I have 65 ss and I wanted to know if there is anyway to find out what size engine came with the car from the vin or the plate on firewall? I know it either was 283 or 327.
thank you
german

The VIN will tell you if it came with a V8 or L6, the cowl tag doesn't tell anything about the engine. I do not believe there is any foolproof indicator short of the original paperwork or protecto-plate. But a very good indication would be the size of the fuel line which runs along the inside of the frame rail: 3/8" od = 327, 5/16" = 283 (2bbl).

And a 7/16 inch fuel line would indicate it was an L79 327. If it originally had a Powerglide (auto) transmission it couldn't be an L79 327 car. Post the first portion of the VIN and we can tell you if it was an L6 or V8 car at least.

------------------
Rich's 1965 Malibu SS Restoration Project Progress Page (http://www.geocities.com/motorcity/flats/8627/)
1:18 scale diecast car Detailing by Scooter (http://www.amhost.com/scooter/)

hey I really aprreaciate the response. I checked my fuel line and it's 5/16 283(i wish it was 7/16)The VIN 13837 which means V8 correct? Is there anyway of going to the DMV and tracking down or call any chevy dealer for specs? Well any of your guys going to route 66 in CA? Luckily I got the day off and I m going tomorrow. By the way Rich your L79 is incredible. Was the car 100% complete when you got it? I'm trying to find tach do you have any extra parts? Anyways awesome car!!!!!