1973 Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) Breakdown

An example of a 1973 Nova VIN might read: 1X27K3 W 100001

First Character: GM Division
1 - Chevrolet

Second Character: Series Designation
X - Nova

Third and Fourth Characters: Body Style
17 - 2-door hatchback
27 - 2-door coupe
69 - 4-door sedan

Fifth Character: Engine Code
D - 250-1 cid L6
F - 307-2 cid V8
H - 350-2 cid V8 (L65)
K - 350-4 cid V8 (L48)

Sixth Character: Model Year
3 - 1973

Seventh Character: Final Assembly Plant
L - Van Nuys, California
W - Willow Run, Michigan

Eight through Thirteenth characters: Sequence Production Number
The sequential starting production number at each plant was 100001.  Each assembly plant sequenced Chevy IIs/Novas of all series/models without regard to specific series/models.