Wikicars - User contributions [en]

Dodge Aries

2010-11-22T18:27:34Z

Yankee: /* 1981-1989 */

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Chrysler-12-dodge-aries-1981.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Dodge Aries'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Dodge]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production
| 1981-1989
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class
| Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style
| 2-Door Coupe, 4-Door Sedan, 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length
| 178.6"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width
| 68"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height
| 52.5"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase
| 100.1 in
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight
| 2600 - 2800 lb
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions
| 4-Speed Manual, FWD 5-Speed Manual, FWD 3-Speed Automatic, FWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines
| 2.2L (135 cid) I4 (1981-1989) 2.6L (156 cid) I4 (1981-1985) 2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1986-1989)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power
| 84-101 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar
| [[Chrysler LeBaron]] [[Dodge 400]] [[Plymouth Reliant]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform
| K
|}

The '''[[Dodge]] Aries''', otherwise known as a "K-car", is ultimately best described as "the car that saved [[Chrysler]]'s bacon". The Aries (and its K-car twin [[Plymouth Reliant]]) was all new in 1981, replacing the departed [[Dodge Aspen]]/[[Plymouth Volare]]. The K-cars were a huge gamble for Chrysler, who had just received loans that were guaranteed by the government prior to their introduction. Had the K-cars turned out to be sales duds, it's very likely Chrysler would not exist today, at least in its present form. But not only were they successful, the K-car chassis spawned multiple spinoffs, not the least of which were sport coupes and minivans (in fact, by the mid-80s the only Chrysler cars that ''weren't'' K-car knockoffs were the L-body [[Dodge Omni]]/[[Plymouth Horizon]] and the rear-drive M-bodies ([[Chrysler Fifth Avenue]]/[[Dodge Diplomat]]/[[Plymouth Gran Fury]]). The Aries and Reliant would continue through 1989 to be replaced by the [[Dodge Spirit]] and [[Plymouth Acclaim]] that same year.

Here's a quick rundown:

==1981-1989==

1981 was the Aries/Reliant's premier year, base engine was the all-new 2.2L 84 hp I4, available with a 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic. Optional was the [[Mitsubishi]]-built 2.6L "Hemi" 96 hp I4, automatic only. Bodystyles included a 2-door coupe, 4-door sedan and a 5-door station wagon. Trim levels were base and '''SE'''. Styling was the basic 3-box type. Aries styling differed from the Reliant's only by a different grille and taillights. The K-cars were off to an admirable start in their inaugural year, racking up over 300,000 sales between the Aries and Reliant. There were only minor changes for the 1982 K-cars, such as a counterbalanced hood eliminating the need for a prop-rod. The rear door windows in the sedans and wagons actually rolled down this year (they were fixed in place on the 81 models). Engine choices remained the same as last year. Also the "K" badges were removed from the exterior nameplates. The K-car's first 2 spinoffs happened this year in the form of the new [[Chrysler LeBaron]] and [[Dodge 400]], with more upscale surroundings than the Aries/Reliant.

The biggest change in 1983 was an additional 10 hp for the 2.2L I4, to 94 hp. Otherwise there were no real changes to speak of this year. This year's K-car spinoffs were the larger (and short-lived) [[Chrysler E-Class]] and [[New Yorker]], and the [[Dodge 600]]. All new dashboards with temp and oil pressure gauges were the order of the day for 1984, and all radios were now digital. Both the Aries and Reliant gained the Chrysler pentastar badge mounted squarely in the middle of their grilles. It is interesting to note that 1984 was the only year Aries and Reliant did not carry a "K" on the back of them as a trim line. The "K" had gained somewhat of a bad reputaton as a very common car and Chrysler attempted to distance themselves from this by dropping the "K" (it would return in 1985). The 2.6L I4 received a slight horsepower boost to 101. This year the K-cars spunoff the [[Chrysler Laser]] and [[Dodge Daytona]] sport coupes and the [[Dodge Caravan]] and [[Plymouth Voyager]] minivans. It should be noted that the various turbo variants of the 2.2L (and later 2.5) engines were never offered on the Aries or Reliant.

The K-cars sported restyled noses and tails in 1985, becoming more rounded at the front and more formal in the rear. The Aries and Reliant again differed only in their grilles and taillights. Despite the changes, exterior and interior dimensions remained the same as before. Engine and transmission choices also remained the same. K-car spinoffs this year included the [[Chrysler LeBaron GTS]] and [[Dodge Lancer]], resurrecting an old nameplate last used in the early '60s. For 1986, the biggest change was the demise of the Mitsubishi 2.6L I4, replaced by a Chrysler-built 100 hp 2.5L I4. Fuel injection made its way to both the 2.2 and 2.5 engines this year - horsepower for the 2.2 remained at 97. The only exterior change was the addition of the mandatory Center High-Mounted Stop Light in the rear. Base and SE models continued on both lines.

1987 saw no appreciable changes to the Aries or Reliant other than a stainless steel exhaust system. K-car spinoffs this year were the [[Dodge Shadow]] and [[Plymouth Sundance]], as well as a new handsome [[Chrysler LeBaron Coupe]]. In 1988, following the Omni and Horizon's lead, the Aries and Reliant were now offered in value-oriented '''America''' trim, making many previously optional items standard, such as AM/FM stereo, power steering and brakes, etc. Transmissions on both engines gained lock-up torque converters. Spinoffs this year were the larger [[Dodge Dynasty|Dynasty]] and [[Chrysler New Yorker]] sedans.

Other than the station wagon model being discontinued, the Aries and Reliant stood pretty much pat for their final year. Although the Aries and Reliant were at the end of their respective roads this year, the "K-car" platform was by no means dead. Another spinoff this year was the rather curious [[Chrysler TC by Maserati]] (the car's actual name), a 2-seat convertible which was a short-lived joint venture between Chrysler and [[Maserati]]. The Aries and Reliant were replaced by the new [[Dodge Spirit|Spirit]] and [[Plymouth Acclaim|Acclaim]] that were introduced this year, which also used the K platform.

===Main Competitors===

*[[Buick Skylark]]/[[Buick Somerset|Somerset]]
*[[Chevrolet Citation]]/[[Chevrolet Corsica|Corsica]]
*[[Ford Fairmont]]/[[Ford Tempo|Tempo]]
*[[Honda Accord]]
*[[Mercury Zephyr]]/[[Mercury Topaz|Topaz]]
*[[Oldsmobile Omega]]/[[Oldsmobile Calais|Calais]]
*[[Pontiac Phoenix]]/[[Pontiac Grand Am|Grand Am]]
*[[Subaru Loyale]]
*[[Toyota Camry]]
*[[Volkswagen Jetta]]

{{Dodge}}

Dodge Aries

2010-11-22T18:23:22Z

Yankee:

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Chrysler-12-dodge-aries-1981.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Dodge Aries'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Dodge]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production
| 1981-1989
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class
| Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style
| 2-Door Coupe, 4-Door Sedan, 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length
| 178.6"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width
| 68"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height
| 52.5"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase
| 100.1 in
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight
| 2600 - 2800 lb
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions
| 4-Speed Manual, FWD 5-Speed Manual, FWD 3-Speed Automatic, FWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines
| 2.2L (135 cid) I4 (1981-1989) 2.6L (156 cid) I4 (1981-1985) 2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1986-1989)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power
| 84-101 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar
| [[Chrysler LeBaron]] [[Dodge 400]] [[Plymouth Reliant]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform
| K
|}

The '''[[Dodge]] Aries''', otherwise known as a "K-car", is ultimately best described as "the car that saved [[Chrysler]]'s bacon". The Aries (and its K-car twin [[Plymouth Reliant]]) was all new in 1981, replacing the departed [[Dodge Aspen]]/[[Plymouth Volare]]. The K-cars were a huge gamble for Chrysler, who had just received loans that were guaranteed by the government prior to their introduction. Had the K-cars turned out to be sales duds, it's very likely Chrysler would not exist today, at least in its present form. But not only were they successful, the K-car chassis spawned multiple spinoffs, not the least of which were sport coupes and minivans (in fact, by the mid-80s the only Chrysler cars that ''weren't'' K-car knockoffs were the L-body [[Dodge Omni]]/[[Plymouth Horizon]] and the rear-drive M-bodies ([[Chrysler Fifth Avenue]]/[[Dodge Diplomat]]/[[Plymouth Gran Fury]]). The Aries and Reliant would continue through 1989 to be replaced by the [[Dodge Spirit]] and [[Plymouth Acclaim]] that same year.

Here's a quick rundown:

==1981-1989==

1981 was the Aries/Reliant's premier year, base engine was the all-new 2.2L 84 hp I4, available with a 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic. Optional was the [[Mitsubishi]]-built 2.6L "Hemi" 96 hp I4, automatic only. Bodystyles included a 2-door coupe, 4-door sedan and a 5-door station wagon. Trim levels were base and '''SE'''. Styling was the basic 3-box type. Aries styling differed from the Reliant's only by a different grille and taillights. The K-cars were off to an admirable start in their inaugural year, racking up over 300,000 sales between the Aries and Reliant. There were only minor changes for the 1982 K-cars, such as a counterbalanced hood eliminating the need for a prop-rod. The rear door windows in the sedans and wagons actually rolled down this year (they were fixed in place on the 81 models). Engine choices remained the same as last year. Also the "K" badges were removed from the exterior nameplates. The K-car's first 2 spinoffs happened this year in the form of the new [[Chrysler LeBaron]] and [[Dodge 400]], with more upscale surroundings than the Aries/Reliant.

The biggest change in 1983 was an additional 10 hp for the 2.2L I4, to 94 hp. Otherwise there were no real changes to speak of this year. This year's K-car spinoffs were the larger (and short-lived) [[Chrysler E-Class]] and [[New Yorker]], and the [[Dodge 600]]. All new dashboards with temp and oil pressure gauges were the order of the day for 1984, and all radios were now digital. Both the Aries and Reliant gained the Chrysler pentastar badge mounted squarely in the middle of their grilles. It is interesting to note that 1984 was the only year Aries and Reliant did not carry a "K" on the back of them as a trim line. The "K" had gained somewhat of a bad reputaton as a very common car and Chrysler attempted to distance themselves from this by dropping the "K" (it would return in 1985). The 2.6L I4 received a slight horsepower boost to 101. This year the K-cars spunoff the [[Chrysler Laser]] and [[Dodge Daytona]] sport coupes and the [[Dodge Caravan]] and [[Plymouth Voyager]] minivans. It should be noted that the various turbo variants of the 2.2L (and later 2.5) engines were never offered on the Aries or Reliant.

The K-cars sported restyled noses and tails in 1985, becoming more rounded at the front and more formal in the rear. The Aries and Reliant again differed only in their grilles and taillights. Despite the changes, exterior and interior dimensions remained the same as before. Engine and transmission choices also remained the same. K-car spinoffs this year included the [[Chrysler LeBaron GTS]] and [[Dodge Lancer]], resurrecting an old nameplate last used in the early '60s. For 1986, the biggest change was the demise of the Mitsubishi 2.6L I4, replaced by a Chrysler-built 100 hp 2.5L I4. Fuel injection made its way to both the 2.2 and 2.5 engines this year - horsepower for the 2.2 remained at 97. The only exterior change was the addition of the mandatory Center High-Mounted Stop Light in the rear. Base and SE models continued on both lines.

1987 saw no appreciable changes to the Aries or Reliant other than a stainless steel exhaust system. K-car spinoffs this year were the [[Dodge Shadow]] and [[Plymouth Sundance]], as well as a new handsome [[Chrysler LeBaron Coupe]]. In 1988, following the Omni and Horizon's lead, the Aries and Reliant were now offered in value-oriented '''America''' trim, making many previously optional items standard, such as AM/FM stereo, power steering and brakes, etc. Transmissions on both engines gained lock-up torque converters. Spinoffs this year were the larger [[Dodge Dynasty|Dynasty]] and [[Chrysler New Yorker]] sedans.

Other than the station wagon model being discontinued, the Aries and Reliant stood pretty much pat for their final year. The 2.5L engine received a power boost to 100 hp. Although the Aries and Reliant were at the end of their respective roads this year, the "K-car" platform was by no means dead. Another spinoff this year was the rather curious [[Chrysler TC by Maserati]] (the car's actual name), a 2-seat convertible which was a short-lived joint venture between Chrysler and [[Maserati]]. The Aries and Reliant were replaced by the new [[Dodge Spirit|Spirit]] and [[Plymouth Acclaim|Acclaim]] that were introduced this year, which also used the K platform.

===Main Competitors===

*[[Buick Skylark]]/[[Buick Somerset|Somerset]]
*[[Chevrolet Citation]]/[[Chevrolet Corsica|Corsica]]
*[[Ford Fairmont]]/[[Ford Tempo|Tempo]]
*[[Honda Accord]]
*[[Mercury Zephyr]]/[[Mercury Topaz|Topaz]]
*[[Oldsmobile Omega]]/[[Oldsmobile Calais|Calais]]
*[[Pontiac Phoenix]]/[[Pontiac Grand Am|Grand Am]]
*[[Subaru Loyale]]
*[[Toyota Camry]]
*[[Volkswagen Jetta]]

{{Dodge}}

Chevrolet Chevette

2010-11-04T22:06:18Z

Yankee: /* 1976-1987 */

'''[[Chevrolet]]''' introduced the '''Chevette''' subcompact for the 1976 model year, which brought Chevrolet's subcompact total that year to 3 (the [[Chevrolet Vega|Vega]] and [[Chevrolet Monza|Monza]] being the other 2). Unlike the Vega and Monza, however, the Chevette was based on an existing T-body European design and also sold as the ''Vauxhaull Chevette'' in the United Kingdom, ''Opel Kadette'' in Europe, ''Isuzu Gemini'' in Japan and the ''Holden Gemini'' in Australia. And, unlike other subcompacts introduced in this era, the Chevette was a rear-drive model, bucking the front wheel drive trend that cars like the [[Honda Civic]] and [[Volkswagen Rabbit]] were following (and others that were very soon to). The Chevette soldiered on for 12 seasons with very little change after its introduction, finally being discontinued in the middle of the 1987 model year. Although the Chevette was never universally loved, it was nonetheless respected, and was staggeringly popular in its first few years.

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Chevrolet-chevette-1.jpg]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Chevette'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production
| 1976-1987
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class
| Subcompact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style
| 3-Door Hatchback 5-Door Hatchback
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length
| 158.7"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width
| 61.8"
|- style="vertical-align:top;
| Height
| 52.3"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase
| 94.3"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight
| 2000-2300 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmission
| 4-Speed Manual, RWD 5-Speed Manual, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engine
| 1.4L (85 cid) I4 (1976-1977) 1.6L (98 cid) I4 (1976-1987) 1.8L (111 cid) Diesel I4 (1981-1986)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power
| 53-70 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar
| [[Pontiac]] [[Pontiac 1000|T1000/1000]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform
| T
|}

Here's a quick year-to-year rundown:

==1976-1987==

Premier 1976 models were treated to great fanfare, and a big reason why was that the Chevette largely ensconced the [[Volkswagen Beetle]] philosophy: cheap to run, cheap to maintain and most importantly - cheap to buy. Chevettes were definitely built to a price, on a very inexpensive rear-drive chassis and offered very-little-frills to no-frills-at-all. Base engine was a simple 53 hp 1.4L (85 cid) 1-bbl I4, with an optional 60 hp 1.6L (98 cid) 1-bbl I4 as an option. 4-speed manual transmission was standard, with a 3-speed automatic optional. There were actually five models available: the base model was called '''Scooter''', which was about as basic as a car could get - rubber floor mats, painted front and rear bumpers instead of chrome, and an optional back seat. From there, there was the "regular" Chevette, the '''Sport Coupe''', the '''Rally''' and '''Woody''' models (which had faux-woodgrain side panels).

1977 models didn't have any exterior changes to speak of, but the standard 1.4 I4 engine got a slight hp increase to 57 and the 1.6 increased to 63. 1978 models got a small grille restyle, which was chromed along the edges just like the headlight bezels. A 5-door hatchback model was added, further adding to its appeal, and sales greatly increased as a result. The Woody package was dropped, as was the pokey 1.4L I4 engine, leaving the more-popular 1.6 as its sole engine choice. 1979 models got a front-end facelift, the hood was now flat and no longer extended down to the bumper. Headlights were now rectangular and the grille was a tight eggcrate design with the Chevy bowtie emblem in the center. 2-barrel carburetors replaced the 1-bbl, but transmission choices remained the same as before. Sport Coupe and Rally models were dropped this year, but a '''Custom''' model was added. The base Scooter and "regular" Chevette carried on as before. The Chevette was now the best-selling small car in America.

Since the 1979 Chevettes got a new nose, the 1980s got a new tail with larger wraparound taillight lenses (but unfortunately lost their separate amber turn signal lenses). Chevettes continued their reign as the best-selling small car in America this year, but it would lose it in 1981 with increasing new competition that made the already-outdated Chevette look even more so. Since the Monza now gone, the Chevette was now (temporarily) Chevrolet's lone subcompact. Like all 1981 Chevrolets, Chevettes acquired GM's new Computer Command Control system for the gas 1.6 engine. And speaking of engines, for those not in the least bit of a hurry, an Isuzu-built diesel 1.8L (111 cid) I4 engine was now an option, with either a 5-speed manual as standard or an optional 3-speed automatic. The Chevette acquired a Pontiac corporate twin this year, the [[Pontiac 1000|T1000]], which was identical with the exception of a lower body-side molding and a blacked-out grille. The diesel was not available on the T1000. The Custom model was axed, leaving only the base Scooter and "regular" Chevette, and two-tone paint schemes now became available. Not much changed for 1982 other than the Scooter now being available as a 5-door model, and a 5-speed manual finally became available on gas-engine models. '82 T1000s got a new vertically-finned grille.

1983 Chevettes got a slightly restyled nose with a body-colored front air dam and blacked-out grille. An "upper-level" '''CS''' model was added, and an '''S''' package got red exterior trim instead of black. The T1000, in keeping with Pontiac's newfound tradition, got red dashboard lighting but was otherwise unchanged. The base-level Scooter was dropped for 1984 and the T1000 was renamed 1000. For 1985, all Chevettes were now CS models. The 1.6L gas and 1.8L diesel engines continued with no changes, and a 4- and 5-speed manual and 3-speed automatics were still available. This year, a front wheel drive [[Suzuki]]-produced Chevy-badged subcompact debuted, called the [[Chevrolet Sprint|Sprint]], bringing Chevy's subcompact total back up to 3 (including the [[Chevrolet Cavalier|Cavalier]]). 1986 Chevettes and 1000s got the newly required Center High-Mounted Stop Lamp atop the rear hatch. The diesel was dropped for 1987, but there were no other changes as they were finally discontinued shortly after the start of the '87 model year. Sales had been falling off for years as the Chevette and 1000 had now gotten embarassingly old and outdated compared to the modern front wheel drive competition, not the least of which were Chevy's own Cavalier and Sprint models.

Pontiac replaced the 1000 in 1988 with the wretched Korean-built front wheel drive [[Pontiac LeMans]] that was based on an existing [[Daewoo]] design. Chevrolet, however, had no direct replacement for the Chevette, but the [[Suzuki]]-built [[Geo Metro]], which replaced the previous Suzuki-built [[Chevrolet Sprint]] in 1989, could be considered at least a spiritual replacement.

==Main Competitors==
*[[AMC Gremlin]]
*[[Datsun 210]]
*[[Dodge Omni]]
*[[Ford Pinto]]/[[Ford Escort|Escort]]
*[[Honda Civic]]
*[[Mazda Familia|Mazda GLC]]/[[Mazda 323|323]]
*[[Mercury Bobcat]]/[[Mercury Lynx|Lynx]]
*[[Nissan Sentra]]
*[[Plymouth Horizon]]
*[[Subaru GL]]
*[[Toyota Starlet]]
*[[Toyota Tercel]]
*[[Volkswagen Rabbit]]

==See Also==
{{Chevrolet}}
{{General Motors brands}}

[[Category:Discontinued Models]]

Chevrolet Chevette

2010-11-04T21:58:08Z

Yankee:

'''[[Chevrolet]]''' introduced the '''Chevette''' subcompact for the 1976 model year, which brought Chevrolet's subcompact total that year to 3 (the [[Chevrolet Vega|Vega]] and [[Chevrolet Monza|Monza]] being the other 2). Unlike the Vega and Monza, however, the Chevette was based on an existing T-body European design and also sold as the ''Vauxhaull Chevette'' in the United Kingdom, ''Opel Kadette'' in Europe, ''Isuzu Gemini'' in Japan and the ''Holden Gemini'' in Australia. And, unlike other subcompacts introduced in this era, the Chevette was a rear-drive model, bucking the front wheel drive trend that cars like the [[Honda Civic]] and [[Volkswagen Rabbit]] were following (and others that were very soon to). The Chevette soldiered on for 12 seasons with very little change after its introduction, finally being discontinued in the middle of the 1987 model year. Although the Chevette was never universally loved, it was nonetheless respected, and was staggeringly popular in its first few years.

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Chevrolet-chevette-1.jpg]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Chevette'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production
| 1976-1987
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class
| Subcompact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style
| 3-Door Hatchback 5-Door Hatchback
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length
| 158.7"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width
| 61.8"
|- style="vertical-align:top;
| Height
| 52.3"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase
| 94.3"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight
| 2000-2300 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmission
| 4-Speed Manual, RWD 5-Speed Manual, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engine
| 1.4L (85 cid) I4 (1976-1977) 1.6L (98 cid) I4 (1976-1987) 1.8L (111 cid) Diesel I4 (1981-1986)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power
| 53-70 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar
| [[Pontiac]] [[Pontiac 1000|T1000/1000]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform
| T
|}

Here's a quick year-to-year rundown:

==1976-1987==

Premier 1976 models were treated to great fanfare, and a big reason why was that the Chevette largely ensconced the [[Volkswagen Beetle]] philosophy: cheap to run, cheap to maintain and most importantly - cheap to buy. Chevettes were definitely built to a price, on a very inexpensive rear-drive chassis and offered very-little-frills to no-frills-at-all. Base engine was a simple 53 hp 1.4L (85 cid) 1-bbl I4, with an optional 60 hp 1.6L (98 cid) 1-bbl I4 as an option. 4-speed manual transmission was standard, with a 3-speed automatic optional. There were actually five models available: the base model was called '''Scooter''', which was about as basic as a car could get - rubber floor mats, painted front and rear bumpers instead of chrome, and an optional back seat. From there, there was the "regular" Chevette, the '''Sport Coupe''', the '''Rally''' and '''Woody''' models (which had faux-woodgrain side panels).

1977 models didn't have any exterior changes to speak of, but the standard 1.4 I4 engine got a slight hp increase to 57 and the 1.6 increased to 63. 1978 models got a small grille restyle, which was chromed along the edges just like the headlight bezels. A 5-door hatchback model was added, further adding to its appeal, and sales greatly increased as a result. The Woody package was dropped, as was the pokey 1.4L I4 engine, leaving the more-popular 1.6 as its sole engine choice. 1979 models got a front-end facelift, the hood was now flat and no longer extended down to the bumper. Headlights were now rectangular and the grille was a tight eggcrate design with the Chevy bowtie emblem in the center. 2-barrel carburetors replaced the 1-bbl, but transmission choices remained the same as before. Sport Coupe and Rally models were dropped this year, leaving only the base Scooter and "regular" Chevette. The Chevette was now the best-selling small car in America.

Since the 1979 Chevettes got a new nose, the 1980s got a new tail with larger wraparound taillight lenses (but unfortunately lost their separate amber turn signal lenses). Chevettes continued their reign as the best-selling small car in America this year, but it would lose it in 1981 with increasing new competition that made the already-outdated Chevette look even more so. Since the Monza now gone, the Chevette was now (temporarily) Chevrolet's lone subcompact. Like all 1981 Chevrolets, Chevettes acquired GM's new Computer Command Control system for the gas 1.6 engine. And speaking of engines, for those not in the least bit of a hurry, an Isuzu-built diesel 1.8L (111 cid) I4 engine was now an option, with either a 5-speed manual as standard or an optional 3-speed automatic. The Chevette acquired a Pontiac corporate twin this year, the [[Pontiac 1000|T1000]], which was identical with the exception of a lower body-side molding and a blacked-out grille. The diesel was not available on the T1000. Not much changed for 1982 other than the Scooter now being available as a 5-door model, and a 5-speed manual finally became available on gas-engine models. '82 T1000s got a new vertically-finned grille.

1983 Chevettes got a slightly restyled nose with a body-colored front air dam and blacked-out grille. An "upper-level" '''CS''' model was added, and an '''S''' package got red exterior trim instead of black. The T1000, in keeping with Pontiac's newfound tradition, got red dashboard lighting but was otherwise unchanged. The base-level Scooter was dropped for 1984 and the T1000 was renamed 1000. For 1985, all Chevettes were now CS models. The 1.6L gas and 1.8L diesel engines continued with no changes, and a 4- and 5-speed manual and 3-speed automatics were still available. This year, a front wheel drive [[Suzuki]]-produced Chevy-badged subcompact debuted, called the [[Chevrolet Sprint|Sprint]], bringing Chevy's subcompact total back up to 3 (including the [[Chevrolet Cavalier|Cavalier]]). 1986 Chevettes and 1000s got the newly required Center High-Mounted Stop Lamp atop the rear hatch. The diesel was dropped for 1987, but there were no other changes as they were finally discontinued shortly after the start of the '87 model year. Sales had been falling off for years as the Chevette and 1000 had now gotten embarassingly old and outdated compared to the modern front wheel drive competition, not the least of which were Chevy's own Cavalier and Sprint models.

Pontiac replaced the 1000 in 1988 with the wretched Korean-built front wheel drive [[Pontiac LeMans]] that was based on an existing [[Daewoo]] design. Chevrolet, however, had no direct replacement for the Chevette, but the [[Suzuki]]-built [[Geo Metro]], which replaced the previous Suzuki-built [[Chevrolet Sprint]] in 1989, could be considered at least a spiritual replacement.

==Main Competitors==
*[[AMC Gremlin]]
*[[Datsun 210]]
*[[Dodge Omni]]
*[[Ford Pinto]]/[[Ford Escort|Escort]]
*[[Honda Civic]]
*[[Mazda Familia|Mazda GLC]]/[[Mazda 323|323]]
*[[Mercury Bobcat]]/[[Mercury Lynx|Lynx]]
*[[Nissan Sentra]]
*[[Plymouth Horizon]]
*[[Subaru GL]]
*[[Toyota Starlet]]
*[[Toyota Tercel]]
*[[Volkswagen Rabbit]]

==See Also==
{{Chevrolet}}
{{General Motors brands}}

[[Category:Discontinued Models]]

Chevrolet Chevette

2010-11-04T21:39:32Z

Yankee: /* 1976-1987 */

'''[[Chevrolet]]''' introduced the '''Chevette''' subcompact for the 1976 model year, which brought Chevrolet's subcompact total that year to 3 (the [[Chevrolet Vega|Vega]] and [[Chevrolet Monza|Monza]] being the other 2). Unlike the Vega and Monza, however, the Chevette was based on an existing T-body European design and also sold as the ''Vauxhaull Chevette'' in the United Kingdom, ''Opel Kadette'' in Europe, ''Isuzu Gemini'' in Japan and the ''Holden Gemini'' in Australia. And, unlike other subcompacts introduced in this era, the Chevette was a rear-drive model, bucking the front wheel drive trend that cars like the [[Honda Civic]] and [[Volkswagen Rabbit]] were following (and others that were very soon to). The Chevette soldiered on for 12 seasons with very little change after its introduction, finally being discontinued in the middle of the 1987 model year. Although the Chevette was never universally loved, it was nonetheless respected, and was staggeringly popular in its first few years.

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Chevrolet-chevette-1.jpg]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Chevette'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production
| 1976-1987
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class
| Subcompact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style
| 3-Door Hatchback 5-Door Hatchback
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length
| 158.7"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width
| 61.8"
|- style="vertical-align:top;
| Height
| 52.3"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase
| 94.3"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight
| 2000-2300 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmission
| 4-Speed Manual, RWD 5-Speed Manual, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engine
| 1.4L (85 cid) I4 (1976-1977) 1.6L (98 cid) I4 (1976-1987) 1.8L (111 cid) Diesel I4 (1981-1986)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power
| 53-70 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar
| [[Pontiac]] [[Pontiac 1000|T1000/1000]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform
| T
|}

Here's a quick year-to-year rundown:

==1976-1987==

Premier 1976 models were treated to great fanfare, and a big reason why was that the Chevette largely ensconced the [[Volkswagen Beetle]] philosophy: cheap to run, cheap to maintain and most importantly - cheap to buy. Chevettes were definitely built to a price, on a very inexpensive rear-drive chassis and offered very-little-frills to no-frills-at-all. Base engine was a simple 53 hp 1.4L (85 cid) 1-bbl I4, with an optional 70 hp 1.6L (98 cid) 1-bbl I4 as an option. 4-speed manual transmission was standard, with a 3-speed automatic optional. There were actually five models available: the base model was called '''Scooter''', which was about as basic as a car could get - rubber floor mats, painted front and rear bumpers instead of chrome, and an optional back seat. From there, there was the "regular" Chevette, the '''Sport Coupe''', the '''Rally''' and '''Woody''' models (which had faux-woodgrain side panels).

1977 models didn't have any exterior changes to speak of, but the taillights could now have a separate amber turn-signal lense on all models except the Scooter. 1978 models got a small grille restyle, which was chromed along the edges just like the headlight bezels. A 5-door hatchback model was added, further adding to its appeal, and sales greatly increased as a result. The Woody package was dropped, as was the pokey 1.4L I4 engine, leaving the more-popular 1.6 as its sole engine choice. 1979 models got a front-end facelift, the hood was now flat and no longer extended down to the bumper. Headlights were now rectangular and the grille was a tight eggcrate design with the Chevy bowtie emblem in the center. 2-barrel carburetors replaced the 1-bbl, but transmission choices remained the same as before. The Chevette was now the best-selling small car in America.

Since the 1979 Chevettes got a new nose, the 1980s got a new tail with larger wraparound taillight lenses (but unfortunately lost their separate amber turn signal lenses). Chevettes continued their reign as the best-selling small car in America this year, but it would lose it in 1981 with increasing new competition that made the already-outdated Chevette look even more so. Since the Monza now gone, the Chevette was now (temporarily) Chevrolet's lone subcompact. Like all 1981 Chevrolets, Chevettes acquired GM's new Computer Command Control system for the gas 1.6 engine. And speaking of engines, for those not in the least bit of a hurry, an Isuzu-built diesel 1.8L (111 cid) I4 engine was now an option, with either a 5-speed manual as standard or an optional 3-speed automatic. The Chevette acquired a Pontiac corporate twin this year, the [[Pontiac 1000|T1000]], which was identical with the exception of a lower body-side molding and a blacked-out grille. The diesel was not available on the T1000. Not much changed for 1982 other than the Scooter now being available as a 5-door model, and a 5-speed manual finally became available on gas-engine models. '82 T1000s got a new vertically-finned grille.

1983 Chevettes got a slightly restyled nose with a body-colored front air dam and blacked-out grille. An "upper-level" '''CS''' model was added, and an '''S''' package got red exterior trim instead of black. The T1000, in keeping with Pontiac's newfound tradition, got red dashboard lighting but was otherwise unchanged. The base-level Scooter was dropped for 1984 and the T1000 was renamed 1000. For 1985, all Chevettes were now CS models. The 1.6L gas and 1.8L diesel engines continued with no changes, and a 4- and 5-speed manual and 3-speed automatics were still available. This year, a front wheel drive [[Suzuki]]-produced Chevy-badged subcompact debuted, called the [[Chevrolet Sprint|Sprint]], bringing Chevy's subcompact total back up to 3 (including the [[Chevrolet Cavalier|Cavalier]]). 1986 Chevettes and 1000s got the newly required Center High-Mounted Stop Lamp atop the rear hatch. The diesel was dropped for 1987, but there were no other changes as they were finally discontinued shortly after the start of the '87 model year. Sales had been falling off for years as the Chevette and 1000 had now gotten embarassingly old and outdated compared to the modern front wheel drive competition, not the least of which were Chevy's own Cavalier and Sprint models.

Pontiac replaced the 1000 in 1988 with the wretched Korean-built front wheel drive [[Pontiac LeMans]] that was based on an existing [[Daewoo]] design. Chevrolet, however, had no direct replacement for the Chevette, but the [[Suzuki]]-built [[Geo Metro]], which replaced the previous Suzuki-built [[Chevrolet Sprint]] in 1989, could be considered at least a spiritual replacement.

==Main Competitors==
*[[AMC Gremlin]]
*[[Datsun 210]]
*[[Dodge Omni]]
*[[Ford Pinto]]/[[Ford Escort|Escort]]
*[[Honda Civic]]
*[[Mazda Familia|Mazda GLC]]/[[Mazda 323|323]]
*[[Mercury Bobcat]]/[[Mercury Lynx|Lynx]]
*[[Nissan Sentra]]
*[[Plymouth Horizon]]
*[[Subaru GL]]
*[[Toyota Starlet]]
*[[Toyota Tercel]]
*[[Volkswagen Rabbit]]

==See Also==
{{Chevrolet}}
{{General Motors brands}}

[[Category:Discontinued Models]]

Chevrolet Chevette

2010-11-04T21:33:40Z

Yankee: /* 1976-1987 */

'''[[Chevrolet]]''' introduced the '''Chevette''' subcompact for the 1976 model year, which brought Chevrolet's subcompact total that year to 3 (the [[Chevrolet Vega|Vega]] and [[Chevrolet Monza|Monza]] being the other 2). Unlike the Vega and Monza, however, the Chevette was based on an existing T-body European design and also sold as the ''Vauxhaull Chevette'' in the United Kingdom, ''Opel Kadette'' in Europe, ''Isuzu Gemini'' in Japan and the ''Holden Gemini'' in Australia. And, unlike other subcompacts introduced in this era, the Chevette was a rear-drive model, bucking the front wheel drive trend that cars like the [[Honda Civic]] and [[Volkswagen Rabbit]] were following (and others that were very soon to). The Chevette soldiered on for 12 seasons with very little change after its introduction, finally being discontinued in the middle of the 1987 model year. Although the Chevette was never universally loved, it was nonetheless respected, and was staggeringly popular in its first few years.

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Chevrolet-chevette-1.jpg]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Chevette'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production
| 1976-1987
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class
| Subcompact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style
| 3-Door Hatchback 5-Door Hatchback
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length
| 158.7"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width
| 61.8"
|- style="vertical-align:top;
| Height
| 52.3"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase
| 94.3"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight
| 2000-2300 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmission
| 4-Speed Manual, RWD 5-Speed Manual, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engine
| 1.4L (85 cid) I4 (1976-1977) 1.6L (98 cid) I4 (1976-1987) 1.8L (111 cid) Diesel I4 (1981-1986)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power
| 53-70 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar
| [[Pontiac]] [[Pontiac 1000|T1000/1000]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform
| T
|}

Here's a quick year-to-year rundown:

==1976-1987==

Premier 1976 models were treated to great fanfare, and a big reason why was that the Chevette largely ensconced the [[Volkswagen Beetle]] philosophy: cheap to run, cheap to maintain and most importantly - cheap to buy. Chevettes were definitely built to a price, on a very inexpensive rear-drive chassis and offered very-little-frills to no-frills-at-all. Base engine was a simple 53 hp 1.4L (85 cid) 1-bbl I4, with an optional 70 hp 1.6L (98 cid) 1-bbl I4 as an option. 4-speed manual transmission was standard, with a 3-speed automatic optional. There were four models available: the base model was called '''Scooter''', which was about as basic as a car could get - rubber floor mats, painted front and rear bumpers instead of chrome, and an optional back seat. There was also the "regular" Chevette, and the '''Rally''' and '''Woody''' models (which had faux-woodgrain side panels).

1977 models didn't have any exterior changes to speak of, but the taillights could now have a separate amber turn-signal lense on all models except the Scooter. 1978 models got a small grille restyle, which was chromed along the edges just like the headlight bezels. A 5-door hatchback model was added, further adding to its appeal, and sales greatly increased as a result. The Woody package was dropped, as was the pokey 1.4L I4 engine, leaving the more-popular 1.6 as its sole engine choice. 1979 models got a front-end facelift, the hood was now flat and no longer extended down to the bumper. Headlights were now rectangular and the grille was a tight eggcrate design with the Chevy bowtie emblem in the center. 2-barrel carburetors replaced the 1-bbl, but transmission choices remained the same as before. The Chevette was now the best-selling small car in America.

Since the 1979 Chevettes got a new nose, the 1980s got a new tail with larger wraparound taillight lenses (but unfortunately lost their separate amber turn signal lenses). Chevettes continued their reign as the best-selling small car in America this year, but it would lose it in 1981 with increasing new competition that made the already-outdated Chevette look even more so. Since the Monza now gone, the Chevette was now (temporarily) Chevrolet's lone subcompact. Like all 1981 Chevrolets, Chevettes acquired GM's new Computer Command Control system for the gas 1.6 engine. And speaking of engines, for those not in the least bit of a hurry, an Isuzu-built diesel 1.8L (111 cid) I4 engine was now an option, with either a 5-speed manual as standard or an optional 3-speed automatic. The Chevette acquired a Pontiac corporate twin this year, the [[Pontiac 1000|T1000]], which was identical with the exception of a lower body-side molding and a blacked-out grille. The diesel was not available on the T1000. Not much changed for 1982 other than the Scooter now being available as a 5-door model, and a 5-speed manual finally became available on gas-engine models. '82 T1000s got a new vertically-finned grille.

1983 Chevettes got a slightly restyled nose with a body-colored front air dam and blacked-out grille. An "upper-level" '''CS''' model was added, and an '''S''' package got red exterior trim instead of black. The T1000, in keeping with Pontiac's newfound tradition, got red dashboard lighting but was otherwise unchanged. The base-level Scooter was dropped for 1984 and the T1000 was renamed 1000. For 1985, all Chevettes were now CS models. The 1.6L gas and 1.8L diesel engines continued with no changes, and a 4- and 5-speed manual and 3-speed automatics were still available. This year, a front wheel drive [[Suzuki]]-produced Chevy-badged subcompact debuted, called the [[Chevrolet Sprint|Sprint]], bringing Chevy's subcompact total back up to 3 (including the [[Chevrolet Cavalier|Cavalier]]). 1986 Chevettes and 1000s got the newly required Center High-Mounted Stop Lamp atop the rear hatch. The diesel was dropped for 1987, but there were no other changes as they were finally discontinued shortly after the start of the '87 model year. Sales had been falling off for years as the Chevette and 1000 had now gotten embarassingly old and outdated compared to the modern front wheel drive competition, not the least of which were Chevy's own Cavalier and Sprint models.

Pontiac replaced the 1000 in 1988 with the wretched Korean-built front wheel drive [[Pontiac LeMans]] that was based on an existing [[Daewoo]] design. Chevrolet, however, had no direct replacement for the Chevette, but the [[Suzuki]]-built [[Geo Metro]], which replaced the previous Suzuki-built [[Chevrolet Sprint]] in 1989, could be considered at least a spiritual replacement.

==Main Competitors==
*[[AMC Gremlin]]
*[[Datsun 210]]
*[[Dodge Omni]]
*[[Ford Pinto]]/[[Ford Escort|Escort]]
*[[Honda Civic]]
*[[Mazda Familia|Mazda GLC]]/[[Mazda 323|323]]
*[[Mercury Bobcat]]/[[Mercury Lynx|Lynx]]
*[[Nissan Sentra]]
*[[Plymouth Horizon]]
*[[Subaru GL]]
*[[Toyota Starlet]]
*[[Toyota Tercel]]
*[[Volkswagen Rabbit]]

==See Also==
{{Chevrolet}}
{{General Motors brands}}

[[Category:Discontinued Models]]

Chevrolet Nova

2010-11-04T21:23:51Z

Yankee: /* The urban legend */

The '''[[Chevrolet]] Nova''', or '''Chevy II''', was an American compact car introduced by [[General Motors]] in 1962. The original Chevy II was of unibody construction, powered by an OHV inline four or six-cylinder engine (and V8s later), and available in two- and four-door sedan configurations as well as convertible and station wagon versions. After the rear-engine [[Chevrolet Corvair]] was handily outsold by the conventional [[Ford Falcon]] in 1960, Chevrolet began work on a more conventional compact car that would eventually become the Chevy II. The Chevy II/Nova continued on throughout the 1960s and 70s with great success until it was supplanted by the front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] in 1980. The Nova name would reappear briefly again in 1985 as a twin to (of all things) the [[Toyota Corolla]]. The "Toyolet" Nova was discontinued after 1988, replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]].

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:1962 Chevrolet II.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1962-1965
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 2-Door Convertible 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 153" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 70.8"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 55"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1962-1965) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1962-1965) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1964-1965) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1964-1965) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1965)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-300 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==First Generation (1962-1965)==

Three different levels of this car were made - the baseline Chevy II '''100''', the mid-grade Chevy II '''300''' and the top-line Chevy II Nova '''400'''. Their was also the sport-oriented Chevy II Nova Super Sport ('''SS'''), available on the 2-door coupe or convertible. Available powerplants included the standard 2.5L (153 cid) I4 and optional the 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (standard on the SS). Bodystyles included a 2-door sedan and hardtop, 4-door sedan, 5-door wagon (with an optional rear-facing 3rd seat) and a 2-door convertible. Unlike its [[Dodge Dart]]/[[Plymouth Valiant]] and [[Ford Falcon]] competition, no V8s were initially offered, but Chevrolet 283 and 327 cid V8s were offered in some areas as dealer-installed options, up to and including the fuel injected version available in the [[Chevrolet Corvette]]. Transmissions were a column or floor 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed manual or 2-speed Powerglide automatic. SSs could have bucket seats with a floor console-shift.

For 1963, grilles and taillights were slightly revised but otherwise were largely unchanged. All bodystyles and engine choices remained the same. For 1964, the Chevy II's first factory V8 option was introduced - a "Turbo-Fire" 195 hp 4.7L (283 cid) V8 with a 2-bbl carb, or a 225 hp 4-bbl version. A larger I6 was also offered, the "Turbo-Thrift" 3.8L (230 cid). Other drivetrain choices remained the same. The convertible was dropped, and the SS was also dropped at the beginning of this year, but it was reinstated mid-year due to high popular demand. The 300 series trim level was discontinued, leaving the 100 and 400 levels. In 1965, the grille was redesigned and the parking lights were relocated from directly below the headlights to the bumper. Taillights were revised also. The 5.3L (327 cid) V8 debuted this year (also called "Turbo Fire") with 250 and 300 horsepower versions. Other drivetrain choices remained the same as before. There would be a restyled Nova for 1966.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Chevrolet-nova 66.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1966-1967
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 154.7" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 71.3"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 55.4"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1966-1967) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1967) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1966-1967) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1966-1967)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-350 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Second Generation (1966-1967)==

The second generation Novas would be short-lived, only going 2 model years. 1966 Novas saw a significant restyling, based in part on the Super Nova concept car. In general, external proportions were squared up but dimensions and features changed little. Wheelbase remained the same at 110". Trim choices were still the '''100''' and '''400'''. Engine options still included the basic 153 I4, 194 and 230 I6s, the 195 hp and 225 hp 283s and 275 hp (up 25 from '65) and 350 hp (up 50 from '65) 327 V8s. V8 models got special lower fender badges behind the front wheels. Transmission choices remained the column or floor-shift 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed and 2-speed Powerglide automatics. The 327/350 engine was manual-shift only (3- or 4-speed) and was not available on the 100 series or wagon. Inside, there was a new dashboard that strongly resembled the larger [[Chevrolet Chevelle|Chevelle's]] (also all-new this year) and revised seat designs, but the Chevy II line during this time was still very spartan. The 90 hp 153 I4 was only offered in the base Chevy II 100 series models, with the 120-horsepower 194 I6 standard on the Nova and Nova SS lines. The SS could still have bucket seats with a console floor shift.

