Free 1997 BMW 323iC VIN Decoder

How to decode a 1997 BMW 323iC VIN

Characters 1-3 of a 1997 BMW 323iC VIN

A World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI) is a unique code that distinguishes the manufacturer of a specific vehicle, delineating not just the brand but also specific attributes including the country of manufacture, the vehicle type, and sometimes even the vehicle’s model. For example, the WMI “WBA” is assigned to BMW AG located in Munich, Germany, signifying that the vehicle is a BMW passenger car made in this renowned city. The WMI forms the first three characters of the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), which further assists in decoding more detailed information about the vehicle such as its year of manufacture, serial number, and specific model attributes. In the case of a 1997 BMW 323ic, the WMI “WBA” indicates that this model was produced by BMW AG in Germany, underscoring its provenance and manufacture as part of BMW’s esteemed lineup of passenger cars. This identification system is pivotal in the automotive industry for tracking, registration, and recall purposes.

List of WMI Codes for a 1997 BMW 323iC

WMI: WBA

• Model Years Covered: 1997-1999
• Example VIN: WBABK8320VEY85502
• Manufacturer Name: BMW AG
• Vehicle Type: Passenger Car
• City: Munich
• State or Province:
• Country: Germany

Characters 4-8 are the Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS) of a 1997 BMW 323iC VIN

These characters correspond to components like:

• Engine type
• Transmission
• Model or trim
• Body style
• Gross vehicle weight range

Below find the known vehicle descriptor codes for a 1997 BMW 323iC:

Auto manufacturers have some discretion to decide how they want to code this section, but its contents and decoded results are generally consistent.

Character 9 is the “check digit” in a 1997 BMW 323iC VIN.

Based on a formula developed by the US Department of Transportation, it helps reduce fraud by ensuring the validity of the VIN.

10th Character in the 1997 BMW 323iC VIN — Year Code

11th Character in the 1997 BMW 323iC VIN — Plant Code(s)

Known 1997 BMW 323iC Assembly Factory VIN Code(s)

VIN Characters 12 - 17 of a 1997 BMW 323iC

The final 6 characters in a 1997 BMW 323iC’s 17-digit VIN are its serial number, which will be unique to every vehicle.

Check your BMW 323iC’s VIN below:

VIN

Search

What info can a 1997 BMW 323iC VIN reveal?

• Model Year: The VIN can reveal the vehicle’s model year, indicating that it is potentially a 1997 model, offering insights into the age and potential market value of the vehicle.
• Manufacturing Details: This specific vehicle was manufactured in Regensburg, Bavaria, Germany, potentially highlighting its European origins and assembly location.
• Vehicle Specifications: It specifies a BMW 3-Series 328iC model with a convertible/cabriolet body class, underlining its design and luxury status. The engine configuration is an in-line 6-cylinder with a displacement of 2.8 liters (or 2800.0 cc), capable of possibly producing 190 horsepower.
• Fuel Efficiency: The primary fuel type for this vehicle is gasoline, which can be crucial for understanding its potential fuel consumption and environmental impact.
• Safety Features: Equipped with front airbags for both the driver and the passenger in the 1st row, it may emphasize the vehicle’s potential safety provisions.
• Transmission and Drivability: The vehicle may boast an automatic transmission style, potentially enhancing the driving experience by providing ease of use.
• Vehicle Type and Capacity: As a passenger car with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) from Class 1 (6,000 lb or less), it suggests the vehicle’s potential capacity and regulatory classification.

Sample VIN Decode Report for a 1997 BMW 323iC

Source