Build numbers ? What do they tell ?

[prebordao]

A few years ago while stripping the body for a rebuild, I noticed some numbers written in chalk or wax, on top of the instrument panel.
I don't have'em here but I think they were like XXX-XXXX.

I suppose it's a build number, can I get some information from there, build date ?

[fryardds]

Are you asking about the significance of this number for your '74 Targa? The seven digit # on the top of the dash is the same # stamped on the passenger side lower dash, under neath the knee pad.

The # for a car built after '68 is not the same as the VIN. The prior years this # is the same as the VIN. The build, or production # for your '74 Targa would be 114XXXX. The '1' is for a production body (a '0' is for a replacement body)' the next '1' is for a Targa (a '0' is coupe)' '4' is "74. The last 4 digits are sequential as they were built. Only Porsche records will match a build number with a VIN.
Dash Serial Number

[prebordao]

Thanks. Yes, I was asking for my '74, the number is 114-1416 so it "fits".
The stamping under the dash also applies post 68 ?

[fryardds]

Yes, the stamped # on the lower dash is the same as the wax pencil # on the top of the dash. I am curious, is your Targa an early production model for '74? Maybe even produced in '73?

[prebordao]

Yes, one of the earliest. Built in oct or nov 73.