Not many changes for 1967, but a 155 hp 4.1L (250 cid) I6 became available in all models except the 100. The 350 hp L79 327 V8 was unfortunately dropped this year, but other drivetrain choices remained the same as the previous year's. There would be an all-new Chevy II/Nova for 1968.

==Main Competitors 1962-1967==

*[[Dodge Dart]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]
*[[Studebaker Lark]]

[[Image:Nova front fender emblem 68-72.jpg|left|350px]]

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:477.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1968-1974
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1968-1970) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1968-1974) 5.0L (307 cid) V8 (1968-1973) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1968-1974) 6.5L (396 cid) cid V8 (1968-1970) 7.0L (427 cid) V8 (1970)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-425 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Apollo]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Third generation (1968–1974)==

An extensive redesign came in 1968, when the station wagon and two door hardtop bodystyles were discontinued. This body style continued (with a minor restyle in 1973) through 1974. One notable change was the front subframe assembly — as compared with [[Ford]], [[Chrysler]] and [[AMC]], in whose cars the entire front suspension was integrated with the bodyshell, a separate subframe housing the powertrain and front suspension (similar to the front part of the frame of GM's full-size, full-framed vehicles) replaced the earlier style. Although the front subframe design was a Chevy II-exclusive design, the [[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]] introduced a year earlier was the first to incorporate such a design; the redesigned Chevy II was pushed a year back to 1968 instead of 1967. 1968 was the final year that the Chevy II nameplate was used, although all 1968 models were "Chevy II Novas" with one single trim line.

The 90 hp 153 I4 carried over from the previous generation as standard on the baseline model. Far more popular were the 140 hp 230 I6 and 155 hp 250 I6 and the new 200 hp 5.0L (307 cid) V8, which replaced the 283 offered in previous generations. At mid-year a semi-automatic transmission based on the Powerglide called Torque-Drive was introduced as a low-cost option for shiftless motoring for both the four and six-cylinder engines. The two-speed Powerglide was still the only fully-automatic gearbox available with most engines as the more desirable three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic was only available with the largest V8 engines. An interesting engine option was the 5.3L (327 cid) V8 rated at 350 hp (RPO code L79).

The '''SS''' was transformed from a trim package to a performance option for 1968 and now included a "Turbo Fire" 295 hp 5.7L (350 cid) V8 engine along with front disc brakes, heavy-duty suspension and other performance hardware. Optional engines included two versions of the big-block 6.5L (396 cid) V8 rated at 350 and 375 hp. Both 396 engines were offered with a choice of transmissions including the M-21 close-ratio four-speed manual, the M-22 heavy-duty "Rock Crusher" four-speed manual, or the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 400 for those who preferred automatic shifting. SSs (and lesser coupes) could have a console with optional auxiliary gauges very similar to the contemporary Camaro design.

===1969===

The Chevy II nameplate was retired and the car became the "Chevy Nova" for this year (some sources referred to it as the Chevrolet Chevy Nova - perhaps the decision to drop the Chevy II moniker was a last-minute decision for 1969). Like other 1969 GM vehicles, locking steering columns were incorporated along with column ignitions. Simulated vents were added below the Nova script, which was relocated to the front fender instead of the rear quarter panel. The 350-4 that came standard with the SS option was revised with a five-hp increase to 300 while a 350-2 rated at 255 hp was a new option on non-SS models. A new Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 three-speed automatic was made available for non-SS Novas with six-cylinder and V8 engines.

===1970===

Basically a carryover from 1969; the side markers and taillight lenses were wider and positioned slightly differently, which placed the reverse lights in the middle of the taillight lens instead of the inward portion. This was the final year for the SS396. All other engines were carried over including the seldom-ordered four-cylinder which was in its final year. The car finally became simply the Chevrolet Nova this year after two years of transitional nameplates (Chevy II Nova in 1968 and Chevrolet Chevy Nova in 1969).

Approximately 177 COPO Novas were ordered, with 175 converted by Yenko Chevrolet (the other two were sold in Canada). These had the mighty LT1 (350 cid) V8 engine

A beater 1970 Nova coupe is prominently featured in the movie ''Beverly Hills Cop''.

===1971===

1971 Novas were similar to the previous year but with the loss of the simulated fender vents and the discontinuation of the 396 motor for the SS with the L48 350-4 taking its place. 1971 also saw the introduction of the '''Rally Nova''', a trim level that only lasted two years and was marketed as sort of a budget-SS. The Rally package included black or white stripes that ran the length of the car and around the back, a Rally Nova sticker on the driver's side of the hood, and Rally wheels.

The 250 I6 was now the standard Nova powerplant with the demise of the 153 I4 and 230 I6 engines. The 307 and 350 V8s were carried over from 1970 and all engines featured lowered compression ratios to enable the use of unleaded gasoline as a result of a GM corporate mandate that took effect with the 1971 model year.

After 1971, other GM divisions began rebadging the Nova as their new entry-level vehicle, such as the [[Pontiac Ventura]] II (once a trim option for full-size Pontiacs to 1970), [[Oldsmobile Omega]] (1973) and the [[Buick Apollo]] (mid-1973). Interestingly, the intials of the four model names spelled out the acronym '''NOVA''' (Nova, Omega, Ventura, Apollo.)

===1972===

A virtual rerun of 1971, the 1972 Nova received only minor trim changes and both the Rally Nova and SS options carried over. At mid-year a manual canvas sunroof option became available on two-door models. Also, the optional Strato bucket seats available on coupes switched from the previous low-back design with adjustable headrests to the high back units with built-in headrests introduced the previous year on Camaros and Vegas. Standard engine was still the 250 I6 with either a 3- or 4-speed manual or 2- or 3-speed automatics. The 307 and 350 V8s remained optional. There would be a restyled Nova for 1973.

===1973===

The 1973 model year introduced a new hatchback bodystyle based on the 2-door coupe, as well as a front and rear restyling and a modified rear side window shape, plus a revised rear suspension adapted from the second-generation Camaro with multi-leaf springs replacing the mono-leaf springs used on Novas since the original 1966 model. Front vent windows disappeared, and instrumentation remained the same as before. A luxury-themed '''Custom''' became part of the model lineup which included upgraded upholstery, full carpeting, more exterior trim and available on all bodystyles. By this time, six-cylinder and V8 engines were ''de rigeur'' for American compact cars, with the 115 hp 307, 145 hp 350-2 and 175 hp 350-4 V8s as options (standard on the SS). The 100 hp 250 cid I6 was still standard on the rest and still had the two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission as an option, which was in its final year.

===1974===

For 1974, the powerglide was replaced by a lightweight version of the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 already offered with the 350 V8, which was now the only V8 offered this year. The SS option was still available but became more of a sporty trim package than a performance offering and now offered with any Nova engine, much like the 1963-67 Nova SS. The 250 I6 remained standard, and transmission choices, with the exception of the 2-speed Powerglide, remained the same as well. The 350-4 got a 10 hp boost to 185. There would be an all-new Nova for 1975.

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:77rally.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1975-1979
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 196.7"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 72.2"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 54.3"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 111"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1975-1979) 4.3L (262 cid) V8 (1975) 5.0L (305 cid) V8 (1976-1979) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1975-1978)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|110-170 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Skylark]] [[Cadillac Seville]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]/[[Pontiac Phoenix|Phoenix]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Fourth generation (1975–1979)==

A completely redesigned Nova was introduced in 1975. Bodystyles were still the 2-door coupe, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedans. Base coupes, including the hatchback, had fixed side windows (or optional flip-out windows) and simulated vertical vents on the B-pillar (sedans would have simulated horizontal vents at the bottom of the C-pillar). The new Nova still rode the same 111" wheelbase as before. Engines this year were the standard 105 hp 250 cid I6 carried over from the previous generations, a new 110 hp 4.3L (262 cid) 2bbl V8, a 145 hp 350-2 and 155 hp 350-4 V8 were optional. All models now had catalytic converters requiring unleaded gasoline. V8 models had metric engine callouts above the front side-marker lights. The front suspension and subframe assembly was similar to the one used in the second-generation GM F-body ([[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]], [[Pontiac Firebird|Firebird]]), whereas the rear axle and suspension were carried over from the 1968-74 generation.

The Nova lineup now ranged from the base, '''Custom''', and the luxury-themed '''LN''' ("Luxury Nova"). The Nova '''SS''' continued for 1975 and got a unique grille and requisite badges. Dashboards and other controls were virtually identical in layout compared to the previous generation. Power windows and locks were now an option for the first time in the Nova line. A high-performance 9C1 police version of the Nova was introduced for the 1975 model year, making it the first compact car certified for police duty in the U.S. Most were initially purchased by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department in 1976.

The LN was replaced with the Nova '''Concours''' in 1976, and the Custom model was gone (temporarily). The grille was changed slightly, and the short-lived 262 V8 was replaced by the new 140 hp 5.0L (305 cid) 2bbl V8 and was standard on the Concours. The 165 hp 350-4 V8 remained the top engine option, the 350-2 was dropped. V8 models no longer had the metric callouts above the front side marker lights like the previous year. Transmissions included the 3-speed manual standard with the I6, with a 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic optional on all engines. 1977 Concours models got a new 3-taillight lens scheme very similar to the larger [[Chevrolet Impala|Impala]] with a [[Cadillac]]-esque front clip that included chrome squared-off headlight bezels and a more elegant-looking vertically-barred grille with extra chrome trim. The SS was dropped, but it would continue as the '''Nova Rally''', which was basically the same sporty-themed idea. Nova Rallys got a special unique grille that sported horizontal turn signals. Other models also got a slightly revised grille and all got a new dashboard with round gauges and an 80 MPH speedo.

1978 Novas continued with little change, other than the '''Custom''' model returning as the base model. The 2-door, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedan bodystyles, and Concours and Rally models, were still available. Intermittent wipers were a new option this year. By now, however, the Nova was starting to fall out of favor with much of the buying public, largely due to increased competition from the new [[Ford Fairmont]] and even Chevrolet's own [[Chevrolet Malibu|Malibu]], which was an all-new downsized model for 1978. Even though 1979 was a final abbreviated model year, the front end was nonetheless revised again with square headlights and a new horizontally-barred grille for the short run. All drivetrain, transmission and trim choices remained. The luxury-themed Concours model and 9C1 police package, however, were dropped. Production ended on December 22, 1978. The Nova was replaced by the all-new front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] for 1980. The Nova name, however, would reappear again in 1985 on an unrelated model.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:156392062X01LZZZZZZ.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
| 1985-1988
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|4-Door Sedan 5-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2500-2700 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|5-Speed Manual, FWD 3-Speed Automatic, FWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|1.6L (97 cid) I4
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Toyota Corolla]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|S
|}

==1985-1988 Nova==

In 1985 the Nova name was applied to a rebadged [[Toyota Corolla]] and was produced at the NUMMI plant in Fremont, California, as an historic first joint venture between [[General Motors]] and [[Toyota]]. It shared the Corolla's drivetrain and running gear, and was available as a 4-door sedan and a 5-door hatchback (just like the Corolla). It differed from the Corolla mainly with slightly different front-end styling. It also shared many interior parts, such as audio systems, with other GM's offerings whereas the Corolla did not. The Corolla had been redesigned for 1988, but the Nova continued to use the old platform for its last year. The Nova would be replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]], which was also a twin to the Corolla.

==Main Competitors 1985-1988==

*[[Dodge Omni]]
*[[Ford Escort]]
*[[Honda Civic]]
*[[Isuzu I-Mark]]
*[[Mazda 323]]
*[[Mercury Lynx]]
*[[Nissan Sentra]]
*[[Plymouth Horizon]]
*[[Volkswagen Golf]]

{{-}}

==Photos==
<gallery>
Image:Ad77police350x496.jpg
</gallery>

==Main Competitors 1968-1979==
*[[Dodge Dart]]/[[Dodge Aspen|Aspen]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]/[[Ford Maverick|Maverick]]/[[Ford Fairmont|Fairmont]]
*[[Ford Granada]]
*[[Mercury Comet]]/[[Mercury Zephyr|Zephyr]]
*[[Mercury Monarch]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]/[[Plymouth Volare|Volare]]

==The urban legend==
A popular urban legend asserts that the Nova sold poorly in Mexico and other Latin American countries because the phrase ''no va'', literally translated, means "does not go" in Spanish. In reality, however, the Spanish language ''no va'' and ''nova'' are as different as the English ''no table'' and ''notable'', or ''therapist'' and ''the rapist''. [http://www.snopes.com/business/misxlate/nova.asp] The word ''nova'' exists in [http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nova Spanish] with the same meaning as in English. Also, the Spanish word for 'new' (nuevo or nueva) is cognate to ''nova'', which originally meant "new" in Latin. Finally, as NOVA was a brand of gasoline sold for many years by PEMEX in Mexico, the largest of all Spanish-speaking Latin American countries, it is clear that this urban legend, while perhaps entertaining, is nonetheless utterly baseless.

==See Also==
{{Chevrolet}}

==External links==
*[http://www.nnnova.com/ National Nostalgic Nova] The original National Nostalgic Nova Club Celebrating 25 Years of Helping Nova People The only Monthly Magazine dedicated to Only Novas!
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/nova/ Chevrolet Nova Internet Source] — The second known Nova site on the Internet
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/novaList.html Nova listserv] — The first and only known public [[Electronic mailing list|mailing list]] dedicated to Chevrolet Novas and other X-bodies; in continuous existence since January 1998
*[http://automotivehistoryonline.com/Chevrolet1960m.htm Automotive History Online] - Chevrolet Nova History & Photos
*[http://www.novaresource.org/ NovaResource.com] — Excellent source of history, production numbers, and option code information for 1962-79 Novas
*[http://www.stevesnovasite.com/ Steve's Nova Site] - Includes Q&A discussion board; another excellent resource for Nova owners
*[http://www.musclecarfacts.com/mcf/nova/nova.asp Chevy Nova SS at Muscle Car Facts] — A year-by-year history.
*[http://www.gen4novas.com/ Gen4Novas.com] — Source for the 'stepchild' Disco-era X-car.
*[http://www.2quicknovas.com/ 2QuickNovas.com] — Nova, technical, drag racing and general car info.
*[http://www.chevynova.org/1968.html]

[[Category:Classic cars]]

Chevrolet Nova

2010-11-02T01:27:04Z

Yankee: /* Second Generation (1966-1967) */

The '''[[Chevrolet]] Nova''', or '''Chevy II''', was an American compact car introduced by [[General Motors]] in 1962. The original Chevy II was of unibody construction, powered by an OHV inline four or six-cylinder engine (and V8s later), and available in two- and four-door sedan configurations as well as convertible and station wagon versions. After the rear-engine [[Chevrolet Corvair]] was handily outsold by the conventional [[Ford Falcon]] in 1960, Chevrolet began work on a more conventional compact car that would eventually become the Chevy II. The Chevy II/Nova continued on throughout the 1960s and 70s with great success until it was supplanted by the front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] in 1980. The Nova name would reappear briefly again in 1985 as a twin to (of all things) the [[Toyota Corolla]]. The "Toyolet" Nova was discontinued after 1988, replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]].

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:1962 Chevrolet II.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1962-1965
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 2-Door Convertible 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 153" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 70.8"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 55"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1962-1965) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1962-1965) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1964-1965) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1964-1965) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1965)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-300 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==First Generation (1962-1965)==

Three different levels of this car were made - the baseline Chevy II '''100''', the mid-grade Chevy II '''300''' and the top-line Chevy II Nova '''400'''. Their was also the sport-oriented Chevy II Nova Super Sport ('''SS'''), available on the 2-door coupe or convertible. Available powerplants included the standard 2.5L (153 cid) I4 and optional the 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (standard on the SS). Bodystyles included a 2-door sedan and hardtop, 4-door sedan, 5-door wagon (with an optional rear-facing 3rd seat) and a 2-door convertible. Unlike its [[Dodge Dart]]/[[Plymouth Valiant]] and [[Ford Falcon]] competition, no V8s were initially offered, but Chevrolet 283 and 327 cid V8s were offered in some areas as dealer-installed options, up to and including the fuel injected version available in the [[Chevrolet Corvette]]. Transmissions were a column or floor 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed manual or 2-speed Powerglide automatic. SSs could have bucket seats with a floor console-shift.

For 1963, grilles and taillights were slightly revised but otherwise were largely unchanged. All bodystyles and engine choices remained the same. For 1964, the Chevy II's first factory V8 option was introduced - a "Turbo-Fire" 195 hp 4.7L (283 cid) V8 with a 2-bbl carb, or a 225 hp 4-bbl version. A larger I6 was also offered, the "Turbo-Thrift" 3.8L (230 cid). Other drivetrain choices remained the same. The convertible was dropped, and the SS was also dropped at the beginning of this year, but it was reinstated mid-year due to high popular demand. The 300 series trim level was discontinued, leaving the 100 and 400 levels. In 1965, the grille was redesigned and the parking lights were relocated from directly below the headlights to the bumper. Taillights were revised also. The 5.3L (327 cid) V8 debuted this year (also called "Turbo Fire") with 250 and 300 horsepower versions. Other drivetrain choices remained the same as before. There would be a restyled Nova for 1966.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Chevrolet-nova 66.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1966-1967
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 154.7" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 71.3"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 55.4"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1966-1967) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1967) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1966-1967) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1966-1967)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-350 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Second Generation (1966-1967)==

The second generation Novas would be short-lived, only going 2 model years. 1966 Novas saw a significant restyling, based in part on the Super Nova concept car. In general, external proportions were squared up but dimensions and features changed little. Wheelbase remained the same at 110". Trim choices were still the '''100''' and '''400'''. Engine options still included the basic 153 I4, 194 and 230 I6s, the 195 hp and 225 hp 283s and 275 hp (up 25 from '65) and 350 hp (up 50 from '65) 327 V8s. V8 models got special lower fender badges behind the front wheels. Transmission choices remained the column or floor-shift 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed and 2-speed Powerglide automatics. The 327/350 engine was manual-shift only (3- or 4-speed) and was not available on the 100 series or wagon. Inside, there was a new dashboard that strongly resembled the larger [[Chevrolet Chevelle|Chevelle's]] (also all-new this year) and revised seat designs, but the Chevy II line during this time was still very spartan. The 90 hp 153 I4 was only offered in the base Chevy II 100 series models, with the 120-horsepower 194 I6 standard on the Nova and Nova SS lines. The SS could still have bucket seats with a console floor shift.

Not many changes for 1967, but a 155 hp 4.1L (250 cid) I6 became available in all models except the 100. The 350 hp L79 327 V8 was unfortunately dropped this year, but other drivetrain choices remained the same as the previous year's. There would be an all-new Chevy II/Nova for 1968.

==Main Competitors 1962-1967==

*[[Dodge Dart]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]
*[[Studebaker Lark]]

[[Image:Nova front fender emblem 68-72.jpg|left|350px]]

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:477.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1968-1974
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1968-1970) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1968-1974) 5.0L (307 cid) V8 (1968-1973) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1968-1974) 6.5L (396 cid) cid V8 (1968-1970) 7.0L (427 cid) V8 (1970)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-425 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Apollo]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Third generation (1968–1974)==

An extensive redesign came in 1968, when the station wagon and two door hardtop bodystyles were discontinued. This body style continued (with a minor restyle in 1973) through 1974. One notable change was the front subframe assembly — as compared with [[Ford]], [[Chrysler]] and [[AMC]], in whose cars the entire front suspension was integrated with the bodyshell, a separate subframe housing the powertrain and front suspension (similar to the front part of the frame of GM's full-size, full-framed vehicles) replaced the earlier style. Although the front subframe design was a Chevy II-exclusive design, the [[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]] introduced a year earlier was the first to incorporate such a design; the redesigned Chevy II was pushed a year back to 1968 instead of 1967. 1968 was the final year that the Chevy II nameplate was used, although all 1968 models were "Chevy II Novas" with one single trim line.

The 90 hp 153 I4 carried over from the previous generation as standard on the baseline model. Far more popular were the 140 hp 230 I6 and 155 hp 250 I6 and the new 200 hp 5.0L (307 cid) V8, which replaced the 283 offered in previous generations. At mid-year a semi-automatic transmission based on the Powerglide called Torque-Drive was introduced as a low-cost option for shiftless motoring for both the four and six-cylinder engines. The two-speed Powerglide was still the only fully-automatic gearbox available with most engines as the more desirable three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic was only available with the largest V8 engines. An interesting engine option was the 5.3L (327 cid) V8 rated at 350 hp (RPO code L79).

The '''SS''' was transformed from a trim package to a performance option for 1968 and now included a "Turbo Fire" 295 hp 5.7L (350 cid) V8 engine along with front disc brakes, heavy-duty suspension and other performance hardware. Optional engines included two versions of the big-block 6.5L (396 cid) V8 rated at 350 and 375 hp. Both 396 engines were offered with a choice of transmissions including the M-21 close-ratio four-speed manual, the M-22 heavy-duty "Rock Crusher" four-speed manual, or the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 400 for those who preferred automatic shifting. SSs (and lesser coupes) could have a console with optional auxiliary gauges very similar to the contemporary Camaro design.

===1969===

The Chevy II nameplate was retired and the car became the "Chevy Nova" for this year (some sources referred to it as the Chevrolet Chevy Nova - perhaps the decision to drop the Chevy II moniker was a last-minute decision for 1969). Like other 1969 GM vehicles, locking steering columns were incorporated along with column ignitions. Simulated vents were added below the Nova script, which was relocated to the front fender instead of the rear quarter panel. The 350-4 that came standard with the SS option was revised with a five-hp increase to 300 while a 350-2 rated at 255 hp was a new option on non-SS models. A new Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 three-speed automatic was made available for non-SS Novas with six-cylinder and V8 engines.

===1970===

Basically a carryover from 1969; the side markers and taillight lenses were wider and positioned slightly differently, which placed the reverse lights in the middle of the taillight lens instead of the inward portion. This was the final year for the SS396. All other engines were carried over including the seldom-ordered four-cylinder which was in its final year. The car finally became simply the Chevrolet Nova this year after two years of transitional nameplates (Chevy II Nova in 1968 and Chevrolet Chevy Nova in 1969).

Approximately 177 COPO Novas were ordered, with 175 converted by Yenko Chevrolet (the other two were sold in Canada). These had the mighty LT1 (350 cid) V8 engine

A beater 1970 Nova coupe is prominently featured in the movie ''Beverly Hills Cop''.

===1971===

1971 Novas were similar to the previous year but with the loss of the simulated fender vents and the discontinuation of the 396 motor for the SS with the L48 350-4 taking its place. 1971 also saw the introduction of the '''Rally Nova''', a trim level that only lasted two years and was marketed as sort of a budget-SS. The Rally package included black or white stripes that ran the length of the car and around the back, a Rally Nova sticker on the driver's side of the hood, and Rally wheels.

The 250 I6 was now the standard Nova powerplant with the demise of the 153 I4 and 230 I6 engines. The 307 and 350 V8s were carried over from 1970 and all engines featured lowered compression ratios to enable the use of unleaded gasoline as a result of a GM corporate mandate that took effect with the 1971 model year.

After 1971, other GM divisions began rebadging the Nova as their new entry-level vehicle, such as the [[Pontiac Ventura]] II (once a trim option for full-size Pontiacs to 1970), [[Oldsmobile Omega]] (1973) and the [[Buick Apollo]] (mid-1973). Interestingly, the intials of the four model names spelled out the acronym '''NOVA''' (Nova, Omega, Ventura, Apollo.)

===1972===

A virtual rerun of 1971, the 1972 Nova received only minor trim changes and both the Rally Nova and SS options carried over. At mid-year a manual canvas sunroof option became available on two-door models. Also, the optional Strato bucket seats available on coupes switched from the previous low-back design with adjustable headrests to the high back units with built-in headrests introduced the previous year on Camaros and Vegas. Standard engine was still the 250 I6 with either a 3- or 4-speed manual or 2- or 3-speed automatics. The 307 and 350 V8s remained optional. There would be a restyled Nova for 1973.

===1973===

The 1973 model year introduced a new hatchback bodystyle based on the 2-door coupe, as well as a front and rear restyling and a modified rear side window shape, plus a revised rear suspension adapted from the second-generation Camaro with multi-leaf springs replacing the mono-leaf springs used on Novas since the original 1966 model. Front vent windows disappeared, and instrumentation remained the same as before. A luxury-themed '''Custom''' became part of the model lineup which included upgraded upholstery, full carpeting, more exterior trim and available on all bodystyles. By this time, six-cylinder and V8 engines were ''de rigeur'' for American compact cars, with the 115 hp 307, 145 hp 350-2 and 175 hp 350-4 V8s as options (standard on the SS). The 100 hp 250 cid I6 was still standard on the rest and still had the two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission as an option, which was in its final year.

===1974===

For 1974, the powerglide was replaced by a lightweight version of the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 already offered with the 350 V8, which was now the only V8 offered this year. The SS option was still available but became more of a sporty trim package than a performance offering and now offered with any Nova engine, much like the 1963-67 Nova SS. The 250 I6 remained standard, and transmission choices, with the exception of the 2-speed Powerglide, remained the same as well. The 350-4 got a 10 hp boost to 185. There would be an all-new Nova for 1975.

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:77rally.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1975-1979
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 196.7"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 72.2"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 54.3"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 111"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1975-1979) 4.3L (262 cid) V8 (1975) 5.0L (305 cid) V8 (1976-1979) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1975-1978)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|110-170 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Skylark]] [[Cadillac Seville]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]/[[Pontiac Phoenix|Phoenix]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Fourth generation (1975–1979)==

A completely redesigned Nova was introduced in 1975. Bodystyles were still the 2-door coupe, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedans. Base coupes, including the hatchback, had fixed side windows (or optional flip-out windows) and simulated vertical vents on the B-pillar (sedans would have simulated horizontal vents at the bottom of the C-pillar). The new Nova still rode the same 111" wheelbase as before. Engines this year were the standard 105 hp 250 cid I6 carried over from the previous generations, a new 110 hp 4.3L (262 cid) 2bbl V8, a 145 hp 350-2 and 155 hp 350-4 V8 were optional. All models now had catalytic converters requiring unleaded gasoline. V8 models had metric engine callouts above the front side-marker lights. The front suspension and subframe assembly was similar to the one used in the second-generation GM F-body ([[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]], [[Pontiac Firebird|Firebird]]), whereas the rear axle and suspension were carried over from the 1968-74 generation.

The Nova lineup now ranged from the base, '''Custom''', and the luxury-themed '''LN''' ("Luxury Nova"). The Nova '''SS''' continued for 1975 and got a unique grille and requisite badges. Dashboards and other controls were virtually identical in layout compared to the previous generation. Power windows and locks were now an option for the first time in the Nova line. A high-performance 9C1 police version of the Nova was introduced for the 1975 model year, making it the first compact car certified for police duty in the U.S. Most were initially purchased by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department in 1976.

The LN was replaced with the Nova '''Concours''' in 1976, and the Custom model was gone (temporarily). The grille was changed slightly, and the short-lived 262 V8 was replaced by the new 140 hp 5.0L (305 cid) 2bbl V8 and was standard on the Concours. The 165 hp 350-4 V8 remained the top engine option, the 350-2 was dropped. V8 models no longer had the metric callouts above the front side marker lights like the previous year. Transmissions included the 3-speed manual standard with the I6, with a 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic optional on all engines. 1977 Concours models got a new 3-taillight lens scheme very similar to the larger [[Chevrolet Impala|Impala]] with a [[Cadillac]]-esque front clip that included chrome squared-off headlight bezels and a more elegant-looking vertically-barred grille with extra chrome trim. The SS was dropped, but it would continue as the '''Nova Rally''', which was basically the same sporty-themed idea. Nova Rallys got a special unique grille that sported horizontal turn signals. Other models also got a slightly revised grille and all got a new dashboard with round gauges and an 80 MPH speedo.

1978 Novas continued with little change, other than the '''Custom''' model returning as the base model. The 2-door, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedan bodystyles, and Concours and Rally models, were still available. Intermittent wipers were a new option this year. By now, however, the Nova was starting to fall out of favor with much of the buying public, largely due to increased competition from the new [[Ford Fairmont]] and even Chevrolet's own [[Chevrolet Malibu|Malibu]], which was an all-new downsized model for 1978. Even though 1979 was a final abbreviated model year, the front end was nonetheless revised again with square headlights and a new horizontally-barred grille for the short run. All drivetrain, transmission and trim choices remained. The luxury-themed Concours model and 9C1 police package, however, were dropped. Production ended on December 22, 1978. The Nova was replaced by the all-new front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] for 1980. The Nova name, however, would reappear again in 1985 on an unrelated model.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:156392062X01LZZZZZZ.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
| 1985-1988
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|4-Door Sedan 5-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2500-2700 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|5-Speed Manual, FWD 3-Speed Automatic, FWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|1.6L (97 cid) I4
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Toyota Corolla]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|S
|}

==1985-1988 Nova==

In 1985 the Nova name was applied to a rebadged [[Toyota Corolla]] and was produced at the NUMMI plant in Fremont, California, as an historic first joint venture between [[General Motors]] and [[Toyota]]. It shared the Corolla's drivetrain and running gear, and was available as a 4-door sedan and a 5-door hatchback (just like the Corolla). It differed from the Corolla mainly with slightly different front-end styling. It also shared many interior parts, such as audio systems, with other GM's offerings whereas the Corolla did not. The Corolla had been redesigned for 1988, but the Nova continued to use the old platform for its last year. The Nova would be replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]], which was also a twin to the Corolla.

==Main Competitors 1985-1988==

*[[Dodge Omni]]
*[[Ford Escort]]
*[[Honda Civic]]
*[[Isuzu I-Mark]]
*[[Mazda 323]]
*[[Mercury Lynx]]
*[[Nissan Sentra]]
*[[Plymouth Horizon]]
*[[Volkswagen Golf]]

{{-}}

==Photos==
<gallery>
Image:Ad77police350x496.jpg
</gallery>

==Main Competitors 1968-1979==
*[[Dodge Dart]]/[[Dodge Aspen|Aspen]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]/[[Ford Maverick|Maverick]]/[[Ford Fairmont|Fairmont]]
*[[Ford Granada]]
*[[Mercury Comet]]/[[Mercury Zephyr|Zephyr]]
*[[Mercury Monarch]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]/[[Plymouth Volare|Volare]]

==The urban legend==
A popular urban legend asserts that the Nova sold poorly in Mexico and other Latin American countries because the phrase ''no va'' means "does not go" in Spanish. In reality, the Spanish language ''no va'' and ''nova'' are as different as the English ''no table'' and ''notable'', or ''therapist'' and ''the rapist''. [http://www.snopes.com/business/misxlate/nova.asp] The word ''nova'' exists in [http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nova Spanish] with the same meaning as in English. Also, the Spanish word for 'new' (nuevo or nueva) is cognate to ''nova'', which originally meant "new" in Latin. Finally, as NOVA was a brand of gasoline sold for many years by PEMEX in Mexico, the largest of all Spanish-speaking Latin American countries, it is clear that this urban legend, while perhaps entertaining, is utterly baseless.

==See Also==
{{Chevrolet}}

==External links==
*[http://www.nnnova.com/ National Nostalgic Nova] The original National Nostalgic Nova Club Celebrating 25 Years of Helping Nova People The only Monthly Magazine dedicated to Only Novas!
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/nova/ Chevrolet Nova Internet Source] — The second known Nova site on the Internet
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/novaList.html Nova listserv] — The first and only known public [[Electronic mailing list|mailing list]] dedicated to Chevrolet Novas and other X-bodies; in continuous existence since January 1998
*[http://automotivehistoryonline.com/Chevrolet1960m.htm Automotive History Online] - Chevrolet Nova History & Photos
*[http://www.novaresource.org/ NovaResource.com] — Excellent source of history, production numbers, and option code information for 1962-79 Novas
*[http://www.stevesnovasite.com/ Steve's Nova Site] - Includes Q&A discussion board; another excellent resource for Nova owners
*[http://www.musclecarfacts.com/mcf/nova/nova.asp Chevy Nova SS at Muscle Car Facts] — A year-by-year history.
*[http://www.gen4novas.com/ Gen4Novas.com] — Source for the 'stepchild' Disco-era X-car.
*[http://www.2quicknovas.com/ 2QuickNovas.com] — Nova, technical, drag racing and general car info.
*[http://www.chevynova.org/1968.html]

[[Category:Classic cars]]

Chevrolet Nova

2010-11-02T01:24:32Z

Yankee: /* Second Generation (1966-1967) */

The '''[[Chevrolet]] Nova''', or '''Chevy II''', was an American compact car introduced by [[General Motors]] in 1962. The original Chevy II was of unibody construction, powered by an OHV inline four or six-cylinder engine (and V8s later), and available in two- and four-door sedan configurations as well as convertible and station wagon versions. After the rear-engine [[Chevrolet Corvair]] was handily outsold by the conventional [[Ford Falcon]] in 1960, Chevrolet began work on a more conventional compact car that would eventually become the Chevy II. The Chevy II/Nova continued on throughout the 1960s and 70s with great success until it was supplanted by the front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] in 1980. The Nova name would reappear briefly again in 1985 as a twin to (of all things) the [[Toyota Corolla]]. The "Toyolet" Nova was discontinued after 1988, replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]].

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:1962 Chevrolet II.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1962-1965
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 2-Door Convertible 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 153" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 70.8"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 55"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1962-1965) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1962-1965) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1964-1965) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1964-1965) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1965)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-300 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==First Generation (1962-1965)==

Three different levels of this car were made - the baseline Chevy II '''100''', the mid-grade Chevy II '''300''' and the top-line Chevy II Nova '''400'''. Their was also the sport-oriented Chevy II Nova Super Sport ('''SS'''), available on the 2-door coupe or convertible. Available powerplants included the standard 2.5L (153 cid) I4 and optional the 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (standard on the SS). Bodystyles included a 2-door sedan and hardtop, 4-door sedan, 5-door wagon (with an optional rear-facing 3rd seat) and a 2-door convertible. Unlike its [[Dodge Dart]]/[[Plymouth Valiant]] and [[Ford Falcon]] competition, no V8s were initially offered, but Chevrolet 283 and 327 cid V8s were offered in some areas as dealer-installed options, up to and including the fuel injected version available in the [[Chevrolet Corvette]]. Transmissions were a column or floor 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed manual or 2-speed Powerglide automatic. SSs could have bucket seats with a floor console-shift.

For 1963, grilles and taillights were slightly revised but otherwise were largely unchanged. All bodystyles and engine choices remained the same. For 1964, the Chevy II's first factory V8 option was introduced - a "Turbo-Fire" 195 hp 4.7L (283 cid) V8 with a 2-bbl carb, or a 225 hp 4-bbl version. A larger I6 was also offered, the "Turbo-Thrift" 3.8L (230 cid). Other drivetrain choices remained the same. The convertible was dropped, and the SS was also dropped at the beginning of this year, but it was reinstated mid-year due to high popular demand. The 300 series trim level was discontinued, leaving the 100 and 400 levels. In 1965, the grille was redesigned and the parking lights were relocated from directly below the headlights to the bumper. Taillights were revised also. The 5.3L (327 cid) V8 debuted this year (also called "Turbo Fire") with 250 and 300 horsepower versions. Other drivetrain choices remained the same as before. There would be a restyled Nova for 1966.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Chevrolet-nova 66.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1966-1967
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 154.7" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 71.3"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 55.4"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1966-1967) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1967) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1966-1967) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1966-1967)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-350 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Second Generation (1966-1967)==

The second generation Novas would be short-lived, only going 2 model years. 1966 Novas saw a significant restyling, based in part on the Super Nova concept car. In general, external proportions were squared up but dimensions and features changed little. Wheelbase remained the same at 110". Trim choices were still the '''100''' and '''400'''. Engine options still included the basic 153 I4, 194 and 230 I6s, the 195 hp and 225 hp 283s and 275 hp (up 25 from '65) and 350 hp (up 50 from '65) 327 V8s. V8 models got special lower fender badges behind the front wheels. Transmission choices remained the column or floor-shift 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed and 2-speed Powerglide automatics. The 327/350 engine was manual-shift only (3- or 4-speed) and was not available on the 100 series or wagon. Inside, there was a new dashboard that strongly resembled the larger [[Chevrolet Chevelle|Chevelle's]] (also all-new this year) and revised seat designs, but the Chevy II line during this time was still very spartan. The 90 hp 153 I4 was only offered in the base Chevy II 100 series models, with the 120-horsepower 194 I6 standard on the Nova and Nova SS lines. A new engine offering included a 140 hp 3.8L (230 cid) I6, available in all models except the baseline 100. The SS could still have bucket seats with a console floor shift.

Not many changes for 1967, but a 155 hp 4.1L (250 cid) I6 became available in all models except the 100. The 350 hp L79 327 V8 was unfortunately dropped this year, but other drivetrain choices remained the same as the previous year's. There would be an all-new Chevy II/Nova for 1968.

==Main Competitors 1962-1967==

*[[Dodge Dart]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]
*[[Studebaker Lark]]

[[Image:Nova front fender emblem 68-72.jpg|left|350px]]

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:477.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1968-1974
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1968-1970) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1968-1974) 5.0L (307 cid) V8 (1968-1973) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1968-1974) 6.5L (396 cid) cid V8 (1968-1970) 7.0L (427 cid) V8 (1970)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-425 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Apollo]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Third generation (1968–1974)==

An extensive redesign came in 1968, when the station wagon and two door hardtop bodystyles were discontinued. This body style continued (with a minor restyle in 1973) through 1974. One notable change was the front subframe assembly — as compared with [[Ford]], [[Chrysler]] and [[AMC]], in whose cars the entire front suspension was integrated with the bodyshell, a separate subframe housing the powertrain and front suspension (similar to the front part of the frame of GM's full-size, full-framed vehicles) replaced the earlier style. Although the front subframe design was a Chevy II-exclusive design, the [[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]] introduced a year earlier was the first to incorporate such a design; the redesigned Chevy II was pushed a year back to 1968 instead of 1967. 1968 was the final year that the Chevy II nameplate was used, although all 1968 models were "Chevy II Novas" with one single trim line.

The 90 hp 153 I4 carried over from the previous generation as standard on the baseline model. Far more popular were the 140 hp 230 I6 and 155 hp 250 I6 and the new 200 hp 5.0L (307 cid) V8, which replaced the 283 offered in previous generations. At mid-year a semi-automatic transmission based on the Powerglide called Torque-Drive was introduced as a low-cost option for shiftless motoring for both the four and six-cylinder engines. The two-speed Powerglide was still the only fully-automatic gearbox available with most engines as the more desirable three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic was only available with the largest V8 engines. An interesting engine option was the 5.3L (327 cid) V8 rated at 350 hp (RPO code L79).

The '''SS''' was transformed from a trim package to a performance option for 1968 and now included a "Turbo Fire" 295 hp 5.7L (350 cid) V8 engine along with front disc brakes, heavy-duty suspension and other performance hardware. Optional engines included two versions of the big-block 6.5L (396 cid) V8 rated at 350 and 375 hp. Both 396 engines were offered with a choice of transmissions including the M-21 close-ratio four-speed manual, the M-22 heavy-duty "Rock Crusher" four-speed manual, or the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 400 for those who preferred automatic shifting. SSs (and lesser coupes) could have a console with optional auxiliary gauges very similar to the contemporary Camaro design.

===1969===

The Chevy II nameplate was retired and the car became the "Chevy Nova" for this year (some sources referred to it as the Chevrolet Chevy Nova - perhaps the decision to drop the Chevy II moniker was a last-minute decision for 1969). Like other 1969 GM vehicles, locking steering columns were incorporated along with column ignitions. Simulated vents were added below the Nova script, which was relocated to the front fender instead of the rear quarter panel. The 350-4 that came standard with the SS option was revised with a five-hp increase to 300 while a 350-2 rated at 255 hp was a new option on non-SS models. A new Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 three-speed automatic was made available for non-SS Novas with six-cylinder and V8 engines.

===1970===

Basically a carryover from 1969; the side markers and taillight lenses were wider and positioned slightly differently, which placed the reverse lights in the middle of the taillight lens instead of the inward portion. This was the final year for the SS396. All other engines were carried over including the seldom-ordered four-cylinder which was in its final year. The car finally became simply the Chevrolet Nova this year after two years of transitional nameplates (Chevy II Nova in 1968 and Chevrolet Chevy Nova in 1969).

Approximately 177 COPO Novas were ordered, with 175 converted by Yenko Chevrolet (the other two were sold in Canada). These had the mighty LT1 (350 cid) V8 engine

A beater 1970 Nova coupe is prominently featured in the movie ''Beverly Hills Cop''.

===1971===

1971 Novas were similar to the previous year but with the loss of the simulated fender vents and the discontinuation of the 396 motor for the SS with the L48 350-4 taking its place. 1971 also saw the introduction of the '''Rally Nova''', a trim level that only lasted two years and was marketed as sort of a budget-SS. The Rally package included black or white stripes that ran the length of the car and around the back, a Rally Nova sticker on the driver's side of the hood, and Rally wheels.

The 250 I6 was now the standard Nova powerplant with the demise of the 153 I4 and 230 I6 engines. The 307 and 350 V8s were carried over from 1970 and all engines featured lowered compression ratios to enable the use of unleaded gasoline as a result of a GM corporate mandate that took effect with the 1971 model year.

After 1971, other GM divisions began rebadging the Nova as their new entry-level vehicle, such as the [[Pontiac Ventura]] II (once a trim option for full-size Pontiacs to 1970), [[Oldsmobile Omega]] (1973) and the [[Buick Apollo]] (mid-1973). Interestingly, the intials of the four model names spelled out the acronym '''NOVA''' (Nova, Omega, Ventura, Apollo.)

===1972===

A virtual rerun of 1971, the 1972 Nova received only minor trim changes and both the Rally Nova and SS options carried over. At mid-year a manual canvas sunroof option became available on two-door models. Also, the optional Strato bucket seats available on coupes switched from the previous low-back design with adjustable headrests to the high back units with built-in headrests introduced the previous year on Camaros and Vegas. Standard engine was still the 250 I6 with either a 3- or 4-speed manual or 2- or 3-speed automatics. The 307 and 350 V8s remained optional. There would be a restyled Nova for 1973.

