There should be an S in the VIN. I believe it should be the sixth digit.
1923; it tells you when it was made.
The model number usually arent stamped on the gun. The model name is such as Nomad, challenger and so on. With guns made from the mid 1970's and up, the model code is part of the serial number and it tells which one you have.
Serial number 279635 tells me that it is a Model "1894" versus a "94", and that it was manufactured in the latter part of the year 1905.
This is a 1973 Evinrude Norseman 40 hp. The 3 in the model number tells you it's a 1973.
1961, and the serial number tells you nothing else.
1948, and it tells you nothing else.
1942, and it tells you where it was made lolwut.
1991 - the "EI" in the model number tells the year. E = 9 and I =1.
Usually, the 10th digit is the year code.
1953, and in addition to the year of manufacture, it tells you that 2000992 other Model 94s wer made prior to it.
The 8th digit is the engine type.
1950, and it tells you nothing else. Bert H.