Free 1987 BMW 325i VIN Decoder

How to decode a 1987 BMW 325i VIN

Characters 1-3 of a 1987 BMW 325i VIN

World Manufacturer Identifiers (WMIs) are unique codes assigned to every vehicle manufacturer. For the 1987 BMW 325i, the WMI is “WBA,” indicating it was manufactured by BMW AG in Munich, Germany. This code is crucial in deciphering a vehicle’s VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), specifically pointing out the manufacturer and, sometimes, the vehicle type. With the WMI, one can determine that this specific BMW 325i falls within the model years 1987-1995 and 2001-2006, affirming its authenticity and origin as a German-engineered passenger car. This essential three-letter sequence helps in tracking, registering, and verifying vehicles globally.

List of WMI Codes for a 1987 BMW 325i

WMI: WBA

• Model Years Covered: 1987-1995, 2001-2006
• Example VIN: WBAAD2301H2445683
• 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 1987 BMW 325i 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 1987 BMW 325i:

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 1987 BMW 325i 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 1987 BMW 325i VIN — Year Code

11th Character in the 1987 BMW 325i VIN — Plant Code(s)

Known 1987 BMW 325i Assembly Factory VIN Code(s)

VIN Characters 12 - 17 of a 1987 BMW 325i

The final 6 characters in a 1987 BMW 325i’s 17-digit VIN are its serial number, which will be unique to every vehicle.

What info can a 1987 BMW 325i VIN reveal?

• Model Year: The VIN can reveal the vehicle’s model year, such as the year 1987, providing insights into the age and potential market value of the vehicle.
• Body Class and Doors: A VIN can specify the body class, indicating it as a Passenger Car with a Body Class of Convertible/Cabriolet, offering detailed insights into the vehicle’s general form and function.
• Engine Details: Specifics such as the engine manufacturer being BMW-AG, a displacement of approximately 2.49 liters (152 CI), 168 horsepower, and an engine with 6 cylinders can be decoded, offering a comprehensive look at the vehicle’s powerplant.
• Fuel Type: This specification indicates the vehicle’s compatibility with Gasoline, shedding light on fuel preferences and potential efficiency.
• Model Specifics: The VIN decodes to a 1987 BMW 325iC from the 3-Series E30, pinpointing its make, model year, and specific series for precise identification.
• Manufacturing Information: The production details reveal that the vehicle was assembled in Dingolfing, Germany, helping trace its origin and potentially affecting its valuation and appeal.
• Safety and Transmission: Features like a Manual seat belt and an Automatic transmission style can be uncovered, highlighting both safety mechanisms and driving dynamics.
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): Indicated as Class 1, with a GVWR of 6,000 lb or less, which informs on the vehicle’s size category and potential load capacity.

Sample VIN Decode Report for a 1987 BMW 325i