===1973===

The 1973 model year introduced a new hatchback bodystyle based on the 2-door coupe, as well as a front and rear restyling and a modified rear side window shape, plus a revised rear suspension adapted from the second-generation Camaro with multi-leaf springs replacing the mono-leaf springs used on Novas since the original 1966 model. Front vent windows disappeared, and instrumentation remained the same as before. A luxury-themed '''Custom''' became part of the model lineup which included upgraded upholstery, full carpeting, more exterior trim and available on all bodystyles. By this time, six-cylinder and V8 engines were ''de rigeur'' for American compact cars, with the 115 hp 307, 145 hp 350-2 and 175 hp 350-4 V8s as options (standard on the SS). The 100 hp 250 cid I6 was still standard on the rest and still had the two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission as an option, which was in its final year.

===1974===

For 1974, the powerglide was replaced by a lightweight version of the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 already offered with the 350 V8, which was now the only V8 offered this year. The SS option was still available but became more of a sporty trim package than a performance offering and now offered with any Nova engine, much like the 1963-67 Nova SS. The 250 I6 remained standard, and transmission choices, with the exception of the 2-speed Powerglide, remained the same as well. The 350-4 got a 10 hp boost to 185. There would be an all-new Nova for 1975.

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:77rally.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1975-1979
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 196.7"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 72.2"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 54.3"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 111"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1975-1979) 4.3L (262 cid) V8 (1975) 5.0L (305 cid) V8 (1976-1979) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1975-1978)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|110-170 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Skylark]] [[Cadillac Seville]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]/[[Pontiac Phoenix|Phoenix]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Fourth generation (1975–1979)==

A completely redesigned Nova was introduced in 1975. Bodystyles were still the 2-door coupe, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedans. Base coupes, including the hatchback, had fixed side windows (or optional flip-out windows) and simulated vertical vents on the B-pillar (sedans would have simulated horizontal vents at the bottom of the C-pillar). The new Nova still rode the same 111" wheelbase as before. Engines this year were the standard 105 hp 250 cid I6 carried over from the previous generations, a new 110 hp 4.3L (262 cid) 2bbl V8, a 145 hp 350-2 and 155 hp 350-4 V8 were optional. All models now had catalytic converters requiring unleaded gasoline. V8 models had metric engine callouts above the front side-marker lights. The front suspension and subframe assembly was similar to the one used in the second-generation GM F-body ([[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]], [[Pontiac Firebird|Firebird]]), whereas the rear axle and suspension were carried over from the 1968-74 generation.

The Nova lineup now ranged from the base, '''Custom''', and the luxury-themed '''LN''' ("Luxury Nova"). The Nova '''SS''' continued for 1975 and got a unique grille and requisite badges. Dashboards and other controls were virtually identical in layout compared to the previous generation. Power windows and locks were now an option for the first time in the Nova line. A high-performance 9C1 police version of the Nova was introduced for the 1975 model year, making it the first compact car certified for police duty in the U.S. Most were initially purchased by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department in 1976.

The LN was replaced with the Nova '''Concours''' in 1976, and the Custom model was gone (temporarily). The grille was changed slightly, and the short-lived 262 V8 was replaced by the new 140 hp 5.0L (305 cid) 2bbl V8 and was standard on the Concours. The 165 hp 350-4 V8 remained the top engine option, the 350-2 was dropped. V8 models no longer had the metric callouts above the front side marker lights like the previous year. Transmissions included the 3-speed manual standard with the I6, with a 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic optional on all engines. 1977 Concours models got a new 3-taillight lens scheme very similar to the larger [[Chevrolet Impala|Impala]] with a [[Cadillac]]-esque front clip that included chrome squared-off headlight bezels and a more elegant-looking vertically-barred grille with extra chrome trim. The SS was dropped, but it would continue as the '''Nova Rally''', which was basically the same sporty-themed idea. Nova Rallys got a special unique grille that sported horizontal turn signals. Other models also got a slightly revised grille and all got a new dashboard with round gauges and an 80 MPH speedo.

1978 Novas continued with little change, other than the '''Custom''' model returning as the base model. The 2-door, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedan bodystyles, and Concours and Rally models, were still available. Intermittent wipers were a new option this year. By now, however, the Nova was starting to fall out of favor with much of the buying public, largely due to increased competition from the new [[Ford Fairmont]] and even Chevrolet's own [[Chevrolet Malibu|Malibu]], which was an all-new downsized model for 1978. Even though 1979 was a final abbreviated model year, the front end was nonetheless revised again with square headlights and a new horizontally-barred grille for the short run. All drivetrain, transmission and trim choices remained. The luxury-themed Concours model and 9C1 police package, however, were dropped. Production ended on December 22, 1978. The Nova was replaced by the all-new front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] for 1980. The Nova name, however, would reappear again in 1985 on an unrelated model.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:156392062X01LZZZZZZ.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
| 1985-1988
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|4-Door Sedan 5-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2500-2700 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|5-Speed Manual, FWD 3-Speed Automatic, FWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|1.6L (97 cid) I4
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Toyota Corolla]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|S
|}

==1985-1988 Nova==

In 1985 the Nova name was applied to a rebadged [[Toyota Corolla]] and was produced at the NUMMI plant in Fremont, California, as an historic first joint venture between [[General Motors]] and [[Toyota]]. It shared the Corolla's drivetrain and running gear, and was available as a 4-door sedan and a 5-door hatchback (just like the Corolla). It differed from the Corolla mainly with slightly different front-end styling. It also shared many interior parts, such as audio systems, with other GM's offerings whereas the Corolla did not. The Corolla had been redesigned for 1988, but the Nova continued to use the old platform for its last year. The Nova would be replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]], which was also a twin to the Corolla.

==Main Competitors 1985-1988==

*[[Dodge Omni]]
*[[Ford Escort]]
*[[Honda Civic]]
*[[Isuzu I-Mark]]
*[[Mazda 323]]
*[[Mercury Lynx]]
*[[Nissan Sentra]]
*[[Plymouth Horizon]]
*[[Volkswagen Golf]]

{{-}}

==Photos==
<gallery>
Image:Ad77police350x496.jpg
</gallery>

==Main Competitors 1968-1979==
*[[Dodge Dart]]/[[Dodge Aspen|Aspen]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]/[[Ford Maverick|Maverick]]/[[Ford Fairmont|Fairmont]]
*[[Ford Granada]]
*[[Mercury Comet]]/[[Mercury Zephyr|Zephyr]]
*[[Mercury Monarch]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]/[[Plymouth Volare|Volare]]

==The urban legend==
A popular urban legend asserts that the Nova sold poorly in Mexico and other Latin American countries because the phrase ''no va'' means "does not go" in Spanish. In reality, the Spanish language ''no va'' and ''nova'' are as different as the English ''no table'' and ''notable'', or ''therapist'' and ''the rapist''. [http://www.snopes.com/business/misxlate/nova.asp] The word ''nova'' exists in [http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nova Spanish] with the same meaning as in English. Also, the Spanish word for 'new' (nuevo or nueva) is cognate to ''nova'', which originally meant "new" in Latin. Finally, as NOVA was a brand of gasoline sold for many years by PEMEX in Mexico, the largest of all Spanish-speaking Latin American countries, it is clear that this urban legend, while perhaps entertaining, is utterly baseless.

==See Also==
{{Chevrolet}}

==External links==
*[http://www.nnnova.com/ National Nostalgic Nova] The original National Nostalgic Nova Club Celebrating 25 Years of Helping Nova People The only Monthly Magazine dedicated to Only Novas!
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/nova/ Chevrolet Nova Internet Source] — The second known Nova site on the Internet
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/novaList.html Nova listserv] — The first and only known public [[Electronic mailing list|mailing list]] dedicated to Chevrolet Novas and other X-bodies; in continuous existence since January 1998
*[http://automotivehistoryonline.com/Chevrolet1960m.htm Automotive History Online] - Chevrolet Nova History & Photos
*[http://www.novaresource.org/ NovaResource.com] — Excellent source of history, production numbers, and option code information for 1962-79 Novas
*[http://www.stevesnovasite.com/ Steve's Nova Site] - Includes Q&A discussion board; another excellent resource for Nova owners
*[http://www.musclecarfacts.com/mcf/nova/nova.asp Chevy Nova SS at Muscle Car Facts] — A year-by-year history.
*[http://www.gen4novas.com/ Gen4Novas.com] — Source for the 'stepchild' Disco-era X-car.
*[http://www.2quicknovas.com/ 2QuickNovas.com] — Nova, technical, drag racing and general car info.
*[http://www.chevynova.org/1968.html]

[[Category:Classic cars]]

Dodge Aries

2010-10-31T23:49:29Z

Yankee:

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Chrysler-12-dodge-aries-1981.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Dodge Aries'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Dodge]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production
| 1981-1989
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class
| Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style
| 2-Door Coupe, 4-Door Sedan, 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length
| 178.6"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width
| 68"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height
| 52.5"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase
| 100.1 in
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight
| 2600 - 2800 lb
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions
| 4-Speed Manual, FWD 5-Speed Manual, FWD 3-Speed Automatic, FWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines
| 2.2L (135 cid) I4 (1981-1989) 2.6L (156 cid) I4 (1981-1985) 2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1986-1989)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power
| 84-101 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar
| [[Chrysler LeBaron]] [[Dodge 400]] [[Plymouth Reliant]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform
| K
|}

The '''[[Dodge]] Aries''', otherwise known as a "K-car", is ultimately best described as "the car that saved [[Chrysler]]'s bacon". The Aries (and its K-car twin [[Plymouth Reliant]]) was all new in 1981, replacing the departed [[Dodge Aspen]]/[[Plymouth Volare]]. The K-cars were a huge gamble for Chrysler, who had just received Loans that were guaranteed by the Government prior to their introduction. Had the K-cars turned out to be sales duds, it's very likely Chrysler would not exist today, at least in its present form. But not only were they successful, the K-car chassis spawned multiple spinoffs, not the least of which were sport coupes and minivans (in fact, by the mid-80s the only Chrysler cars that ''weren't'' K-car knockoffs were the L-body [[Dodge Omni]]/[[Plymouth Horizon]] and the rear-drive M-bodies ([[Chrysler Fifth Avenue]]/[[Dodge Diplomat]]/[[Plymouth Gran Fury]]). The Aries and Reliant would continue through 1989 to be replaced by the [[Dodge Spirit]] and [[Plymouth Acclaim]] that same year.

Here's a quick rundown:

==1981-1989==

1981 was the Aries/Reliant's premier year, base engine was the all-new 2.2L 84 hp I4, available with a 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic. Optional was the [[Mitsubishi]]-built 2.6L "Hemi" 96 hp I4, automatic only. Bodystyles included a 2-door coupe, 4-door sedan and a 5-door station wagon. Trim levels were base and '''SE'''. Styling was the basic 3-box type. Aries styling differed from the Reliant's only by a different grille and taillights. The K-cars were off to an admirable start in their inaugural year, racking up over 300,000 sales between the Aries and Reliant. There were only minor changes for the 1982 K-cars, such as a counterbalanced hood eliminating the need for a prop-rod. The rear door windows in the sedans and wagons actually rolled down this year (they were fixed in place on the 81 models). Engine choices remained the same as last year. Also the "K" badges were removed from the exterior nameplates. The K-car's first 2 spinoffs happened this year in the form of the new [[Chrysler LeBaron]] and [[Dodge 400]], with more upscale surroundings than the Aries/Reliant.

The biggest change in 1983 was an additional 10 hp for the 2.2L I4, to 94 hp. Otherwise there were no real changes to speak of this year. This year's K-car spinoffs were the larger (and short-lived) [[Chrysler E-Class]] and [[New Yorker]], and the [[Dodge 600]]. All new dashboards with temp and oil pressure gauges were the order of the day for 1984, and all radios were now digital. Both the Aries and Reliant gained the Chrysler pentastar badge mounted squarely in the middle of their grilles. It is interesting to note that 1984 was the only year Aries and Reliant did not carry a "K" on the back of them as a trim line. The "K" had gained somewhat of a bad reputaton as a very common car and Chrysler attempted to distance themselves from this by dropping the "K" (it would return in 1985). The 2.6L I4 received a slight horsepower boost to 101. This year the K-cars spunoff the [[Chrysler Laser]] and [[Dodge Daytona]] sport coupes and the [[Dodge Caravan]] and [[Plymouth Voyager]] minivans. It should be noted that the various turbo variants of the 2.2L (and later 2.5) engines were never offered on the Aries or Reliant.

The K-cars sported restyled noses and tails in 1985, becoming more rounded at the front and more formal in the rear. The Aries and Reliant again differed only in their grilles and taillights. Despite the changes, exterior and interior dimensions remained the same as before. Engine and transmission choices also remained the same. K-car spinoffs this year included the [[Chrysler LeBaron GTS]] and [[Dodge Lancer]], resurrecting an old nameplate last used in the early '60s. For 1986, the biggest change was the demise of the Mitsubishi 2.6L I4, replaced by a Chrysler-built 100 hp 2.5L I4. Fuel injection made its way to both the 2.2 and 2.5 engines this year - horsepower for the 2.2 remained at 97. The only exterior change was the addition of the mandatory Center High-Mounted Stop Light in the rear. Base and SE models continued on both lines.

1987 saw no appreciable changes to the Aries or Reliant other than a stainless steel exhaust system. K-car spinoffs this year were the [[Dodge Shadow]] and [[Plymouth Sundance]], as well as a new handsome [[Chrysler LeBaron Coupe]]. In 1988, following the Omni and Horizon's lead, the Aries and Reliant were now offered in value-oriented '''America''' trim, making many previously optional items standard, such as AM/FM stereo, power steering and brakes, etc. Transmissions on both engines gained lock-up torque converters. Spinoffs this year were the larger [[Dodge Dynasty|Dynasty]] and [[Chrysler New Yorker]] sedans.

Other than the station wagon model being discontinued, the Aries and Reliant stood pretty much pat for their final year. The 2.5L engine received a power boost to 100 hp. Although the Aries and Reliant were at the end of their respective roads this year, the "K-car" platform was by no means dead. Another spinoff this year was the rather curious [[Chrysler TC by Maserati]] (the car's actual name), a 2-seat convertible which was a short-lived joint venture between Chrysler and [[Maserati]]. The Aries and Reliant were replaced by the new [[Dodge Spirit|Spirit]] and [[Plymouth Acclaim|Acclaim]] that were introduced this year, which also used the K platform.

===Main Competitors===

*[[Buick Skylark]]/[[Buick Somerset|Somerset]]
*[[Chevrolet Citation]]/[[Chevrolet Corsica|Corsica]]
*[[Ford Fairmont]]/[[Ford Tempo|Tempo]]
*[[Honda Accord]]
*[[Mercury Zephyr]]/[[Mercury Topaz|Topaz]]
*[[Oldsmobile Omega]]/[[Oldsmobile Calais|Calais]]
*[[Pontiac Phoenix]]/[[Pontiac Grand Am|Grand Am]]
*[[Subaru Loyale]]
*[[Toyota Camry]]
*[[Volkswagen Jetta]]

{{Dodge}}

Chevrolet Blazer

2010-10-19T17:45:58Z

Yankee:

''Please note: this report covers the '''full-size C/K5 Blazer''' and '''GMC Jimmy''' only. For information about the smaller '''S10 Blazer''' and the compact 1995-2005 Blazer, please see separate [[Chevrolet S10 Blazer|S10 Blazer]] page.''

'''[[Chevrolet]]''' introduced the '''K5 Blazer''' in 1969 using a shortened '''K10''' pickup truck chassis - in some ways, the Blazer actually started out as a ''very'' shortened K10 pickup with a removable roof and a bench seat in the bed surrounded by a roll bar - that was pretty much the essence of the original Blazer. The original K5 Blazer (back in those days, in Chevrolet lore, '''C''' signified 2-wheel drive, '''K''' meant 4-wheel drive, hence the K and C5 Blazer and C and K10 pickup) would last only 4 model years, whereas the 2nd generation would last a whopping ''19'' model years. The C/K Blazer would eventually become the Tahoe in 1995, and would add a 4-door model (essentially a shortened [[Chevrolet Suburban|Suburban]]), but the Blazer name would continue on the compact S10-style Blazer in 1995 and continue with very little change until it was finally discontinued after 2005.

Here's a quick rundown on each generation:

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:1969 Chevrolet Blazer-01 jpg.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Blazer'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production
| 1969-1972
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class
| Full-Size SUV
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style
| 3-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length
| 180"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width
| 79"
|- style="vertical-align:top;
| Height
| 70.1" (2WD) 72.1" (4WD)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase
| 104"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight
| 4000-4600 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmission
| 3-Speed Manual, RWD/4WD 4-Speed Manual, RWD/4WD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD/4WD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engine
| 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1969-1972) 4.8L (292 cid) I6 (1970-1972) 5.0L (307 cid) V8 (1969-1972) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1969-1972)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power
| 155-255 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar
| [[GMC Jimmy]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform
|
|}

==1st Generation (1969-1972)==

The Blazer started out in 1969 on a shortened K10 pickup frame, and was basically [[GM]]'s answer to the [[Ford Bronco]], [[International Scout]] and the [[Jeep Cherokee]]/[[Jeep Wagoneer|Wagoneer]] series (and perhaps to a lesser extent the [[Jeep]] CJ series), but a big difference was that the Blazer (for the time being) was the only one of these besides the Cherokee/Wagoneer to share its body styling with its pickup-truck brother, something the Ford Bronco wouldn't do until 1978 (and something the Scout and CJ would ''never'' do). Platform-sharing would cut down on overall production costs and because of this, the Blazer had much more interior room than its competition... but it was also much larger on the outside, something hard-core off-roaders might have seen as a vice, because it might have had a harder time getting into some tight spots than a comparable Bronco or Scout might have.

First year Blazers were 4-wheel-drive only with a solid front axle and leaf springs front and rear, and all in this generation would have removable roofs. And since the Blazer was based on the K10, it naturally shared its drivetrains - base engine was a 4.1L (250 cid) I6, with a 5.0L (307 cid) V8 and 5.7L (350 cid) V8 as options. Transmissions included 3- and 4-speed manual transmissions, as well as a 3-speed automatic.

1970 models changed very little, but this year it gained a corporate [[GMC]] twin, known as the '''Jimmy'''. The Jimmy was a tad more upscale than the Blazer, the styling differed with a different nose (it had quad headlights versus the Blazer's dual setup) but it was otherwise identical. 2-wheel drive became standard this year (these were known as C5 Blazers) and had independent front suspension and rear trailing arms, with coil springs on both. A larger I6 became available, the 4.8L (292 cid) engine (reserved strictly for the truck line, this engine was not available in any GM car line).

By 1971, the Blazer (and Jimmy) were certified hits, as the buying public was apparently enamored with their rugged go-anywhere reputation and ability. The Blazer and Jimmy were hardly [[Cadillac]]s by any means, but they were definitely a step up in refinement and everyday liveability and not such beasts of burden than perhaps a comparable Jeep CJ might have been. Blazers got a new nose this year, the grille was now an eggcrate design with the parking lights below in the bumper versus beside the headlights like last year (the Jimmy would continue with its same styling). Drivetrain choices remained the same as in 1970, with the 350 V8 being the most popular engine choice, but front disc brakes would become standard issue this year. 1972s got very little change at all while an all new redesigned model (naturally based on the C/K pickups) would be introduced in 1973.

==Main Competitors==

*[[Ford Bronco]]
*[[International Scout]]
*[[Jeep Cherokee]] (SJ)
*[[Jeep]] CJ series

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:53217832 pr.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Blazer'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production
| 1973-1991
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class
| Full-Size SUV
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style
| 3-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length
| 184.8"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width
| 79.6"
|- style="vertical-align:top;
| Height
| 73.8" (2WD) 76.8" (4WD)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase
| 106.5"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight
| 4200-4800 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmission
| 3-Speed Manual, RWD/4WD 4-Speed Manual, RWD/4WD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD/4WD 4-Speed Automatic, RWD/4WD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engine
| 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1973-1984) 4.3L (262 cid) V6 (1985-1987) 4.8L (292 cid) I6 (1973-1984) 5.0L (305 cid) V8 (1976-1987) 5.0L (307 cid) V8 (1973) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1973-1991) 5.7L (350 cid) Diesel V8 (1980-1981) 6.2L (379 cid) Diesel V8 (1982-1991) 6.6L (400 cid) V8 (1975-1978)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power
| 110-230 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar
| [[GMC Jimmy]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform
|
|}

==2nd Generation (1973-1991)==

Blazers and Jimmys were all new this year, and would retain this same basic bodystyle for the next 19 model years. Again, Blazers and Jimmys had different grilles and the Jimmys were a little bit fancier than the Blazers were, but they would remain otherwise identical. Engine choices were the same as in the last generation, with the 350 again being the most popular choice, and it would remain so throughout this generation's tenure. All Blazers and Jimmys would have full instrumentation with an all-new wraparound dashboard which largely resembled the 1969-1972 [[Pontiac Grand Prix]]'s dash. Roofs were still removable, although this still remained a very tedious task and required at least a few people to do so - which is probably why topless Blazers were rare sights, even when they were new. 2- and 4-wheel drive configurations were still available, with the majority being 4-wheel drive.

1974 models barely changed at all other than the 307 V8 being dropped, but their competition grew as [[Chrysler]] got into the game this year with the new [[Dodge Ramcharger]] and [[Plymouth Trailduster]], which were based on the full size D150/W150 pickups like the Blazer was based on the C/K10 pickups. 1975 models got new grilles and a larger optional 6.6L (400 cid) small-block V8. Some would also get a catalytic converter, mandating the use of unleaded gasoline. 1976s were pretty much identical but no longer had their engine displacement announced on the grille, but a big difference was that the whole roof was no longer removable - the roof only was removable from aft of the doors (some referred to this as a ''half-cab'' design), leaving the front cockpit completely covered. A smaller 5.0L (305 cid) V8 debuted that year. Changes in 1977 were nil, 1978s got another new grille, and power windows and locks became available for the first time. [[Ford]] introduced an all-new full-size [[Ford Bronco|Bronco]] this year that was now based on the full size [[Ford F-150|F-150]] pickup, giving the Blazer and Jimmy some heady new competition. By 1979, all Blazers and Jimmys had catalytic converters but were otherwise largely unchanged from 1978. Both got a new grille in 1980, which included new rectangular headlights. Dashboard gauge graphics were revised and updated and all speedometers now read to 85 MPH. An unfortunate new engine option this year was the wretched [[Oldsmobile]]-built 350 diesel V8.

1981 Blazers and Jimmys got a minor front end restyle this year with a new nose, fenders and hood. Front grilles were changed for a second time in as many years, and upper-level Blazers and Jimmys could have stacked quad headlights. Parking lights were relocated to the bumper, and front side marker lights were now horizontal instead of vertical. Rear end styling, however, would stay the same as before. 305 and 350 gas engined models gained GM's all-new "electronic spark control", and 4-speed automatics became available on those engines. The biggest change for 1982 would be an all-new optional 6.2L (379 cid) diesel V8. This replaced the suicidal diesel 350, and was designed specifically for GM's truck line (the C/K pickups and [[Chevrolet Suburban|Suburban]]s naturally got this engine also). This year, Chevy built Blazers specifically for the U.S military forces, a testament to the Blazer's strength and longevity and ability to stand up to years of G.I. abuse. These were 4-wheel drive, minimally equipped and had either the gas 350 or diesel 6.2 V8, and would be sold thru 1987. While most have made their way to scrap yards or civilian hands, a handful are still in use by the military. Lesser Blazers and Jimmys continued, and drivetrain choices remained the 250 and 292 I6, 305 and 350 V8 and the diesel 6.2 V8. 4-speed manual transmissions were available on all but the diesel. 3-speed automatics were available on the I6s and mandatory on the diesel, the 305 and 350s had 4-speed automatics.

Blazers and Jimmys got new horizontally-slatted grilles in 1983, and the parking lights were moved from the bumper up beside the headlights. Upper models still had stacked quad rectangular headlights while lesser models still had dual rectangular units. 1984s were pretty much identical to the '83s, but '85 models got another new grille that got a body-colored horizontal divider on upper-level Blazers. The 250 and 292 I6 engine options were dropped, replaced by a new 4.3L (262 cid) V6, which was basically a 350 V8 with 2 cylinders lopped off. No changes in 1986; 1987 models got throttle body fuel injection (TBI) for both the 305 and 350 V8's. Despite now being 15 model years old, Blazers and Jimmys continued to be strong sellers for GM, and sales managed to hold their own against the [[Ford Bronco]] and [[Dodge Ramcharger]] competition (and even against the smaller S10 Blazer/S15 Jimmy).

1988 C/K pickups were all new (and now known as C/K1500 models on the GMT400 chassis), but the Blazer and Jimmy soldiered on with the previous bodystyle and differed little from the last year. The 305 V8 was dropped, leaving the 350 as the only gas V8 (which was much more popular anyway), and the 350 now had a single serpentine belt (replacing previous multiple V-belts) to drive engine accessories. 1989 Blazers and Jimmys got new blacked-out grille and new "mini-quad" headlights patterned after the C/K1500 pickup design. It also inherited the C/K1500's 4-spoke steering wheel in the fancier trim level, and gained rear anti-lock brakes (which operated in two wheel drive mode only). 1990 models had no appreciable changes other than the rear seat now had outboard shoulder belts, and there weren't many to speak of for 1991 either, its final year in this iteration.

After 19 years of this bodystyle...it was definitely time for an update.

==Main Competitors==

*[[Dodge Ramcharger]]
*[[Ford Bronco]]
*[[Jeep Cherokee]] (SJ)
*[[International Scout]]
*[[Plymouth Trailduster]]

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | {{{Image}}}
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Blazer'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production
| 1992-1994
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class
| Full-Size SUV
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style
| 3-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length
| 188"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width
| 77.1"
|- style="vertical-align:top;
| Height
| 71" (2WD) 72.8" (4WD)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase
| 111.5"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight
| 4200-4800 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmission
| 5-Speed Manual, RWD/4WD 4-Speed Automatic, RWD/4WD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engine
| 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1992-1994) 6.5L (395 cid) turbodiesel V8 (1994)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power
| 180-210 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar
| [[GMC Jimmy]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform
| GMT400
|}

==3rd Generation (1992-1994)==

The Blazer and Jimmy (renamed [[GMC Yukon|Yukon]]) were now redesigned onto the new GMT400 truck platform this year that was the basis for the full size C/K1500 pickup truck. Wheelbase grew by 5 inches, overall length grew 3 inches, but they were a tad narrower than before. Rear roof sections were not removable any longer, these Blazers and Yukons were fully steel-roofed. 4-wheel anti-lock brakes were now standard, and the sole engine was the 210 hp 350 V8. A 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission were available. Like the previous generation, 2- or 4-wheel drive models were available, with the majority being 4-wheel drive. 1993 models with automatic transmission got new electronic controls, and in 1994, an all-new 180 hp 6.5 (395 cid) turbo diesel V8 became an option, and they also got the new federally-mandated Center High Mounted Stop Lamp. Blazers would also get a thicker chrome horizontal center divider in the grille this year on upper-level models.

[[Dodge]] dropped the [[Dodge Ramcharger|Ramcharger]], permanently bowing out of the full-size race after 1993, so that left only the Blazer/Jimmy and [[Ford Bronco]] as the only full-size SUVs available... but as time would show, that would only be the tip of the iceberg, as the Blazer became the [[Chevrolet Tahoe|Tahoe]] in 1995 and added a 4-door model (although the Blazer and Jimmy names would live on as compact SUVs). Ford would follow suit 2 years later with its all-new Bronco replacement [[Ford Expedition|Expedition]] in 1997 - and as a result, these 3 models would end up being far more popular than their Blazer/Jimmy/Bronco predecessors could have ever imagined with the explosion in SUV sales in the late 1990s/early 2000s.

==Main Competitors==

*[[Dodge Ramcharger]]
*[[Ford Bronco]]

{{Chevrolet}}

Dodge 600

2010-10-19T16:35:19Z

Yankee:

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | {{{Image}}}
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Dodge 600'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Dodge]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
| 1983-1988
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
| Intermediate
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
| 2-Door Coupe, 2-Door Convertible, 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 185.2"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 68"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 53.1"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 103.3"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
| 2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
| 5-Speed Manual, 3-Speed Automatic
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
| 2.2L (135 cid) I4 (1983-1988) 2.2L (135 cid) Turbo I4 (1984-1988) 2.6L (156 cid) I4 (1983-1985) 2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1986-1988)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
| 94-142 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
| [[Chrysler E-Class]] [[Plymouth Caravelle]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
| K
|}

The '''[[Dodge]] 600''' was introduced on a stretched K-car chassis with the [[Chrysler E-Class]] as Dodge's new mid-size front wheel drive sedan, slotted in between the [[Dodge Aries|Aries]] and the rear drive [[Dodge Diplomat|Diplomat]]. The 600 was pitted squarely against other intermediates such as the [[Chevrolet Celebrity]] and [[Oldsmobile Cutlass Ciera]]. It sported many exterior features that were prominent on other Dodge models, such as a horizontally slatted grille like the [[Dodge Mirada|Mirada]] coupe, and recessed quad headlights like on the smaller [[Dodge 400|400]]. The 600 would be offered thru 1988 with minimal changes until it was replaced by the [[Dodge Dynasty|Dynasty]].

Here's a quick rundown:

==1983-1988==

The 600 becomes the latest K-car spinoff in 1983 and become's Dodge's new mid-size model. Naturally it felt, sounded and drove like the larger Aries that it really was. Initially three trim levels were offered: a base, '''SE''' and a European-inspired '''ES''' model. Engine choices were the 94 hp 2.2L I4, with the 101 hp [[Mitsubishi]]-built 2.6L I4 as an option. Dashboards and other controls were shared with the lesser Aries. A 5-speed manual was standard on the 2.2, but the 3-speed automatic was optional in the 2.2 and mandatory on the 2.6. The 600 sported an interesting option by way of Electronic Voice Alert, or EVA. The EVA had a synthesized voice that would tell you if a door was "ajar", or your washer fluid was low or to fasten your seatbelt. This could be a useful option or an annoying one, depending on your point of view. The base model was aimed at the value-minded, the SE model sported nicer trim appointments such as velour interior and upgraded sound deadening. The ES had blacked-out trim and with its upgraded suspension and Goodyear Eagle GT tires fancied itself as an alternative to the [[Pontiac 6000]] STE and other European sports sedans, although the 2.2L I4 and 5-speed were certainly no threat to any [[Audi]] or [[BMW]], let alone a 6000 STE.

Big news for 1984 was the addition of the turbo 2.2L I4 engine, rated at 142 hp. The ES with this engine gave it a little more credibility among its chief competitors, namely the Pontiac 6000 STE (even [[Ford]] got into the pseudo-European sedan act this year with the [[Ford LTD|LTD LX]]). The smaller [[Dodge 400|400]] was discontinued this year, but the coupe and convertible were now absorbed into the 600 line and now known as 600s. Digital dashboards became optional this year on SE and ES models. Other models and engine choices remained the same. 1985s saw larger revised taillights and the addition of the 600 ES Turbo convertible. The turbo 2.2 engine received a minor power boost to 146 hp. The base and SE models and drivetrain choices once again remained the same. Chrysler dropped the [[Chrysler E-Class|E-Class]] this year and replaced it with the [[Plymouth Caravelle]] (a name previously used on Canadian models), and was available only as a 4-door sedan and, like most Dodge/Plymouths of this era, differed only in grille and other minor trim differentiations.

The 1986 600 received a new eggcrate grille with a crossbar and a Chrysler pentastar in the center. The 2.6L I4 was dropped in favor of a new Chrysler-built 2.5L I4, rated at 100 hp. The ES sedan was dropped this year, but the ES coupe and convertible carried on, as did the base and SE models. All models also received the mandatory Center High Mounted Stop Lamp and restyled dashboards. In 1987, the coupe and convertible were dropped. No noteworthy changes to the sedan, still available as the base and SE. There would be no changes to the 600 in 1988 either, which was cancelled in mid-year along with its Plymouth Caravelle-twin (rumor has it 1988 600s were really leftover rebadged 1987 models). The 600 was replaced by the new [[Dodge Dynasty|Dynasty]], which also replaced the [[Dodge Diplomat|Diplomat]] after 1989.

===Main Competitors===

*[[Buick Century]]
*[[Chevrolet Celebrity]]
*[[Ford LTD]]/[[Ford Taurus|Taurus]]
*[[Honda Accord]]
*[[Mercury Marquis]]/[[Mercury Sable|Sable]]
*[[Oldsmobile Cutlass Ciera]]
*[[Pontiac 6000]]
*[[Toyota Camry]]
*[[Volkswagen Quantum]]

{{Dodge}}

Chevrolet Nova

2010-10-18T22:19:24Z

Yankee: /* Fourth generation (1975–1979) */

The '''[[Chevrolet]] Nova''', or '''Chevy II''', was an American compact car introduced by [[General Motors]] in 1962. The original Chevy II was of unibody construction, powered by an OHV inline four or six-cylinder engine (and V8s later), and available in two- and four-door sedan configurations as well as convertible and station wagon versions. After the rear-engine [[Chevrolet Corvair]] was handily outsold by the conventional [[Ford Falcon]] in 1960, Chevrolet began work on a more conventional compact car that would eventually become the Chevy II. The Chevy II/Nova continued on throughout the 1960s and 70s with great success until it was supplanted by the front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] in 1980. The Nova name would reappear briefly again in 1985 as a twin to (of all things) the [[Toyota Corolla]]. The "Toyolet" Nova was discontinued after 1988, replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]].

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:1962 Chevrolet II.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1962-1965
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 2-Door Convertible 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 153" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 70.8"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 55"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1962-1965) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1962-1965) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1964-1965) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1964-1965) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1965)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-300 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==First Generation (1962-1965)==

Three different levels of this car were made - the baseline Chevy II '''100''', the mid-grade Chevy II '''300''' and the top-line Chevy II Nova '''400'''. Their was also the sport-oriented Chevy II Nova Super Sport ('''SS'''), available on the 2-door coupe or convertible. Available powerplants included the standard 2.5L (153 cid) I4 and optional the 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (standard on the SS). Bodystyles included a 2-door sedan and hardtop, 4-door sedan, 5-door wagon (with an optional rear-facing 3rd seat) and a 2-door convertible. Unlike its [[Dodge Dart]]/[[Plymouth Valiant]] and [[Ford Falcon]] competition, no V8s were initially offered, but Chevrolet 283 and 327 cid V8s were offered in some areas as dealer-installed options, up to and including the fuel injected version available in the [[Chevrolet Corvette]]. Transmissions were a column or floor 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed manual or 2-speed Powerglide automatic. SSs could have bucket seats with a floor console-shift.

For 1963, grilles and taillights were slightly revised but otherwise were largely unchanged. All bodystyles and engine choices remained the same. For 1964, the Chevy II's first factory V8 option was introduced - a "Turbo-Fire" 195 hp 4.7L (283 cid) V8 with a 2-bbl carb, or a 225 hp 4-bbl version. A larger I6 was also offered, the "Turbo-Thrift" 3.8L (230 cid). Other drivetrain choices remained the same. The convertible was dropped, and the SS was also dropped at the beginning of this year, but it was reinstated mid-year due to high popular demand. The 300 series trim level was discontinued, leaving the 100 and 400 levels. In 1965, the grille was redesigned and the parking lights were relocated from directly below the headlights to the bumper. Taillights were revised also. The 5.3L (327 cid) V8 debuted this year (also called "Turbo Fire") with 250 and 300 horsepower versions. Other drivetrain choices remained the same as before. There would be a restyled Nova for 1966.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Chevrolet-nova 66.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1966-1967
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 154.7" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 71.3"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 55.4"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1966-1967) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1967) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1966-1967) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1966-1967)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-350 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Second Generation (1966-1967)==

The second generation Novas would be short-lived, only going 2 model years. 1966 Novas saw a significant restyling, based in part on the Super Nova concept car. In general, external proportions were squared up but dimensions and features changed little. Wheelbase remained the same at 110". Trim choices were still the '''100''' and '''400'''. Engine options still included the basic 153 I4, 194 I6, the 195 hp and 225 hp 283s and 275 hp (up 25 from '65) and 350 hp (up 50 from '65) 327 V8s. V8 models got special lower fender badges behind the front wheels. Transmission choices remained the column or floor-shift 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed and 2-speed Powerglide automatics. The 327/350 engine was manual-shift only (3- or 4-speed) and was not available on the 100 series or wagon. Inside, there was a new dashboard that strongly resembled the larger [[Chevrolet Chevelle|Chevelle's]] (also all-new this year) and revised seat designs, but the Chevy II line during this time was still very spartan. The 90 hp 153 I4 was only offered in the base Chevy II 100 series models, with the 120-horsepower 194 I6 standard on the Nova and Nova SS lines. A new engine offering included a 140 hp 3.8L (230 cid) I6, available in all models except the baseline 100. The SS could still have bucket seats with a console floor shift.

Not many changes for 1967, but a 155 hp 4.1L (250 cid) I6 became available in all models except the 100. The 350 hp L79 327 V8 was unfortunately dropped this year, but other drivetrain choices remained the same as the previous year's. There would be an all-new Chevy II/Nova for 1968.

==Main Competitors 1962-1967==

*[[Dodge Dart]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]
*[[Studebaker Lark]]

[[Image:Nova front fender emblem 68-72.jpg|left|350px]]

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:477.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1968-1974
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1968-1970) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1968-1974) 5.0L (307 cid) V8 (1968-1973) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1968-1974) 6.5L (396 cid) cid V8 (1968-1970) 7.0L (427 cid) V8 (1970)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-425 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Apollo]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Third generation (1968–1974)==

An extensive redesign came in 1968, when the station wagon and two door hardtop bodystyles were discontinued. This body style continued (with a minor restyle in 1973) through 1974. One notable change was the front subframe assembly — as compared with [[Ford]], [[Chrysler]] and [[AMC]], in whose cars the entire front suspension was integrated with the bodyshell, a separate subframe housing the powertrain and front suspension (similar to the front part of the frame of GM's full-size, full-framed vehicles) replaced the earlier style. Although the front subframe design was a Chevy II-exclusive design, the [[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]] introduced a year earlier was the first to incorporate such a design; the redesigned Chevy II was pushed a year back to 1968 instead of 1967. 1968 was the final year that the Chevy II nameplate was used, although all 1968 models were "Chevy II Novas" with one single trim line.

The 90 hp 153 I4 carried over from the previous generation as standard on the baseline model. Far more popular were the 140 hp 230 I6 and 155 hp 250 I6 and the new 200 hp 5.0L (307 cid) V8, which replaced the 283 offered in previous generations. At mid-year a semi-automatic transmission based on the Powerglide called Torque-Drive was introduced as a low-cost option for shiftless motoring for both the four and six-cylinder engines. The two-speed Powerglide was still the only fully-automatic gearbox available with most engines as the more desirable three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic was only available with the largest V8 engines. An interesting engine option was the 5.3L (327 cid) V8 rated at 350 hp (RPO code L79).

The '''SS''' was transformed from a trim package to a performance option for 1968 and now included a "Turbo Fire" 295 hp 5.7L (350 cid) V8 engine along with front disc brakes, heavy-duty suspension and other performance hardware. Optional engines included two versions of the big-block 6.5L (396 cid) V8 rated at 350 and 375 hp. Both 396 engines were offered with a choice of transmissions including the M-21 close-ratio four-speed manual, the M-22 heavy-duty "Rock Crusher" four-speed manual, or the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 400 for those who preferred automatic shifting. SSs (and lesser coupes) could have a console with optional auxiliary gauges very similar to the contemporary Camaro design.

===1969===

The Chevy II nameplate was retired and the car became the "Chevy Nova" for this year (some sources referred to it as the Chevrolet Chevy Nova - perhaps the decision to drop the Chevy II moniker was a last-minute decision for 1969). Like other 1969 GM vehicles, locking steering columns were incorporated along with column ignitions. Simulated vents were added below the Nova script, which was relocated to the front fender instead of the rear quarter panel. The 350-4 that came standard with the SS option was revised with a five-hp increase to 300 while a 350-2 rated at 255 hp was a new option on non-SS models. A new Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 three-speed automatic was made available for non-SS Novas with six-cylinder and V8 engines.

===1970===

Basically a carryover from 1969; the side markers and taillight lenses were wider and positioned slightly differently, which placed the reverse lights in the middle of the taillight lens instead of the inward portion. This was the final year for the SS396. All other engines were carried over including the seldom-ordered four-cylinder which was in its final year. The car finally became simply the Chevrolet Nova this year after two years of transitional nameplates (Chevy II Nova in 1968 and Chevrolet Chevy Nova in 1969).

Approximately 177 COPO Novas were ordered, with 175 converted by Yenko Chevrolet (the other two were sold in Canada). These had the mighty LT1 (350 cid) V8 engine

A beater 1970 Nova coupe is prominently featured in the movie ''Beverly Hills Cop''.

===1971===

1971 Novas were similar to the previous year but with the loss of the simulated fender vents and the discontinuation of the 396 motor for the SS with the L48 350-4 taking its place. 1971 also saw the introduction of the '''Rally Nova''', a trim level that only lasted two years and was marketed as sort of a budget-SS. The Rally package included black or white stripes that ran the length of the car and around the back, a Rally Nova sticker on the driver's side of the hood, and Rally wheels.

The 250 I6 was now the standard Nova powerplant with the demise of the 153 I4 and 230 I6 engines. The 307 and 350 V8s were carried over from 1970 and all engines featured lowered compression ratios to enable the use of unleaded gasoline as a result of a GM corporate mandate that took effect with the 1971 model year.

After 1971, other GM divisions began rebadging the Nova as their new entry-level vehicle, such as the [[Pontiac Ventura]] II (once a trim option for full-size Pontiacs to 1970), [[Oldsmobile Omega]] (1973) and the [[Buick Apollo]] (mid-1973). Interestingly, the intials of the four model names spelled out the acronym '''NOVA''' (Nova, Omega, Ventura, Apollo.)

===1972===

A virtual rerun of 1971, the 1972 Nova received only minor trim changes and both the Rally Nova and SS options carried over. At mid-year a manual canvas sunroof option became available on two-door models. Also, the optional Strato bucket seats available on coupes switched from the previous low-back design with adjustable headrests to the high back units with built-in headrests introduced the previous year on Camaros and Vegas. Standard engine was still the 250 I6 with either a 3- or 4-speed manual or 2- or 3-speed automatics. The 307 and 350 V8s remained optional. There would be a restyled Nova for 1973.

===1973===

The 1973 model year introduced a new hatchback bodystyle based on the 2-door coupe, as well as a front and rear restyling and a modified rear side window shape, plus a revised rear suspension adapted from the second-generation Camaro with multi-leaf springs replacing the mono-leaf springs used on Novas since the original 1966 model. Front vent windows disappeared, and instrumentation remained the same as before. A luxury-themed '''Custom''' became part of the model lineup which included upgraded upholstery, full carpeting, more exterior trim and available on all bodystyles. By this time, six-cylinder and V8 engines were ''de rigeur'' for American compact cars, with the 115 hp 307, 145 hp 350-2 and 175 hp 350-4 V8s as options (standard on the SS). The 100 hp 250 cid I6 was still standard on the rest and still had the two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission as an option, which was in its final year.

