I'm not a Mercury owner as yet but am looking at a 1959 Montetrey and have found some conflicting information in regards to decoding a 10 digit VIN. I am also having trouble confirming the motor in the vehicle (I have not been able to view the vehicle - only photos etc). The VIN is N9ZA538533. From what I have found regarding the firing order for the 312 differs to the 383 - the inlet is stamped with firing order 1-5-4-2-6-3-7-8. Any help with the VIN and likely engine type would be appreciated. Cheers Woody

 

I'm sure you figured this out by now, but an "N" in the first digit of the VIN indicates the car came with the 383 "Marauder" 2 barrel engine.