The aptly-named VehicleIdentificationNumber.com site offers an easy-to-read explanation of the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) sequence. The explanation includes discussion of the:

• World Manufacturer Indentifier (WMI)
• Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS)
• Vehicle Identifier Section (VIS)

The site also offers an extensive list of VIN decoders for numerous makes and models of cars from Alfa Romeos to VWs.

For additional information regarding an automobile, or to verify its VIN, also see CarFax.com's free Vin Report.