===1974===

For 1974, the powerglide was replaced by a lightweight version of the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 already offered with the 350 V8, which was now the only V8 offered this year. The SS option was still available but became more of a sporty trim package than a performance offering and now offered with any Nova engine, much like the 1963-67 Nova SS. The 250 I6 remained standard, and transmission choices, with the exception of the 2-speed Powerglide, remained the same as well. The 350-4 got a 10 hp boost to 185. There would be an all-new Nova for 1975.

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:77rally.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1975-1979
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 196.7"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 72.2"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 54.3"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 111"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1975-1979) 4.3L (262 cid) V8 (1975) 5.0L (305 cid) V8 (1976-1979) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1975-1978)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|110-170 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Skylark]] [[Cadillac Seville]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]/[[Pontiac Phoenix|Phoenix]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Fourth generation (1975–1979)==

A completely redesigned Nova was introduced in 1975. Bodystyles were still the 2-door coupe, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedans. Base coupes, including the hatchback, had fixed side windows (or optional flip-out windows) and simulated vertical vents on the B-pillar (sedans would have simulated horizontal vents at the bottom of the C-pillar). The new Nova still rode the same 111" wheelbase as before. Engines this year were the standard 105 hp 250 cid I6 carried over from the previous generations, a new 110 hp 4.3L (262 cid) 2bbl V8, a 145 hp 350-2 and 155 hp 350-4 V8 were optional. All models now had catalytic converters requiring unleaded gasoline. V8 models had metric engine callouts above the front side-marker lights. The front suspension and subframe assembly was similar to the one used in the second-generation GM F-body ([[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]], [[Pontiac Firebird|Firebird]]), whereas the rear axle and suspension were carried over from the 1968-74 generation.

The Nova lineup now ranged from the base, '''Custom''', and the luxury-themed '''LN''' ("Luxury Nova"). The Nova '''SS''' continued for 1975 and got a unique grille and requisite badges. Dashboards and other controls were virtually identical in layout compared to the previous generation. Power windows and locks were now an option for the first time in the Nova line. A high-performance 9C1 police version of the Nova was introduced for the 1975 model year, making it the first compact car certified for police duty in the U.S. Most were initially purchased by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department in 1976.

The LN was replaced with the Nova '''Concours''' in 1976, and the Custom model was gone (temporarily). The grille was changed slightly, and the short-lived 262 V8 was replaced by the new 140 hp 5.0L (305 cid) 2bbl V8 and was standard on the Concours. The 165 hp 350-4 V8 remained the top engine option, the 350-2 was dropped. V8 models no longer had the metric callouts above the front side marker lights like the previous year. Transmissions included the 3-speed manual standard with the I6, with a 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic optional on all engines. 1977 Concours models got a new 3-taillight lens scheme very similar to the larger [[Chevrolet Impala|Impala]] with a [[Cadillac]]-esque front clip that included chrome squared-off headlight bezels and a more elegant-looking vertically-barred grille with extra chrome trim. The SS was dropped, but it would continue as the '''Nova Rally''', which was basically the same sporty-themed idea. Nova Rallys got a special unique grille that sported horizontal turn signals. Other models also got a slightly revised grille and all got a new dashboard with round gauges and an 80 MPH speedo.

1978 Novas continued with little change, other than the '''Custom''' model returning as the base model. The 2-door, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedan bodystyles, and Concours and Rally models, were still available. Intermittent wipers were a new option this year. By now, however, the Nova was starting to fall out of favor with much of the buying public, largely due to increased competition from the new [[Ford Fairmont]] and even Chevrolet's own [[Chevrolet Malibu|Malibu]], which was an all-new downsized model for 1978. Even though 1979 was a final abbreviated model year, the front end was nonetheless revised again with square headlights and a new horizontally-barred grille for the short run. All drivetrain, transmission and trim choices remained. The luxury-themed Concours model and 9C1 police package, however, were dropped. Production ended on December 22, 1978. The Nova was replaced by the all-new front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] for 1980. The Nova name, however, would reappear again in 1985 on an unrelated model.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:156392062X01LZZZZZZ.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
| 1985-1988
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|4-Door Sedan 5-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2500-2700 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|5-Speed Manual, FWD 3-Speed Automatic, FWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|1.6L (97 cid) I4
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Toyota Corolla]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|S
|}

==1985-1988 Nova==

In 1985 the Nova name was applied to a rebadged [[Toyota Corolla]] and was produced at the NUMMI plant in Fremont, California, as an historic first joint venture between [[General Motors]] and [[Toyota]]. It shared the Corolla's drivetrain and running gear, and was available as a 4-door sedan and a 5-door hatchback (just like the Corolla). It differed from the Corolla mainly with slightly different front-end styling. It also shared many interior parts, such as audio systems, with other GM's offerings whereas the Corolla did not. The Corolla had been redesigned for 1988, but the Nova continued to use the old platform for its last year. The Nova would be replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]], which was also a twin to the Corolla.

==Main Competitors 1985-1988==

*[[Dodge Omni]]
*[[Ford Escort]]
*[[Honda Civic]]
*[[Isuzu I-Mark]]
*[[Mazda 323]]
*[[Mercury Lynx]]
*[[Nissan Sentra]]
*[[Plymouth Horizon]]
*[[Volkswagen Golf]]

{{-}}

==Photos==
<gallery>
Image:Ad77police350x496.jpg
</gallery>

==Main Competitors 1968-1979==
*[[Dodge Dart]]/[[Dodge Aspen|Aspen]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]/[[Ford Maverick|Maverick]]/[[Ford Fairmont|Fairmont]]
*[[Ford Granada]]
*[[Mercury Comet]]/[[Mercury Zephyr|Zephyr]]
*[[Mercury Monarch]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]/[[Plymouth Volare|Volare]]

==The urban legend==
A popular urban legend asserts that the Nova sold poorly in Mexico and other Latin American countries because the phrase ''no va'' means "does not go" in Spanish. In reality, the Spanish language ''no va'' and ''nova'' are as different as the English ''no table'' and ''notable'', or ''therapist'' and ''the rapist''. [http://www.snopes.com/business/misxlate/nova.asp] The word ''nova'' exists in [http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nova Spanish] with the same meaning as in English. Also, the Spanish word for 'new' (nuevo or nueva) is cognate to ''nova'', which originally meant "new" in Latin. Finally, as NOVA was a brand of gasoline sold for many years by PEMEX in Mexico, the largest of all Spanish-speaking Latin American countries, it is clear that this urban legend, while perhaps entertaining, is utterly baseless.

==See Also==
{{Chevrolet}}

==External links==
*[http://www.nnnova.com/ National Nostalgic Nova] The original National Nostalgic Nova Club Celebrating 25 Years of Helping Nova People The only Monthly Magazine dedicated to Only Novas!
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/nova/ Chevrolet Nova Internet Source] — The second known Nova site on the Internet
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/novaList.html Nova listserv] — The first and only known public [[Electronic mailing list|mailing list]] dedicated to Chevrolet Novas and other X-bodies; in continuous existence since January 1998
*[http://automotivehistoryonline.com/Chevrolet1960m.htm Automotive History Online] - Chevrolet Nova History & Photos
*[http://www.novaresource.org/ NovaResource.com] — Excellent source of history, production numbers, and option code information for 1962-79 Novas
*[http://www.stevesnovasite.com/ Steve's Nova Site] - Includes Q&A discussion board; another excellent resource for Nova owners
*[http://www.musclecarfacts.com/mcf/nova/nova.asp Chevy Nova SS at Muscle Car Facts] — A year-by-year history.
*[http://www.gen4novas.com/ Gen4Novas.com] — Source for the 'stepchild' Disco-era X-car.
*[http://www.2quicknovas.com/ 2QuickNovas.com] — Nova, technical, drag racing and general car info.
*[http://www.chevynova.org/1968.html]

[[Category:Classic cars]]

Chevrolet Nova

2010-10-18T22:13:45Z

Yankee: /* Fourth generation (1975–1979) */

The '''[[Chevrolet]] Nova''', or '''Chevy II''', was an American compact car introduced by [[General Motors]] in 1962. The original Chevy II was of unibody construction, powered by an OHV inline four or six-cylinder engine (and V8s later), and available in two- and four-door sedan configurations as well as convertible and station wagon versions. After the rear-engine [[Chevrolet Corvair]] was handily outsold by the conventional [[Ford Falcon]] in 1960, Chevrolet began work on a more conventional compact car that would eventually become the Chevy II. The Chevy II/Nova continued on throughout the 1960s and 70s with great success until it was supplanted by the front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] in 1980. The Nova name would reappear briefly again in 1985 as a twin to (of all things) the [[Toyota Corolla]]. The "Toyolet" Nova was discontinued after 1988, replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]].

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:1962 Chevrolet II.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1962-1965
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 2-Door Convertible 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 153" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 70.8"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 55"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1962-1965) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1962-1965) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1964-1965) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1964-1965) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1965)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-300 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==First Generation (1962-1965)==

Three different levels of this car were made - the baseline Chevy II '''100''', the mid-grade Chevy II '''300''' and the top-line Chevy II Nova '''400'''. Their was also the sport-oriented Chevy II Nova Super Sport ('''SS'''), available on the 2-door coupe or convertible. Available powerplants included the standard 2.5L (153 cid) I4 and optional the 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (standard on the SS). Bodystyles included a 2-door sedan and hardtop, 4-door sedan, 5-door wagon (with an optional rear-facing 3rd seat) and a 2-door convertible. Unlike its [[Dodge Dart]]/[[Plymouth Valiant]] and [[Ford Falcon]] competition, no V8s were initially offered, but Chevrolet 283 and 327 cid V8s were offered in some areas as dealer-installed options, up to and including the fuel injected version available in the [[Chevrolet Corvette]]. Transmissions were a column or floor 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed manual or 2-speed Powerglide automatic. SSs could have bucket seats with a floor console-shift.

For 1963, grilles and taillights were slightly revised but otherwise were largely unchanged. All bodystyles and engine choices remained the same. For 1964, the Chevy II's first factory V8 option was introduced - a "Turbo-Fire" 195 hp 4.7L (283 cid) V8 with a 2-bbl carb, or a 225 hp 4-bbl version. A larger I6 was also offered, the "Turbo-Thrift" 3.8L (230 cid). Other drivetrain choices remained the same. The convertible was dropped, and the SS was also dropped at the beginning of this year, but it was reinstated mid-year due to high popular demand. The 300 series trim level was discontinued, leaving the 100 and 400 levels. In 1965, the grille was redesigned and the parking lights were relocated from directly below the headlights to the bumper. Taillights were revised also. The 5.3L (327 cid) V8 debuted this year (also called "Turbo Fire") with 250 and 300 horsepower versions. Other drivetrain choices remained the same as before. There would be a restyled Nova for 1966.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Chevrolet-nova 66.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1966-1967
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 154.7" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 71.3"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 55.4"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1966-1967) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1967) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1966-1967) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1966-1967)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-350 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Second Generation (1966-1967)==

The second generation Novas would be short-lived, only going 2 model years. 1966 Novas saw a significant restyling, based in part on the Super Nova concept car. In general, external proportions were squared up but dimensions and features changed little. Wheelbase remained the same at 110". Trim choices were still the '''100''' and '''400'''. Engine options still included the basic 153 I4, 194 I6, the 195 hp and 225 hp 283s and 275 hp (up 25 from '65) and 350 hp (up 50 from '65) 327 V8s. V8 models got special lower fender badges behind the front wheels. Transmission choices remained the column or floor-shift 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed and 2-speed Powerglide automatics. The 327/350 engine was manual-shift only (3- or 4-speed) and was not available on the 100 series or wagon. Inside, there was a new dashboard that strongly resembled the larger [[Chevrolet Chevelle|Chevelle's]] (also all-new this year) and revised seat designs, but the Chevy II line during this time was still very spartan. The 90 hp 153 I4 was only offered in the base Chevy II 100 series models, with the 120-horsepower 194 I6 standard on the Nova and Nova SS lines. A new engine offering included a 140 hp 3.8L (230 cid) I6, available in all models except the baseline 100. The SS could still have bucket seats with a console floor shift.

Not many changes for 1967, but a 155 hp 4.1L (250 cid) I6 became available in all models except the 100. The 350 hp L79 327 V8 was unfortunately dropped this year, but other drivetrain choices remained the same as the previous year's. There would be an all-new Chevy II/Nova for 1968.

==Main Competitors 1962-1967==

*[[Dodge Dart]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]
*[[Studebaker Lark]]

[[Image:Nova front fender emblem 68-72.jpg|left|350px]]

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:477.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1968-1974
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1968-1970) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1968-1974) 5.0L (307 cid) V8 (1968-1973) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1968-1974) 6.5L (396 cid) cid V8 (1968-1970) 7.0L (427 cid) V8 (1970)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-425 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Apollo]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Third generation (1968–1974)==

An extensive redesign came in 1968, when the station wagon and two door hardtop bodystyles were discontinued. This body style continued (with a minor restyle in 1973) through 1974. One notable change was the front subframe assembly — as compared with [[Ford]], [[Chrysler]] and [[AMC]], in whose cars the entire front suspension was integrated with the bodyshell, a separate subframe housing the powertrain and front suspension (similar to the front part of the frame of GM's full-size, full-framed vehicles) replaced the earlier style. Although the front subframe design was a Chevy II-exclusive design, the [[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]] introduced a year earlier was the first to incorporate such a design; the redesigned Chevy II was pushed a year back to 1968 instead of 1967. 1968 was the final year that the Chevy II nameplate was used, although all 1968 models were "Chevy II Novas" with one single trim line.

The 90 hp 153 I4 carried over from the previous generation as standard on the baseline model. Far more popular were the 140 hp 230 I6 and 155 hp 250 I6 and the new 200 hp 5.0L (307 cid) V8, which replaced the 283 offered in previous generations. At mid-year a semi-automatic transmission based on the Powerglide called Torque-Drive was introduced as a low-cost option for shiftless motoring for both the four and six-cylinder engines. The two-speed Powerglide was still the only fully-automatic gearbox available with most engines as the more desirable three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic was only available with the largest V8 engines. An interesting engine option was the 5.3L (327 cid) V8 rated at 350 hp (RPO code L79).

The '''SS''' was transformed from a trim package to a performance option for 1968 and now included a "Turbo Fire" 295 hp 5.7L (350 cid) V8 engine along with front disc brakes, heavy-duty suspension and other performance hardware. Optional engines included two versions of the big-block 6.5L (396 cid) V8 rated at 350 and 375 hp. Both 396 engines were offered with a choice of transmissions including the M-21 close-ratio four-speed manual, the M-22 heavy-duty "Rock Crusher" four-speed manual, or the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 400 for those who preferred automatic shifting. SSs (and lesser coupes) could have a console with optional auxiliary gauges very similar to the contemporary Camaro design.

===1969===

The Chevy II nameplate was retired and the car became the "Chevy Nova" for this year (some sources referred to it as the Chevrolet Chevy Nova - perhaps the decision to drop the Chevy II moniker was a last-minute decision for 1969). Like other 1969 GM vehicles, locking steering columns were incorporated along with column ignitions. Simulated vents were added below the Nova script, which was relocated to the front fender instead of the rear quarter panel. The 350-4 that came standard with the SS option was revised with a five-hp increase to 300 while a 350-2 rated at 255 hp was a new option on non-SS models. A new Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 three-speed automatic was made available for non-SS Novas with six-cylinder and V8 engines.

===1970===

Basically a carryover from 1969; the side markers and taillight lenses were wider and positioned slightly differently, which placed the reverse lights in the middle of the taillight lens instead of the inward portion. This was the final year for the SS396. All other engines were carried over including the seldom-ordered four-cylinder which was in its final year. The car finally became simply the Chevrolet Nova this year after two years of transitional nameplates (Chevy II Nova in 1968 and Chevrolet Chevy Nova in 1969).

Approximately 177 COPO Novas were ordered, with 175 converted by Yenko Chevrolet (the other two were sold in Canada). These had the mighty LT1 (350 cid) V8 engine

A beater 1970 Nova coupe is prominently featured in the movie ''Beverly Hills Cop''.

===1971===

1971 Novas were similar to the previous year but with the loss of the simulated fender vents and the discontinuation of the 396 motor for the SS with the L48 350-4 taking its place. 1971 also saw the introduction of the '''Rally Nova''', a trim level that only lasted two years and was marketed as sort of a budget-SS. The Rally package included black or white stripes that ran the length of the car and around the back, a Rally Nova sticker on the driver's side of the hood, and Rally wheels.

The 250 I6 was now the standard Nova powerplant with the demise of the 153 I4 and 230 I6 engines. The 307 and 350 V8s were carried over from 1970 and all engines featured lowered compression ratios to enable the use of unleaded gasoline as a result of a GM corporate mandate that took effect with the 1971 model year.

After 1971, other GM divisions began rebadging the Nova as their new entry-level vehicle, such as the [[Pontiac Ventura]] II (once a trim option for full-size Pontiacs to 1970), [[Oldsmobile Omega]] (1973) and the [[Buick Apollo]] (mid-1973). Interestingly, the intials of the four model names spelled out the acronym '''NOVA''' (Nova, Omega, Ventura, Apollo.)

===1972===

A virtual rerun of 1971, the 1972 Nova received only minor trim changes and both the Rally Nova and SS options carried over. At mid-year a manual canvas sunroof option became available on two-door models. Also, the optional Strato bucket seats available on coupes switched from the previous low-back design with adjustable headrests to the high back units with built-in headrests introduced the previous year on Camaros and Vegas. Standard engine was still the 250 I6 with either a 3- or 4-speed manual or 2- or 3-speed automatics. The 307 and 350 V8s remained optional. There would be a restyled Nova for 1973.

===1973===

The 1973 model year introduced a new hatchback bodystyle based on the 2-door coupe, as well as a front and rear restyling and a modified rear side window shape, plus a revised rear suspension adapted from the second-generation Camaro with multi-leaf springs replacing the mono-leaf springs used on Novas since the original 1966 model. Front vent windows disappeared, and instrumentation remained the same as before. A luxury-themed '''Custom''' became part of the model lineup which included upgraded upholstery, full carpeting, more exterior trim and available on all bodystyles. By this time, six-cylinder and V8 engines were ''de rigeur'' for American compact cars, with the 115 hp 307, 145 hp 350-2 and 175 hp 350-4 V8s as options (standard on the SS). The 100 hp 250 cid I6 was still standard on the rest and still had the two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission as an option, which was in its final year.

===1974===

For 1974, the powerglide was replaced by a lightweight version of the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 already offered with the 350 V8, which was now the only V8 offered this year. The SS option was still available but became more of a sporty trim package than a performance offering and now offered with any Nova engine, much like the 1963-67 Nova SS. The 250 I6 remained standard, and transmission choices, with the exception of the 2-speed Powerglide, remained the same as well. The 350-4 got a 10 hp boost to 185. There would be an all-new Nova for 1975.

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:77rally.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1975-1979
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 196.7"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 72.2"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 54.3"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 111"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1975-1979) 4.3L (262 cid) V8 (1975) 5.0L (305 cid) V8 (1976-1979) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1975-1978)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|110-170 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Skylark]] [[Cadillac Seville]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]/[[Pontiac Phoenix|Phoenix]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Fourth generation (1975–1979)==

A completely redesigned Nova was introduced in 1975. Bodystyles were still the 2-door coupe, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedans. Base coupes, including the hatchback, had fixed side windows (or optional flip-out windows) and simulated vertical vents on the B-pillar (sedans would have simulated horizontal vents at the bottom of the C-pillar). The new Nova still rode the same 111" wheelbase as before. Engines this year were the standard 105 hp 250 cid I6 carried over from the previous generations, a new 110 hp 4.3L (262 cid) 2bbl V8, a 145 hp 350-2 and 155 hp 350-4 V8 were optional. All models now had catalytic converters requiring unleaded gasoline. V8 models had metric engine callouts above the front side-marker lights. The front suspension and subframe assembly was similar to the one used in the second-generation GM F-body ([[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]], [[Pontiac Firebird|Firebird]]), whereas the rear axle and suspension were carried over from the 1968-74 generation.

The Nova lineup now ranged from the base, '''Custom''', and the luxury-themed '''LN''' ("Luxury Nova"). The Nova '''SS''' continued for 1975 and got a unique grille and requisite badges. Dashboards and other controls were virtually identical in layout compared to the previous generation. Power windows and locks were now an option for the first time in the Nova line. A high-performance 9C1 police version of the Nova was introduced for the 1975 model year, making it the first compact car certified for police duty in the U.S. Most were initially purchased by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department in 1976.

The LN was replaced with the Nova '''Concours''' in 1976, and the Custom model was gone (temporarily). The grille was changed slightly, and the short-lived 262 V8 was replaced by the new 140 hp 5.0L (305 cid) 2bbl V8 and was standard on the Concours. The 165 hp 350-4 V8 remained the top engine option, the 350-2 was dropped. V8 models no longer had the metric callouts above the front side marker lights like the previous year. Transmissions included the 3-speed manual standard with the I6, with a 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic optional on all engines. 1977 Concours models got a new 3-taillight lens scheme very similar to the larger [[Chevrolet Impala|Impala]] with a [[Cadillac]]-esque front clip that included chrome squared-off headlight bezels and a more elegant-looking vertically-barred grille with extra chrome trim. The SS was dropped, but it would continue as the '''Nova Rally''', which was basically the same sporty-themed idea. Nova Rallys got a special unique grille that sported horizontal turn signals. Other models also got a slightly revised grille and all got a new dashboard with round gauges and an 80 MPH speedo.

1978 Novas continued with little change, other than the '''Custom''' model returning as the base model. The 2-door, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedan bodystyles, and Concours and Rally models, were still available. Intermittent wipers were a new option this year. By now, however, the Nova was starting to fall out of favor with much of the buying public, largely due to increased competition from the new [[Ford Fairmont]] and even Chevrolet's own [[Chevrolet Malibu|Malibu]], which was an all-new downsized model for 1978. Even though 1979 was a final abbreviated model year, the front end was nonetheless revised again with square headlights and a new horizontally-barred grille for the short run. The 9C1 police package was dropped for '79, along with the Rally model and 350 V8 engine. Production ended on December 22, 1978. The Nova was replaced by the all-new front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] for 1980. The Nova name, however, would reappear again in 1985 on an unrelated model.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:156392062X01LZZZZZZ.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
| 1985-1988
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|4-Door Sedan 5-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2500-2700 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|5-Speed Manual, FWD 3-Speed Automatic, FWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|1.6L (97 cid) I4
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Toyota Corolla]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|S
|}

==1985-1988 Nova==

In 1985 the Nova name was applied to a rebadged [[Toyota Corolla]] and was produced at the NUMMI plant in Fremont, California, as an historic first joint venture between [[General Motors]] and [[Toyota]]. It shared the Corolla's drivetrain and running gear, and was available as a 4-door sedan and a 5-door hatchback (just like the Corolla). It differed from the Corolla mainly with slightly different front-end styling. It also shared many interior parts, such as audio systems, with other GM's offerings whereas the Corolla did not. The Corolla had been redesigned for 1988, but the Nova continued to use the old platform for its last year. The Nova would be replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]], which was also a twin to the Corolla.

==Main Competitors 1985-1988==

*[[Dodge Omni]]
*[[Ford Escort]]
*[[Honda Civic]]
*[[Isuzu I-Mark]]
*[[Mazda 323]]
*[[Mercury Lynx]]
*[[Nissan Sentra]]
*[[Plymouth Horizon]]
*[[Volkswagen Golf]]

{{-}}

==Photos==
<gallery>
Image:Ad77police350x496.jpg
</gallery>

==Main Competitors 1968-1979==
*[[Dodge Dart]]/[[Dodge Aspen|Aspen]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]/[[Ford Maverick|Maverick]]/[[Ford Fairmont|Fairmont]]
*[[Ford Granada]]
*[[Mercury Comet]]/[[Mercury Zephyr|Zephyr]]
*[[Mercury Monarch]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]/[[Plymouth Volare|Volare]]

==The urban legend==
A popular urban legend asserts that the Nova sold poorly in Mexico and other Latin American countries because the phrase ''no va'' means "does not go" in Spanish. In reality, the Spanish language ''no va'' and ''nova'' are as different as the English ''no table'' and ''notable'', or ''therapist'' and ''the rapist''. [http://www.snopes.com/business/misxlate/nova.asp] The word ''nova'' exists in [http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nova Spanish] with the same meaning as in English. Also, the Spanish word for 'new' (nuevo or nueva) is cognate to ''nova'', which originally meant "new" in Latin. Finally, as NOVA was a brand of gasoline sold for many years by PEMEX in Mexico, the largest of all Spanish-speaking Latin American countries, it is clear that this urban legend, while perhaps entertaining, is utterly baseless.

==See Also==
{{Chevrolet}}

==External links==
*[http://www.nnnova.com/ National Nostalgic Nova] The original National Nostalgic Nova Club Celebrating 25 Years of Helping Nova People The only Monthly Magazine dedicated to Only Novas!
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/nova/ Chevrolet Nova Internet Source] — The second known Nova site on the Internet
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/novaList.html Nova listserv] — The first and only known public [[Electronic mailing list|mailing list]] dedicated to Chevrolet Novas and other X-bodies; in continuous existence since January 1998
*[http://automotivehistoryonline.com/Chevrolet1960m.htm Automotive History Online] - Chevrolet Nova History & Photos
*[http://www.novaresource.org/ NovaResource.com] — Excellent source of history, production numbers, and option code information for 1962-79 Novas
*[http://www.stevesnovasite.com/ Steve's Nova Site] - Includes Q&A discussion board; another excellent resource for Nova owners
*[http://www.musclecarfacts.com/mcf/nova/nova.asp Chevy Nova SS at Muscle Car Facts] — A year-by-year history.
*[http://www.gen4novas.com/ Gen4Novas.com] — Source for the 'stepchild' Disco-era X-car.
*[http://www.2quicknovas.com/ 2QuickNovas.com] — Nova, technical, drag racing and general car info.
*[http://www.chevynova.org/1968.html]

[[Category:Classic cars]]

Chevrolet Nova

2010-10-18T22:10:14Z

Yankee: /* Fourth generation (1975–1979) */

The '''[[Chevrolet]] Nova''', or '''Chevy II''', was an American compact car introduced by [[General Motors]] in 1962. The original Chevy II was of unibody construction, powered by an OHV inline four or six-cylinder engine (and V8s later), and available in two- and four-door sedan configurations as well as convertible and station wagon versions. After the rear-engine [[Chevrolet Corvair]] was handily outsold by the conventional [[Ford Falcon]] in 1960, Chevrolet began work on a more conventional compact car that would eventually become the Chevy II. The Chevy II/Nova continued on throughout the 1960s and 70s with great success until it was supplanted by the front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] in 1980. The Nova name would reappear briefly again in 1985 as a twin to (of all things) the [[Toyota Corolla]]. The "Toyolet" Nova was discontinued after 1988, replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]].

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:1962 Chevrolet II.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1962-1965
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 2-Door Convertible 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 153" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 70.8"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 55"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1962-1965) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1962-1965) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1964-1965) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1964-1965) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1965)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-300 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==First Generation (1962-1965)==

Three different levels of this car were made - the baseline Chevy II '''100''', the mid-grade Chevy II '''300''' and the top-line Chevy II Nova '''400'''. Their was also the sport-oriented Chevy II Nova Super Sport ('''SS'''), available on the 2-door coupe or convertible. Available powerplants included the standard 2.5L (153 cid) I4 and optional the 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (standard on the SS). Bodystyles included a 2-door sedan and hardtop, 4-door sedan, 5-door wagon (with an optional rear-facing 3rd seat) and a 2-door convertible. Unlike its [[Dodge Dart]]/[[Plymouth Valiant]] and [[Ford Falcon]] competition, no V8s were initially offered, but Chevrolet 283 and 327 cid V8s were offered in some areas as dealer-installed options, up to and including the fuel injected version available in the [[Chevrolet Corvette]]. Transmissions were a column or floor 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed manual or 2-speed Powerglide automatic. SSs could have bucket seats with a floor console-shift.

For 1963, grilles and taillights were slightly revised but otherwise were largely unchanged. All bodystyles and engine choices remained the same. For 1964, the Chevy II's first factory V8 option was introduced - a "Turbo-Fire" 195 hp 4.7L (283 cid) V8 with a 2-bbl carb, or a 225 hp 4-bbl version. A larger I6 was also offered, the "Turbo-Thrift" 3.8L (230 cid). Other drivetrain choices remained the same. The convertible was dropped, and the SS was also dropped at the beginning of this year, but it was reinstated mid-year due to high popular demand. The 300 series trim level was discontinued, leaving the 100 and 400 levels. In 1965, the grille was redesigned and the parking lights were relocated from directly below the headlights to the bumper. Taillights were revised also. The 5.3L (327 cid) V8 debuted this year (also called "Turbo Fire") with 250 and 300 horsepower versions. Other drivetrain choices remained the same as before. There would be a restyled Nova for 1966.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Chevrolet-nova 66.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1966-1967
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 154.7" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 71.3"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 55.4"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1966-1967) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1967) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1966-1967) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1966-1967)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-350 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Second Generation (1966-1967)==

The second generation Novas would be short-lived, only going 2 model years. 1966 Novas saw a significant restyling, based in part on the Super Nova concept car. In general, external proportions were squared up but dimensions and features changed little. Wheelbase remained the same at 110". Trim choices were still the '''100''' and '''400'''. Engine options still included the basic 153 I4, 194 I6, the 195 hp and 225 hp 283s and 275 hp (up 25 from '65) and 350 hp (up 50 from '65) 327 V8s. V8 models got special lower fender badges behind the front wheels. Transmission choices remained the column or floor-shift 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed and 2-speed Powerglide automatics. The 327/350 engine was manual-shift only (3- or 4-speed) and was not available on the 100 series or wagon. Inside, there was a new dashboard that strongly resembled the larger [[Chevrolet Chevelle|Chevelle's]] (also all-new this year) and revised seat designs, but the Chevy II line during this time was still very spartan. The 90 hp 153 I4 was only offered in the base Chevy II 100 series models, with the 120-horsepower 194 I6 standard on the Nova and Nova SS lines. A new engine offering included a 140 hp 3.8L (230 cid) I6, available in all models except the baseline 100. The SS could still have bucket seats with a console floor shift.

Not many changes for 1967, but a 155 hp 4.1L (250 cid) I6 became available in all models except the 100. The 350 hp L79 327 V8 was unfortunately dropped this year, but other drivetrain choices remained the same as the previous year's. There would be an all-new Chevy II/Nova for 1968.

==Main Competitors 1962-1967==

*[[Dodge Dart]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]
*[[Studebaker Lark]]

[[Image:Nova front fender emblem 68-72.jpg|left|350px]]

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:477.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1968-1974
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1968-1970) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1968-1974) 5.0L (307 cid) V8 (1968-1973) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1968-1974) 6.5L (396 cid) cid V8 (1968-1970) 7.0L (427 cid) V8 (1970)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-425 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Apollo]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Third generation (1968–1974)==

An extensive redesign came in 1968, when the station wagon and two door hardtop bodystyles were discontinued. This body style continued (with a minor restyle in 1973) through 1974. One notable change was the front subframe assembly — as compared with [[Ford]], [[Chrysler]] and [[AMC]], in whose cars the entire front suspension was integrated with the bodyshell, a separate subframe housing the powertrain and front suspension (similar to the front part of the frame of GM's full-size, full-framed vehicles) replaced the earlier style. Although the front subframe design was a Chevy II-exclusive design, the [[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]] introduced a year earlier was the first to incorporate such a design; the redesigned Chevy II was pushed a year back to 1968 instead of 1967. 1968 was the final year that the Chevy II nameplate was used, although all 1968 models were "Chevy II Novas" with one single trim line.

The 90 hp 153 I4 carried over from the previous generation as standard on the baseline model. Far more popular were the 140 hp 230 I6 and 155 hp 250 I6 and the new 200 hp 5.0L (307 cid) V8, which replaced the 283 offered in previous generations. At mid-year a semi-automatic transmission based on the Powerglide called Torque-Drive was introduced as a low-cost option for shiftless motoring for both the four and six-cylinder engines. The two-speed Powerglide was still the only fully-automatic gearbox available with most engines as the more desirable three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic was only available with the largest V8 engines. An interesting engine option was the 5.3L (327 cid) V8 rated at 350 hp (RPO code L79).

The '''SS''' was transformed from a trim package to a performance option for 1968 and now included a "Turbo Fire" 295 hp 5.7L (350 cid) V8 engine along with front disc brakes, heavy-duty suspension and other performance hardware. Optional engines included two versions of the big-block 6.5L (396 cid) V8 rated at 350 and 375 hp. Both 396 engines were offered with a choice of transmissions including the M-21 close-ratio four-speed manual, the M-22 heavy-duty "Rock Crusher" four-speed manual, or the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 400 for those who preferred automatic shifting. SSs (and lesser coupes) could have a console with optional auxiliary gauges very similar to the contemporary Camaro design.

===1969===

The Chevy II nameplate was retired and the car became the "Chevy Nova" for this year (some sources referred to it as the Chevrolet Chevy Nova - perhaps the decision to drop the Chevy II moniker was a last-minute decision for 1969). Like other 1969 GM vehicles, locking steering columns were incorporated along with column ignitions. Simulated vents were added below the Nova script, which was relocated to the front fender instead of the rear quarter panel. The 350-4 that came standard with the SS option was revised with a five-hp increase to 300 while a 350-2 rated at 255 hp was a new option on non-SS models. A new Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 three-speed automatic was made available for non-SS Novas with six-cylinder and V8 engines.

===1970===

Basically a carryover from 1969; the side markers and taillight lenses were wider and positioned slightly differently, which placed the reverse lights in the middle of the taillight lens instead of the inward portion. This was the final year for the SS396. All other engines were carried over including the seldom-ordered four-cylinder which was in its final year. The car finally became simply the Chevrolet Nova this year after two years of transitional nameplates (Chevy II Nova in 1968 and Chevrolet Chevy Nova in 1969).

Approximately 177 COPO Novas were ordered, with 175 converted by Yenko Chevrolet (the other two were sold in Canada). These had the mighty LT1 (350 cid) V8 engine

A beater 1970 Nova coupe is prominently featured in the movie ''Beverly Hills Cop''.

===1971===

1971 Novas were similar to the previous year but with the loss of the simulated fender vents and the discontinuation of the 396 motor for the SS with the L48 350-4 taking its place. 1971 also saw the introduction of the '''Rally Nova''', a trim level that only lasted two years and was marketed as sort of a budget-SS. The Rally package included black or white stripes that ran the length of the car and around the back, a Rally Nova sticker on the driver's side of the hood, and Rally wheels.

The 250 I6 was now the standard Nova powerplant with the demise of the 153 I4 and 230 I6 engines. The 307 and 350 V8s were carried over from 1970 and all engines featured lowered compression ratios to enable the use of unleaded gasoline as a result of a GM corporate mandate that took effect with the 1971 model year.

After 1971, other GM divisions began rebadging the Nova as their new entry-level vehicle, such as the [[Pontiac Ventura]] II (once a trim option for full-size Pontiacs to 1970), [[Oldsmobile Omega]] (1973) and the [[Buick Apollo]] (mid-1973). Interestingly, the intials of the four model names spelled out the acronym '''NOVA''' (Nova, Omega, Ventura, Apollo.)

===1972===

A virtual rerun of 1971, the 1972 Nova received only minor trim changes and both the Rally Nova and SS options carried over. At mid-year a manual canvas sunroof option became available on two-door models. Also, the optional Strato bucket seats available on coupes switched from the previous low-back design with adjustable headrests to the high back units with built-in headrests introduced the previous year on Camaros and Vegas. Standard engine was still the 250 I6 with either a 3- or 4-speed manual or 2- or 3-speed automatics. The 307 and 350 V8s remained optional. There would be a restyled Nova for 1973.

===1973===

The 1973 model year introduced a new hatchback bodystyle based on the 2-door coupe, as well as a front and rear restyling and a modified rear side window shape, plus a revised rear suspension adapted from the second-generation Camaro with multi-leaf springs replacing the mono-leaf springs used on Novas since the original 1966 model. Front vent windows disappeared, and instrumentation remained the same as before. A luxury-themed '''Custom''' became part of the model lineup which included upgraded upholstery, full carpeting, more exterior trim and available on all bodystyles. By this time, six-cylinder and V8 engines were ''de rigeur'' for American compact cars, with the 115 hp 307, 145 hp 350-2 and 175 hp 350-4 V8s as options (standard on the SS). The 100 hp 250 cid I6 was still standard on the rest and still had the two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission as an option, which was in its final year.

===1974===

For 1974, the powerglide was replaced by a lightweight version of the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 already offered with the 350 V8, which was now the only V8 offered this year. The SS option was still available but became more of a sporty trim package than a performance offering and now offered with any Nova engine, much like the 1963-67 Nova SS. The 250 I6 remained standard, and transmission choices, with the exception of the 2-speed Powerglide, remained the same as well. The 350-4 got a 10 hp boost to 185. There would be an all-new Nova for 1975.

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:77rally.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1975-1979
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 196.7"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 72.2"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 54.3"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 111"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1975-1979) 4.3L (262 cid) V8 (1975) 5.0L (305 cid) V8 (1976-1979) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1975-1978)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|110-170 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Skylark]] [[Cadillac Seville]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]/[[Pontiac Phoenix|Phoenix]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Fourth generation (1975–1979)==

A completely redesigned Nova was introduced in 1975. Bodystyles were still the 2-door coupe, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedans. Base coupes, including the hatchback, had fixed side windows (or optional flip-out windows) and simulated vertical vents on the B-pillar (sedans would have simulated horizontal vents at the bottom of the C-pillar). The new Nova still rode the same 111" wheelbase as before. Engines this year were the standard 105 hp 250 cid I6 carried over from the previous generations, a new 110 hp 4.3L (262 cid) 2bbl V8, a 145 hp 350-2 and 155 hp 350-4 V8 were optional. All models now had catalytic converters requiring unleaded gasoline. V8 models had metric engine callouts above the front side-marker lights. The front suspension and subframe assembly was similar to the one used in the second-generation GM F-body ([[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]], [[Pontiac Firebird|Firebird]]), whereas the rear axle and suspension were carried over from the 1968-74 generation.

The Nova lineup now ranged from the base, '''Custom''', and the luxury-themed '''LN''' ("Luxury Nova"). The Nova '''SS''' continued for 1975 and got a unique grille and requisite badges. Dashboards and other controls were virtually identical in layout compared to the previous generation. Power windows and locks were now an option for the first time in the Nova line. A high-performance 9C1 police version of the Nova was introduced for the 1975 model year, making it the first compact car certified for police duty in the U.S. Most were initially purchased by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department in 1976.

The LN was replaced with the Nova '''Concours''' in 1976, and the Custom model was gone (temporarily). The grille was changed slightly, and the short-lived 262 V8 was replaced by the new 140 hp 5.0L (305 cid) 2bbl V8 and was standard on the Concours. The 165 hp 350-4 V8 remained the top engine option, the 350-2 was dropped. V8 models no longer had the metric callouts above the front side marker lights like the previous year. Transmissions included the 3-speed manual standard with the I6, with a 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic optional on all engines. 1977 Concours models got a new 3-taillight lens scheme very similar to the larger [[Chevrolet Impala|Impala]] with a [[Cadillac]]-esque front clip that included chrome squared-off headlight bezels and a more elegant-looking vertically-barred grille with extra chrome trim. The SS was dropped, but it would continue as the '''Nova Rally''', which was basically the same sporty-themed idea. Nova Rallys got a special unique grille that sported horizontal turn signals. Other models also got a slightly revised grille and all got a new dashboard with round gauges and an 80 MPH speedo.

1978 Novas continued with little change, other than the '''Custom''' model returning as the base model. The 2-door, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedan bodystyles, and Concours and Rally models, were still available. By now, however, the Nova was starting to fall out of favor with much of the buying public, largely due to increased competition from the new [[Ford Fairmont]] and even Chevrolet's own [[Chevrolet Malibu|Malibu]], which was an all-new downsized model for 1978. Even though 1979 was a final abbreviated model year, the front end was nonetheless revised again with square headlights and a new horizontally-barred grille for the short run. The 9C1 police package was dropped for '79, along with the Rally model and 350 V8 engine. Production ended on December 22, 1978. The Nova was replaced by the all-new front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] for 1980. The Nova name, however, would reappear again in 1985 on an unrelated model.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:156392062X01LZZZZZZ.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
| 1985-1988
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|4-Door Sedan 5-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2500-2700 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|5-Speed Manual, FWD 3-Speed Automatic, FWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|1.6L (97 cid) I4
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Toyota Corolla]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|S
|}

==1985-1988 Nova==

In 1985 the Nova name was applied to a rebadged [[Toyota Corolla]] and was produced at the NUMMI plant in Fremont, California, as an historic first joint venture between [[General Motors]] and [[Toyota]]. It shared the Corolla's drivetrain and running gear, and was available as a 4-door sedan and a 5-door hatchback (just like the Corolla). It differed from the Corolla mainly with slightly different front-end styling. It also shared many interior parts, such as audio systems, with other GM's offerings whereas the Corolla did not. The Corolla had been redesigned for 1988, but the Nova continued to use the old platform for its last year. The Nova would be replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]], which was also a twin to the Corolla.

==Main Competitors 1985-1988==

*[[Dodge Omni]]
*[[Ford Escort]]
*[[Honda Civic]]
*[[Isuzu I-Mark]]
*[[Mazda 323]]
*[[Mercury Lynx]]
*[[Nissan Sentra]]
*[[Plymouth Horizon]]
*[[Volkswagen Golf]]

{{-}}

==Photos==
<gallery>
Image:Ad77police350x496.jpg
</gallery>

==Main Competitors 1968-1979==
*[[Dodge Dart]]/[[Dodge Aspen|Aspen]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]/[[Ford Maverick|Maverick]]/[[Ford Fairmont|Fairmont]]
*[[Ford Granada]]
*[[Mercury Comet]]/[[Mercury Zephyr|Zephyr]]
*[[Mercury Monarch]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]/[[Plymouth Volare|Volare]]

==The urban legend==
A popular urban legend asserts that the Nova sold poorly in Mexico and other Latin American countries because the phrase ''no va'' means "does not go" in Spanish. In reality, the Spanish language ''no va'' and ''nova'' are as different as the English ''no table'' and ''notable'', or ''therapist'' and ''the rapist''. [http://www.snopes.com/business/misxlate/nova.asp] The word ''nova'' exists in [http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nova Spanish] with the same meaning as in English. Also, the Spanish word for 'new' (nuevo or nueva) is cognate to ''nova'', which originally meant "new" in Latin. Finally, as NOVA was a brand of gasoline sold for many years by PEMEX in Mexico, the largest of all Spanish-speaking Latin American countries, it is clear that this urban legend, while perhaps entertaining, is utterly baseless.

