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VIN question

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I have talked to the current owner, I told him of my findings through the museum, which said:

"If you still have not actually purchased the car, I advise you don't. The car has a fake chassis number (VIN), which someone has simply made up (having not even researched what the correct prefix should be). One of the unfortunate aspects of this job is breaking people's hearts when they have paid a lot of money for a car, which turns out is not what it purports to be."

I told the owner without the proper documentation and vehicle number that the car has no historical value.

It is still worth something, but not as a collectible car.

I feel bad for him, he paid over $12k to buy and ship the car, he was trusting the seller and auction house to give an accurate description of the car, but I cannot make his problem my problem.
 
Glad he is being honest with you. Tip of the hat to him!
I would still run, as the body mods and floor welding is a mess.
There are a few listed in Hemmings this month.
 
mezy said:
You can email the britiish motor museum. they may be able to shed some light on this, mailto: enquires@britishmotormuseum.co.uk

Also found this here, > Chassis Number Plates <, very interesting page all about vin plates

The original style, probably used until January 1967, front stamped and screwed:
View attachment 90454
Click to expand...

The British Motor Museum says my tag number is fake and it should start with GHN3U, the attached tag starts with GCN1. Is there a rare chance that a 1966 MGB could start with GCN1 and my tag number is:

GCN1/41164

I know that it does not match the protocol of GHN3U, but the tag below gives me hope.

TAG-3.jpg
 
After my research of the VIN and the undisclosed photos (of rust damage) from the auction site where the seller bought the car, I was advised to pass on this car. It looks like I am back on the 1966 MGB hunt. I requested my deposit be returned to me and he sent the funds.

I do not know what the seller will do with a car with a "fake" VIN.

Hopefully I will post another car soon.

Thanks for everyone's help, advice and good wishes.

John
 
Right call! There are plenty of them out there.
 
seems like you dodged a bullet here - good for you.

Moving forward can I suggest in the strongest yet nicest way possible that you get connected with a car club. Not sure if you specifically want a 66 but MGBs are not at all rare so hold out for a good one. An extra set of eyes on the ground will be better and in my experience club members are more than happy to help. I would also add that buying from a club member is usually better as they know what they are really worth and they tend to be honest about condition.

Chicagoland is one such club: > Homepage - <
 
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