my point is VIN tag can easily be removed. some people will go extra mile to put on EF9/EF8 VIN tag to complete their 'vtec' conversion. but there's no way you can tamper the chassis number on the firewall. that is where you need to look at in order for you to confirm your car whether it is Japan/Europe/or local spec. A simple example for you: my EF is EF2, and its from Japan. The original engine was D15B - Single cam 1.5L before its converted to B16A twincam 1.6L..