Registering a car with just a chassis number

[GreaseNipple]

Looking for some advice after speaking to a woman at the DVLA who could only give me very standard answers to my questions. I'm tempted by a project Lotus Europa resto-mod, ie everything new including engine and chassis, I've found a body for sale with no V5 just a chassis number, which would suit my purposes if everything else is being replaced. The seller says you just phone the DVLA and relevant car club and they verify everything and the issue an appropriate number plate, the DVLA said they'd send an inspector out to check it. Is this true if the majority of other parts are new including a non standard fitment engine and updated chassis? Or on inspection would the DVLA maybe give a Q plate or not register the car at all? Also is there a way of checking the chassis number is genuine before purchase and not being used on another car?

[nta16]

classic Lotus owners (clubs) tend to be very knowledgeable I'd check out the details you have with them someone might even know the car/cars/parts/chassis numbers (IIRC VIN wasn't around as such then)

BTW it was (is/) possible to register a brand new car built by the manufacturer on the chassis number certainly in the early 90s, to avoid the need for cats

Edited by nta16 on Wednesday 24th July 01:36

[caziques]

Best to find out first if the chassis number is recorded at DVLA, big problem if the car is recorded as stolen. This may reveal a number plate.

If no record get something from an owners club showing year of manufacture. Build car, get MOT on chassis number. Inform DVLA office you want to use car, an age related number will be issued - you have to buy your own plates which can black/white pre 73.

[scovette]

As you'll be greatly modifying the car, you might have to consider that even if the chassis number checks out, the rebuilt car might not qualify as a Europa. When my car was built there was a points system that I think is still in place. Points are given for using original standard parts, with eight points needed to to retain the original reg. If less than eight points are scored or a second-hand or modified chassis is used then you'll need to go through an IVA.

chassis or body shell (original or new as standard) = 5 points
suspension = 2 points
axles = 2 points
transmission = 2 points
steering assembly = 2 points
engine = 1 point

If you're updating the chassis then it might still be considered standard - there's some useful info here

Edited by scovette on Wednesday 24th July 13:00