The Passat Puzzle?
 

I am very confused! I live in Italy and I recently picked up a european spec 1990 Passat GL (saloon/sedan) and would like to do a tune up and replace some parts, BUT... I can't seem to figure out the type/size of engine and transmission. I have searched every number I have located on the engine and can't seem to track it down.

The VIN# starts WVWZZZ31LB...... When i run this, the ZZZ was used in europe during certain years and are filler characters. This sucks because this is the area of the VIN that would tell you the engine code.

Another weird thing is that the number plate has a little VW trademark stamp with a "1994" in the corner, BUT the VIN character "L" means its a 1990.

So, this is what I can tell you...hope you can help.

What I know
- inline 4 cylinder
- front wheel drive
- 5 speed manual transmission
- NO air conditioning
- NO factory radio
- "Passat GL" on truck lid


Number plate stuff (some I don't have a clue what they are)
VIN = WVWZZZ31ZLB......
??? = DGM52402OM
Type = 35I
Version = RP21B

Numbers on engine
Top left = 0261033730
Top middle = 3ME
Top right circle stamp = 89 outside, 7 inside
Bottom middle = 2BE


Thanks in advance :)