I'm Confused Regarding the "VIN" on this GS

That is a very late 71 model year in NM. My car is a Flint 09A or 09B, this car in question in a 08E, a 1-2 week difference. The markings look similar to many of the early 70 models {Marco's comes to mind}. The question is " When did the change happen", as in the date? If late 70 model stampings were straight as mine, then this 08E sure appears to be bogus.

 

I believe all GS convertibles were Flint.