chassis number...

[joulupukki]

Hi Guys,

I have almost purchased a 3 door Saab 900 turbo coupe.

However it turned out that its chassis number has been replaced with an other model's number. The car papers are issued to the other number.

The current owner has been owning the car for many years and he was likely not aware of this. The change was likely done decades ago.

Is there anything doable in this unfortunate situation?

Regards,

Joulupukki

[mikkoimp]

are you sure that this is original T16? motor swap?

[DIggItaLLr]

Chassis number in papers are different from the number imprinted on to the car chassis?
Or
The chassis number in papers doesn't match with the current engine setup?

[joulupukki]

The chassis number was changed on the car probably due to avoid import tax ~10-15 years ago by someone (not the current owner).

According to the 900 serial number decoder, the serial no. is for a 5 door car. This is a 3 door coupe.

I assume that the serial no decoder is correct.

[Mertmi]

In Finland it is routine check every year in vehicle inspection that chasis number is correct. Has this car been in use all these years and there is passed inspections every year?

[muppelo]

I would keep my hands off from car that chasis number does not match.

[f-19]

Answer to the original question, what can be done:
Re-register the car with "correct", umh sorry current VIN number and pay the car tax? When tax is paid and car registered, Trafi had what it wanted. Like said, this was probably the thing that had been originally tried to avoid.

Or this car has been stolen and therefore the VIN has been changed. In that case the rightful owner might wants his/hers vehicle back. If nobody claims the car and its not impounded by officals, re-tax, re-register?

Im guessing that the tax its not huge on such old car. It might be anyhow too much so that this all would be worthwhile, if the car is not free of charge.

(i'm not sure of the above, just guessing)

[joulupukki]

I've decided to stay away from this car. It's really crap because it was a very nice 3 door turbo for a reasonable price. These cars are getting a bit rare nowadays.

I compared the chassis number to my 900's. I can see that the welding is a bit different, but one who is not really aware of this will never notice. I think when they changed the VIN they were not aware that it encodes the car's exact type.

[9000CD23T]

You should consider your decision again.
I think the Saab 900 is the only real SAAB.
I mean that this model is the best thing that SAAB has ever done.