Is it possible to get a factory build list ( so i know excactly what is on the car and what isnt) from the VIN number, from this forum or elsewhere?

Short answer is Yes.

The service booklet has a sticker (replicated in the boot under the carpet next to the spare wheel) which contains a short list of codes. This can be useful and there is a website where this can be inputted to get a list of what they mean.

However, this is not the full list you are looking for. I got that for my car direct from a Volkswagen website called ERWIN. https://erwin.volkswagen.de

They have separate sites for VW, Skoda etc.

You can register for free but it will cost you €5 to get access to their database and resources.

From the VIN you can get a list of absolutely everything that your car shipped with. I would imagine a dealer has the very same access and could do this for you. Whether they would is another matter.

By the way, this website has access to every service manual you could need and for €20 I was able to download .pdf versions and print them. VERY worthwhile if you do any work yourself or need to order parts etc.

HTH

I thought there was a free 'lookup' service from somewhere else as well?

Ask your dealer for a Vehicle Data printout for your car. This lists all the PR codes for your car and more.

This is the site I was thinking of:- http://igorweb.org/vindec/