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Yvan,
The Type Number on the Vehicle Identification Plate, although it will expose a fake (if they didn't switch the VID plate, too) cannot be used as the absolute criteria for positively identifying a true 123GT.
That third digit ONLY identifies the engine type.
Type Number - 132xxxx indicates a B18D, the stock 122 engine.
Type Number - 133xxxx indicates a B18B, the higher compression and higher horsepower version USUALLY only found in the 1800 and 123GT.
Now, because I owned one, I know that SOME 122's, that were NOT 123GT's, came with a B18B from the factory, as indicated by the Type Number on the Vehicle Identification Plate, which shows that the 3rd digit alone cannot be used to identify a true 123GT.
Two things, come to mind:
1. A 123GT COULD be faked with the core of a "133" 122, (because, if I remember correctly, I don't think they kept track of which 122 chassis #'s were used for 123GT production), if one invested more money than it would ever sell for.
The cost of finding and installing the 4.56 LSD rear end, Ricarro seats, lights, dash pad, steering wheel, etc. would make it a totally impractical plan for anyone looking to make a profit, much less a killing.
2. Maybe (and this has haunted me), just maybe, my "133" 122 was actually a 123GT. Maybe someone removed ALL visible distinguishing 123GT features . Unthinkable, to say the least. I never checked the rear end ratio, but I'm pretty sure I would have noticed the Limited Slip Differential. I don't think that was it.
gary
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