taymar98

Hi guys! Sorry if this has been asked before, but here goes....I bought a white 85 442. It's alleged to be a "real" white 442 (only year in 80's). Question is: How do I (can I) tell if it's really an original white car? There is no cowl tag. Paint DOES look orig. Car has trunk sticker that has matching VIN number on it (you can even still read the stickers inside the driver's door!). I would appreciate ANY help - THANKS! Doug

taymar98

Should've introduced myself BEFORE asking for info! Sorry! Doug - 1985 442 (white) needs work, I'm just outside Chicago. Thanks!

Eric Anderson

Hey Doug, welcome to the site. The extent of my knowledge of this eras 442 is it has to have a 9 in the eighth vin position to verify the high output engine. If all else fails I'm sure if you stop in a paint supply shop or body shop they could tell you the car color. Anyway by your description my money is on it being the origional color, good luck.

taymar98

Thanks Eric! Yes, it does have the 9 in the VIN. I'm pretty convinced it's a true 442, just want to verify if it is an original white one. Again, thanks for the reply! Doug

Jamesbo

Welcome aboard and thanks for the pic.

Unfortunately I am at a loss to help you with an 85. But, There are many here who are more smarter than I. So ask away.

joe_padavano

White WAS an available (albeit very rare) color offered on the 1985 442s. Your SPID sticker in the trunk will list both the original color and the W42 code if it is a real 442.

taymar98

Thanks Joe! I'll have to look at the SPID again. I've seen another white 442 on the net, and he has a pic of his window sticker. It says 11U for white and 12L (i think) for the silver? Will it use these numbers on the SPID or another number? Thanks for all the info! I'll check the SPID Fri or Sat when I'm at the garage.

taymar98

BTW, is there ANY way to find out how many white 442's were built? I know I'm probably reaching but....;-)

joe_padavano

Yes, those paint codes should be on the SPID.