Free 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class VIN Decoder

How to decode a 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class VIN

Characters 1-3 of a 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class VIN

A World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI) is a code that uniquely identifies the manufacturer of a vehicle and provides insight about the vehicle itself, such as its type, place of origin, and production year. Each WMI is comprised of a series of letters and numbers, with the first three characters representing the WMI code. For instance, the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class from 1997 has a WMI that signifies it as a passenger car manufactured by Mercedes-Benz Cars. This particular model, produced between the years 1994 and 2009, and also in 2011-2012, originates from Stuttgart in Baden-Württemberg, Germany, showcasing the car’s prestigious lineage and European craftsmanship. Understanding a vehicle’s WMI aids in identifying the vehicle’s manufacturing details accurately and efficiently.

List of WMI Codes for a 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class

WMI: WDB

• Model Years Covered: 1994-2009, 2011-2012
• Example VIN: WDBFA76F0VF153217
• Manufacturer Name: Mercedes-Benz Cars
• Vehicle Type: Passenger Car
• City: Stuttgart
• State or Province: Baden-Württemberg
• Country: Germany

Characters 4-8 are the Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS) of a 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class 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 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class:

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 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class 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 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class VIN — Year Code

11th Character in the 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class VIN — Plant Code(s)

Known 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class Assembly Factory VIN Code(s)

VIN Characters 12 - 17 of a 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class

The final 6 characters in a 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class’s 17-digit VIN are its serial number, which will be unique to every vehicle.

What info can a 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class VIN reveal?

• Model Year: The VIN can reveal the vehicle’s model year, indicating the year as 1997, providing insights into the age and potential technological features of the car.
• Body Class and Size: Classified as a Convertible/Cabriolet with 2 doors, the VIN provides details about the car’s body type and general size, giving a clear picture of the vehicle’s style and design.
• Engine Specifications: The engine is characterized by a V-Shaped configuration with a displacement of 5 liters (5000 CC or 305.1187204736 CI) and a horsepower starting from 315, indicating the vehicle’s powerful performance capabilities.
• Fuel Efficiency and Type: It is powered by gasoline, which is crucial for understanding the vehicle’s fuel efficiency and environmental impact.
• Safety Features: Safety features include Front Air Bags located in the 1st Row (Driver and Passenger), Knee Air Bags in the 1st Row, and Side Air Bags in the 1st Row, possibly illustrating the vehicle’s emphasis on safety for its occupants.
• Plant Information: The VIN reveals that the vehicle was manufactured in Bremen, Germany, offering insights into the manufacturing origin, which might be essential for assessing build quality and import status.
• Unique Vehicle Details: Specific unique identifiers such as the model name SL-Class, series SL500, and trim 129 provide detailed insights into the vehicle’s specific market position and features.

Sample VIN Decode Report for a 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class