==See Also==
{{Chevrolet}}

==External links==
*[http://www.nnnova.com/ National Nostalgic Nova] The original National Nostalgic Nova Club Celebrating 25 Years of Helping Nova People The only Monthly Magazine dedicated to Only Novas!
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/nova/ Chevrolet Nova Internet Source] — The second known Nova site on the Internet
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/novaList.html Nova listserv] — The first and only known public [[Electronic mailing list|mailing list]] dedicated to Chevrolet Novas and other X-bodies; in continuous existence since January 1998
*[http://automotivehistoryonline.com/Chevrolet1960m.htm Automotive History Online] - Chevrolet Nova History & Photos
*[http://www.novaresource.org/ NovaResource.com] — Excellent source of history, production numbers, and option code information for 1962-79 Novas
*[http://www.stevesnovasite.com/ Steve's Nova Site] - Includes Q&A discussion board; another excellent resource for Nova owners
*[http://www.musclecarfacts.com/mcf/nova/nova.asp Chevy Nova SS at Muscle Car Facts] — A year-by-year history.
*[http://www.gen4novas.com/ Gen4Novas.com] — Source for the 'stepchild' Disco-era X-car.
*[http://www.2quicknovas.com/ 2QuickNovas.com] — Nova, technical, drag racing and general car info.
*[http://www.chevynova.org/1968.html]

[[Category:Classic cars]]

Chevrolet Nova

2010-10-18T22:08:22Z

Yankee: /* Fourth generation (1975–1979) */

The '''[[Chevrolet]] Nova''', or '''Chevy II''', was an American compact car introduced by [[General Motors]] in 1962. The original Chevy II was of unibody construction, powered by an OHV inline four or six-cylinder engine (and V8s later), and available in two- and four-door sedan configurations as well as convertible and station wagon versions. After the rear-engine [[Chevrolet Corvair]] was handily outsold by the conventional [[Ford Falcon]] in 1960, Chevrolet began work on a more conventional compact car that would eventually become the Chevy II. The Chevy II/Nova continued on throughout the 1960s and 70s with great success until it was supplanted by the front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] in 1980. The Nova name would reappear briefly again in 1985 as a twin to (of all things) the [[Toyota Corolla]]. The "Toyolet" Nova was discontinued after 1988, replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]].

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:1962 Chevrolet II.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1962-1965
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 2-Door Convertible 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 153" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 70.8"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 55"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1962-1965) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1962-1965) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1964-1965) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1964-1965) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1965)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-300 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==First Generation (1962-1965)==

Three different levels of this car were made - the baseline Chevy II '''100''', the mid-grade Chevy II '''300''' and the top-line Chevy II Nova '''400'''. Their was also the sport-oriented Chevy II Nova Super Sport ('''SS'''), available on the 2-door coupe or convertible. Available powerplants included the standard 2.5L (153 cid) I4 and optional the 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (standard on the SS). Bodystyles included a 2-door sedan and hardtop, 4-door sedan, 5-door wagon (with an optional rear-facing 3rd seat) and a 2-door convertible. Unlike its [[Dodge Dart]]/[[Plymouth Valiant]] and [[Ford Falcon]] competition, no V8s were initially offered, but Chevrolet 283 and 327 cid V8s were offered in some areas as dealer-installed options, up to and including the fuel injected version available in the [[Chevrolet Corvette]]. Transmissions were a column or floor 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed manual or 2-speed Powerglide automatic. SSs could have bucket seats with a floor console-shift.

For 1963, grilles and taillights were slightly revised but otherwise were largely unchanged. All bodystyles and engine choices remained the same. For 1964, the Chevy II's first factory V8 option was introduced - a "Turbo-Fire" 195 hp 4.7L (283 cid) V8 with a 2-bbl carb, or a 225 hp 4-bbl version. A larger I6 was also offered, the "Turbo-Thrift" 3.8L (230 cid). Other drivetrain choices remained the same. The convertible was dropped, and the SS was also dropped at the beginning of this year, but it was reinstated mid-year due to high popular demand. The 300 series trim level was discontinued, leaving the 100 and 400 levels. In 1965, the grille was redesigned and the parking lights were relocated from directly below the headlights to the bumper. Taillights were revised also. The 5.3L (327 cid) V8 debuted this year (also called "Turbo Fire") with 250 and 300 horsepower versions. Other drivetrain choices remained the same as before. There would be a restyled Nova for 1966.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Chevrolet-nova 66.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1966-1967
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 154.7" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 71.3"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 55.4"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1966-1967) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1967) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1966-1967) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1966-1967)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-350 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Second Generation (1966-1967)==

The second generation Novas would be short-lived, only going 2 model years. 1966 Novas saw a significant restyling, based in part on the Super Nova concept car. In general, external proportions were squared up but dimensions and features changed little. Wheelbase remained the same at 110". Trim choices were still the '''100''' and '''400'''. Engine options still included the basic 153 I4, 194 I6, the 195 hp and 225 hp 283s and 275 hp (up 25 from '65) and 350 hp (up 50 from '65) 327 V8s. V8 models got special lower fender badges behind the front wheels. Transmission choices remained the column or floor-shift 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed and 2-speed Powerglide automatics. The 327/350 engine was manual-shift only (3- or 4-speed) and was not available on the 100 series or wagon. Inside, there was a new dashboard that strongly resembled the larger [[Chevrolet Chevelle|Chevelle's]] (also all-new this year) and revised seat designs, but the Chevy II line during this time was still very spartan. The 90 hp 153 I4 was only offered in the base Chevy II 100 series models, with the 120-horsepower 194 I6 standard on the Nova and Nova SS lines. A new engine offering included a 140 hp 3.8L (230 cid) I6, available in all models except the baseline 100. The SS could still have bucket seats with a console floor shift.

Not many changes for 1967, but a 155 hp 4.1L (250 cid) I6 became available in all models except the 100. The 350 hp L79 327 V8 was unfortunately dropped this year, but other drivetrain choices remained the same as the previous year's. There would be an all-new Chevy II/Nova for 1968.

==Main Competitors 1962-1967==

*[[Dodge Dart]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]
*[[Studebaker Lark]]

[[Image:Nova front fender emblem 68-72.jpg|left|350px]]

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:477.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1968-1974
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1968-1970) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1968-1974) 5.0L (307 cid) V8 (1968-1973) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1968-1974) 6.5L (396 cid) cid V8 (1968-1970) 7.0L (427 cid) V8 (1970)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-425 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Apollo]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Third generation (1968–1974)==

An extensive redesign came in 1968, when the station wagon and two door hardtop bodystyles were discontinued. This body style continued (with a minor restyle in 1973) through 1974. One notable change was the front subframe assembly — as compared with [[Ford]], [[Chrysler]] and [[AMC]], in whose cars the entire front suspension was integrated with the bodyshell, a separate subframe housing the powertrain and front suspension (similar to the front part of the frame of GM's full-size, full-framed vehicles) replaced the earlier style. Although the front subframe design was a Chevy II-exclusive design, the [[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]] introduced a year earlier was the first to incorporate such a design; the redesigned Chevy II was pushed a year back to 1968 instead of 1967. 1968 was the final year that the Chevy II nameplate was used, although all 1968 models were "Chevy II Novas" with one single trim line.

The 90 hp 153 I4 carried over from the previous generation as standard on the baseline model. Far more popular were the 140 hp 230 I6 and 155 hp 250 I6 and the new 200 hp 5.0L (307 cid) V8, which replaced the 283 offered in previous generations. At mid-year a semi-automatic transmission based on the Powerglide called Torque-Drive was introduced as a low-cost option for shiftless motoring for both the four and six-cylinder engines. The two-speed Powerglide was still the only fully-automatic gearbox available with most engines as the more desirable three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic was only available with the largest V8 engines. An interesting engine option was the 5.3L (327 cid) V8 rated at 350 hp (RPO code L79).

The '''SS''' was transformed from a trim package to a performance option for 1968 and now included a "Turbo Fire" 295 hp 5.7L (350 cid) V8 engine along with front disc brakes, heavy-duty suspension and other performance hardware. Optional engines included two versions of the big-block 6.5L (396 cid) V8 rated at 350 and 375 hp. Both 396 engines were offered with a choice of transmissions including the M-21 close-ratio four-speed manual, the M-22 heavy-duty "Rock Crusher" four-speed manual, or the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 400 for those who preferred automatic shifting. SSs (and lesser coupes) could have a console with optional auxiliary gauges very similar to the contemporary Camaro design.

===1969===

The Chevy II nameplate was retired and the car became the "Chevy Nova" for this year (some sources referred to it as the Chevrolet Chevy Nova - perhaps the decision to drop the Chevy II moniker was a last-minute decision for 1969). Like other 1969 GM vehicles, locking steering columns were incorporated along with column ignitions. Simulated vents were added below the Nova script, which was relocated to the front fender instead of the rear quarter panel. The 350-4 that came standard with the SS option was revised with a five-hp increase to 300 while a 350-2 rated at 255 hp was a new option on non-SS models. A new Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 three-speed automatic was made available for non-SS Novas with six-cylinder and V8 engines.

===1970===

Basically a carryover from 1969; the side markers and taillight lenses were wider and positioned slightly differently, which placed the reverse lights in the middle of the taillight lens instead of the inward portion. This was the final year for the SS396. All other engines were carried over including the seldom-ordered four-cylinder which was in its final year. The car finally became simply the Chevrolet Nova this year after two years of transitional nameplates (Chevy II Nova in 1968 and Chevrolet Chevy Nova in 1969).

Approximately 177 COPO Novas were ordered, with 175 converted by Yenko Chevrolet (the other two were sold in Canada). These had the mighty LT1 (350 cid) V8 engine

A beater 1970 Nova coupe is prominently featured in the movie ''Beverly Hills Cop''.

===1971===

1971 Novas were similar to the previous year but with the loss of the simulated fender vents and the discontinuation of the 396 motor for the SS with the L48 350-4 taking its place. 1971 also saw the introduction of the '''Rally Nova''', a trim level that only lasted two years and was marketed as sort of a budget-SS. The Rally package included black or white stripes that ran the length of the car and around the back, a Rally Nova sticker on the driver's side of the hood, and Rally wheels.

The 250 I6 was now the standard Nova powerplant with the demise of the 153 I4 and 230 I6 engines. The 307 and 350 V8s were carried over from 1970 and all engines featured lowered compression ratios to enable the use of unleaded gasoline as a result of a GM corporate mandate that took effect with the 1971 model year.

After 1971, other GM divisions began rebadging the Nova as their new entry-level vehicle, such as the [[Pontiac Ventura]] II (once a trim option for full-size Pontiacs to 1970), [[Oldsmobile Omega]] (1973) and the [[Buick Apollo]] (mid-1973). Interestingly, the intials of the four model names spelled out the acronym '''NOVA''' (Nova, Omega, Ventura, Apollo.)

===1972===

A virtual rerun of 1971, the 1972 Nova received only minor trim changes and both the Rally Nova and SS options carried over. At mid-year a manual canvas sunroof option became available on two-door models. Also, the optional Strato bucket seats available on coupes switched from the previous low-back design with adjustable headrests to the high back units with built-in headrests introduced the previous year on Camaros and Vegas. Standard engine was still the 250 I6 with either a 3- or 4-speed manual or 2- or 3-speed automatics. The 307 and 350 V8s remained optional. There would be a restyled Nova for 1973.

===1973===

The 1973 model year introduced a new hatchback bodystyle based on the 2-door coupe, as well as a front and rear restyling and a modified rear side window shape, plus a revised rear suspension adapted from the second-generation Camaro with multi-leaf springs replacing the mono-leaf springs used on Novas since the original 1966 model. Front vent windows disappeared, and instrumentation remained the same as before. A luxury-themed '''Custom''' became part of the model lineup which included upgraded upholstery, full carpeting, more exterior trim and available on all bodystyles. By this time, six-cylinder and V8 engines were ''de rigeur'' for American compact cars, with the 115 hp 307, 145 hp 350-2 and 175 hp 350-4 V8s as options (standard on the SS). The 100 hp 250 cid I6 was still standard on the rest and still had the two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission as an option, which was in its final year.

===1974===

For 1974, the powerglide was replaced by a lightweight version of the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 already offered with the 350 V8, which was now the only V8 offered this year. The SS option was still available but became more of a sporty trim package than a performance offering and now offered with any Nova engine, much like the 1963-67 Nova SS. The 250 I6 remained standard, and transmission choices, with the exception of the 2-speed Powerglide, remained the same as well. The 350-4 got a 10 hp boost to 185. There would be an all-new Nova for 1975.

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:77rally.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1975-1979
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 196.7"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 72.2"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 54.3"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 111"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1975-1979) 4.3L (262 cid) V8 (1975) 5.0L (305 cid) V8 (1976-1979) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1975-1978)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|110-170 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Skylark]] [[Cadillac Seville]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]/[[Pontiac Phoenix|Phoenix]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Fourth generation (1975–1979)==

A completely redesigned Nova was introduced in 1975. Bodystyles were still the 2-door coupe, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedans. Base coupes, including the hatchback, had fixed side windows (or optional flip-out windows) and simulated vertical vents on the B-pillar (sedans would have simulated horizontal vents at the bottom of the C-pillar). The new Nova still rode the same 111" wheelbase as before. Engines this year were the standard 105 hp 250 cid I6 carried over from the previous generations, a new 110 hp 4.3L (262 cid) 2bbl V8, a 145 hp 350-2 and 155 hp 350-4 V8 were optional. All models now had catalytic converters requiring unleaded gasoline. V8 models had metric engine callouts above the front side-marker lights. The front suspension and subframe assembly was similar to the one used in the second-generation GM F-body ([[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]], [[Pontiac Firebird|Firebird]]), whereas the rear axle and suspension were carried over from the 1968-74 generation.

The Nova lineup now ranged from the base, '''Custom''', and the luxury-themed '''LN''' ("Luxury Nova"). The Nova '''SS''' continued for 1975 and got a unique grille and requisite badges. Dashboards and other controls were virtually identical in layout compared to the previous generation. Power windows and locks were now an option for the first time in the Nova line. A high-performance 9C1 police version of the Nova was introduced for the 1975 model year, making it the first compact car certified for police duty in the U.S. Most were initially purchased by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department in 1976.

The LN was replaced with the Nova '''Concours''' in 1976, and the Custom model was gone (temporarily). The grille was changed slightly (SS models now had horizontal turn signals), and the short-lived 262 V8 was replaced by the new 140 hp 5.0L (305 cid) 2bbl V8 and was standard on the Concours. The 165 hp 350-4 V8 remained the top engine option, the 350-2 was dropped. V8 models no longer had the metric callouts above the front side marker lights like the previous year. Transmissions included the 3-speed manual standard with the I6, with a 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic optional on all engines. 1977 Concours models got a new 3-taillight lens scheme very similar to the larger [[Chevrolet Impala|Impala]] with a [[Cadillac]]-esque front clip that included chrome squared-off headlight bezels and a more elegant-looking vertically-barred grille with extra chrome trim. The SS was dropped, but it would continue as the '''Nova Rally''', which was basically the same sporty-themed idea. Other models also got a slightly revised grille and all got a new dashboard with round gauges and an 80 MPH speedo.

1978 Novas continued with little change, other than the '''Custom''' model returning as the base model. The 2-door, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedan bodystyles, and Concours and Rally models, were still available. By now, however, the Nova was starting to fall out of favor with much of the buying public, largely due to increased competition from the new [[Ford Fairmont]] and even Chevrolet's own [[Chevrolet Malibu|Malibu]], which was an all-new downsized model for 1978. Even though 1979 was a final abbreviated model year, the front end was nonetheless revised again with square headlights and a new horizontally-barred grille for the short run. The 9C1 police package was dropped for '79, along with the Rally model and 350 V8 engine. Production ended on December 22, 1978. The Nova was replaced by the all-new front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] for 1980. The Nova name, however, would reappear again in 1985 on an unrelated model.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:156392062X01LZZZZZZ.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
| 1985-1988
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|4-Door Sedan 5-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2500-2700 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|5-Speed Manual, FWD 3-Speed Automatic, FWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|1.6L (97 cid) I4
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Toyota Corolla]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|S
|}

==1985-1988 Nova==

In 1985 the Nova name was applied to a rebadged [[Toyota Corolla]] and was produced at the NUMMI plant in Fremont, California, as an historic first joint venture between [[General Motors]] and [[Toyota]]. It shared the Corolla's drivetrain and running gear, and was available as a 4-door sedan and a 5-door hatchback (just like the Corolla). It differed from the Corolla mainly with slightly different front-end styling. It also shared many interior parts, such as audio systems, with other GM's offerings whereas the Corolla did not. The Corolla had been redesigned for 1988, but the Nova continued to use the old platform for its last year. The Nova would be replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]], which was also a twin to the Corolla.

==Main Competitors 1985-1988==

*[[Dodge Omni]]
*[[Ford Escort]]
*[[Honda Civic]]
*[[Isuzu I-Mark]]
*[[Mazda 323]]
*[[Mercury Lynx]]
*[[Nissan Sentra]]
*[[Plymouth Horizon]]
*[[Volkswagen Golf]]

{{-}}

==Photos==
<gallery>
Image:Ad77police350x496.jpg
</gallery>

==Main Competitors 1968-1979==
*[[Dodge Dart]]/[[Dodge Aspen|Aspen]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]/[[Ford Maverick|Maverick]]/[[Ford Fairmont|Fairmont]]
*[[Ford Granada]]
*[[Mercury Comet]]/[[Mercury Zephyr|Zephyr]]
*[[Mercury Monarch]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]/[[Plymouth Volare|Volare]]

==The urban legend==
A popular urban legend asserts that the Nova sold poorly in Mexico and other Latin American countries because the phrase ''no va'' means "does not go" in Spanish. In reality, the Spanish language ''no va'' and ''nova'' are as different as the English ''no table'' and ''notable'', or ''therapist'' and ''the rapist''. [http://www.snopes.com/business/misxlate/nova.asp] The word ''nova'' exists in [http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nova Spanish] with the same meaning as in English. Also, the Spanish word for 'new' (nuevo or nueva) is cognate to ''nova'', which originally meant "new" in Latin. Finally, as NOVA was a brand of gasoline sold for many years by PEMEX in Mexico, the largest of all Spanish-speaking Latin American countries, it is clear that this urban legend, while perhaps entertaining, is utterly baseless.

==See Also==
{{Chevrolet}}

==External links==
*[http://www.nnnova.com/ National Nostalgic Nova] The original National Nostalgic Nova Club Celebrating 25 Years of Helping Nova People The only Monthly Magazine dedicated to Only Novas!
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/nova/ Chevrolet Nova Internet Source] — The second known Nova site on the Internet
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/novaList.html Nova listserv] — The first and only known public [[Electronic mailing list|mailing list]] dedicated to Chevrolet Novas and other X-bodies; in continuous existence since January 1998
*[http://automotivehistoryonline.com/Chevrolet1960m.htm Automotive History Online] - Chevrolet Nova History & Photos
*[http://www.novaresource.org/ NovaResource.com] — Excellent source of history, production numbers, and option code information for 1962-79 Novas
*[http://www.stevesnovasite.com/ Steve's Nova Site] - Includes Q&A discussion board; another excellent resource for Nova owners
*[http://www.musclecarfacts.com/mcf/nova/nova.asp Chevy Nova SS at Muscle Car Facts] — A year-by-year history.
*[http://www.gen4novas.com/ Gen4Novas.com] — Source for the 'stepchild' Disco-era X-car.
*[http://www.2quicknovas.com/ 2QuickNovas.com] — Nova, technical, drag racing and general car info.
*[http://www.chevynova.org/1968.html]

[[Category:Classic cars]]

Chevrolet Nova

2010-10-18T22:07:23Z

Yankee: /* Fourth generation (1975–1979) */

The '''[[Chevrolet]] Nova''', or '''Chevy II''', was an American compact car introduced by [[General Motors]] in 1962. The original Chevy II was of unibody construction, powered by an OHV inline four or six-cylinder engine (and V8s later), and available in two- and four-door sedan configurations as well as convertible and station wagon versions. After the rear-engine [[Chevrolet Corvair]] was handily outsold by the conventional [[Ford Falcon]] in 1960, Chevrolet began work on a more conventional compact car that would eventually become the Chevy II. The Chevy II/Nova continued on throughout the 1960s and 70s with great success until it was supplanted by the front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] in 1980. The Nova name would reappear briefly again in 1985 as a twin to (of all things) the [[Toyota Corolla]]. The "Toyolet" Nova was discontinued after 1988, replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]].

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:1962 Chevrolet II.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1962-1965
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 2-Door Convertible 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 153" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 70.8"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 55"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1962-1965) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1962-1965) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1964-1965) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1964-1965) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1965)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-300 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==First Generation (1962-1965)==

Three different levels of this car were made - the baseline Chevy II '''100''', the mid-grade Chevy II '''300''' and the top-line Chevy II Nova '''400'''. Their was also the sport-oriented Chevy II Nova Super Sport ('''SS'''), available on the 2-door coupe or convertible. Available powerplants included the standard 2.5L (153 cid) I4 and optional the 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (standard on the SS). Bodystyles included a 2-door sedan and hardtop, 4-door sedan, 5-door wagon (with an optional rear-facing 3rd seat) and a 2-door convertible. Unlike its [[Dodge Dart]]/[[Plymouth Valiant]] and [[Ford Falcon]] competition, no V8s were initially offered, but Chevrolet 283 and 327 cid V8s were offered in some areas as dealer-installed options, up to and including the fuel injected version available in the [[Chevrolet Corvette]]. Transmissions were a column or floor 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed manual or 2-speed Powerglide automatic. SSs could have bucket seats with a floor console-shift.

For 1963, grilles and taillights were slightly revised but otherwise were largely unchanged. All bodystyles and engine choices remained the same. For 1964, the Chevy II's first factory V8 option was introduced - a "Turbo-Fire" 195 hp 4.7L (283 cid) V8 with a 2-bbl carb, or a 225 hp 4-bbl version. A larger I6 was also offered, the "Turbo-Thrift" 3.8L (230 cid). Other drivetrain choices remained the same. The convertible was dropped, and the SS was also dropped at the beginning of this year, but it was reinstated mid-year due to high popular demand. The 300 series trim level was discontinued, leaving the 100 and 400 levels. In 1965, the grille was redesigned and the parking lights were relocated from directly below the headlights to the bumper. Taillights were revised also. The 5.3L (327 cid) V8 debuted this year (also called "Turbo Fire") with 250 and 300 horsepower versions. Other drivetrain choices remained the same as before. There would be a restyled Nova for 1966.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Chevrolet-nova 66.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1966-1967
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 154.7" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 71.3"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 55.4"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1966-1967) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1967) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1966-1967) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1966-1967)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-350 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Second Generation (1966-1967)==

The second generation Novas would be short-lived, only going 2 model years. 1966 Novas saw a significant restyling, based in part on the Super Nova concept car. In general, external proportions were squared up but dimensions and features changed little. Wheelbase remained the same at 110". Trim choices were still the '''100''' and '''400'''. Engine options still included the basic 153 I4, 194 I6, the 195 hp and 225 hp 283s and 275 hp (up 25 from '65) and 350 hp (up 50 from '65) 327 V8s. V8 models got special lower fender badges behind the front wheels. Transmission choices remained the column or floor-shift 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed and 2-speed Powerglide automatics. The 327/350 engine was manual-shift only (3- or 4-speed) and was not available on the 100 series or wagon. Inside, there was a new dashboard that strongly resembled the larger [[Chevrolet Chevelle|Chevelle's]] (also all-new this year) and revised seat designs, but the Chevy II line during this time was still very spartan. The 90 hp 153 I4 was only offered in the base Chevy II 100 series models, with the 120-horsepower 194 I6 standard on the Nova and Nova SS lines. A new engine offering included a 140 hp 3.8L (230 cid) I6, available in all models except the baseline 100. The SS could still have bucket seats with a console floor shift.

Not many changes for 1967, but a 155 hp 4.1L (250 cid) I6 became available in all models except the 100. The 350 hp L79 327 V8 was unfortunately dropped this year, but other drivetrain choices remained the same as the previous year's. There would be an all-new Chevy II/Nova for 1968.

==Main Competitors 1962-1967==

*[[Dodge Dart]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]
*[[Studebaker Lark]]

[[Image:Nova front fender emblem 68-72.jpg|left|350px]]

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:477.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1968-1974
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1968-1970) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1968-1974) 5.0L (307 cid) V8 (1968-1973) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1968-1974) 6.5L (396 cid) cid V8 (1968-1970) 7.0L (427 cid) V8 (1970)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-425 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Apollo]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Third generation (1968–1974)==

An extensive redesign came in 1968, when the station wagon and two door hardtop bodystyles were discontinued. This body style continued (with a minor restyle in 1973) through 1974. One notable change was the front subframe assembly — as compared with [[Ford]], [[Chrysler]] and [[AMC]], in whose cars the entire front suspension was integrated with the bodyshell, a separate subframe housing the powertrain and front suspension (similar to the front part of the frame of GM's full-size, full-framed vehicles) replaced the earlier style. Although the front subframe design was a Chevy II-exclusive design, the [[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]] introduced a year earlier was the first to incorporate such a design; the redesigned Chevy II was pushed a year back to 1968 instead of 1967. 1968 was the final year that the Chevy II nameplate was used, although all 1968 models were "Chevy II Novas" with one single trim line.

The 90 hp 153 I4 carried over from the previous generation as standard on the baseline model. Far more popular were the 140 hp 230 I6 and 155 hp 250 I6 and the new 200 hp 5.0L (307 cid) V8, which replaced the 283 offered in previous generations. At mid-year a semi-automatic transmission based on the Powerglide called Torque-Drive was introduced as a low-cost option for shiftless motoring for both the four and six-cylinder engines. The two-speed Powerglide was still the only fully-automatic gearbox available with most engines as the more desirable three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic was only available with the largest V8 engines. An interesting engine option was the 5.3L (327 cid) V8 rated at 350 hp (RPO code L79).

The '''SS''' was transformed from a trim package to a performance option for 1968 and now included a "Turbo Fire" 295 hp 5.7L (350 cid) V8 engine along with front disc brakes, heavy-duty suspension and other performance hardware. Optional engines included two versions of the big-block 6.5L (396 cid) V8 rated at 350 and 375 hp. Both 396 engines were offered with a choice of transmissions including the M-21 close-ratio four-speed manual, the M-22 heavy-duty "Rock Crusher" four-speed manual, or the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 400 for those who preferred automatic shifting. SSs (and lesser coupes) could have a console with optional auxiliary gauges very similar to the contemporary Camaro design.

===1969===

The Chevy II nameplate was retired and the car became the "Chevy Nova" for this year (some sources referred to it as the Chevrolet Chevy Nova - perhaps the decision to drop the Chevy II moniker was a last-minute decision for 1969). Like other 1969 GM vehicles, locking steering columns were incorporated along with column ignitions. Simulated vents were added below the Nova script, which was relocated to the front fender instead of the rear quarter panel. The 350-4 that came standard with the SS option was revised with a five-hp increase to 300 while a 350-2 rated at 255 hp was a new option on non-SS models. A new Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 three-speed automatic was made available for non-SS Novas with six-cylinder and V8 engines.

===1970===

Basically a carryover from 1969; the side markers and taillight lenses were wider and positioned slightly differently, which placed the reverse lights in the middle of the taillight lens instead of the inward portion. This was the final year for the SS396. All other engines were carried over including the seldom-ordered four-cylinder which was in its final year. The car finally became simply the Chevrolet Nova this year after two years of transitional nameplates (Chevy II Nova in 1968 and Chevrolet Chevy Nova in 1969).

Approximately 177 COPO Novas were ordered, with 175 converted by Yenko Chevrolet (the other two were sold in Canada). These had the mighty LT1 (350 cid) V8 engine

A beater 1970 Nova coupe is prominently featured in the movie ''Beverly Hills Cop''.

===1971===

1971 Novas were similar to the previous year but with the loss of the simulated fender vents and the discontinuation of the 396 motor for the SS with the L48 350-4 taking its place. 1971 also saw the introduction of the '''Rally Nova''', a trim level that only lasted two years and was marketed as sort of a budget-SS. The Rally package included black or white stripes that ran the length of the car and around the back, a Rally Nova sticker on the driver's side of the hood, and Rally wheels.

The 250 I6 was now the standard Nova powerplant with the demise of the 153 I4 and 230 I6 engines. The 307 and 350 V8s were carried over from 1970 and all engines featured lowered compression ratios to enable the use of unleaded gasoline as a result of a GM corporate mandate that took effect with the 1971 model year.

After 1971, other GM divisions began rebadging the Nova as their new entry-level vehicle, such as the [[Pontiac Ventura]] II (once a trim option for full-size Pontiacs to 1970), [[Oldsmobile Omega]] (1973) and the [[Buick Apollo]] (mid-1973). Interestingly, the intials of the four model names spelled out the acronym '''NOVA''' (Nova, Omega, Ventura, Apollo.)

===1972===

A virtual rerun of 1971, the 1972 Nova received only minor trim changes and both the Rally Nova and SS options carried over. At mid-year a manual canvas sunroof option became available on two-door models. Also, the optional Strato bucket seats available on coupes switched from the previous low-back design with adjustable headrests to the high back units with built-in headrests introduced the previous year on Camaros and Vegas. Standard engine was still the 250 I6 with either a 3- or 4-speed manual or 2- or 3-speed automatics. The 307 and 350 V8s remained optional. There would be a restyled Nova for 1973.

===1973===

The 1973 model year introduced a new hatchback bodystyle based on the 2-door coupe, as well as a front and rear restyling and a modified rear side window shape, plus a revised rear suspension adapted from the second-generation Camaro with multi-leaf springs replacing the mono-leaf springs used on Novas since the original 1966 model. Front vent windows disappeared, and instrumentation remained the same as before. A luxury-themed '''Custom''' became part of the model lineup which included upgraded upholstery, full carpeting, more exterior trim and available on all bodystyles. By this time, six-cylinder and V8 engines were ''de rigeur'' for American compact cars, with the 115 hp 307, 145 hp 350-2 and 175 hp 350-4 V8s as options (standard on the SS). The 100 hp 250 cid I6 was still standard on the rest and still had the two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission as an option, which was in its final year.

===1974===

For 1974, the powerglide was replaced by a lightweight version of the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 already offered with the 350 V8, which was now the only V8 offered this year. The SS option was still available but became more of a sporty trim package than a performance offering and now offered with any Nova engine, much like the 1963-67 Nova SS. The 250 I6 remained standard, and transmission choices, with the exception of the 2-speed Powerglide, remained the same as well. The 350-4 got a 10 hp boost to 185. There would be an all-new Nova for 1975.

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:77rally.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1975-1979
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 196.7"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 72.2"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 54.3"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 111"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1975-1979) 4.3L (262 cid) V8 (1975) 5.0L (305 cid) V8 (1976-1979) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1975-1978)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|110-170 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Skylark]] [[Cadillac Seville]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]/[[Pontiac Phoenix|Phoenix]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Fourth generation (1975–1979)==

A completely redesigned Nova was introduced in 1975. Bodystyles were still the 2-door coupe, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedans. Base coupes, including the hatchback, had fixed side windows (or optional flip-out windows) and simulated vertical vents on the B-pillar (sedans would have simulated horizontal vents at the bottom of the C-pillar). The new Nova still rode the same 111" wheelbase as before. Engines this year were the standard 105 hp 250 cid I6 carried over from the previous generations, a new 110 hp 4.3L (262 cid) 2bbl V8, a 145 hp 350-2 and 155 hp 350-4 V8 were optional. All models now had catalytic converters requiring unleaded gasoline. V8 models had metric engine callouts above the front side-marker lights. The front suspension and subframe assembly was similar to the one used in the second-generation GM F-body ([[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]], [[Pontiac Firebird|Firebird]]), whereas the rear axle and suspension were carried over from the 1968-74 generation.

The Nova lineup now ranged from the base, '''Custom''', and the luxury-themed '''LN''' ("Luxury Nova"). The Nova '''SS''' continued for 1975 and got a unique grille and requisite badges. Dashboards and other controls were virtually identical in layout compared to the previous generation. Power windows and locks were now an option for the first time in the Nova line. A high-performance 9C1 police version of the Nova was introduced for the 1975 model year, making it the first compact car certified for police duty in the U.S. Most were initially purchased by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department in 1976.

The LN was replaced with the Nova '''Concours''' in 1976, and the Custom model was gone (temporarily). The grille was changed slightly, and the short-lived 262 V8 was replaced by the new 140 hp 5.0L (305 cid) 2bbl V8 and was standard on the Concours. The 165 hp 350-4 V8 remained the top engine option, the 350-2 was dropped. V8 models no longer had the metric callouts above the front side marker lights like the previous year. Transmissions included the 3-speed manual standard with the I6, with a 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic optional on all engines. 1977 Concours models got a new 3-taillight lens scheme very similar to the larger [[Chevrolet Impala|Impala]] with a [[Cadillac]]-esque front clip that included chrome squared-off headlight bezels and a more elegant-looking vertically-barred grille with extra chrome trim. The SS was dropped, but it would continue as the '''Nova Rally''', which was basically the same sporty-themed idea. Other models also got a slightly revised grille and all got a new dashboard with round gauges and an 80 MPH speedo.

1978 Novas continued with little change, other than the '''Custom''' model returning as the base model. The 2-door, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedan bodystyles, and Concours and Rally models, were still available. By now, however, the Nova was starting to fall out of favor with much of the buying public, largely due to increased competition from the new [[Ford Fairmont]] and even Chevrolet's own [[Chevrolet Malibu|Malibu]], which was an all-new downsized model for 1978. Even though 1979 was a final abbreviated model year, the front end was nonetheless revised again with square headlights and a new horizontally-barred grille for the short run. The 9C1 police package was dropped for '79, along with the Rally model and 350 V8 engine. Production ended on December 22, 1978. The Nova was replaced by the all-new front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] for 1980. The Nova name, however, would reappear again in 1985 on an unrelated model.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:156392062X01LZZZZZZ.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
| 1985-1988
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|4-Door Sedan 5-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2500-2700 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|5-Speed Manual, FWD 3-Speed Automatic, FWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|1.6L (97 cid) I4
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Toyota Corolla]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|S
|}

==1985-1988 Nova==

In 1985 the Nova name was applied to a rebadged [[Toyota Corolla]] and was produced at the NUMMI plant in Fremont, California, as an historic first joint venture between [[General Motors]] and [[Toyota]]. It shared the Corolla's drivetrain and running gear, and was available as a 4-door sedan and a 5-door hatchback (just like the Corolla). It differed from the Corolla mainly with slightly different front-end styling. It also shared many interior parts, such as audio systems, with other GM's offerings whereas the Corolla did not. The Corolla had been redesigned for 1988, but the Nova continued to use the old platform for its last year. The Nova would be replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]], which was also a twin to the Corolla.

==Main Competitors 1985-1988==

*[[Dodge Omni]]
*[[Ford Escort]]
*[[Honda Civic]]
*[[Isuzu I-Mark]]
*[[Mazda 323]]
*[[Mercury Lynx]]
*[[Nissan Sentra]]
*[[Plymouth Horizon]]
*[[Volkswagen Golf]]

{{-}}

==Photos==
<gallery>
Image:Ad77police350x496.jpg
</gallery>

==Main Competitors 1968-1979==
*[[Dodge Dart]]/[[Dodge Aspen|Aspen]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]/[[Ford Maverick|Maverick]]/[[Ford Fairmont|Fairmont]]
*[[Ford Granada]]
*[[Mercury Comet]]/[[Mercury Zephyr|Zephyr]]
*[[Mercury Monarch]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]/[[Plymouth Volare|Volare]]

==The urban legend==
A popular urban legend asserts that the Nova sold poorly in Mexico and other Latin American countries because the phrase ''no va'' means "does not go" in Spanish. In reality, the Spanish language ''no va'' and ''nova'' are as different as the English ''no table'' and ''notable'', or ''therapist'' and ''the rapist''. [http://www.snopes.com/business/misxlate/nova.asp] The word ''nova'' exists in [http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nova Spanish] with the same meaning as in English. Also, the Spanish word for 'new' (nuevo or nueva) is cognate to ''nova'', which originally meant "new" in Latin. Finally, as NOVA was a brand of gasoline sold for many years by PEMEX in Mexico, the largest of all Spanish-speaking Latin American countries, it is clear that this urban legend, while perhaps entertaining, is utterly baseless.

==See Also==
{{Chevrolet}}

==External links==
*[http://www.nnnova.com/ National Nostalgic Nova] The original National Nostalgic Nova Club Celebrating 25 Years of Helping Nova People The only Monthly Magazine dedicated to Only Novas!
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/nova/ Chevrolet Nova Internet Source] — The second known Nova site on the Internet
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/novaList.html Nova listserv] — The first and only known public [[Electronic mailing list|mailing list]] dedicated to Chevrolet Novas and other X-bodies; in continuous existence since January 1998
*[http://automotivehistoryonline.com/Chevrolet1960m.htm Automotive History Online] - Chevrolet Nova History & Photos
*[http://www.novaresource.org/ NovaResource.com] — Excellent source of history, production numbers, and option code information for 1962-79 Novas
*[http://www.stevesnovasite.com/ Steve's Nova Site] - Includes Q&A discussion board; another excellent resource for Nova owners
*[http://www.musclecarfacts.com/mcf/nova/nova.asp Chevy Nova SS at Muscle Car Facts] — A year-by-year history.
*[http://www.gen4novas.com/ Gen4Novas.com] — Source for the 'stepchild' Disco-era X-car.
*[http://www.2quicknovas.com/ 2QuickNovas.com] — Nova, technical, drag racing and general car info.
*[http://www.chevynova.org/1968.html]

[[Category:Classic cars]]

Chevrolet Nova

2010-10-18T22:03:38Z

Yankee: /* Fourth generation (1975–1979) */

The '''[[Chevrolet]] Nova''', or '''Chevy II''', was an American compact car introduced by [[General Motors]] in 1962. The original Chevy II was of unibody construction, powered by an OHV inline four or six-cylinder engine (and V8s later), and available in two- and four-door sedan configurations as well as convertible and station wagon versions. After the rear-engine [[Chevrolet Corvair]] was handily outsold by the conventional [[Ford Falcon]] in 1960, Chevrolet began work on a more conventional compact car that would eventually become the Chevy II. The Chevy II/Nova continued on throughout the 1960s and 70s with great success until it was supplanted by the front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] in 1980. The Nova name would reappear briefly again in 1985 as a twin to (of all things) the [[Toyota Corolla]]. The "Toyolet" Nova was discontinued after 1988, replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]].

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:1962 Chevrolet II.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1962-1965
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 2-Door Convertible 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 153" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 70.8"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 55"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1962-1965) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1962-1965) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1964-1965) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1964-1965) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1965)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-300 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==First Generation (1962-1965)==

Three different levels of this car were made - the baseline Chevy II '''100''', the mid-grade Chevy II '''300''' and the top-line Chevy II Nova '''400'''. Their was also the sport-oriented Chevy II Nova Super Sport ('''SS'''), available on the 2-door coupe or convertible. Available powerplants included the standard 2.5L (153 cid) I4 and optional the 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (standard on the SS). Bodystyles included a 2-door sedan and hardtop, 4-door sedan, 5-door wagon (with an optional rear-facing 3rd seat) and a 2-door convertible. Unlike its [[Dodge Dart]]/[[Plymouth Valiant]] and [[Ford Falcon]] competition, no V8s were initially offered, but Chevrolet 283 and 327 cid V8s were offered in some areas as dealer-installed options, up to and including the fuel injected version available in the [[Chevrolet Corvette]]. Transmissions were a column or floor 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed manual or 2-speed Powerglide automatic. SSs could have bucket seats with a floor console-shift.

For 1963, grilles and taillights were slightly revised but otherwise were largely unchanged. All bodystyles and engine choices remained the same. For 1964, the Chevy II's first factory V8 option was introduced - a "Turbo-Fire" 195 hp 4.7L (283 cid) V8 with a 2-bbl carb, or a 225 hp 4-bbl version. A larger I6 was also offered, the "Turbo-Thrift" 3.8L (230 cid). Other drivetrain choices remained the same. The convertible was dropped, and the SS was also dropped at the beginning of this year, but it was reinstated mid-year due to high popular demand. The 300 series trim level was discontinued, leaving the 100 and 400 levels. In 1965, the grille was redesigned and the parking lights were relocated from directly below the headlights to the bumper. Taillights were revised also. The 5.3L (327 cid) V8 debuted this year (also called "Turbo Fire") with 250 and 300 horsepower versions. Other drivetrain choices remained the same as before. There would be a restyled Nova for 1966.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Chevrolet-nova 66.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1966-1967
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 154.7" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 71.3"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 55.4"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1966-1967) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1967) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1966-1967) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1966-1967)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-350 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Second Generation (1966-1967)==

The second generation Novas would be short-lived, only going 2 model years. 1966 Novas saw a significant restyling, based in part on the Super Nova concept car. In general, external proportions were squared up but dimensions and features changed little. Wheelbase remained the same at 110". Trim choices were still the '''100''' and '''400'''. Engine options still included the basic 153 I4, 194 I6, the 195 hp and 225 hp 283s and 275 hp (up 25 from '65) and 350 hp (up 50 from '65) 327 V8s. V8 models got special lower fender badges behind the front wheels. Transmission choices remained the column or floor-shift 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed and 2-speed Powerglide automatics. The 327/350 engine was manual-shift only (3- or 4-speed) and was not available on the 100 series or wagon. Inside, there was a new dashboard that strongly resembled the larger [[Chevrolet Chevelle|Chevelle's]] (also all-new this year) and revised seat designs, but the Chevy II line during this time was still very spartan. The 90 hp 153 I4 was only offered in the base Chevy II 100 series models, with the 120-horsepower 194 I6 standard on the Nova and Nova SS lines. A new engine offering included a 140 hp 3.8L (230 cid) I6, available in all models except the baseline 100. The SS could still have bucket seats with a console floor shift.

Not many changes for 1967, but a 155 hp 4.1L (250 cid) I6 became available in all models except the 100. The 350 hp L79 327 V8 was unfortunately dropped this year, but other drivetrain choices remained the same as the previous year's. There would be an all-new Chevy II/Nova for 1968.

==Main Competitors 1962-1967==

*[[Dodge Dart]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]
*[[Studebaker Lark]]

[[Image:Nova front fender emblem 68-72.jpg|left|350px]]

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:477.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1968-1974
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1968-1970) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1968-1974) 5.0L (307 cid) V8 (1968-1973) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1968-1974) 6.5L (396 cid) cid V8 (1968-1970) 7.0L (427 cid) V8 (1970)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-425 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Apollo]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Third generation (1968–1974)==

An extensive redesign came in 1968, when the station wagon and two door hardtop bodystyles were discontinued. This body style continued (with a minor restyle in 1973) through 1974. One notable change was the front subframe assembly — as compared with [[Ford]], [[Chrysler]] and [[AMC]], in whose cars the entire front suspension was integrated with the bodyshell, a separate subframe housing the powertrain and front suspension (similar to the front part of the frame of GM's full-size, full-framed vehicles) replaced the earlier style. Although the front subframe design was a Chevy II-exclusive design, the [[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]] introduced a year earlier was the first to incorporate such a design; the redesigned Chevy II was pushed a year back to 1968 instead of 1967. 1968 was the final year that the Chevy II nameplate was used, although all 1968 models were "Chevy II Novas" with one single trim line.

The 90 hp 153 I4 carried over from the previous generation as standard on the baseline model. Far more popular were the 140 hp 230 I6 and 155 hp 250 I6 and the new 200 hp 5.0L (307 cid) V8, which replaced the 283 offered in previous generations. At mid-year a semi-automatic transmission based on the Powerglide called Torque-Drive was introduced as a low-cost option for shiftless motoring for both the four and six-cylinder engines. The two-speed Powerglide was still the only fully-automatic gearbox available with most engines as the more desirable three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic was only available with the largest V8 engines. An interesting engine option was the 5.3L (327 cid) V8 rated at 350 hp (RPO code L79).

