Type 1:

VW Beetle Chassis and Engine serial numbers 1948 to 1979 – Lots of key data packed into a simple chart that can be printed out on a single page.

Dune Buggy ID Page – Most Dune Buggy’s are based on a shortened Beetle Type 1 chassis. Use the VW Chassis and Engine serial number list above to ID your chassis. However, if you are trying to ID a Dune Buggy body, this page from the Dune Buggy Archives is the place to start.

Type 2:

Type 2 M-Plate Decoder – An excellent online decoder site for your Volkswagen van, bus or Westfalia. Covers both split window vans and bay window vans. Decodes the entire M-plate and includes the bit of information included in the serial number.

All Models:

Engine Code Letters for the Volkswagen – Scans of a factory information guide on engine serial number prefixes from the great TheSamba.com website.

Understanding VW Engine and Chassis Numbers through to 1979 – Covers Type 1, Type 2, Type 3, Type 4 and K70 models. From the Volkswagen Owners Club of Great Britain.

VW Chassis Numbers – Covers  Beetle, Super Beetle, Karmann Ghia and Thing. From Aircooled.net.