For the benefit of Bob, Clara, the list, et al, I provide a list of dates,
VIN's & corresponding engine numbers for 40HP and 1500 Buses:

Date       VIN          40HP Eng     1500 Eng     Remarks
May 60   614456     5000000                          True 40HP Engine Intro'd
Dec 60   705619     5407725
Aug 61   802985     5979933
Dec 61   882314     6375945
Aug 62   971550     6914251
Dec 62   1048085   7336420         0143543      1500 Option(M215, M216)
Note:  Models with the 1500 also had larger brakes all around, but still had
smaller rear axle.
Aug 63   1144282                        0578878       1500 Standardized
Note:  This VIN intro'd the larger rear hatch and rear window, but still had
pull frt door hdls
Dec 63   1222500                        None Listed  Push Button Frt Door
Hdls
Aug 64   1328871                        713767         Last of Old Style
VIN's
Dec 64   215482480                    816281
Aug 65   216000001                    H0000001      First of the H Series
1500's
Aug 66   217000001                    H0183373      12 Volt Standardized
Oct 66    217019416                    None Listed   Dual Circuit Master
Cylinder
Aug 67   217148459                    H0761325      Last of the Splitties
Note:  65-67 models, re: the 2nd digit indicated the model: 1=Panel,
2=Microbus, 3=Kombi/Camper, 4=Deluxe, 5=Deluxe 7 seater w/walk thru,
6=Pickups, 7=Ambulances

It might be also noted that there were no 40HP engines prior to engine #
5000001.  There of course was the bastard 37.5HP engine intro'd in June 59
(VIN 469506) with a beginning number of 3400000 which was quickly (and
thankfully) discontinued in May 60 (VIN 614455).

All above is referenced from the original parts manuals and subsequent VAG
Surveys and Microfiche films.

Of course this is VOID where prohibited by law ;-)

Jim / BusBoys@aol.com