The '''SS''' was transformed from a trim package to a performance option for 1968 and now included a "Turbo Fire" 295 hp 5.7L (350 cid) V8 engine along with front disc brakes, heavy-duty suspension and other performance hardware. Optional engines included two versions of the big-block 6.5L (396 cid) V8 rated at 350 and 375 hp. Both 396 engines were offered with a choice of transmissions including the M-21 close-ratio four-speed manual, the M-22 heavy-duty "Rock Crusher" four-speed manual, or the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 400 for those who preferred automatic shifting. SSs (and lesser coupes) could have a console with optional auxiliary gauges very similar to the contemporary Camaro design.

===1969===

The Chevy II nameplate was retired and the car became the "Chevy Nova" for this year (some sources referred to it as the Chevrolet Chevy Nova - perhaps the decision to drop the Chevy II moniker was a last-minute decision for 1969). Like other 1969 GM vehicles, locking steering columns were incorporated along with column ignitions. Simulated vents were added below the Nova script, which was relocated to the front fender instead of the rear quarter panel. The 350-4 that came standard with the SS option was revised with a five-hp increase to 300 while a 350-2 rated at 255 hp was a new option on non-SS models. A new Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 three-speed automatic was made available for non-SS Novas with six-cylinder and V8 engines.

===1970===

Basically a carryover from 1969; the side markers and taillight lenses were wider and positioned slightly differently, which placed the reverse lights in the middle of the taillight lens instead of the inward portion. This was the final year for the SS396. All other engines were carried over including the seldom-ordered four-cylinder which was in its final year. The car finally became simply the Chevrolet Nova this year after two years of transitional nameplates (Chevy II Nova in 1968 and Chevrolet Chevy Nova in 1969).

Approximately 177 COPO Novas were ordered, with 175 converted by Yenko Chevrolet (the other two were sold in Canada). These had the mighty LT1 (350 cid) V8 engine

A beater 1970 Nova coupe is prominently featured in the movie ''Beverly Hills Cop''.

===1971===

1971 Novas were similar to the previous year but with the loss of the simulated fender vents and the discontinuation of the 396 motor for the SS with the L48 350-4 taking its place. 1971 also saw the introduction of the '''Rally Nova''', a trim level that only lasted two years and was marketed as sort of a budget-SS. The Rally package included black or white stripes that ran the length of the car and around the back, a Rally Nova sticker on the driver's side of the hood, and Rally wheels.

The 250 I6 was now the standard Nova powerplant with the demise of the 153 I4 and 230 I6 engines. The 307 and 350 V8s were carried over from 1970 and all engines featured lowered compression ratios to enable the use of unleaded gasoline as a result of a GM corporate mandate that took effect with the 1971 model year.

After 1971, other GM divisions began rebadging the Nova as their new entry-level vehicle, such as the [[Pontiac Ventura]] II (once a trim option for full-size Pontiacs to 1970), [[Oldsmobile Omega]] (1973) and the [[Buick Apollo]] (mid-1973). Interestingly, the intials of the four model names spelled out the acronym '''NOVA''' (Nova, Omega, Ventura, Apollo.)

===1972===

A virtual rerun of 1971, the 1972 Nova received only minor trim changes and both the Rally Nova and SS options carried over. At mid-year a manual canvas sunroof option became available on two-door models. Also, the optional Strato bucket seats available on coupes switched from the previous low-back design with adjustable headrests to the high back units with built-in headrests introduced the previous year on Camaros and Vegas. Standard engine was still the 250 I6 with either a 3- or 4-speed manual or 2- or 3-speed automatics. The 307 and 350 V8s remained optional. There would be a restyled Nova for 1973.

===1973===

The 1973 model year introduced a new hatchback bodystyle based on the 2-door coupe, as well as a front and rear restyling and a modified rear side window shape, plus a revised rear suspension adapted from the second-generation Camaro with multi-leaf springs replacing the mono-leaf springs used on Novas since the original 1966 model. Front vent windows disappeared, and instrumentation remained the same as before. A luxury-themed '''Custom''' became part of the model lineup which included upgraded upholstery, full carpeting, more exterior trim and available on all bodystyles. By this time, six-cylinder and V8 engines were ''de rigeur'' for American compact cars, with the 115 hp 307, 145 hp 350-2 and 175 hp 350-4 V8s as options (standard on the SS). The 100 hp 250 cid I6 was still standard on the rest and still had the two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission as an option, which was in its final year.

===1974===

For 1974, the powerglide was replaced by a lightweight version of the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 already offered with the 350 V8, which was now the only V8 offered this year. The SS option was still available but became more of a sporty trim package than a performance offering and now offered with any Nova engine, much like the 1963-67 Nova SS. The 250 I6 remained standard, and transmission choices, with the exception of the 2-speed Powerglide, remained the same as well. The 350-4 got a 10 hp boost to 185. There would be an all-new Nova for 1975.

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:77rally.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1975-1979
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 196.7"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 72.2"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 54.3"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 111"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1975-1979) 4.3L (262 cid) V8 (1975) 5.0L (305 cid) V8 (1976-1979) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1975-1978)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|110-170 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Skylark]] [[Cadillac Seville]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]/[[Pontiac Phoenix|Phoenix]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Fourth generation (1975–1979)==

A completely redesigned Nova was introduced in 1975. Bodystyles were still the 2-door coupe, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedans. Base coupes, including the hatchback, had fixed side windows (or optional flip-out windows) and simulated vertical vents on the B-pillar (sedans would have simulated horizontal vents at the bottom of the C-pillar). The new Nova still rode the same 111" wheelbase as before. Engines this year were the standard 105 hp 250 cid I6 carried over from the previous generations, a new 110 hp 4.3L (262 cid) 2bbl V8, a 145 hp 350-2 and 155 hp 350-4 V8 were optional. All models now had catalytic converters requiring unleaded gasoline. V8 models had metric engine callouts above the front side-marker lights. The front suspension and subframe assembly was similar to the one used in the second-generation GM F-body ([[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]], [[Pontiac Firebird|Firebird]]), whereas the rear axle and suspension were carried over from the 1968-74 generation.

The Nova lineup now ranged from the base, '''Custom''', and the luxury-themed '''LN''' ("Luxury Nova"). The Nova '''SS''' continued for 1975 and got a unique grille and requisite badges. Dashboards and other controls were virtually identical in layout compared to the previous generation. Power windows and locks were now an option for the first time in the Nova line. A high-performance 9C1 police version of the Nova was introduced for the 1975 model year, making it the first compact car certified for police duty in the U.S. Most were initially purchased by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department in 1976.

The LN was replaced with the Nova '''Concours''' in 1976, and the Custom model was gone (temporarily). The grille was changed slightly, and the short-lived 262 V8 was replaced by the new 140 hp 5.0L (305 cid) 2bbl V8 and was standard on the Concours. The 165 hp 350-4 V8 remained the top engine option, the 350-2 was dropped. Transmissions included the 3-speed manual standard with the I6, with a 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic optional on all engines. 1977 Concours models got a new 3-taillight lens scheme very similar to the larger [[Chevrolet Impala|Impala]] with a [[Cadillac]]-esque front clip that included chrome squared-off headlight bezels and a more elegant-looking vertically-barred grille with extra chrome trim. The SS was dropped, but it would continue as the '''Nova Rally''', which was basically the same sporty-themed idea. Other models also got a slightly revised grille and all got a new dashboard with round gauges and an 80 MPH speedo.

1978 Novas continued with little change, other than the '''Custom''' model returning as the base model. The 2-door, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedan bodystyles, and Concours and Rally models, were still available. By now, however, the Nova was starting to fall out of favor with much of the buying public, largely due to increased competition from the new [[Ford Fairmont]] and even Chevrolet's own [[Chevrolet Malibu|Malibu]], which was an all-new downsized model for 1978. Even though 1979 was a final abbreviated model year, the front end was nonetheless revised again with square headlights and a new horizontally-barred grille for the short run. The 9C1 police package was dropped for '79, along with the Rally model and 350 V8 engine. Production ended on December 22, 1978. The Nova was replaced by the all-new front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] for 1980. The Nova name, however, would reappear again in 1985 on an unrelated model.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:156392062X01LZZZZZZ.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
| 1985-1988
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|4-Door Sedan 5-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2500-2700 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|5-Speed Manual, FWD 3-Speed Automatic, FWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|1.6L (97 cid) I4
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Toyota Corolla]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|S
|}

==1985-1988 Nova==

In 1985 the Nova name was applied to a rebadged [[Toyota Corolla]] and was produced at the NUMMI plant in Fremont, California, as an historic first joint venture between [[General Motors]] and [[Toyota]]. It shared the Corolla's drivetrain and running gear, and was available as a 4-door sedan and a 5-door hatchback (just like the Corolla). It differed from the Corolla mainly with slightly different front-end styling. It also shared many interior parts, such as audio systems, with other GM's offerings whereas the Corolla did not. The Corolla had been redesigned for 1988, but the Nova continued to use the old platform for its last year. The Nova would be replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]], which was also a twin to the Corolla.

==Main Competitors 1985-1988==

*[[Dodge Omni]]
*[[Ford Escort]]
*[[Honda Civic]]
*[[Isuzu I-Mark]]
*[[Mazda 323]]
*[[Mercury Lynx]]
*[[Nissan Sentra]]
*[[Plymouth Horizon]]
*[[Volkswagen Golf]]

{{-}}

==Photos==
<gallery>
Image:Ad77police350x496.jpg
</gallery>

==Main Competitors 1968-1979==
*[[Dodge Dart]]/[[Dodge Aspen|Aspen]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]/[[Ford Maverick|Maverick]]/[[Ford Fairmont|Fairmont]]
*[[Ford Granada]]
*[[Mercury Comet]]/[[Mercury Zephyr|Zephyr]]
*[[Mercury Monarch]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]/[[Plymouth Volare|Volare]]

==The urban legend==
A popular urban legend asserts that the Nova sold poorly in Mexico and other Latin American countries because the phrase ''no va'' means "does not go" in Spanish. In reality, the Spanish language ''no va'' and ''nova'' are as different as the English ''no table'' and ''notable'', or ''therapist'' and ''the rapist''. [http://www.snopes.com/business/misxlate/nova.asp] The word ''nova'' exists in [http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nova Spanish] with the same meaning as in English. Also, the Spanish word for 'new' (nuevo or nueva) is cognate to ''nova'', which originally meant "new" in Latin. Finally, as NOVA was a brand of gasoline sold for many years by PEMEX in Mexico, the largest of all Spanish-speaking Latin American countries, it is clear that this urban legend, while perhaps entertaining, is utterly baseless.

==See Also==
{{Chevrolet}}

==External links==
*[http://www.nnnova.com/ National Nostalgic Nova] The original National Nostalgic Nova Club Celebrating 25 Years of Helping Nova People The only Monthly Magazine dedicated to Only Novas!
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/nova/ Chevrolet Nova Internet Source] — The second known Nova site on the Internet
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/novaList.html Nova listserv] — The first and only known public [[Electronic mailing list|mailing list]] dedicated to Chevrolet Novas and other X-bodies; in continuous existence since January 1998
*[http://automotivehistoryonline.com/Chevrolet1960m.htm Automotive History Online] - Chevrolet Nova History & Photos
*[http://www.novaresource.org/ NovaResource.com] — Excellent source of history, production numbers, and option code information for 1962-79 Novas
*[http://www.stevesnovasite.com/ Steve's Nova Site] - Includes Q&A discussion board; another excellent resource for Nova owners
*[http://www.musclecarfacts.com/mcf/nova/nova.asp Chevy Nova SS at Muscle Car Facts] — A year-by-year history.
*[http://www.gen4novas.com/ Gen4Novas.com] — Source for the 'stepchild' Disco-era X-car.
*[http://www.2quicknovas.com/ 2QuickNovas.com] — Nova, technical, drag racing and general car info.
*[http://www.chevynova.org/1968.html]

[[Category:Classic cars]]

Chevrolet Nova

2010-10-18T21:56:45Z

Yankee: /* Fourth generation (1975–1979) */

The '''[[Chevrolet]] Nova''', or '''Chevy II''', was an American compact car introduced by [[General Motors]] in 1962. The original Chevy II was of unibody construction, powered by an OHV inline four or six-cylinder engine (and V8s later), and available in two- and four-door sedan configurations as well as convertible and station wagon versions. After the rear-engine [[Chevrolet Corvair]] was handily outsold by the conventional [[Ford Falcon]] in 1960, Chevrolet began work on a more conventional compact car that would eventually become the Chevy II. The Chevy II/Nova continued on throughout the 1960s and 70s with great success until it was supplanted by the front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] in 1980. The Nova name would reappear briefly again in 1985 as a twin to (of all things) the [[Toyota Corolla]]. The "Toyolet" Nova was discontinued after 1988, replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]].

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:1962 Chevrolet II.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1962-1965
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 2-Door Convertible 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 153" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 70.8"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 55"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1962-1965) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1962-1965) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1964-1965) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1964-1965) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1965)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-300 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==First Generation (1962-1965)==

Three different levels of this car were made - the baseline Chevy II '''100''', the mid-grade Chevy II '''300''' and the top-line Chevy II Nova '''400'''. Their was also the sport-oriented Chevy II Nova Super Sport ('''SS'''), available on the 2-door coupe or convertible. Available powerplants included the standard 2.5L (153 cid) I4 and optional the 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (standard on the SS). Bodystyles included a 2-door sedan and hardtop, 4-door sedan, 5-door wagon (with an optional rear-facing 3rd seat) and a 2-door convertible. Unlike its [[Dodge Dart]]/[[Plymouth Valiant]] and [[Ford Falcon]] competition, no V8s were initially offered, but Chevrolet 283 and 327 cid V8s were offered in some areas as dealer-installed options, up to and including the fuel injected version available in the [[Chevrolet Corvette]]. Transmissions were a column or floor 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed manual or 2-speed Powerglide automatic. SSs could have bucket seats with a floor console-shift.

For 1963, grilles and taillights were slightly revised but otherwise were largely unchanged. All bodystyles and engine choices remained the same. For 1964, the Chevy II's first factory V8 option was introduced - a "Turbo-Fire" 195 hp 4.7L (283 cid) V8 with a 2-bbl carb, or a 225 hp 4-bbl version. A larger I6 was also offered, the "Turbo-Thrift" 3.8L (230 cid). Other drivetrain choices remained the same. The convertible was dropped, and the SS was also dropped at the beginning of this year, but it was reinstated mid-year due to high popular demand. The 300 series trim level was discontinued, leaving the 100 and 400 levels. In 1965, the grille was redesigned and the parking lights were relocated from directly below the headlights to the bumper. Taillights were revised also. The 5.3L (327 cid) V8 debuted this year (also called "Turbo Fire") with 250 and 300 horsepower versions. Other drivetrain choices remained the same as before. There would be a restyled Nova for 1966.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Chevrolet-nova 66.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1966-1967
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 154.7" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 71.3"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 55.4"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1966-1967) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1967) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1966-1967) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1966-1967)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-350 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Second Generation (1966-1967)==

The second generation Novas would be short-lived, only going 2 model years. 1966 Novas saw a significant restyling, based in part on the Super Nova concept car. In general, external proportions were squared up but dimensions and features changed little. Wheelbase remained the same at 110". Trim choices were still the '''100''' and '''400'''. Engine options still included the basic 153 I4, 194 I6, the 195 hp and 225 hp 283s and 275 hp (up 25 from '65) and 350 hp (up 50 from '65) 327 V8s. V8 models got special lower fender badges behind the front wheels. Transmission choices remained the column or floor-shift 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed and 2-speed Powerglide automatics. The 327/350 engine was manual-shift only (3- or 4-speed) and was not available on the 100 series or wagon. Inside, there was a new dashboard that strongly resembled the larger [[Chevrolet Chevelle|Chevelle's]] (also all-new this year) and revised seat designs, but the Chevy II line during this time was still very spartan. The 90 hp 153 I4 was only offered in the base Chevy II 100 series models, with the 120-horsepower 194 I6 standard on the Nova and Nova SS lines. A new engine offering included a 140 hp 3.8L (230 cid) I6, available in all models except the baseline 100. The SS could still have bucket seats with a console floor shift.

Not many changes for 1967, but a 155 hp 4.1L (250 cid) I6 became available in all models except the 100. The 350 hp L79 327 V8 was unfortunately dropped this year, but other drivetrain choices remained the same as the previous year's. There would be an all-new Chevy II/Nova for 1968.

==Main Competitors 1962-1967==

*[[Dodge Dart]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]
*[[Studebaker Lark]]

[[Image:Nova front fender emblem 68-72.jpg|left|350px]]

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:477.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1968-1974
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1968-1970) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1968-1974) 5.0L (307 cid) V8 (1968-1973) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1968-1974) 6.5L (396 cid) cid V8 (1968-1970) 7.0L (427 cid) V8 (1970)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-425 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Apollo]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Third generation (1968–1974)==

An extensive redesign came in 1968, when the station wagon and two door hardtop bodystyles were discontinued. This body style continued (with a minor restyle in 1973) through 1974. One notable change was the front subframe assembly — as compared with [[Ford]], [[Chrysler]] and [[AMC]], in whose cars the entire front suspension was integrated with the bodyshell, a separate subframe housing the powertrain and front suspension (similar to the front part of the frame of GM's full-size, full-framed vehicles) replaced the earlier style. Although the front subframe design was a Chevy II-exclusive design, the [[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]] introduced a year earlier was the first to incorporate such a design; the redesigned Chevy II was pushed a year back to 1968 instead of 1967. 1968 was the final year that the Chevy II nameplate was used, although all 1968 models were "Chevy II Novas" with one single trim line.

The 90 hp 153 I4 carried over from the previous generation as standard on the baseline model. Far more popular were the 140 hp 230 I6 and 155 hp 250 I6 and the new 200 hp 5.0L (307 cid) V8, which replaced the 283 offered in previous generations. At mid-year a semi-automatic transmission based on the Powerglide called Torque-Drive was introduced as a low-cost option for shiftless motoring for both the four and six-cylinder engines. The two-speed Powerglide was still the only fully-automatic gearbox available with most engines as the more desirable three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic was only available with the largest V8 engines. An interesting engine option was the 5.3L (327 cid) V8 rated at 350 hp (RPO code L79).

The '''SS''' was transformed from a trim package to a performance option for 1968 and now included a "Turbo Fire" 295 hp 5.7L (350 cid) V8 engine along with front disc brakes, heavy-duty suspension and other performance hardware. Optional engines included two versions of the big-block 6.5L (396 cid) V8 rated at 350 and 375 hp. Both 396 engines were offered with a choice of transmissions including the M-21 close-ratio four-speed manual, the M-22 heavy-duty "Rock Crusher" four-speed manual, or the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 400 for those who preferred automatic shifting. SSs (and lesser coupes) could have a console with optional auxiliary gauges very similar to the contemporary Camaro design.

===1969===

The Chevy II nameplate was retired and the car became the "Chevy Nova" for this year (some sources referred to it as the Chevrolet Chevy Nova - perhaps the decision to drop the Chevy II moniker was a last-minute decision for 1969). Like other 1969 GM vehicles, locking steering columns were incorporated along with column ignitions. Simulated vents were added below the Nova script, which was relocated to the front fender instead of the rear quarter panel. The 350-4 that came standard with the SS option was revised with a five-hp increase to 300 while a 350-2 rated at 255 hp was a new option on non-SS models. A new Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 three-speed automatic was made available for non-SS Novas with six-cylinder and V8 engines.

===1970===

Basically a carryover from 1969; the side markers and taillight lenses were wider and positioned slightly differently, which placed the reverse lights in the middle of the taillight lens instead of the inward portion. This was the final year for the SS396. All other engines were carried over including the seldom-ordered four-cylinder which was in its final year. The car finally became simply the Chevrolet Nova this year after two years of transitional nameplates (Chevy II Nova in 1968 and Chevrolet Chevy Nova in 1969).

Approximately 177 COPO Novas were ordered, with 175 converted by Yenko Chevrolet (the other two were sold in Canada). These had the mighty LT1 (350 cid) V8 engine

A beater 1970 Nova coupe is prominently featured in the movie ''Beverly Hills Cop''.

===1971===

1971 Novas were similar to the previous year but with the loss of the simulated fender vents and the discontinuation of the 396 motor for the SS with the L48 350-4 taking its place. 1971 also saw the introduction of the '''Rally Nova''', a trim level that only lasted two years and was marketed as sort of a budget-SS. The Rally package included black or white stripes that ran the length of the car and around the back, a Rally Nova sticker on the driver's side of the hood, and Rally wheels.

The 250 I6 was now the standard Nova powerplant with the demise of the 153 I4 and 230 I6 engines. The 307 and 350 V8s were carried over from 1970 and all engines featured lowered compression ratios to enable the use of unleaded gasoline as a result of a GM corporate mandate that took effect with the 1971 model year.

After 1971, other GM divisions began rebadging the Nova as their new entry-level vehicle, such as the [[Pontiac Ventura]] II (once a trim option for full-size Pontiacs to 1970), [[Oldsmobile Omega]] (1973) and the [[Buick Apollo]] (mid-1973). Interestingly, the intials of the four model names spelled out the acronym '''NOVA''' (Nova, Omega, Ventura, Apollo.)

===1972===

A virtual rerun of 1971, the 1972 Nova received only minor trim changes and both the Rally Nova and SS options carried over. At mid-year a manual canvas sunroof option became available on two-door models. Also, the optional Strato bucket seats available on coupes switched from the previous low-back design with adjustable headrests to the high back units with built-in headrests introduced the previous year on Camaros and Vegas. Standard engine was still the 250 I6 with either a 3- or 4-speed manual or 2- or 3-speed automatics. The 307 and 350 V8s remained optional. There would be a restyled Nova for 1973.

===1973===

The 1973 model year introduced a new hatchback bodystyle based on the 2-door coupe, as well as a front and rear restyling and a modified rear side window shape, plus a revised rear suspension adapted from the second-generation Camaro with multi-leaf springs replacing the mono-leaf springs used on Novas since the original 1966 model. Front vent windows disappeared, and instrumentation remained the same as before. A luxury-themed '''Custom''' became part of the model lineup which included upgraded upholstery, full carpeting, more exterior trim and available on all bodystyles. By this time, six-cylinder and V8 engines were ''de rigeur'' for American compact cars, with the 115 hp 307, 145 hp 350-2 and 175 hp 350-4 V8s as options (standard on the SS). The 100 hp 250 cid I6 was still standard on the rest and still had the two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission as an option, which was in its final year.

===1974===

For 1974, the powerglide was replaced by a lightweight version of the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 already offered with the 350 V8, which was now the only V8 offered this year. The SS option was still available but became more of a sporty trim package than a performance offering and now offered with any Nova engine, much like the 1963-67 Nova SS. The 250 I6 remained standard, and transmission choices, with the exception of the 2-speed Powerglide, remained the same as well. The 350-4 got a 10 hp boost to 185. There would be an all-new Nova for 1975.

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:77rally.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1975-1979
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 196.7"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 72.2"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 54.3"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 111"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1975-1979) 4.3L (262 cid) V8 (1975) 5.0L (305 cid) V8 (1976-1979) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1975-1978)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|110-170 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Skylark]] [[Cadillac Seville]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]/[[Pontiac Phoenix|Phoenix]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Fourth generation (1975–1979)==

A completely redesigned Nova was introduced in 1975. Bodystyles were still the 2-door coupe, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedans. Base coupes, including the hatchback, had fixed side windows (or optional flip-out windows) and simulated vertical vents on the B-pillar (sedans would have simulated horizontal vents at the bottom of the C-pillar). The new Nova still rode the same 111" wheelbase as before. Engines this year were the standard 105 hp 250 cid I6 carried over from the previous generations, a new 110 hp 4.3L (262 cid) 2bbl V8, a 145 hp 350-2 and 155 hp 350-4 V8 were optional. All models now had catalytic converters requiring unleaded gasoline. V8 models had metric engine callouts above the front side-marker lights. The front suspension and subframe assembly was similar to the one used in the second-generation GM F-body ([[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]], [[Pontiac Firebird|Firebird]]), whereas the rear axle and suspension were carried over from the 1968-74 generation.

The Nova lineup now ranged from the base, '''Custom''', and the luxury-themed '''LN''' ("Luxury Nova"). The Nova '''SS''' continued for 1975 and got a unique grille and requisite badges. Dashboards and other controls were virtually identical in layout compared to the previous generation. Power windows and locks were now an option for the first time in the Nova line. A high-performance 9C1 police version of the Nova was introduced for the 1975 model year, making it the first compact car certified for police duty in the U.S. Most were initially purchased by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department in 1976.

The LN was replaced with the Nova '''Concours''' in 1976, and the Custom model was gone (temporarily). The grille was changed slightly, and the short-lived 262 V8 was replaced by the new 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and was standard on the Concours. The 350 V8 remained the top engine option. Transmissions included the 3-speed manual standard with the I6, with a 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic optional. The 305 could have a 4-speed manual or automatic, while the 350 was automatic only. 1977 Concours models got a new 3-taillight lens scheme very similar to the larger [[Chevrolet Impala|Impala]] with a [[Cadillac]]-esque front clip that included chrome squared-off headlight bezels and a more elegant-looking vertically-barred grille with extra chrome trim. The SS was dropped, but it would continue as the '''Nova Rally''', which was basically the same sporty-themed idea. Other models also got a slightly revised grille and all got a new dashboard with round gauges and an 80 MPH speedo.

1978 Novas continued with little change, other than the '''Custom''' model returning as the base model. The 2-door, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedan bodystyles, and Concours and Rally models, were still available. By now, however, the Nova was starting to fall out of favor with much of the buying public, largely due to increased competition from the new [[Ford Fairmont]] and even Chevrolet's own [[Chevrolet Malibu|Malibu]], which was an all-new downsized model for 1978. Even though 1979 was a final abbreviated model year, the front end was nonetheless revised again with square headlights and a new horizontally-barred grille for the short run. The 9C1 police package was dropped for '79, along with the Rally model and 350 V8 engine. Production ended on December 22, 1978. The Nova was replaced by the all-new front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] for 1980. The Nova name, however, would reappear again in 1985 on an unrelated model.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:156392062X01LZZZZZZ.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
| 1985-1988
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|4-Door Sedan 5-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2500-2700 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|5-Speed Manual, FWD 3-Speed Automatic, FWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|1.6L (97 cid) I4
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Toyota Corolla]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|S
|}

==1985-1988 Nova==

In 1985 the Nova name was applied to a rebadged [[Toyota Corolla]] and was produced at the NUMMI plant in Fremont, California, as an historic first joint venture between [[General Motors]] and [[Toyota]]. It shared the Corolla's drivetrain and running gear, and was available as a 4-door sedan and a 5-door hatchback (just like the Corolla). It differed from the Corolla mainly with slightly different front-end styling. It also shared many interior parts, such as audio systems, with other GM's offerings whereas the Corolla did not. The Corolla had been redesigned for 1988, but the Nova continued to use the old platform for its last year. The Nova would be replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]], which was also a twin to the Corolla.

==Main Competitors 1985-1988==

*[[Dodge Omni]]
*[[Ford Escort]]
*[[Honda Civic]]
*[[Isuzu I-Mark]]
*[[Mazda 323]]
*[[Mercury Lynx]]
*[[Nissan Sentra]]
*[[Plymouth Horizon]]
*[[Volkswagen Golf]]

{{-}}

==Photos==
<gallery>
Image:Ad77police350x496.jpg
</gallery>

==Main Competitors 1968-1979==
*[[Dodge Dart]]/[[Dodge Aspen|Aspen]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]/[[Ford Maverick|Maverick]]/[[Ford Fairmont|Fairmont]]
*[[Ford Granada]]
*[[Mercury Comet]]/[[Mercury Zephyr|Zephyr]]
*[[Mercury Monarch]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]/[[Plymouth Volare|Volare]]

==The urban legend==
A popular urban legend asserts that the Nova sold poorly in Mexico and other Latin American countries because the phrase ''no va'' means "does not go" in Spanish. In reality, the Spanish language ''no va'' and ''nova'' are as different as the English ''no table'' and ''notable'', or ''therapist'' and ''the rapist''. [http://www.snopes.com/business/misxlate/nova.asp] The word ''nova'' exists in [http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nova Spanish] with the same meaning as in English. Also, the Spanish word for 'new' (nuevo or nueva) is cognate to ''nova'', which originally meant "new" in Latin. Finally, as NOVA was a brand of gasoline sold for many years by PEMEX in Mexico, the largest of all Spanish-speaking Latin American countries, it is clear that this urban legend, while perhaps entertaining, is utterly baseless.

==See Also==
{{Chevrolet}}

==External links==
*[http://www.nnnova.com/ National Nostalgic Nova] The original National Nostalgic Nova Club Celebrating 25 Years of Helping Nova People The only Monthly Magazine dedicated to Only Novas!
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/nova/ Chevrolet Nova Internet Source] — The second known Nova site on the Internet
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/novaList.html Nova listserv] — The first and only known public [[Electronic mailing list|mailing list]] dedicated to Chevrolet Novas and other X-bodies; in continuous existence since January 1998
*[http://automotivehistoryonline.com/Chevrolet1960m.htm Automotive History Online] - Chevrolet Nova History & Photos
*[http://www.novaresource.org/ NovaResource.com] — Excellent source of history, production numbers, and option code information for 1962-79 Novas
*[http://www.stevesnovasite.com/ Steve's Nova Site] - Includes Q&A discussion board; another excellent resource for Nova owners
*[http://www.musclecarfacts.com/mcf/nova/nova.asp Chevy Nova SS at Muscle Car Facts] — A year-by-year history.
*[http://www.gen4novas.com/ Gen4Novas.com] — Source for the 'stepchild' Disco-era X-car.
*[http://www.2quicknovas.com/ 2QuickNovas.com] — Nova, technical, drag racing and general car info.
*[http://www.chevynova.org/1968.html]

[[Category:Classic cars]]

Chevrolet Nova

2010-10-18T21:54:58Z

Yankee: /* Fourth generation (1975–1979) */

The '''[[Chevrolet]] Nova''', or '''Chevy II''', was an American compact car introduced by [[General Motors]] in 1962. The original Chevy II was of unibody construction, powered by an OHV inline four or six-cylinder engine (and V8s later), and available in two- and four-door sedan configurations as well as convertible and station wagon versions. After the rear-engine [[Chevrolet Corvair]] was handily outsold by the conventional [[Ford Falcon]] in 1960, Chevrolet began work on a more conventional compact car that would eventually become the Chevy II. The Chevy II/Nova continued on throughout the 1960s and 70s with great success until it was supplanted by the front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] in 1980. The Nova name would reappear briefly again in 1985 as a twin to (of all things) the [[Toyota Corolla]]. The "Toyolet" Nova was discontinued after 1988, replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]].

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:1962 Chevrolet II.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1962-1965
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 2-Door Convertible 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 153" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 70.8"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 55"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1962-1965) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1962-1965) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1964-1965) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1964-1965) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1965)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-300 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==First Generation (1962-1965)==

Three different levels of this car were made - the baseline Chevy II '''100''', the mid-grade Chevy II '''300''' and the top-line Chevy II Nova '''400'''. Their was also the sport-oriented Chevy II Nova Super Sport ('''SS'''), available on the 2-door coupe or convertible. Available powerplants included the standard 2.5L (153 cid) I4 and optional the 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (standard on the SS). Bodystyles included a 2-door sedan and hardtop, 4-door sedan, 5-door wagon (with an optional rear-facing 3rd seat) and a 2-door convertible. Unlike its [[Dodge Dart]]/[[Plymouth Valiant]] and [[Ford Falcon]] competition, no V8s were initially offered, but Chevrolet 283 and 327 cid V8s were offered in some areas as dealer-installed options, up to and including the fuel injected version available in the [[Chevrolet Corvette]]. Transmissions were a column or floor 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed manual or 2-speed Powerglide automatic. SSs could have bucket seats with a floor console-shift.

For 1963, grilles and taillights were slightly revised but otherwise were largely unchanged. All bodystyles and engine choices remained the same. For 1964, the Chevy II's first factory V8 option was introduced - a "Turbo-Fire" 195 hp 4.7L (283 cid) V8 with a 2-bbl carb, or a 225 hp 4-bbl version. A larger I6 was also offered, the "Turbo-Thrift" 3.8L (230 cid). Other drivetrain choices remained the same. The convertible was dropped, and the SS was also dropped at the beginning of this year, but it was reinstated mid-year due to high popular demand. The 300 series trim level was discontinued, leaving the 100 and 400 levels. In 1965, the grille was redesigned and the parking lights were relocated from directly below the headlights to the bumper. Taillights were revised also. The 5.3L (327 cid) V8 debuted this year (also called "Turbo Fire") with 250 and 300 horsepower versions. Other drivetrain choices remained the same as before. There would be a restyled Nova for 1966.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Chevrolet-nova 66.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1966-1967
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 154.7" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 71.3"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 55.4"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1966-1967) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1967) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1966-1967) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1966-1967)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-350 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Second Generation (1966-1967)==

The second generation Novas would be short-lived, only going 2 model years. 1966 Novas saw a significant restyling, based in part on the Super Nova concept car. In general, external proportions were squared up but dimensions and features changed little. Wheelbase remained the same at 110". Trim choices were still the '''100''' and '''400'''. Engine options still included the basic 153 I4, 194 I6, the 195 hp and 225 hp 283s and 275 hp (up 25 from '65) and 350 hp (up 50 from '65) 327 V8s. V8 models got special lower fender badges behind the front wheels. Transmission choices remained the column or floor-shift 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed and 2-speed Powerglide automatics. The 327/350 engine was manual-shift only (3- or 4-speed) and was not available on the 100 series or wagon. Inside, there was a new dashboard that strongly resembled the larger [[Chevrolet Chevelle|Chevelle's]] (also all-new this year) and revised seat designs, but the Chevy II line during this time was still very spartan. The 90 hp 153 I4 was only offered in the base Chevy II 100 series models, with the 120-horsepower 194 I6 standard on the Nova and Nova SS lines. A new engine offering included a 140 hp 3.8L (230 cid) I6, available in all models except the baseline 100. The SS could still have bucket seats with a console floor shift.

Not many changes for 1967, but a 155 hp 4.1L (250 cid) I6 became available in all models except the 100. The 350 hp L79 327 V8 was unfortunately dropped this year, but other drivetrain choices remained the same as the previous year's. There would be an all-new Chevy II/Nova for 1968.

==Main Competitors 1962-1967==

*[[Dodge Dart]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]
*[[Studebaker Lark]]

[[Image:Nova front fender emblem 68-72.jpg|left|350px]]

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:477.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1968-1974
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1968-1970) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1968-1974) 5.0L (307 cid) V8 (1968-1973) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1968-1974) 6.5L (396 cid) cid V8 (1968-1970) 7.0L (427 cid) V8 (1970)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-425 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Apollo]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Third generation (1968–1974)==

An extensive redesign came in 1968, when the station wagon and two door hardtop bodystyles were discontinued. This body style continued (with a minor restyle in 1973) through 1974. One notable change was the front subframe assembly — as compared with [[Ford]], [[Chrysler]] and [[AMC]], in whose cars the entire front suspension was integrated with the bodyshell, a separate subframe housing the powertrain and front suspension (similar to the front part of the frame of GM's full-size, full-framed vehicles) replaced the earlier style. Although the front subframe design was a Chevy II-exclusive design, the [[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]] introduced a year earlier was the first to incorporate such a design; the redesigned Chevy II was pushed a year back to 1968 instead of 1967. 1968 was the final year that the Chevy II nameplate was used, although all 1968 models were "Chevy II Novas" with one single trim line.

The 90 hp 153 I4 carried over from the previous generation as standard on the baseline model. Far more popular were the 140 hp 230 I6 and 155 hp 250 I6 and the new 200 hp 5.0L (307 cid) V8, which replaced the 283 offered in previous generations. At mid-year a semi-automatic transmission based on the Powerglide called Torque-Drive was introduced as a low-cost option for shiftless motoring for both the four and six-cylinder engines. The two-speed Powerglide was still the only fully-automatic gearbox available with most engines as the more desirable three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic was only available with the largest V8 engines. An interesting engine option was the 5.3L (327 cid) V8 rated at 350 hp (RPO code L79).

The '''SS''' was transformed from a trim package to a performance option for 1968 and now included a "Turbo Fire" 295 hp 5.7L (350 cid) V8 engine along with front disc brakes, heavy-duty suspension and other performance hardware. Optional engines included two versions of the big-block 6.5L (396 cid) V8 rated at 350 and 375 hp. Both 396 engines were offered with a choice of transmissions including the M-21 close-ratio four-speed manual, the M-22 heavy-duty "Rock Crusher" four-speed manual, or the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 400 for those who preferred automatic shifting. SSs (and lesser coupes) could have a console with optional auxiliary gauges very similar to the contemporary Camaro design.

===1969===

The Chevy II nameplate was retired and the car became the "Chevy Nova" for this year (some sources referred to it as the Chevrolet Chevy Nova - perhaps the decision to drop the Chevy II moniker was a last-minute decision for 1969). Like other 1969 GM vehicles, locking steering columns were incorporated along with column ignitions. Simulated vents were added below the Nova script, which was relocated to the front fender instead of the rear quarter panel. The 350-4 that came standard with the SS option was revised with a five-hp increase to 300 while a 350-2 rated at 255 hp was a new option on non-SS models. A new Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 three-speed automatic was made available for non-SS Novas with six-cylinder and V8 engines.

===1970===

Basically a carryover from 1969; the side markers and taillight lenses were wider and positioned slightly differently, which placed the reverse lights in the middle of the taillight lens instead of the inward portion. This was the final year for the SS396. All other engines were carried over including the seldom-ordered four-cylinder which was in its final year. The car finally became simply the Chevrolet Nova this year after two years of transitional nameplates (Chevy II Nova in 1968 and Chevrolet Chevy Nova in 1969).

Approximately 177 COPO Novas were ordered, with 175 converted by Yenko Chevrolet (the other two were sold in Canada). These had the mighty LT1 (350 cid) V8 engine

A beater 1970 Nova coupe is prominently featured in the movie ''Beverly Hills Cop''.

===1971===

1971 Novas were similar to the previous year but with the loss of the simulated fender vents and the discontinuation of the 396 motor for the SS with the L48 350-4 taking its place. 1971 also saw the introduction of the '''Rally Nova''', a trim level that only lasted two years and was marketed as sort of a budget-SS. The Rally package included black or white stripes that ran the length of the car and around the back, a Rally Nova sticker on the driver's side of the hood, and Rally wheels.

The 250 I6 was now the standard Nova powerplant with the demise of the 153 I4 and 230 I6 engines. The 307 and 350 V8s were carried over from 1970 and all engines featured lowered compression ratios to enable the use of unleaded gasoline as a result of a GM corporate mandate that took effect with the 1971 model year.

After 1971, other GM divisions began rebadging the Nova as their new entry-level vehicle, such as the [[Pontiac Ventura]] II (once a trim option for full-size Pontiacs to 1970), [[Oldsmobile Omega]] (1973) and the [[Buick Apollo]] (mid-1973). Interestingly, the intials of the four model names spelled out the acronym '''NOVA''' (Nova, Omega, Ventura, Apollo.)

===1972===

A virtual rerun of 1971, the 1972 Nova received only minor trim changes and both the Rally Nova and SS options carried over. At mid-year a manual canvas sunroof option became available on two-door models. Also, the optional Strato bucket seats available on coupes switched from the previous low-back design with adjustable headrests to the high back units with built-in headrests introduced the previous year on Camaros and Vegas. Standard engine was still the 250 I6 with either a 3- or 4-speed manual or 2- or 3-speed automatics. The 307 and 350 V8s remained optional. There would be a restyled Nova for 1973.

===1973===

The 1973 model year introduced a new hatchback bodystyle based on the 2-door coupe, as well as a front and rear restyling and a modified rear side window shape, plus a revised rear suspension adapted from the second-generation Camaro with multi-leaf springs replacing the mono-leaf springs used on Novas since the original 1966 model. Front vent windows disappeared, and instrumentation remained the same as before. A luxury-themed '''Custom''' became part of the model lineup which included upgraded upholstery, full carpeting, more exterior trim and available on all bodystyles. By this time, six-cylinder and V8 engines were ''de rigeur'' for American compact cars, with the 115 hp 307, 145 hp 350-2 and 175 hp 350-4 V8s as options (standard on the SS). The 100 hp 250 cid I6 was still standard on the rest and still had the two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission as an option, which was in its final year.

===1974===

For 1974, the powerglide was replaced by a lightweight version of the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 already offered with the 350 V8, which was now the only V8 offered this year. The SS option was still available but became more of a sporty trim package than a performance offering and now offered with any Nova engine, much like the 1963-67 Nova SS. The 250 I6 remained standard, and transmission choices, with the exception of the 2-speed Powerglide, remained the same as well. The 350-4 got a 10 hp boost to 185. There would be an all-new Nova for 1975.

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:77rally.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1975-1979
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 196.7"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 72.2"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 54.3"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 111"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1975-1979) 4.3L (262 cid) V8 (1975) 5.0L (305 cid) V8 (1976-1979) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1975-1978)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|110-170 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Skylark]] [[Cadillac Seville]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]/[[Pontiac Phoenix|Phoenix]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Fourth generation (1975–1979)==

A completely redesigned Nova was introduced in 1975. Bodystyles were still the 2-door coupe, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedans. Base coupes, including the hatchback, had fixed side windows (or optional flip-out windows) and simulated vertical vents on the B-pillar (sedans would have simulated horizontal vents at the bottom of the C-pillar). The new Nova still rode the same 111" wheelbase as before. Engines this year were the standard 105 hp 250 cid I6 carried over from the previous generations, a new 110 hp 4.3L (262 cid) 2bbl V8, a 145 hp 350-2 and 155 hp 350-4 V8 were optional. All models now had catalytic converters requiring unleaded gasoline. V8 models had metric engine callouts above the front side-marker lights. The front suspension and subframe assembly was similar to the one used in the second-generation GM F-body ([[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]], [[Pontiac Firebird|Firebird]]), whereas the rear axle and suspension were carried over from the 1968-74 generation.

The Nova lineup now ranged from the stripped-down '''S''' model, base, '''Custom''', and the luxury-themed '''LN''' ("Luxury Nova"). The Nova '''SS''' continued for 1975 and got a unique grille and requisite badges. Dashboards and other controls were virtually identical in layout compared to the previous generation. Power windows and locks were now an option for the first time in the Nova line. A high-performance 9C1 police version of the Nova was introduced for the 1975 model year, making it the first compact car certified for police duty in the U.S. Most were initially purchased by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department in 1976.

