The best that I can figure out is that LR keeps a database of all the options for each VIN. This is so a dealer can install/reinstall/update the proper software for various components. Specifically the instrument cluster because that's where all the settings are stored. So, the VIN itself is pretty meaningless, but the VIN combined with access to the database should tell you exactly how it left the factory. I'm not sure exactly how many forms the database comes, but it is at least part of the diagnostic computer/tool. I have the Landrover Electronic Part Catalog software installed on my laptop at home and as a part of it when you enter the VIN it'll display the entire build sheet for that VIN. Feel free to shoot me the VINs and I'll tell you if its got the HD package or not.
I've done this for several folks on some of the other LR forums. When I was in search of my LR3 with HD package, I didn't have the software and called my local LR dealer on a near daily basis for them to check VINs for whether they had the HD package or not.
Land Rover Series 1 Chassis Number Decoder
Hi, Been wondering about this for a while. My chassis number I think has been incorrect since the day Land Rover registered it. I definitely have a V8 Discovery 2, but my chassis number has the letter 'P' in it, which translates to a '2.6-litre, 6-cylinder Petrol'. Is this just a mistake? The HPI check said that engine numbers matched and that there had been no changes to vehicle, so I'm pretty sure it must be a mistake.
OR does it mean something else???? Many thanks in advance for your words of wisdom.