when i read the production # listed here on 914club's site (914 info-production numbers) i'm a bit confused on the years listed there. it states 1969 trhu 1975. i'm going to assume this is basically off 1 year due to our way of thinking. i'm assuming my 1973 914 (dmv says 1973) is under 1972 -becouse that was build, not sales date???

Build date should be (or once was) on a sticker on the driver side door latch post. Model year is in the VIN shown on the driver side windshield post tag (or on title/registration). 472........ = 1972 model, 473........ =1973

1973 4732900157
1972 4722918670, 472xxxxxxx
1970 470xxxxxxx

The 73 was built in 1972, probably August since it is very early.

Look on the Karmann badge on the drivers door post.
List the VIN plus the paint code and the chassis # from the badge.
Is the decal still on the latch post? If so, what dates are punched into it.
I'll decode the chassis # for you.

Mine is an early 73 too.

Here are some specifics from the door sill sticker:
manufactured 08/72
vin 4732900836

From the door jam plate:
nr: 2959590 (what's this?)
L30E (Bahia Red color code)