Classic/Antique Car Repair: 1968 Firebird, pontiac firebird, vin plate

Question
Hi, I'm thinking of buying a 68 Pontiac Firebird. When I ran the Vin it came out to a 69 Firebird. The Vin is 22337-9-U131718, I think the 6th number is the year of production. It's a 9 when I think it should be an 8. Is their any legitimate reason for this? Was it a late production 68? Your insight is greatly appreciated. Or is it a switched Vin? Thank You.

Answer
Well there was no late production 68 but there was a late production date for the 1970. Well the 1968 Firebird had the ignition switch on the dash and it was moved to the steering column for the 1969 model year. The front bumper was the wrap around the grille chrome unit while the 69 had the plastic front end assembly. Now if the VIN number does not match this configuration the car is either a "put together from the scrap pile car" or the VIN plate has been tampered with. The 1967 had vent windows on the front doors and they were dropped in 68. The 68 was the first to have the side marker lights. Good luck.
Brad