hello everyone,

I am trying to find out how can you decode a vin number. i have a 1980 datsun 280zx

first 6 is hgs130 which tells me

H- L28E

G- 2+2

s130 car model

then rest is serial number which has 6 numbers. I have found all that info. Mine was manufactured between 8/79 - 6/80

So, vin is only 12 numbers and no where can I find anything about the vehicle as color code, transmission, etc. My dad works on classic mustangs so he can send in for what's called a Marti report and tells you that your vehicle is x or x with this trim color etc. that's what I am looking for. Can anyone help me out?

I do not believe that information is available. The Marti report came about when Ford was going to dispose of all the build sheets from that era. Somebody aquired them and saved them. When you get a marti report they are finding the proper build sheet and providing the info, for a fee. IIRC

The 17 digit VIN didn't start on the Z line until 1981. As @Patcon mentioned, the VIN does not contain much in the way of a build code.

For the 79 & 80, I'm not sure where the paint code was located. It might be a foil sticker on the radiator support, like the S30. It looks like later years of the ZX had the information you want on the plate in the engine bay.

This site may be able to provide you with more information: https://www.xenonzcar.com/s130.html

It has color codes for the interior and exterior: https://xenonzcar.com/s130/colorchart.html

Download the service manual and open up the General Information (GI) chapter. It shows where the various numbers and tags are. I've found though, that some sections of the chapter, at least for the 280Z's, seem to describe a plan that never actually was completed.

I have the paint code information and stuff. I didn't know if there was a report that showed all the stuff like the marti report out there or not. I have ran the vin on carfax and got all info that you are able to find out (maintenance, wrecks, title, inspection and stuff). It just doesn't show like this car is #1 of 1500 with this paint and trim.