I've always been a bit confused as to how to figure out the model year from the 1stGens VIN number. I've read all about it, but it didn't make sense. For all those that are in the dark like me, here it is. The last 6 digits are the serial number. The 2 letters before them designate the year. Actually you could drop the 'A' and still be in the know....
DA= 83
EA= 84
FA= 85
GA= 86
HA= 87
I.... skipped. Looks too much like a one
JA= 88
KA= 89
LA= 90
MA= 91
NA= 92
O.... skipped. Looks too much like a zero
PA= 93