The LN was replaced with the Nova '''Concours''' in 1976, and the Custom model was gone (temporarily). The grille was changed slightly, and the short-lived 262 V8 was replaced by the new 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and was standard on the Concours. The 350 V8 remained the top engine option. Transmissions included the 3-speed manual standard with the I6, with a 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic optional. The 305 could have a 4-speed manual or automatic, while the 350 was automatic only. 1977 Concours models got a new 3-taillight lens scheme very similar to the larger [[Chevrolet Impala|Impala]] with a [[Cadillac]]-esque front clip that included chrome squared-off headlight bezels and a more elegant-looking vertically-barred grille with extra chrome trim. The SS was dropped, but it would continue as the '''Nova Rally''', which was basically the same sporty-themed idea. Other models also got a slightly revised grille and all got a new dashboard with round gauges and an 80 MPH speedo.

1978 Novas continued with little change, other than the '''Custom''' model returning as the base model. The 2-door, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedan bodystyles, and Concours and Rally models, were still available. By now, however, the Nova was starting to fall out of favor with much of the buying public, largely due to increased competition from the new [[Ford Fairmont]] and even Chevrolet's own [[Chevrolet Malibu|Malibu]], which was an all-new downsized model for 1978. Even though 1979 was a final abbreviated model year, the front end was nonetheless revised again with square headlights and a new horizontally-barred grille for the short run. The 9C1 police package was dropped for '79, along with the Rally model and 350 V8 engine. Production ended on December 22, 1978. The Nova was replaced by the all-new front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] for 1980. The Nova name, however, would reappear again in 1985 on an unrelated model.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:156392062X01LZZZZZZ.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
| 1985-1988
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|4-Door Sedan 5-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2500-2700 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|5-Speed Manual, FWD 3-Speed Automatic, FWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|1.6L (97 cid) I4
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Toyota Corolla]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|S
|}

==1985-1988 Nova==

In 1985 the Nova name was applied to a rebadged [[Toyota Corolla]] and was produced at the NUMMI plant in Fremont, California, as an historic first joint venture between [[General Motors]] and [[Toyota]]. It shared the Corolla's drivetrain and running gear, and was available as a 4-door sedan and a 5-door hatchback (just like the Corolla). It differed from the Corolla mainly with slightly different front-end styling. It also shared many interior parts, such as audio systems, with other GM's offerings whereas the Corolla did not. The Corolla had been redesigned for 1988, but the Nova continued to use the old platform for its last year. The Nova would be replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]], which was also a twin to the Corolla.

==Main Competitors 1985-1988==

*[[Dodge Omni]]
*[[Ford Escort]]
*[[Honda Civic]]
*[[Isuzu I-Mark]]
*[[Mazda 323]]
*[[Mercury Lynx]]
*[[Nissan Sentra]]
*[[Plymouth Horizon]]
*[[Volkswagen Golf]]

{{-}}

==Photos==
<gallery>
Image:Ad77police350x496.jpg
</gallery>

==Main Competitors 1968-1979==
*[[Dodge Dart]]/[[Dodge Aspen|Aspen]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]/[[Ford Maverick|Maverick]]/[[Ford Fairmont|Fairmont]]
*[[Ford Granada]]
*[[Mercury Comet]]/[[Mercury Zephyr|Zephyr]]
*[[Mercury Monarch]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]/[[Plymouth Volare|Volare]]

==The urban legend==
A popular urban legend asserts that the Nova sold poorly in Mexico and other Latin American countries because the phrase ''no va'' means "does not go" in Spanish. In reality, the Spanish language ''no va'' and ''nova'' are as different as the English ''no table'' and ''notable'', or ''therapist'' and ''the rapist''. [http://www.snopes.com/business/misxlate/nova.asp] The word ''nova'' exists in [http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nova Spanish] with the same meaning as in English. Also, the Spanish word for 'new' (nuevo or nueva) is cognate to ''nova'', which originally meant "new" in Latin. Finally, as NOVA was a brand of gasoline sold for many years by PEMEX in Mexico, the largest of all Spanish-speaking Latin American countries, it is clear that this urban legend, while perhaps entertaining, is utterly baseless.

==See Also==
{{Chevrolet}}

==External links==
*[http://www.nnnova.com/ National Nostalgic Nova] The original National Nostalgic Nova Club Celebrating 25 Years of Helping Nova People The only Monthly Magazine dedicated to Only Novas!
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/nova/ Chevrolet Nova Internet Source] — The second known Nova site on the Internet
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/novaList.html Nova listserv] — The first and only known public [[Electronic mailing list|mailing list]] dedicated to Chevrolet Novas and other X-bodies; in continuous existence since January 1998
*[http://automotivehistoryonline.com/Chevrolet1960m.htm Automotive History Online] - Chevrolet Nova History & Photos
*[http://www.novaresource.org/ NovaResource.com] — Excellent source of history, production numbers, and option code information for 1962-79 Novas
*[http://www.stevesnovasite.com/ Steve's Nova Site] - Includes Q&A discussion board; another excellent resource for Nova owners
*[http://www.musclecarfacts.com/mcf/nova/nova.asp Chevy Nova SS at Muscle Car Facts] — A year-by-year history.
*[http://www.gen4novas.com/ Gen4Novas.com] — Source for the 'stepchild' Disco-era X-car.
*[http://www.2quicknovas.com/ 2QuickNovas.com] — Nova, technical, drag racing and general car info.
*[http://www.chevynova.org/1968.html]

[[Category:Classic cars]]

Chevrolet Nova

2010-10-18T21:53:42Z

Yankee: /* Fourth generation (1975–1979) */

The '''[[Chevrolet]] Nova''', or '''Chevy II''', was an American compact car introduced by [[General Motors]] in 1962. The original Chevy II was of unibody construction, powered by an OHV inline four or six-cylinder engine (and V8s later), and available in two- and four-door sedan configurations as well as convertible and station wagon versions. After the rear-engine [[Chevrolet Corvair]] was handily outsold by the conventional [[Ford Falcon]] in 1960, Chevrolet began work on a more conventional compact car that would eventually become the Chevy II. The Chevy II/Nova continued on throughout the 1960s and 70s with great success until it was supplanted by the front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] in 1980. The Nova name would reappear briefly again in 1985 as a twin to (of all things) the [[Toyota Corolla]]. The "Toyolet" Nova was discontinued after 1988, replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]].

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:1962 Chevrolet II.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1962-1965
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 2-Door Convertible 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 153" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 70.8"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 55"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1962-1965) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1962-1965) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1964-1965) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1964-1965) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1965)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-300 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==First Generation (1962-1965)==

Three different levels of this car were made - the baseline Chevy II '''100''', the mid-grade Chevy II '''300''' and the top-line Chevy II Nova '''400'''. Their was also the sport-oriented Chevy II Nova Super Sport ('''SS'''), available on the 2-door coupe or convertible. Available powerplants included the standard 2.5L (153 cid) I4 and optional the 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (standard on the SS). Bodystyles included a 2-door sedan and hardtop, 4-door sedan, 5-door wagon (with an optional rear-facing 3rd seat) and a 2-door convertible. Unlike its [[Dodge Dart]]/[[Plymouth Valiant]] and [[Ford Falcon]] competition, no V8s were initially offered, but Chevrolet 283 and 327 cid V8s were offered in some areas as dealer-installed options, up to and including the fuel injected version available in the [[Chevrolet Corvette]]. Transmissions were a column or floor 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed manual or 2-speed Powerglide automatic. SSs could have bucket seats with a floor console-shift.

For 1963, grilles and taillights were slightly revised but otherwise were largely unchanged. All bodystyles and engine choices remained the same. For 1964, the Chevy II's first factory V8 option was introduced - a "Turbo-Fire" 195 hp 4.7L (283 cid) V8 with a 2-bbl carb, or a 225 hp 4-bbl version. A larger I6 was also offered, the "Turbo-Thrift" 3.8L (230 cid). Other drivetrain choices remained the same. The convertible was dropped, and the SS was also dropped at the beginning of this year, but it was reinstated mid-year due to high popular demand. The 300 series trim level was discontinued, leaving the 100 and 400 levels. In 1965, the grille was redesigned and the parking lights were relocated from directly below the headlights to the bumper. Taillights were revised also. The 5.3L (327 cid) V8 debuted this year (also called "Turbo Fire") with 250 and 300 horsepower versions. Other drivetrain choices remained the same as before. There would be a restyled Nova for 1966.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Chevrolet-nova 66.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1966-1967
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 154.7" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 71.3"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 55.4"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1966-1967) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1967) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1966-1967) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1966-1967)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-350 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Second Generation (1966-1967)==

The second generation Novas would be short-lived, only going 2 model years. 1966 Novas saw a significant restyling, based in part on the Super Nova concept car. In general, external proportions were squared up but dimensions and features changed little. Wheelbase remained the same at 110". Trim choices were still the '''100''' and '''400'''. Engine options still included the basic 153 I4, 194 I6, the 195 hp and 225 hp 283s and 275 hp (up 25 from '65) and 350 hp (up 50 from '65) 327 V8s. V8 models got special lower fender badges behind the front wheels. Transmission choices remained the column or floor-shift 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed and 2-speed Powerglide automatics. The 327/350 engine was manual-shift only (3- or 4-speed) and was not available on the 100 series or wagon. Inside, there was a new dashboard that strongly resembled the larger [[Chevrolet Chevelle|Chevelle's]] (also all-new this year) and revised seat designs, but the Chevy II line during this time was still very spartan. The 90 hp 153 I4 was only offered in the base Chevy II 100 series models, with the 120-horsepower 194 I6 standard on the Nova and Nova SS lines. A new engine offering included a 140 hp 3.8L (230 cid) I6, available in all models except the baseline 100. The SS could still have bucket seats with a console floor shift.

Not many changes for 1967, but a 155 hp 4.1L (250 cid) I6 became available in all models except the 100. The 350 hp L79 327 V8 was unfortunately dropped this year, but other drivetrain choices remained the same as the previous year's. There would be an all-new Chevy II/Nova for 1968.

==Main Competitors 1962-1967==

*[[Dodge Dart]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]
*[[Studebaker Lark]]

[[Image:Nova front fender emblem 68-72.jpg|left|350px]]

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:477.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1968-1974
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1968-1970) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1968-1974) 5.0L (307 cid) V8 (1968-1973) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1968-1974) 6.5L (396 cid) cid V8 (1968-1970) 7.0L (427 cid) V8 (1970)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-425 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Apollo]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Third generation (1968–1974)==

An extensive redesign came in 1968, when the station wagon and two door hardtop bodystyles were discontinued. This body style continued (with a minor restyle in 1973) through 1974. One notable change was the front subframe assembly — as compared with [[Ford]], [[Chrysler]] and [[AMC]], in whose cars the entire front suspension was integrated with the bodyshell, a separate subframe housing the powertrain and front suspension (similar to the front part of the frame of GM's full-size, full-framed vehicles) replaced the earlier style. Although the front subframe design was a Chevy II-exclusive design, the [[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]] introduced a year earlier was the first to incorporate such a design; the redesigned Chevy II was pushed a year back to 1968 instead of 1967. 1968 was the final year that the Chevy II nameplate was used, although all 1968 models were "Chevy II Novas" with one single trim line.

The 90 hp 153 I4 carried over from the previous generation as standard on the baseline model. Far more popular were the 140 hp 230 I6 and 155 hp 250 I6 and the new 200 hp 5.0L (307 cid) V8, which replaced the 283 offered in previous generations. At mid-year a semi-automatic transmission based on the Powerglide called Torque-Drive was introduced as a low-cost option for shiftless motoring for both the four and six-cylinder engines. The two-speed Powerglide was still the only fully-automatic gearbox available with most engines as the more desirable three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic was only available with the largest V8 engines. An interesting engine option was the 5.3L (327 cid) V8 rated at 350 hp (RPO code L79).

The '''SS''' was transformed from a trim package to a performance option for 1968 and now included a "Turbo Fire" 295 hp 5.7L (350 cid) V8 engine along with front disc brakes, heavy-duty suspension and other performance hardware. Optional engines included two versions of the big-block 6.5L (396 cid) V8 rated at 350 and 375 hp. Both 396 engines were offered with a choice of transmissions including the M-21 close-ratio four-speed manual, the M-22 heavy-duty "Rock Crusher" four-speed manual, or the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 400 for those who preferred automatic shifting. SSs (and lesser coupes) could have a console with optional auxiliary gauges very similar to the contemporary Camaro design.

===1969===

The Chevy II nameplate was retired and the car became the "Chevy Nova" for this year (some sources referred to it as the Chevrolet Chevy Nova - perhaps the decision to drop the Chevy II moniker was a last-minute decision for 1969). Like other 1969 GM vehicles, locking steering columns were incorporated along with column ignitions. Simulated vents were added below the Nova script, which was relocated to the front fender instead of the rear quarter panel. The 350-4 that came standard with the SS option was revised with a five-hp increase to 300 while a 350-2 rated at 255 hp was a new option on non-SS models. A new Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 three-speed automatic was made available for non-SS Novas with six-cylinder and V8 engines.

===1970===

Basically a carryover from 1969; the side markers and taillight lenses were wider and positioned slightly differently, which placed the reverse lights in the middle of the taillight lens instead of the inward portion. This was the final year for the SS396. All other engines were carried over including the seldom-ordered four-cylinder which was in its final year. The car finally became simply the Chevrolet Nova this year after two years of transitional nameplates (Chevy II Nova in 1968 and Chevrolet Chevy Nova in 1969).

Approximately 177 COPO Novas were ordered, with 175 converted by Yenko Chevrolet (the other two were sold in Canada). These had the mighty LT1 (350 cid) V8 engine

A beater 1970 Nova coupe is prominently featured in the movie ''Beverly Hills Cop''.

===1971===

1971 Novas were similar to the previous year but with the loss of the simulated fender vents and the discontinuation of the 396 motor for the SS with the L48 350-4 taking its place. 1971 also saw the introduction of the '''Rally Nova''', a trim level that only lasted two years and was marketed as sort of a budget-SS. The Rally package included black or white stripes that ran the length of the car and around the back, a Rally Nova sticker on the driver's side of the hood, and Rally wheels.

The 250 I6 was now the standard Nova powerplant with the demise of the 153 I4 and 230 I6 engines. The 307 and 350 V8s were carried over from 1970 and all engines featured lowered compression ratios to enable the use of unleaded gasoline as a result of a GM corporate mandate that took effect with the 1971 model year.

After 1971, other GM divisions began rebadging the Nova as their new entry-level vehicle, such as the [[Pontiac Ventura]] II (once a trim option for full-size Pontiacs to 1970), [[Oldsmobile Omega]] (1973) and the [[Buick Apollo]] (mid-1973). Interestingly, the intials of the four model names spelled out the acronym '''NOVA''' (Nova, Omega, Ventura, Apollo.)

===1972===

A virtual rerun of 1971, the 1972 Nova received only minor trim changes and both the Rally Nova and SS options carried over. At mid-year a manual canvas sunroof option became available on two-door models. Also, the optional Strato bucket seats available on coupes switched from the previous low-back design with adjustable headrests to the high back units with built-in headrests introduced the previous year on Camaros and Vegas. Standard engine was still the 250 I6 with either a 3- or 4-speed manual or 2- or 3-speed automatics. The 307 and 350 V8s remained optional. There would be a restyled Nova for 1973.

===1973===

The 1973 model year introduced a new hatchback bodystyle based on the 2-door coupe, as well as a front and rear restyling and a modified rear side window shape, plus a revised rear suspension adapted from the second-generation Camaro with multi-leaf springs replacing the mono-leaf springs used on Novas since the original 1966 model. Front vent windows disappeared, and instrumentation remained the same as before. A luxury-themed '''Custom''' became part of the model lineup which included upgraded upholstery, full carpeting, more exterior trim and available on all bodystyles. By this time, six-cylinder and V8 engines were ''de rigeur'' for American compact cars, with the 115 hp 307, 145 hp 350-2 and 175 hp 350-4 V8s as options (standard on the SS). The 100 hp 250 cid I6 was still standard on the rest and still had the two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission as an option, which was in its final year.

===1974===

For 1974, the powerglide was replaced by a lightweight version of the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 already offered with the 350 V8, which was now the only V8 offered this year. The SS option was still available but became more of a sporty trim package than a performance offering and now offered with any Nova engine, much like the 1963-67 Nova SS. The 250 I6 remained standard, and transmission choices, with the exception of the 2-speed Powerglide, remained the same as well. The 350-4 got a 10 hp boost to 185. There would be an all-new Nova for 1975.

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:77rally.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1975-1979
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 196.7"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 72.2"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 54.3"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 111"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1975-1979) 4.3L (262 cid) V8 (1975) 5.0L (305 cid) V8 (1976-1979) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1975-1978)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|110-170 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Skylark]] [[Cadillac Seville]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]/[[Pontiac Phoenix|Phoenix]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Fourth generation (1975–1979)==

A completely redesigned Nova was introduced in 1975. Bodystyles were still the 2-door coupe, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedans. Base coupes, including the hatchback, had fixed side windows (or optional flip-out windows) and simulated vertical vents on the B-pillar (sedans would have simulated horizontal vents at the bottom of the C-pillar). The new Nova still rode the same 111" wheelbase as before. Engines this year were the standard 105 hp 250 cid I6 carried over from the previous generations, a new 110 hp 4.3L (262 cid) 2bbl V8, a 145 hp 350-2 and 155 hp 350-4 V8 were optional. V8 models had metric engine callouts above the front side-marker lights. The front suspension and subframe assembly was similar to the one used in the second-generation GM F-body ([[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]], [[Pontiac Firebird|Firebird]]), whereas the rear axle and suspension were carried over from the 1968-74 generation.

The Nova lineup now ranged from the stripped-down '''S''' model, base, '''Custom''', and the luxury-themed '''LN''' ("Luxury Nova"). The Nova '''SS''' continued for 1975 and got a unique grille and requisite badges. Dashboards and other controls were virtually identical in layout compared to the previous generation. Power windows and locks were now an option for the first time in the Nova line. A high-performance 9C1 police version of the Nova was introduced for the 1975 model year, making it the first compact car certified for police duty in the U.S. Most were initially purchased by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department in 1976.

The LN was replaced with the Nova '''Concours''' in 1976, and the Custom model was gone (temporarily). The grille was changed slightly, and the short-lived 262 V8 was replaced by the new 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and was standard on the Concours. The 350 V8 remained the top engine option. Transmissions included the 3-speed manual standard with the I6, with a 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic optional. The 305 could have a 4-speed manual or automatic, while the 350 was automatic only. 1977 Concours models got a new 3-taillight lens scheme very similar to the larger [[Chevrolet Impala|Impala]] with a [[Cadillac]]-esque front clip that included chrome squared-off headlight bezels and a more elegant-looking vertically-barred grille with extra chrome trim. The SS was dropped, but it would continue as the '''Nova Rally''', which was basically the same sporty-themed idea. Other models also got a slightly revised grille and all got a new dashboard with round gauges and an 80 MPH speedo.

1978 Novas continued with little change, other than the '''Custom''' model returning as the base model. The 2-door, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedan bodystyles, and Concours and Rally models, were still available. By now, however, the Nova was starting to fall out of favor with much of the buying public, largely due to increased competition from the new [[Ford Fairmont]] and even Chevrolet's own [[Chevrolet Malibu|Malibu]], which was an all-new downsized model for 1978. Even though 1979 was a final abbreviated model year, the front end was nonetheless revised again with square headlights and a new horizontally-barred grille for the short run. The 9C1 police package was dropped for '79, along with the Rally model and 350 V8 engine. Production ended on December 22, 1978. The Nova was replaced by the all-new front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] for 1980. The Nova name, however, would reappear again in 1985 on an unrelated model.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:156392062X01LZZZZZZ.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
| 1985-1988
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|4-Door Sedan 5-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2500-2700 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|5-Speed Manual, FWD 3-Speed Automatic, FWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|1.6L (97 cid) I4
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Toyota Corolla]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|S
|}

==1985-1988 Nova==

In 1985 the Nova name was applied to a rebadged [[Toyota Corolla]] and was produced at the NUMMI plant in Fremont, California, as an historic first joint venture between [[General Motors]] and [[Toyota]]. It shared the Corolla's drivetrain and running gear, and was available as a 4-door sedan and a 5-door hatchback (just like the Corolla). It differed from the Corolla mainly with slightly different front-end styling. It also shared many interior parts, such as audio systems, with other GM's offerings whereas the Corolla did not. The Corolla had been redesigned for 1988, but the Nova continued to use the old platform for its last year. The Nova would be replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]], which was also a twin to the Corolla.

==Main Competitors 1985-1988==

*[[Dodge Omni]]
*[[Ford Escort]]
*[[Honda Civic]]
*[[Isuzu I-Mark]]
*[[Mazda 323]]
*[[Mercury Lynx]]
*[[Nissan Sentra]]
*[[Plymouth Horizon]]
*[[Volkswagen Golf]]

{{-}}

==Photos==
<gallery>
Image:Ad77police350x496.jpg
</gallery>

==Main Competitors 1968-1979==
*[[Dodge Dart]]/[[Dodge Aspen|Aspen]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]/[[Ford Maverick|Maverick]]/[[Ford Fairmont|Fairmont]]
*[[Ford Granada]]
*[[Mercury Comet]]/[[Mercury Zephyr|Zephyr]]
*[[Mercury Monarch]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]/[[Plymouth Volare|Volare]]

==The urban legend==
A popular urban legend asserts that the Nova sold poorly in Mexico and other Latin American countries because the phrase ''no va'' means "does not go" in Spanish. In reality, the Spanish language ''no va'' and ''nova'' are as different as the English ''no table'' and ''notable'', or ''therapist'' and ''the rapist''. [http://www.snopes.com/business/misxlate/nova.asp] The word ''nova'' exists in [http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nova Spanish] with the same meaning as in English. Also, the Spanish word for 'new' (nuevo or nueva) is cognate to ''nova'', which originally meant "new" in Latin. Finally, as NOVA was a brand of gasoline sold for many years by PEMEX in Mexico, the largest of all Spanish-speaking Latin American countries, it is clear that this urban legend, while perhaps entertaining, is utterly baseless.

==See Also==
{{Chevrolet}}

==External links==
*[http://www.nnnova.com/ National Nostalgic Nova] The original National Nostalgic Nova Club Celebrating 25 Years of Helping Nova People The only Monthly Magazine dedicated to Only Novas!
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/nova/ Chevrolet Nova Internet Source] — The second known Nova site on the Internet
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/novaList.html Nova listserv] — The first and only known public [[Electronic mailing list|mailing list]] dedicated to Chevrolet Novas and other X-bodies; in continuous existence since January 1998
*[http://automotivehistoryonline.com/Chevrolet1960m.htm Automotive History Online] - Chevrolet Nova History & Photos
*[http://www.novaresource.org/ NovaResource.com] — Excellent source of history, production numbers, and option code information for 1962-79 Novas
*[http://www.stevesnovasite.com/ Steve's Nova Site] - Includes Q&A discussion board; another excellent resource for Nova owners
*[http://www.musclecarfacts.com/mcf/nova/nova.asp Chevy Nova SS at Muscle Car Facts] — A year-by-year history.
*[http://www.gen4novas.com/ Gen4Novas.com] — Source for the 'stepchild' Disco-era X-car.
*[http://www.2quicknovas.com/ 2QuickNovas.com] — Nova, technical, drag racing and general car info.
*[http://www.chevynova.org/1968.html]

[[Category:Classic cars]]

Chevrolet Nova

2010-10-18T21:49:22Z

Yankee: /* 1974 */

The '''[[Chevrolet]] Nova''', or '''Chevy II''', was an American compact car introduced by [[General Motors]] in 1962. The original Chevy II was of unibody construction, powered by an OHV inline four or six-cylinder engine (and V8s later), and available in two- and four-door sedan configurations as well as convertible and station wagon versions. After the rear-engine [[Chevrolet Corvair]] was handily outsold by the conventional [[Ford Falcon]] in 1960, Chevrolet began work on a more conventional compact car that would eventually become the Chevy II. The Chevy II/Nova continued on throughout the 1960s and 70s with great success until it was supplanted by the front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] in 1980. The Nova name would reappear briefly again in 1985 as a twin to (of all things) the [[Toyota Corolla]]. The "Toyolet" Nova was discontinued after 1988, replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]].

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:1962 Chevrolet II.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1962-1965
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 2-Door Convertible 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 153" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 70.8"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 55"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1962-1965) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1962-1965) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1964-1965) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1964-1965) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1965)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-300 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==First Generation (1962-1965)==

Three different levels of this car were made - the baseline Chevy II '''100''', the mid-grade Chevy II '''300''' and the top-line Chevy II Nova '''400'''. Their was also the sport-oriented Chevy II Nova Super Sport ('''SS'''), available on the 2-door coupe or convertible. Available powerplants included the standard 2.5L (153 cid) I4 and optional the 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (standard on the SS). Bodystyles included a 2-door sedan and hardtop, 4-door sedan, 5-door wagon (with an optional rear-facing 3rd seat) and a 2-door convertible. Unlike its [[Dodge Dart]]/[[Plymouth Valiant]] and [[Ford Falcon]] competition, no V8s were initially offered, but Chevrolet 283 and 327 cid V8s were offered in some areas as dealer-installed options, up to and including the fuel injected version available in the [[Chevrolet Corvette]]. Transmissions were a column or floor 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed manual or 2-speed Powerglide automatic. SSs could have bucket seats with a floor console-shift.

For 1963, grilles and taillights were slightly revised but otherwise were largely unchanged. All bodystyles and engine choices remained the same. For 1964, the Chevy II's first factory V8 option was introduced - a "Turbo-Fire" 195 hp 4.7L (283 cid) V8 with a 2-bbl carb, or a 225 hp 4-bbl version. A larger I6 was also offered, the "Turbo-Thrift" 3.8L (230 cid). Other drivetrain choices remained the same. The convertible was dropped, and the SS was also dropped at the beginning of this year, but it was reinstated mid-year due to high popular demand. The 300 series trim level was discontinued, leaving the 100 and 400 levels. In 1965, the grille was redesigned and the parking lights were relocated from directly below the headlights to the bumper. Taillights were revised also. The 5.3L (327 cid) V8 debuted this year (also called "Turbo Fire") with 250 and 300 horsepower versions. Other drivetrain choices remained the same as before. There would be a restyled Nova for 1966.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Chevrolet-nova 66.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1966-1967
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 154.7" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 71.3"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 55.4"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1966-1967) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1967) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1966-1967) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1966-1967)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-350 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Second Generation (1966-1967)==

The second generation Novas would be short-lived, only going 2 model years. 1966 Novas saw a significant restyling, based in part on the Super Nova concept car. In general, external proportions were squared up but dimensions and features changed little. Wheelbase remained the same at 110". Trim choices were still the '''100''' and '''400'''. Engine options still included the basic 153 I4, 194 I6, the 195 hp and 225 hp 283s and 275 hp (up 25 from '65) and 350 hp (up 50 from '65) 327 V8s. V8 models got special lower fender badges behind the front wheels. Transmission choices remained the column or floor-shift 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed and 2-speed Powerglide automatics. The 327/350 engine was manual-shift only (3- or 4-speed) and was not available on the 100 series or wagon. Inside, there was a new dashboard that strongly resembled the larger [[Chevrolet Chevelle|Chevelle's]] (also all-new this year) and revised seat designs, but the Chevy II line during this time was still very spartan. The 90 hp 153 I4 was only offered in the base Chevy II 100 series models, with the 120-horsepower 194 I6 standard on the Nova and Nova SS lines. A new engine offering included a 140 hp 3.8L (230 cid) I6, available in all models except the baseline 100. The SS could still have bucket seats with a console floor shift.

Not many changes for 1967, but a 155 hp 4.1L (250 cid) I6 became available in all models except the 100. The 350 hp L79 327 V8 was unfortunately dropped this year, but other drivetrain choices remained the same as the previous year's. There would be an all-new Chevy II/Nova for 1968.

==Main Competitors 1962-1967==

*[[Dodge Dart]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]
*[[Studebaker Lark]]

[[Image:Nova front fender emblem 68-72.jpg|left|350px]]

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:477.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1968-1974
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1968-1970) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1968-1974) 5.0L (307 cid) V8 (1968-1973) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1968-1974) 6.5L (396 cid) cid V8 (1968-1970) 7.0L (427 cid) V8 (1970)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-425 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Apollo]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Third generation (1968–1974)==

An extensive redesign came in 1968, when the station wagon and two door hardtop bodystyles were discontinued. This body style continued (with a minor restyle in 1973) through 1974. One notable change was the front subframe assembly — as compared with [[Ford]], [[Chrysler]] and [[AMC]], in whose cars the entire front suspension was integrated with the bodyshell, a separate subframe housing the powertrain and front suspension (similar to the front part of the frame of GM's full-size, full-framed vehicles) replaced the earlier style. Although the front subframe design was a Chevy II-exclusive design, the [[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]] introduced a year earlier was the first to incorporate such a design; the redesigned Chevy II was pushed a year back to 1968 instead of 1967. 1968 was the final year that the Chevy II nameplate was used, although all 1968 models were "Chevy II Novas" with one single trim line.

The 90 hp 153 I4 carried over from the previous generation as standard on the baseline model. Far more popular were the 140 hp 230 I6 and 155 hp 250 I6 and the new 200 hp 5.0L (307 cid) V8, which replaced the 283 offered in previous generations. At mid-year a semi-automatic transmission based on the Powerglide called Torque-Drive was introduced as a low-cost option for shiftless motoring for both the four and six-cylinder engines. The two-speed Powerglide was still the only fully-automatic gearbox available with most engines as the more desirable three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic was only available with the largest V8 engines. An interesting engine option was the 5.3L (327 cid) V8 rated at 350 hp (RPO code L79).

The '''SS''' was transformed from a trim package to a performance option for 1968 and now included a "Turbo Fire" 295 hp 5.7L (350 cid) V8 engine along with front disc brakes, heavy-duty suspension and other performance hardware. Optional engines included two versions of the big-block 6.5L (396 cid) V8 rated at 350 and 375 hp. Both 396 engines were offered with a choice of transmissions including the M-21 close-ratio four-speed manual, the M-22 heavy-duty "Rock Crusher" four-speed manual, or the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 400 for those who preferred automatic shifting. SSs (and lesser coupes) could have a console with optional auxiliary gauges very similar to the contemporary Camaro design.

===1969===

The Chevy II nameplate was retired and the car became the "Chevy Nova" for this year (some sources referred to it as the Chevrolet Chevy Nova - perhaps the decision to drop the Chevy II moniker was a last-minute decision for 1969). Like other 1969 GM vehicles, locking steering columns were incorporated along with column ignitions. Simulated vents were added below the Nova script, which was relocated to the front fender instead of the rear quarter panel. The 350-4 that came standard with the SS option was revised with a five-hp increase to 300 while a 350-2 rated at 255 hp was a new option on non-SS models. A new Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 three-speed automatic was made available for non-SS Novas with six-cylinder and V8 engines.

===1970===

Basically a carryover from 1969; the side markers and taillight lenses were wider and positioned slightly differently, which placed the reverse lights in the middle of the taillight lens instead of the inward portion. This was the final year for the SS396. All other engines were carried over including the seldom-ordered four-cylinder which was in its final year. The car finally became simply the Chevrolet Nova this year after two years of transitional nameplates (Chevy II Nova in 1968 and Chevrolet Chevy Nova in 1969).

Approximately 177 COPO Novas were ordered, with 175 converted by Yenko Chevrolet (the other two were sold in Canada). These had the mighty LT1 (350 cid) V8 engine

A beater 1970 Nova coupe is prominently featured in the movie ''Beverly Hills Cop''.

===1971===

1971 Novas were similar to the previous year but with the loss of the simulated fender vents and the discontinuation of the 396 motor for the SS with the L48 350-4 taking its place. 1971 also saw the introduction of the '''Rally Nova''', a trim level that only lasted two years and was marketed as sort of a budget-SS. The Rally package included black or white stripes that ran the length of the car and around the back, a Rally Nova sticker on the driver's side of the hood, and Rally wheels.

The 250 I6 was now the standard Nova powerplant with the demise of the 153 I4 and 230 I6 engines. The 307 and 350 V8s were carried over from 1970 and all engines featured lowered compression ratios to enable the use of unleaded gasoline as a result of a GM corporate mandate that took effect with the 1971 model year.

After 1971, other GM divisions began rebadging the Nova as their new entry-level vehicle, such as the [[Pontiac Ventura]] II (once a trim option for full-size Pontiacs to 1970), [[Oldsmobile Omega]] (1973) and the [[Buick Apollo]] (mid-1973). Interestingly, the intials of the four model names spelled out the acronym '''NOVA''' (Nova, Omega, Ventura, Apollo.)

===1972===

A virtual rerun of 1971, the 1972 Nova received only minor trim changes and both the Rally Nova and SS options carried over. At mid-year a manual canvas sunroof option became available on two-door models. Also, the optional Strato bucket seats available on coupes switched from the previous low-back design with adjustable headrests to the high back units with built-in headrests introduced the previous year on Camaros and Vegas. Standard engine was still the 250 I6 with either a 3- or 4-speed manual or 2- or 3-speed automatics. The 307 and 350 V8s remained optional. There would be a restyled Nova for 1973.

===1973===

The 1973 model year introduced a new hatchback bodystyle based on the 2-door coupe, as well as a front and rear restyling and a modified rear side window shape, plus a revised rear suspension adapted from the second-generation Camaro with multi-leaf springs replacing the mono-leaf springs used on Novas since the original 1966 model. Front vent windows disappeared, and instrumentation remained the same as before. A luxury-themed '''Custom''' became part of the model lineup which included upgraded upholstery, full carpeting, more exterior trim and available on all bodystyles. By this time, six-cylinder and V8 engines were ''de rigeur'' for American compact cars, with the 115 hp 307, 145 hp 350-2 and 175 hp 350-4 V8s as options (standard on the SS). The 100 hp 250 cid I6 was still standard on the rest and still had the two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission as an option, which was in its final year.

===1974===

For 1974, the powerglide was replaced by a lightweight version of the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 already offered with the 350 V8, which was now the only V8 offered this year. The SS option was still available but became more of a sporty trim package than a performance offering and now offered with any Nova engine, much like the 1963-67 Nova SS. The 250 I6 remained standard, and transmission choices, with the exception of the 2-speed Powerglide, remained the same as well. The 350-4 got a 10 hp boost to 185. There would be an all-new Nova for 1975.

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:77rally.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1975-1979
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 196.7"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 72.2"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 54.3"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 111"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1975-1979) 4.3L (262 cid) V8 (1975) 5.0L (305 cid) V8 (1976-1979) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1975-1978)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|110-170 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Skylark]] [[Cadillac Seville]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]/[[Pontiac Phoenix|Phoenix]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Fourth generation (1975–1979)==

A completely redesigned Nova was introduced in 1975. Bodystyles were still the 2-door coupe, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedans. Base coupes, including the hatchback, had fixed side windows (or optional flip-out windows) and simulated vertical vents on the B-pillar (sedans would have simulated horizontal vents at the bottom of the C-pillar). Engines this year were the standard 250 cid I6 carried over from the previous generations, a 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and 350 V8 were optional. The front suspension and subframe assembly was similar to the one used in the second-generation GM F-body ([[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]], [[Pontiac Firebird|Firebird]]), whereas the rear axle and suspension were carried over from the 1968-74 generation.

The Nova lineup now ranged from the stripped-down '''S''' model, base, '''Custom''', and the luxury-themed '''LN''' ("Luxury Nova"). The Nova '''SS''' continued for 1975 and got a unique grille and requisite badges. Dashboards and other controls were virtually identical in layout compared to the previous generation. A high-performance 9C1 police version of the Nova was introduced for the 1975 model year, making it the first compact car certified for police duty in the U.S. Most were initially purchased by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department in 1976.

The LN was replaced with the Nova '''Concours''' in 1976, and the Custom model was gone (temporarily). The grille was changed slightly, and the short-lived 262 V8 was replaced by the new 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and was standard on the Concours. The 350 V8 remained the top engine option. Transmissions included the 3-speed manual standard with the I6, with a 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic optional. The 305 could have a 4-speed manual or automatic, while the 350 was automatic only. 1977 Concours models got a new 3-taillight lens scheme very similar to the larger [[Chevrolet Impala|Impala]] with a [[Cadillac]]-esque front clip that included chrome squared-off headlight bezels and a more elegant-looking vertically-barred grille with extra chrome trim. The SS was dropped, but it would continue as the '''Nova Rally''', which was basically the same sporty-themed idea. Other models also got a slightly revised grille and all got a new dashboard with round gauges and an 80 MPH speedo.

1978 Novas continued with little change, other than the '''Custom''' model returning as the base model. The 2-door, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedan bodystyles, and Concours and Rally models, were still available. By now, however, the Nova was starting to fall out of favor with much of the buying public, largely due to increased competition from the new [[Ford Fairmont]] and even Chevrolet's own [[Chevrolet Malibu|Malibu]], which was an all-new downsized model for 1978. Even though 1979 was a final abbreviated model year, the front end was nonetheless revised again with square headlights and a new horizontally-barred grille for the short run. The 9C1 police package was dropped for '79, along with the Rally model and 350 V8 engine. Production ended on December 22, 1978. The Nova was replaced by the all-new front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] for 1980. The Nova name, however, would reappear again in 1985 on an unrelated model.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:156392062X01LZZZZZZ.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
| 1985-1988
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|4-Door Sedan 5-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2500-2700 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|5-Speed Manual, FWD 3-Speed Automatic, FWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|1.6L (97 cid) I4
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Toyota Corolla]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|S
|}

==1985-1988 Nova==

In 1985 the Nova name was applied to a rebadged [[Toyota Corolla]] and was produced at the NUMMI plant in Fremont, California, as an historic first joint venture between [[General Motors]] and [[Toyota]]. It shared the Corolla's drivetrain and running gear, and was available as a 4-door sedan and a 5-door hatchback (just like the Corolla). It differed from the Corolla mainly with slightly different front-end styling. It also shared many interior parts, such as audio systems, with other GM's offerings whereas the Corolla did not. The Corolla had been redesigned for 1988, but the Nova continued to use the old platform for its last year. The Nova would be replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]], which was also a twin to the Corolla.

==Main Competitors 1985-1988==

*[[Dodge Omni]]
*[[Ford Escort]]
*[[Honda Civic]]
*[[Isuzu I-Mark]]
*[[Mazda 323]]
*[[Mercury Lynx]]
*[[Nissan Sentra]]
*[[Plymouth Horizon]]
*[[Volkswagen Golf]]

{{-}}

==Photos==
<gallery>
Image:Ad77police350x496.jpg
</gallery>

==Main Competitors 1968-1979==
*[[Dodge Dart]]/[[Dodge Aspen|Aspen]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]/[[Ford Maverick|Maverick]]/[[Ford Fairmont|Fairmont]]
*[[Ford Granada]]
*[[Mercury Comet]]/[[Mercury Zephyr|Zephyr]]
*[[Mercury Monarch]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]/[[Plymouth Volare|Volare]]

==The urban legend==
A popular urban legend asserts that the Nova sold poorly in Mexico and other Latin American countries because the phrase ''no va'' means "does not go" in Spanish. In reality, the Spanish language ''no va'' and ''nova'' are as different as the English ''no table'' and ''notable'', or ''therapist'' and ''the rapist''. [http://www.snopes.com/business/misxlate/nova.asp] The word ''nova'' exists in [http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nova Spanish] with the same meaning as in English. Also, the Spanish word for 'new' (nuevo or nueva) is cognate to ''nova'', which originally meant "new" in Latin. Finally, as NOVA was a brand of gasoline sold for many years by PEMEX in Mexico, the largest of all Spanish-speaking Latin American countries, it is clear that this urban legend, while perhaps entertaining, is utterly baseless.

==See Also==
{{Chevrolet}}

==External links==
*[http://www.nnnova.com/ National Nostalgic Nova] The original National Nostalgic Nova Club Celebrating 25 Years of Helping Nova People The only Monthly Magazine dedicated to Only Novas!
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/nova/ Chevrolet Nova Internet Source] — The second known Nova site on the Internet
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/novaList.html Nova listserv] — The first and only known public [[Electronic mailing list|mailing list]] dedicated to Chevrolet Novas and other X-bodies; in continuous existence since January 1998
*[http://automotivehistoryonline.com/Chevrolet1960m.htm Automotive History Online] - Chevrolet Nova History & Photos
*[http://www.novaresource.org/ NovaResource.com] — Excellent source of history, production numbers, and option code information for 1962-79 Novas
*[http://www.stevesnovasite.com/ Steve's Nova Site] - Includes Q&A discussion board; another excellent resource for Nova owners
*[http://www.musclecarfacts.com/mcf/nova/nova.asp Chevy Nova SS at Muscle Car Facts] — A year-by-year history.
*[http://www.gen4novas.com/ Gen4Novas.com] — Source for the 'stepchild' Disco-era X-car.
*[http://www.2quicknovas.com/ 2QuickNovas.com] — Nova, technical, drag racing and general car info.
*[http://www.chevynova.org/1968.html]

[[Category:Classic cars]]

Chevrolet Nova

2010-10-18T21:46:20Z

Yankee: /* 1974 */

The '''[[Chevrolet]] Nova''', or '''Chevy II''', was an American compact car introduced by [[General Motors]] in 1962. The original Chevy II was of unibody construction, powered by an OHV inline four or six-cylinder engine (and V8s later), and available in two- and four-door sedan configurations as well as convertible and station wagon versions. After the rear-engine [[Chevrolet Corvair]] was handily outsold by the conventional [[Ford Falcon]] in 1960, Chevrolet began work on a more conventional compact car that would eventually become the Chevy II. The Chevy II/Nova continued on throughout the 1960s and 70s with great success until it was supplanted by the front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] in 1980. The Nova name would reappear briefly again in 1985 as a twin to (of all things) the [[Toyota Corolla]]. The "Toyolet" Nova was discontinued after 1988, replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]].

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:1962 Chevrolet II.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1962-1965
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 2-Door Convertible 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 153" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 70.8"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 55"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1962-1965) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1962-1965) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1964-1965) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1964-1965) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1965)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-300 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==First Generation (1962-1965)==

Three different levels of this car were made - the baseline Chevy II '''100''', the mid-grade Chevy II '''300''' and the top-line Chevy II Nova '''400'''. Their was also the sport-oriented Chevy II Nova Super Sport ('''SS'''), available on the 2-door coupe or convertible. Available powerplants included the standard 2.5L (153 cid) I4 and optional the 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (standard on the SS). Bodystyles included a 2-door sedan and hardtop, 4-door sedan, 5-door wagon (with an optional rear-facing 3rd seat) and a 2-door convertible. Unlike its [[Dodge Dart]]/[[Plymouth Valiant]] and [[Ford Falcon]] competition, no V8s were initially offered, but Chevrolet 283 and 327 cid V8s were offered in some areas as dealer-installed options, up to and including the fuel injected version available in the [[Chevrolet Corvette]]. Transmissions were a column or floor 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed manual or 2-speed Powerglide automatic. SSs could have bucket seats with a floor console-shift.

