How to decode a 1983 BMW 533i VIN
Characters 1-3 of a 1983 BMW 533i VIN
A World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI) is a unique code assigned to every vehicle manufacturer globally, constituting the first three characters of the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This code not only identifies the manufacturing company but often provides information about the vehicle type and manufacturing location. For instance, the WMI “WBA” is designated to BMW AG, pinpointing the renowned German manufacturer known for its commitment to luxury and performance. The specific WMI indicates that the vehicle in reference is a BMW 533i, a model from 1983-1984, showcasing the brand’s engineering excellence of the era. Built in Munich, Germany, this passenger car stands as a testament to BMW’s rich automotive heritage.
List of WMI Codes for a 1983 BMW 533i
WMI: WBA
- Model Years Covered: 1983-1984
- Example VIN: WBADB8400D1049443
- 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 1983 BMW 533i 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 1983 BMW 533i:
| Known VDS for a 1983 BMW 533i |
|---|
| DB840 |
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 1983 BMW 533i 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 1983 BMW 533i VIN — Year Code
| Year Code | Year |
|---|---|
| D | 1983 |
11th Character in the 1983 BMW 533i VIN — Plant Code(s)
Known 1983 BMW 533i Assembly Factory VIN Code(s)
| Plant Code | Plant City | Plant State | Plant Country | Plant Company Name | Example VIN |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Dingolfing | Germany | WBADB8400D1049443 |
VIN Characters 12 - 17 of a 1983 BMW 533i
The final 6 characters in a 1983 BMW 533i’s 17-digit VIN are its serial number, which will be unique to every vehicle.
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How to find a 1983 BMW 533i’s VIN?
Locating the VIN number on your 1983 BMW 533i is key for identification. Here’s how to find it:
- Look at the dashboard on the driver’s side of your BMW 533i. You can usually see the VIN through the windshield on a plate attached to the dashboard.
- Open the driver’s side door and inspect the door post (where the door latches when it is closed). It’s common to find a sticker with the VIN on it there.
- Examine the front engine block, as VINs are sometimes stamped directly onto parts of the engine.
- Check the rear wheel well directly above the tire; in some cars, the VIN is located in this area.
- Take a look at the front of the car frame, near the container that holds windshield washer fluid. It might have a VIN stamped.
- Inspect the vehicle’s documents, such as the title, registration, or insurance policy, which typically list the vehicle identification number.
What info can a 1983 BMW 533i VIN reveal?
- Model Year: The VIN can reveal the vehicles model year being the year 1983, providing insights into the age and potential market value of the vehicle.
- Vehicle Specifications: It can specify a BMW 533i, offering critical engine details such as a 6-cylinder engine with a displacement of approximately 3.2 liters, showcasing the vehicle’s potential performance and power.
- Fuel Type: The primary fuel type for this vehicle is Gasoline, which is essential for understanding fuel efficiency and environmental impact.
- Manufacturing Location: The VIN indicates that the vehicle was manufactured in Dingolfing, Germany, offering clues to its origin and possibly the quality and style of engineering.
- Body Class: It can describe the vehicle as a Sedan/Saloon, hinting at the body style and size, important for buyers interested in passenger space and vehicle dimensions.
- Engine Manufacturer: It may indicate that the engine is made by BMW-AG, pointing to the vehicle’s engineering and performance standards, given the reputation of the manufacturer.
- Safety Features: The VIN can give an idea of the safety features and standards adhered to at the time of manufacture, with details such as a Manual seat belt type.
Don’t have your 1983 BMW 533i’s VIN handy? Try our license plate lookup instead!
Sample VIN Decode Report for a 1983 BMW 533i
| Vehicle Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Body Class | Sedan/Saloon |
| Displacement (CC) | 3210.2258376 |
| Displacement (CI) | 195.9 |
| Displacement (L) | 3.2102258376 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Engine Brake (hp) From | 181 |
| Engine Manufacturer | BMW-AG |
| Engine Number of Cylinders | 6 |
| Fuel Type - Primary | Gasoline |
| Model | 533i |
| Model Year | 1983 |
| Plant City | Dingolfing |
| Plant Company Name | |
| Plant Country | Germany |
| Seat Belt Type | Manual |
| Vehicle Descriptor | WBADB840*D1 |
| Vehicle Type | Passenger Car |
| Sample_VIN | WBADB8400D1049443 |
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