Sequence Number/Order Number

[unionjack1940]

Can someone explain what exactly the numbers mean? I understand the difference between the two, but want to know how to break it down. I'm aware the first number in the sequence number is the year. For example, my road runner's corresponding numbers are as follows:

Sequence: 159935
Order:149421

Thanks!

[sdweatherman]

The sequence number is part of the VIN and starts out at 100001 for the first car of the model year that is given its VIN at a particular Assembly plant. This sequence number increments upward as the cars run down the line. Depending on the Assembly plant, car 100001 could be a Road Runner, then car 100002 could be a Charger, etc, etc.

The year code is not part of the sequence number. It is the 6th number in the VIN - RP23N1R100001 for 1971.

The Order number is just the 6 digit number from the Order sheet from the dealership. Dealerships had pads of these car order sheets with 6 digit numbers on them - usually sequential as you went through the pad. The order number was just a way for the dealership to track the progress of a car being built at the assembly plant.

Now some cars have special Order numbers - a way for Chrysler to keep tabs on certain cars. Executive lease cars typically have an Order number that starts with an R or Q - such as R12749. Early built cars were known as pilot cars - and typically had an Order number like M50032. There are several other special order numbers out there, but typical cars were just a six digit number.

This is the best I know of on how to explain the difference - if anyone has a better explanation, please contribute.

Scott.

[unionjack1940]

Excellent explanation. Thank you so much!!!