I agree with Walt. Matching numbers started because there were way too many
cheap cars being turned into expensive cars -- Pontiac Tempests became GTOs,
6-cylinder Camaros became SSs, etc. There was (and probably still is) quite
a cottage industry doing those upgrades.
Documenting matching numbers provided the answer to the question "How did
the manufacturer build this car?"
In the case of our cars, the manufacturers mostly built everything with
pretty much the same engines and transmissions.
If I were rebuilding a Jaguar E-Type roadster for $50,000, I'd probably want
the block to have the right number for the year. But on a TR, I don't think
it's going to make much difference.
--Graham
-----Original Message-----
From: Walt Philipson [mailto:WaltP@Anspach.com]
Sent: Wednesday, February 12, 2003 2:45 PM
To: 'steve bridge'; 6pack@autox.team.net
Subject: RE: Matching #'s and car values
I would suspect that one of the reasons that matching numbers became
important on muscle cars is that the cars came in so many configurations.
It's pretty easy to start off with a relatively common six cylinder Camaro
or Barracuda and end up with a rare and valuable "Z28" or "Hemi Cuda". Our
cars came with very few options, none of which would make a 10 fold increase
its worth.
Just my $.02
Walt
74 TR6
-----Original Message-----
From: steve bridge [mailto:slbridge@hotmail.com]
Sent: Wednesday, February 12, 2003 1:14 PM
To: 6pack@autox.team.net
Subject: RE: Matching #'s and car values
If one is doing a " no expense spared " build according to the TR6 prep
manual ( and any performance guide ), your block ID numbers will likely be
machined off when you deck the block. As in vintage Chevy motors, TR
letters to "return" your block to original will be offered by some
manufacturer as soon as there is a need.
Now how do you feel about that matching number $30,000 LS6 Chevelle? It
better have more than just a number stamped in cast iron... SD Steve
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