000 miles.

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Insurance premiums for classic cars are usually lower than for standard vehicles.

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The restoration market is valued at $40 billion annually.

Frequently Asked Questions

A 6-digit VIN decoding will reveal details like year, make, model, transmission, fuel type, engine information, drive type, body measurements, and axle type. It also checks for records such as title, sales, auction, odometer, accident, and theft history.

Classic car VINs, especially pre-1981, didn’t follow a standardized format and were often shorter, typically between 5-13 digits. This reflects the less detailed identification requirements before the 17-digit VIN standard.

Our history report includes available accident and title records for a 6-digit VIN, providing insights into past sales and title status where data is accessible.

Yes, our vehicle history report includes a check for theft records, so if the car has a stolen vehicle record on file, it will be part of the report.

Yes, the decoder provides transmission type and the number of gears, which are key details for classic car enthusiasts looking to restore or verify original specifications.