For 1963, grilles and taillights were slightly revised but otherwise were largely unchanged. All bodystyles and engine choices remained the same. For 1964, the Chevy II's first factory V8 option was introduced - a "Turbo-Fire" 195 hp 4.7L (283 cid) V8 with a 2-bbl carb, or a 225 hp 4-bbl version. A larger I6 was also offered, the "Turbo-Thrift" 3.8L (230 cid). Other drivetrain choices remained the same. The convertible was dropped, and the SS was also dropped at the beginning of this year, but it was reinstated mid-year due to high popular demand. The 300 series trim level was discontinued, leaving the 100 and 400 levels. In 1965, the grille was redesigned and the parking lights were relocated from directly below the headlights to the bumper. Taillights were revised also. The 5.3L (327 cid) V8 debuted this year (also called "Turbo Fire") with 250 and 300 horsepower versions. Other drivetrain choices remained the same as before. There would be a restyled Nova for 1966.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Chevrolet-nova 66.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1966-1967
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 154.7" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 71.3"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 55.4"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1966-1967) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1967) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1966-1967) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1966-1967)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-350 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Second Generation (1966-1967)==

The second generation Novas would be short-lived, only going 2 model years. 1966 Novas saw a significant restyling, based in part on the Super Nova concept car. In general, external proportions were squared up but dimensions and features changed little. Wheelbase remained the same at 110". Trim choices were still the '''100''' and '''400'''. Engine options still included the basic 153 I4, 194 I6, the 195 hp and 225 hp 283s and 275 hp (up 25 from '65) and 350 hp (up 50 from '65) 327 V8s. V8 models got special lower fender badges behind the front wheels. Transmission choices remained the column or floor-shift 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed and 2-speed Powerglide automatics. The 327/350 engine was manual-shift only (3- or 4-speed) and was not available on the 100 series or wagon. Inside, there was a new dashboard that strongly resembled the larger [[Chevrolet Chevelle|Chevelle's]] (also all-new this year) and revised seat designs, but the Chevy II line during this time was still very spartan. The 90 hp 153 I4 was only offered in the base Chevy II 100 series models, with the 120-horsepower 194 I6 standard on the Nova and Nova SS lines. A new engine offering included a 140 hp 3.8L (230 cid) I6, available in all models except the baseline 100. The SS could still have bucket seats with a console floor shift.

Not many changes for 1967, but a 155 hp 4.1L (250 cid) I6 became available in all models except the 100. The 350 hp L79 327 V8 was unfortunately dropped this year, but other drivetrain choices remained the same as the previous year's. There would be an all-new Chevy II/Nova for 1968.

==Main Competitors 1962-1967==

*[[Dodge Dart]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]
*[[Studebaker Lark]]

[[Image:Nova front fender emblem 68-72.jpg|left|350px]]

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:477.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1968-1974
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1968-1970) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1968-1974) 5.0L (307 cid) V8 (1968-1973) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1968-1974) 6.5L (396 cid) cid V8 (1968-1970) 7.0L (427 cid) V8 (1970)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-425 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Apollo]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Third generation (1968–1974)==

An extensive redesign came in 1968, when the station wagon and two door hardtop bodystyles were discontinued. This body style continued (with a minor restyle in 1973) through 1974. One notable change was the front subframe assembly — as compared with [[Ford]], [[Chrysler]] and [[AMC]], in whose cars the entire front suspension was integrated with the bodyshell, a separate subframe housing the powertrain and front suspension (similar to the front part of the frame of GM's full-size, full-framed vehicles) replaced the earlier style. Although the front subframe design was a Chevy II-exclusive design, the [[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]] introduced a year earlier was the first to incorporate such a design; the redesigned Chevy II was pushed a year back to 1968 instead of 1967. 1968 was the final year that the Chevy II nameplate was used, although all 1968 models were "Chevy II Novas" with one single trim line.

The 90 hp 153 I4 carried over from the previous generation as standard on the baseline model. Far more popular were the 140 hp 230 I6 and 155 hp 250 I6 and the new 200 hp 5.0L (307 cid) V8, which replaced the 283 offered in previous generations. At mid-year a semi-automatic transmission based on the Powerglide called Torque-Drive was introduced as a low-cost option for shiftless motoring for both the four and six-cylinder engines. The two-speed Powerglide was still the only fully-automatic gearbox available with most engines as the more desirable three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic was only available with the largest V8 engines. An interesting engine option was the 5.3L (327 cid) V8 rated at 350 hp (RPO code L79).

The '''SS''' was transformed from a trim package to a performance option for 1968 and now included a "Turbo Fire" 295 hp 5.7L (350 cid) V8 engine along with front disc brakes, heavy-duty suspension and other performance hardware. Optional engines included two versions of the big-block 6.5L (396 cid) V8 rated at 350 and 375 hp. Both 396 engines were offered with a choice of transmissions including the M-21 close-ratio four-speed manual, the M-22 heavy-duty "Rock Crusher" four-speed manual, or the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 400 for those who preferred automatic shifting. SSs (and lesser coupes) could have a console with optional auxiliary gauges very similar to the contemporary Camaro design.

===1969===

The Chevy II nameplate was retired and the car became the "Chevy Nova" for this year (some sources referred to it as the Chevrolet Chevy Nova - perhaps the decision to drop the Chevy II moniker was a last-minute decision for 1969). Like other 1969 GM vehicles, locking steering columns were incorporated along with column ignitions. Simulated vents were added below the Nova script, which was relocated to the front fender instead of the rear quarter panel. The 350-4 that came standard with the SS option was revised with a five-hp increase to 300 while a 350-2 rated at 255 hp was a new option on non-SS models. A new Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 three-speed automatic was made available for non-SS Novas with six-cylinder and V8 engines.

===1970===

Basically a carryover from 1969; the side markers and taillight lenses were wider and positioned slightly differently, which placed the reverse lights in the middle of the taillight lens instead of the inward portion. This was the final year for the SS396. All other engines were carried over including the seldom-ordered four-cylinder which was in its final year. The car finally became simply the Chevrolet Nova this year after two years of transitional nameplates (Chevy II Nova in 1968 and Chevrolet Chevy Nova in 1969).

Approximately 177 COPO Novas were ordered, with 175 converted by Yenko Chevrolet (the other two were sold in Canada). These had the mighty LT1 (350 cid) V8 engine

A beater 1970 Nova coupe is prominently featured in the movie ''Beverly Hills Cop''.

===1971===

1971 Novas were similar to the previous year but with the loss of the simulated fender vents and the discontinuation of the 396 motor for the SS with the L48 350-4 taking its place. 1971 also saw the introduction of the '''Rally Nova''', a trim level that only lasted two years and was marketed as sort of a budget-SS. The Rally package included black or white stripes that ran the length of the car and around the back, a Rally Nova sticker on the driver's side of the hood, and Rally wheels.

The 250 I6 was now the standard Nova powerplant with the demise of the 153 I4 and 230 I6 engines. The 307 and 350 V8s were carried over from 1970 and all engines featured lowered compression ratios to enable the use of unleaded gasoline as a result of a GM corporate mandate that took effect with the 1971 model year.

After 1971, other GM divisions began rebadging the Nova as their new entry-level vehicle, such as the [[Pontiac Ventura]] II (once a trim option for full-size Pontiacs to 1970), [[Oldsmobile Omega]] (1973) and the [[Buick Apollo]] (mid-1973). Interestingly, the intials of the four model names spelled out the acronym '''NOVA''' (Nova, Omega, Ventura, Apollo.)

===1972===

A virtual rerun of 1971, the 1972 Nova received only minor trim changes and both the Rally Nova and SS options carried over. At mid-year a manual canvas sunroof option became available on two-door models. Also, the optional Strato bucket seats available on coupes switched from the previous low-back design with adjustable headrests to the high back units with built-in headrests introduced the previous year on Camaros and Vegas. Standard engine was still the 250 I6 with either a 3- or 4-speed manual or 2- or 3-speed automatics. The 307 and 350 V8s remained optional. There would be a restyled Nova for 1973.

===1973===

The 1973 model year introduced a new hatchback bodystyle based on the 2-door coupe, as well as a front and rear restyling and a modified rear side window shape, plus a revised rear suspension adapted from the second-generation Camaro with multi-leaf springs replacing the mono-leaf springs used on Novas since the original 1966 model. Front vent windows disappeared, and instrumentation remained the same as before. A luxury-themed '''Custom''' became part of the model lineup which included upgraded upholstery, full carpeting, more exterior trim and available on all bodystyles. By this time, six-cylinder and V8 engines were ''de rigeur'' for American compact cars, with the 115 hp 307, 145 hp 350-2 and 175 hp 350-4 V8s as options (standard on the SS). The 100 hp 250 cid I6 was still standard on the rest and still had the two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission as an option, which was in its final year.

===1974===

For 1974, the powerglide was replaced by a lightweight version of the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 already offered with the 350 V8, which was now the only V8 offered this year. The SS option was still available but became more of a sporty trim package than a performance offering and now offered with any Nova engine, much like the 1963-67 Nova SS. The 250 I6 remained standard, and transmission choices, with the exception of the 2-speed Powerglide, remained the same as well. The 350-4 got a 10 hp boost to 185. There would be an all-new Nova for 1975.

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:77rally.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1975-1979
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1975-1979) 4.3L (262 cid) V8 (1975) 5.0L (305 cid) V8 (1976-1979) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1975-1978)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|110-170 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Skylark]] [[Cadillac Seville]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]/[[Pontiac Phoenix|Phoenix]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Fourth generation (1975–1979)==

A completely redesigned Nova was introduced in 1975. Bodystyles were still the 2-door coupe, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedans. Base coupes, including the hatchback, had fixed side windows (or optional flip-out windows) and simulated vertical vents on the B-pillar (sedans would have simulated horizontal vents at the bottom of the C-pillar). Engines this year were the standard 250 cid I6 carried over from the previous generations, a 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and 350 V8 were optional. The front suspension and subframe assembly was similar to the one used in the second-generation GM F-body ([[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]], [[Pontiac Firebird|Firebird]]), whereas the rear axle and suspension were carried over from the 1968-74 generation.

The Nova lineup now ranged from the stripped-down '''S''' model, base, '''Custom''', and the luxury-themed '''LN''' ("Luxury Nova"). The Nova '''SS''' continued for 1975 and got a unique grille and requisite badges. Dashboards and other controls were virtually identical in layout compared to the previous generation. A high-performance 9C1 police version of the Nova was introduced for the 1975 model year, making it the first compact car certified for police duty in the U.S. Most were initially purchased by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department in 1976.

The LN was replaced with the Nova '''Concours''' in 1976, and the Custom model was gone (temporarily). The grille was changed slightly, and the short-lived 262 V8 was replaced by the new 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and was standard on the Concours. The 350 V8 remained the top engine option. Transmissions included the 3-speed manual standard with the I6, with a 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic optional. The 305 could have a 4-speed manual or automatic, while the 350 was automatic only. 1977 Concours models got a new 3-taillight lens scheme very similar to the larger [[Chevrolet Impala|Impala]] with a [[Cadillac]]-esque front clip that included chrome squared-off headlight bezels and a more elegant-looking vertically-barred grille with extra chrome trim. The SS was dropped, but it would continue as the '''Nova Rally''', which was basically the same sporty-themed idea. Other models also got a slightly revised grille and all got a new dashboard with round gauges and an 80 MPH speedo.

1978 Novas continued with little change, other than the '''Custom''' model returning as the base model. The 2-door, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedan bodystyles, and Concours and Rally models, were still available. By now, however, the Nova was starting to fall out of favor with much of the buying public, largely due to increased competition from the new [[Ford Fairmont]] and even Chevrolet's own [[Chevrolet Malibu|Malibu]], which was an all-new downsized model for 1978. Even though 1979 was a final abbreviated model year, the front end was nonetheless revised again with square headlights and a new horizontally-barred grille for the short run. The 9C1 police package was dropped for '79, along with the Rally model and 350 V8 engine. Production ended on December 22, 1978. The Nova was replaced by the all-new front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] for 1980. The Nova name, however, would reappear again in 1985 on an unrelated model.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:156392062X01LZZZZZZ.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
| 1985-1988
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|4-Door Sedan 5-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2500-2700 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|5-Speed Manual, FWD 3-Speed Automatic, FWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|1.6L (97 cid) I4
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Toyota Corolla]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|S
|}

==1985-1988 Nova==

In 1985 the Nova name was applied to a rebadged [[Toyota Corolla]] and was produced at the NUMMI plant in Fremont, California, as an historic first joint venture between [[General Motors]] and [[Toyota]]. It shared the Corolla's drivetrain and running gear, and was available as a 4-door sedan and a 5-door hatchback (just like the Corolla). It differed from the Corolla mainly with slightly different front-end styling. It also shared many interior parts, such as audio systems, with other GM's offerings whereas the Corolla did not. The Corolla had been redesigned for 1988, but the Nova continued to use the old platform for its last year. The Nova would be replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]], which was also a twin to the Corolla.

==Main Competitors 1985-1988==

*[[Dodge Omni]]
*[[Ford Escort]]
*[[Honda Civic]]
*[[Isuzu I-Mark]]
*[[Mazda 323]]
*[[Mercury Lynx]]
*[[Nissan Sentra]]
*[[Plymouth Horizon]]
*[[Volkswagen Golf]]

{{-}}

==Photos==
<gallery>
Image:Ad77police350x496.jpg
</gallery>

==Main Competitors 1968-1979==
*[[Dodge Dart]]/[[Dodge Aspen|Aspen]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]/[[Ford Maverick|Maverick]]/[[Ford Fairmont|Fairmont]]
*[[Ford Granada]]
*[[Mercury Comet]]/[[Mercury Zephyr|Zephyr]]
*[[Mercury Monarch]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]/[[Plymouth Volare|Volare]]

==The urban legend==
A popular urban legend asserts that the Nova sold poorly in Mexico and other Latin American countries because the phrase ''no va'' means "does not go" in Spanish. In reality, the Spanish language ''no va'' and ''nova'' are as different as the English ''no table'' and ''notable'', or ''therapist'' and ''the rapist''. [http://www.snopes.com/business/misxlate/nova.asp] The word ''nova'' exists in [http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nova Spanish] with the same meaning as in English. Also, the Spanish word for 'new' (nuevo or nueva) is cognate to ''nova'', which originally meant "new" in Latin. Finally, as NOVA was a brand of gasoline sold for many years by PEMEX in Mexico, the largest of all Spanish-speaking Latin American countries, it is clear that this urban legend, while perhaps entertaining, is utterly baseless.

==See Also==
{{Chevrolet}}

==External links==
*[http://www.nnnova.com/ National Nostalgic Nova] The original National Nostalgic Nova Club Celebrating 25 Years of Helping Nova People The only Monthly Magazine dedicated to Only Novas!
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/nova/ Chevrolet Nova Internet Source] — The second known Nova site on the Internet
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/novaList.html Nova listserv] — The first and only known public [[Electronic mailing list|mailing list]] dedicated to Chevrolet Novas and other X-bodies; in continuous existence since January 1998
*[http://automotivehistoryonline.com/Chevrolet1960m.htm Automotive History Online] - Chevrolet Nova History & Photos
*[http://www.novaresource.org/ NovaResource.com] — Excellent source of history, production numbers, and option code information for 1962-79 Novas
*[http://www.stevesnovasite.com/ Steve's Nova Site] - Includes Q&A discussion board; another excellent resource for Nova owners
*[http://www.musclecarfacts.com/mcf/nova/nova.asp Chevy Nova SS at Muscle Car Facts] — A year-by-year history.
*[http://www.gen4novas.com/ Gen4Novas.com] — Source for the 'stepchild' Disco-era X-car.
*[http://www.2quicknovas.com/ 2QuickNovas.com] — Nova, technical, drag racing and general car info.
*[http://www.chevynova.org/1968.html]

[[Category:Classic cars]]

Chevrolet Nova

2010-10-18T21:42:12Z

Yankee: /* 1973 */

The '''[[Chevrolet]] Nova''', or '''Chevy II''', was an American compact car introduced by [[General Motors]] in 1962. The original Chevy II was of unibody construction, powered by an OHV inline four or six-cylinder engine (and V8s later), and available in two- and four-door sedan configurations as well as convertible and station wagon versions. After the rear-engine [[Chevrolet Corvair]] was handily outsold by the conventional [[Ford Falcon]] in 1960, Chevrolet began work on a more conventional compact car that would eventually become the Chevy II. The Chevy II/Nova continued on throughout the 1960s and 70s with great success until it was supplanted by the front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] in 1980. The Nova name would reappear briefly again in 1985 as a twin to (of all things) the [[Toyota Corolla]]. The "Toyolet" Nova was discontinued after 1988, replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]].

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:1962 Chevrolet II.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1962-1965
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 2-Door Convertible 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 153" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 70.8"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 55"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1962-1965) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1962-1965) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1964-1965) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1964-1965) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1965)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-300 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==First Generation (1962-1965)==

Three different levels of this car were made - the baseline Chevy II '''100''', the mid-grade Chevy II '''300''' and the top-line Chevy II Nova '''400'''. Their was also the sport-oriented Chevy II Nova Super Sport ('''SS'''), available on the 2-door coupe or convertible. Available powerplants included the standard 2.5L (153 cid) I4 and optional the 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (standard on the SS). Bodystyles included a 2-door sedan and hardtop, 4-door sedan, 5-door wagon (with an optional rear-facing 3rd seat) and a 2-door convertible. Unlike its [[Dodge Dart]]/[[Plymouth Valiant]] and [[Ford Falcon]] competition, no V8s were initially offered, but Chevrolet 283 and 327 cid V8s were offered in some areas as dealer-installed options, up to and including the fuel injected version available in the [[Chevrolet Corvette]]. Transmissions were a column or floor 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed manual or 2-speed Powerglide automatic. SSs could have bucket seats with a floor console-shift.

For 1963, grilles and taillights were slightly revised but otherwise were largely unchanged. All bodystyles and engine choices remained the same. For 1964, the Chevy II's first factory V8 option was introduced - a "Turbo-Fire" 195 hp 4.7L (283 cid) V8 with a 2-bbl carb, or a 225 hp 4-bbl version. A larger I6 was also offered, the "Turbo-Thrift" 3.8L (230 cid). Other drivetrain choices remained the same. The convertible was dropped, and the SS was also dropped at the beginning of this year, but it was reinstated mid-year due to high popular demand. The 300 series trim level was discontinued, leaving the 100 and 400 levels. In 1965, the grille was redesigned and the parking lights were relocated from directly below the headlights to the bumper. Taillights were revised also. The 5.3L (327 cid) V8 debuted this year (also called "Turbo Fire") with 250 and 300 horsepower versions. Other drivetrain choices remained the same as before. There would be a restyled Nova for 1966.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Chevrolet-nova 66.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1966-1967
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 154.7" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 71.3"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 55.4"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1966-1967) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1967) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1966-1967) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1966-1967)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-350 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Second Generation (1966-1967)==

The second generation Novas would be short-lived, only going 2 model years. 1966 Novas saw a significant restyling, based in part on the Super Nova concept car. In general, external proportions were squared up but dimensions and features changed little. Wheelbase remained the same at 110". Trim choices were still the '''100''' and '''400'''. Engine options still included the basic 153 I4, 194 I6, the 195 hp and 225 hp 283s and 275 hp (up 25 from '65) and 350 hp (up 50 from '65) 327 V8s. V8 models got special lower fender badges behind the front wheels. Transmission choices remained the column or floor-shift 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed and 2-speed Powerglide automatics. The 327/350 engine was manual-shift only (3- or 4-speed) and was not available on the 100 series or wagon. Inside, there was a new dashboard that strongly resembled the larger [[Chevrolet Chevelle|Chevelle's]] (also all-new this year) and revised seat designs, but the Chevy II line during this time was still very spartan. The 90 hp 153 I4 was only offered in the base Chevy II 100 series models, with the 120-horsepower 194 I6 standard on the Nova and Nova SS lines. A new engine offering included a 140 hp 3.8L (230 cid) I6, available in all models except the baseline 100. The SS could still have bucket seats with a console floor shift.

Not many changes for 1967, but a 155 hp 4.1L (250 cid) I6 became available in all models except the 100. The 350 hp L79 327 V8 was unfortunately dropped this year, but other drivetrain choices remained the same as the previous year's. There would be an all-new Chevy II/Nova for 1968.

==Main Competitors 1962-1967==

*[[Dodge Dart]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]
*[[Studebaker Lark]]

[[Image:Nova front fender emblem 68-72.jpg|left|350px]]

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:477.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1968-1974
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1968-1970) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1968-1974) 5.0L (307 cid) V8 (1968-1973) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1968-1974) 6.5L (396 cid) cid V8 (1968-1970) 7.0L (427 cid) V8 (1970)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-425 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Apollo]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Third generation (1968–1974)==

An extensive redesign came in 1968, when the station wagon and two door hardtop bodystyles were discontinued. This body style continued (with a minor restyle in 1973) through 1974. One notable change was the front subframe assembly — as compared with [[Ford]], [[Chrysler]] and [[AMC]], in whose cars the entire front suspension was integrated with the bodyshell, a separate subframe housing the powertrain and front suspension (similar to the front part of the frame of GM's full-size, full-framed vehicles) replaced the earlier style. Although the front subframe design was a Chevy II-exclusive design, the [[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]] introduced a year earlier was the first to incorporate such a design; the redesigned Chevy II was pushed a year back to 1968 instead of 1967. 1968 was the final year that the Chevy II nameplate was used, although all 1968 models were "Chevy II Novas" with one single trim line.

The 90 hp 153 I4 carried over from the previous generation as standard on the baseline model. Far more popular were the 140 hp 230 I6 and 155 hp 250 I6 and the new 200 hp 5.0L (307 cid) V8, which replaced the 283 offered in previous generations. At mid-year a semi-automatic transmission based on the Powerglide called Torque-Drive was introduced as a low-cost option for shiftless motoring for both the four and six-cylinder engines. The two-speed Powerglide was still the only fully-automatic gearbox available with most engines as the more desirable three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic was only available with the largest V8 engines. An interesting engine option was the 5.3L (327 cid) V8 rated at 350 hp (RPO code L79).

The '''SS''' was transformed from a trim package to a performance option for 1968 and now included a "Turbo Fire" 295 hp 5.7L (350 cid) V8 engine along with front disc brakes, heavy-duty suspension and other performance hardware. Optional engines included two versions of the big-block 6.5L (396 cid) V8 rated at 350 and 375 hp. Both 396 engines were offered with a choice of transmissions including the M-21 close-ratio four-speed manual, the M-22 heavy-duty "Rock Crusher" four-speed manual, or the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 400 for those who preferred automatic shifting. SSs (and lesser coupes) could have a console with optional auxiliary gauges very similar to the contemporary Camaro design.

===1969===

The Chevy II nameplate was retired and the car became the "Chevy Nova" for this year (some sources referred to it as the Chevrolet Chevy Nova - perhaps the decision to drop the Chevy II moniker was a last-minute decision for 1969). Like other 1969 GM vehicles, locking steering columns were incorporated along with column ignitions. Simulated vents were added below the Nova script, which was relocated to the front fender instead of the rear quarter panel. The 350-4 that came standard with the SS option was revised with a five-hp increase to 300 while a 350-2 rated at 255 hp was a new option on non-SS models. A new Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 three-speed automatic was made available for non-SS Novas with six-cylinder and V8 engines.

===1970===

Basically a carryover from 1969; the side markers and taillight lenses were wider and positioned slightly differently, which placed the reverse lights in the middle of the taillight lens instead of the inward portion. This was the final year for the SS396. All other engines were carried over including the seldom-ordered four-cylinder which was in its final year. The car finally became simply the Chevrolet Nova this year after two years of transitional nameplates (Chevy II Nova in 1968 and Chevrolet Chevy Nova in 1969).

Approximately 177 COPO Novas were ordered, with 175 converted by Yenko Chevrolet (the other two were sold in Canada). These had the mighty LT1 (350 cid) V8 engine

A beater 1970 Nova coupe is prominently featured in the movie ''Beverly Hills Cop''.

===1971===

1971 Novas were similar to the previous year but with the loss of the simulated fender vents and the discontinuation of the 396 motor for the SS with the L48 350-4 taking its place. 1971 also saw the introduction of the '''Rally Nova''', a trim level that only lasted two years and was marketed as sort of a budget-SS. The Rally package included black or white stripes that ran the length of the car and around the back, a Rally Nova sticker on the driver's side of the hood, and Rally wheels.

The 250 I6 was now the standard Nova powerplant with the demise of the 153 I4 and 230 I6 engines. The 307 and 350 V8s were carried over from 1970 and all engines featured lowered compression ratios to enable the use of unleaded gasoline as a result of a GM corporate mandate that took effect with the 1971 model year.

After 1971, other GM divisions began rebadging the Nova as their new entry-level vehicle, such as the [[Pontiac Ventura]] II (once a trim option for full-size Pontiacs to 1970), [[Oldsmobile Omega]] (1973) and the [[Buick Apollo]] (mid-1973). Interestingly, the intials of the four model names spelled out the acronym '''NOVA''' (Nova, Omega, Ventura, Apollo.)

===1972===

A virtual rerun of 1971, the 1972 Nova received only minor trim changes and both the Rally Nova and SS options carried over. At mid-year a manual canvas sunroof option became available on two-door models. Also, the optional Strato bucket seats available on coupes switched from the previous low-back design with adjustable headrests to the high back units with built-in headrests introduced the previous year on Camaros and Vegas. Standard engine was still the 250 I6 with either a 3- or 4-speed manual or 2- or 3-speed automatics. The 307 and 350 V8s remained optional. There would be a restyled Nova for 1973.

===1973===

The 1973 model year introduced a new hatchback bodystyle based on the 2-door coupe, as well as a front and rear restyling and a modified rear side window shape, plus a revised rear suspension adapted from the second-generation Camaro with multi-leaf springs replacing the mono-leaf springs used on Novas since the original 1966 model. Front vent windows disappeared, and instrumentation remained the same as before. A luxury-themed '''Custom''' became part of the model lineup which included upgraded upholstery, full carpeting, more exterior trim and available on all bodystyles. By this time, six-cylinder and V8 engines were ''de rigeur'' for American compact cars, with the 115 hp 307, 145 hp 350-2 and 175 hp 350-4 V8s as options (standard on the SS). The 100 hp 250 cid I6 was still standard on the rest and still had the two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission as an option, which was in its final year.

===1974===

For 1974, the powerglide was replaced by a lightweight version of the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 already offered with the 350 V8, which was now the only V8 offered this year. The SS option was still available but became more of a sporty trim package than a performance offering and now offered with any Nova engine, much like the 1963-67 Nova SS. The 250 I6 remained standard, and transmission choices, with the exception of the 2-speed Powerglide, remained the same as well. There would be an all-new Nova for 1975.

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:77rally.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1975-1979
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1975-1979) 4.3L (262 cid) V8 (1975) 5.0L (305 cid) V8 (1976-1979) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1975-1978)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|110-170 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Skylark]] [[Cadillac Seville]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]/[[Pontiac Phoenix|Phoenix]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Fourth generation (1975–1979)==

A completely redesigned Nova was introduced in 1975. Bodystyles were still the 2-door coupe, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedans. Base coupes, including the hatchback, had fixed side windows (or optional flip-out windows) and simulated vertical vents on the B-pillar (sedans would have simulated horizontal vents at the bottom of the C-pillar). Engines this year were the standard 250 cid I6 carried over from the previous generations, a 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and 350 V8 were optional. The front suspension and subframe assembly was similar to the one used in the second-generation GM F-body ([[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]], [[Pontiac Firebird|Firebird]]), whereas the rear axle and suspension were carried over from the 1968-74 generation.

The Nova lineup now ranged from the stripped-down '''S''' model, base, '''Custom''', and the luxury-themed '''LN''' ("Luxury Nova"). The Nova '''SS''' continued for 1975 and got a unique grille and requisite badges. Dashboards and other controls were virtually identical in layout compared to the previous generation. A high-performance 9C1 police version of the Nova was introduced for the 1975 model year, making it the first compact car certified for police duty in the U.S. Most were initially purchased by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department in 1976.

The LN was replaced with the Nova '''Concours''' in 1976, and the Custom model was gone (temporarily). The grille was changed slightly, and the short-lived 262 V8 was replaced by the new 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and was standard on the Concours. The 350 V8 remained the top engine option. Transmissions included the 3-speed manual standard with the I6, with a 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic optional. The 305 could have a 4-speed manual or automatic, while the 350 was automatic only. 1977 Concours models got a new 3-taillight lens scheme very similar to the larger [[Chevrolet Impala|Impala]] with a [[Cadillac]]-esque front clip that included chrome squared-off headlight bezels and a more elegant-looking vertically-barred grille with extra chrome trim. The SS was dropped, but it would continue as the '''Nova Rally''', which was basically the same sporty-themed idea. Other models also got a slightly revised grille and all got a new dashboard with round gauges and an 80 MPH speedo.

1978 Novas continued with little change, other than the '''Custom''' model returning as the base model. The 2-door, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedan bodystyles, and Concours and Rally models, were still available. By now, however, the Nova was starting to fall out of favor with much of the buying public, largely due to increased competition from the new [[Ford Fairmont]] and even Chevrolet's own [[Chevrolet Malibu|Malibu]], which was an all-new downsized model for 1978. Even though 1979 was a final abbreviated model year, the front end was nonetheless revised again with square headlights and a new horizontally-barred grille for the short run. The 9C1 police package was dropped for '79, along with the Rally model and 350 V8 engine. Production ended on December 22, 1978. The Nova was replaced by the all-new front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] for 1980. The Nova name, however, would reappear again in 1985 on an unrelated model.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:156392062X01LZZZZZZ.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
| 1985-1988
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|4-Door Sedan 5-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2500-2700 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|5-Speed Manual, FWD 3-Speed Automatic, FWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|1.6L (97 cid) I4
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Toyota Corolla]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|S
|}

==1985-1988 Nova==

In 1985 the Nova name was applied to a rebadged [[Toyota Corolla]] and was produced at the NUMMI plant in Fremont, California, as an historic first joint venture between [[General Motors]] and [[Toyota]]. It shared the Corolla's drivetrain and running gear, and was available as a 4-door sedan and a 5-door hatchback (just like the Corolla). It differed from the Corolla mainly with slightly different front-end styling. It also shared many interior parts, such as audio systems, with other GM's offerings whereas the Corolla did not. The Corolla had been redesigned for 1988, but the Nova continued to use the old platform for its last year. The Nova would be replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]], which was also a twin to the Corolla.

==Main Competitors 1985-1988==

*[[Dodge Omni]]
*[[Ford Escort]]
*[[Honda Civic]]
*[[Isuzu I-Mark]]
*[[Mazda 323]]
*[[Mercury Lynx]]
*[[Nissan Sentra]]
*[[Plymouth Horizon]]
*[[Volkswagen Golf]]

{{-}}

==Photos==
<gallery>
Image:Ad77police350x496.jpg
</gallery>

==Main Competitors 1968-1979==
*[[Dodge Dart]]/[[Dodge Aspen|Aspen]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]/[[Ford Maverick|Maverick]]/[[Ford Fairmont|Fairmont]]
*[[Ford Granada]]
*[[Mercury Comet]]/[[Mercury Zephyr|Zephyr]]
*[[Mercury Monarch]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]/[[Plymouth Volare|Volare]]

==The urban legend==
A popular urban legend asserts that the Nova sold poorly in Mexico and other Latin American countries because the phrase ''no va'' means "does not go" in Spanish. In reality, the Spanish language ''no va'' and ''nova'' are as different as the English ''no table'' and ''notable'', or ''therapist'' and ''the rapist''. [http://www.snopes.com/business/misxlate/nova.asp] The word ''nova'' exists in [http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nova Spanish] with the same meaning as in English. Also, the Spanish word for 'new' (nuevo or nueva) is cognate to ''nova'', which originally meant "new" in Latin. Finally, as NOVA was a brand of gasoline sold for many years by PEMEX in Mexico, the largest of all Spanish-speaking Latin American countries, it is clear that this urban legend, while perhaps entertaining, is utterly baseless.

==See Also==
{{Chevrolet}}

==External links==
*[http://www.nnnova.com/ National Nostalgic Nova] The original National Nostalgic Nova Club Celebrating 25 Years of Helping Nova People The only Monthly Magazine dedicated to Only Novas!
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/nova/ Chevrolet Nova Internet Source] — The second known Nova site on the Internet
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/novaList.html Nova listserv] — The first and only known public [[Electronic mailing list|mailing list]] dedicated to Chevrolet Novas and other X-bodies; in continuous existence since January 1998
*[http://automotivehistoryonline.com/Chevrolet1960m.htm Automotive History Online] - Chevrolet Nova History & Photos
*[http://www.novaresource.org/ NovaResource.com] — Excellent source of history, production numbers, and option code information for 1962-79 Novas
*[http://www.stevesnovasite.com/ Steve's Nova Site] - Includes Q&A discussion board; another excellent resource for Nova owners
*[http://www.musclecarfacts.com/mcf/nova/nova.asp Chevy Nova SS at Muscle Car Facts] — A year-by-year history.
*[http://www.gen4novas.com/ Gen4Novas.com] — Source for the 'stepchild' Disco-era X-car.
*[http://www.2quicknovas.com/ 2QuickNovas.com] — Nova, technical, drag racing and general car info.
*[http://www.chevynova.org/1968.html]

[[Category:Classic cars]]

Chevrolet Nova

2010-10-18T21:35:36Z

Yankee: /* Third generation (1968–1974) */

The '''[[Chevrolet]] Nova''', or '''Chevy II''', was an American compact car introduced by [[General Motors]] in 1962. The original Chevy II was of unibody construction, powered by an OHV inline four or six-cylinder engine (and V8s later), and available in two- and four-door sedan configurations as well as convertible and station wagon versions. After the rear-engine [[Chevrolet Corvair]] was handily outsold by the conventional [[Ford Falcon]] in 1960, Chevrolet began work on a more conventional compact car that would eventually become the Chevy II. The Chevy II/Nova continued on throughout the 1960s and 70s with great success until it was supplanted by the front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] in 1980. The Nova name would reappear briefly again in 1985 as a twin to (of all things) the [[Toyota Corolla]]. The "Toyolet" Nova was discontinued after 1988, replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]].

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:1962 Chevrolet II.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1962-1965
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 2-Door Convertible 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 153" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 70.8"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 55"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1962-1965) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1962-1965) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1964-1965) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1964-1965) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1965)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-300 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==First Generation (1962-1965)==

Three different levels of this car were made - the baseline Chevy II '''100''', the mid-grade Chevy II '''300''' and the top-line Chevy II Nova '''400'''. Their was also the sport-oriented Chevy II Nova Super Sport ('''SS'''), available on the 2-door coupe or convertible. Available powerplants included the standard 2.5L (153 cid) I4 and optional the 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (standard on the SS). Bodystyles included a 2-door sedan and hardtop, 4-door sedan, 5-door wagon (with an optional rear-facing 3rd seat) and a 2-door convertible. Unlike its [[Dodge Dart]]/[[Plymouth Valiant]] and [[Ford Falcon]] competition, no V8s were initially offered, but Chevrolet 283 and 327 cid V8s were offered in some areas as dealer-installed options, up to and including the fuel injected version available in the [[Chevrolet Corvette]]. Transmissions were a column or floor 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed manual or 2-speed Powerglide automatic. SSs could have bucket seats with a floor console-shift.

For 1963, grilles and taillights were slightly revised but otherwise were largely unchanged. All bodystyles and engine choices remained the same. For 1964, the Chevy II's first factory V8 option was introduced - a "Turbo-Fire" 195 hp 4.7L (283 cid) V8 with a 2-bbl carb, or a 225 hp 4-bbl version. A larger I6 was also offered, the "Turbo-Thrift" 3.8L (230 cid). Other drivetrain choices remained the same. The convertible was dropped, and the SS was also dropped at the beginning of this year, but it was reinstated mid-year due to high popular demand. The 300 series trim level was discontinued, leaving the 100 and 400 levels. In 1965, the grille was redesigned and the parking lights were relocated from directly below the headlights to the bumper. Taillights were revised also. The 5.3L (327 cid) V8 debuted this year (also called "Turbo Fire") with 250 and 300 horsepower versions. Other drivetrain choices remained the same as before. There would be a restyled Nova for 1966.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Chevrolet-nova 66.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1966-1967
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 154.7" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 71.3"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 55.4"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1966-1967) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1967) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1966-1967) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1966-1967)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-350 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Second Generation (1966-1967)==

The second generation Novas would be short-lived, only going 2 model years. 1966 Novas saw a significant restyling, based in part on the Super Nova concept car. In general, external proportions were squared up but dimensions and features changed little. Wheelbase remained the same at 110". Trim choices were still the '''100''' and '''400'''. Engine options still included the basic 153 I4, 194 I6, the 195 hp and 225 hp 283s and 275 hp (up 25 from '65) and 350 hp (up 50 from '65) 327 V8s. V8 models got special lower fender badges behind the front wheels. Transmission choices remained the column or floor-shift 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed and 2-speed Powerglide automatics. The 327/350 engine was manual-shift only (3- or 4-speed) and was not available on the 100 series or wagon. Inside, there was a new dashboard that strongly resembled the larger [[Chevrolet Chevelle|Chevelle's]] (also all-new this year) and revised seat designs, but the Chevy II line during this time was still very spartan. The 90 hp 153 I4 was only offered in the base Chevy II 100 series models, with the 120-horsepower 194 I6 standard on the Nova and Nova SS lines. A new engine offering included a 140 hp 3.8L (230 cid) I6, available in all models except the baseline 100. The SS could still have bucket seats with a console floor shift.

Not many changes for 1967, but a 155 hp 4.1L (250 cid) I6 became available in all models except the 100. The 350 hp L79 327 V8 was unfortunately dropped this year, but other drivetrain choices remained the same as the previous year's. There would be an all-new Chevy II/Nova for 1968.

==Main Competitors 1962-1967==

*[[Dodge Dart]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]
*[[Studebaker Lark]]

[[Image:Nova front fender emblem 68-72.jpg|left|350px]]

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:477.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1968-1974
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1968-1970) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1968-1974) 5.0L (307 cid) V8 (1968-1973) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1968-1974) 6.5L (396 cid) cid V8 (1968-1970) 7.0L (427 cid) V8 (1970)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-425 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Apollo]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Third generation (1968–1974)==

An extensive redesign came in 1968, when the station wagon and two door hardtop bodystyles were discontinued. This body style continued (with a minor restyle in 1973) through 1974. One notable change was the front subframe assembly — as compared with [[Ford]], [[Chrysler]] and [[AMC]], in whose cars the entire front suspension was integrated with the bodyshell, a separate subframe housing the powertrain and front suspension (similar to the front part of the frame of GM's full-size, full-framed vehicles) replaced the earlier style. Although the front subframe design was a Chevy II-exclusive design, the [[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]] introduced a year earlier was the first to incorporate such a design; the redesigned Chevy II was pushed a year back to 1968 instead of 1967. 1968 was the final year that the Chevy II nameplate was used, although all 1968 models were "Chevy II Novas" with one single trim line.

The 90 hp 153 I4 carried over from the previous generation as standard on the baseline model. Far more popular were the 140 hp 230 I6 and 155 hp 250 I6 and the new 200 hp 5.0L (307 cid) V8, which replaced the 283 offered in previous generations. At mid-year a semi-automatic transmission based on the Powerglide called Torque-Drive was introduced as a low-cost option for shiftless motoring for both the four and six-cylinder engines. The two-speed Powerglide was still the only fully-automatic gearbox available with most engines as the more desirable three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic was only available with the largest V8 engines. An interesting engine option was the 5.3L (327 cid) V8 rated at 350 hp (RPO code L79).

The '''SS''' was transformed from a trim package to a performance option for 1968 and now included a "Turbo Fire" 295 hp 5.7L (350 cid) V8 engine along with front disc brakes, heavy-duty suspension and other performance hardware. Optional engines included two versions of the big-block 6.5L (396 cid) V8 rated at 350 and 375 hp. Both 396 engines were offered with a choice of transmissions including the M-21 close-ratio four-speed manual, the M-22 heavy-duty "Rock Crusher" four-speed manual, or the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 400 for those who preferred automatic shifting. SSs (and lesser coupes) could have a console with optional auxiliary gauges very similar to the contemporary Camaro design.

===1969===

The Chevy II nameplate was retired and the car became the "Chevy Nova" for this year (some sources referred to it as the Chevrolet Chevy Nova - perhaps the decision to drop the Chevy II moniker was a last-minute decision for 1969). Like other 1969 GM vehicles, locking steering columns were incorporated along with column ignitions. Simulated vents were added below the Nova script, which was relocated to the front fender instead of the rear quarter panel. The 350-4 that came standard with the SS option was revised with a five-hp increase to 300 while a 350-2 rated at 255 hp was a new option on non-SS models. A new Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 three-speed automatic was made available for non-SS Novas with six-cylinder and V8 engines.

===1970===

Basically a carryover from 1969; the side markers and taillight lenses were wider and positioned slightly differently, which placed the reverse lights in the middle of the taillight lens instead of the inward portion. This was the final year for the SS396. All other engines were carried over including the seldom-ordered four-cylinder which was in its final year. The car finally became simply the Chevrolet Nova this year after two years of transitional nameplates (Chevy II Nova in 1968 and Chevrolet Chevy Nova in 1969).

Approximately 177 COPO Novas were ordered, with 175 converted by Yenko Chevrolet (the other two were sold in Canada). These had the mighty LT1 (350 cid) V8 engine

A beater 1970 Nova coupe is prominently featured in the movie ''Beverly Hills Cop''.

===1971===

1971 Novas were similar to the previous year but with the loss of the simulated fender vents and the discontinuation of the 396 motor for the SS with the L48 350-4 taking its place. 1971 also saw the introduction of the '''Rally Nova''', a trim level that only lasted two years and was marketed as sort of a budget-SS. The Rally package included black or white stripes that ran the length of the car and around the back, a Rally Nova sticker on the driver's side of the hood, and Rally wheels.

The 250 I6 was now the standard Nova powerplant with the demise of the 153 I4 and 230 I6 engines. The 307 and 350 V8s were carried over from 1970 and all engines featured lowered compression ratios to enable the use of unleaded gasoline as a result of a GM corporate mandate that took effect with the 1971 model year.

After 1971, other GM divisions began rebadging the Nova as their new entry-level vehicle, such as the [[Pontiac Ventura]] II (once a trim option for full-size Pontiacs to 1970), [[Oldsmobile Omega]] (1973) and the [[Buick Apollo]] (mid-1973). Interestingly, the intials of the four model names spelled out the acronym '''NOVA''' (Nova, Omega, Ventura, Apollo.)

===1972===

A virtual rerun of 1971, the 1972 Nova received only minor trim changes and both the Rally Nova and SS options carried over. At mid-year a manual canvas sunroof option became available on two-door models. Also, the optional Strato bucket seats available on coupes switched from the previous low-back design with adjustable headrests to the high back units with built-in headrests introduced the previous year on Camaros and Vegas. Standard engine was still the 250 I6 with either a 3- or 4-speed manual or 2- or 3-speed automatics. The 307 and 350 V8s remained optional. There would be a restyled Nova for 1973.

===1973===

The 1973 model year introduced a new hatchback bodystyle based on the 2-door coupe, as well as a front and rear restyling and a modified rear side window shape, plus a revised rear suspension adapted from the second-generation Camaro with multi-leaf springs replacing the mono-leaf springs used on Novas since the original 1966 model. Front vent windows disappeared, and instrumentation remained the same as before. A luxury-themed '''Custom''' became part of the model lineup which included upgraded upholstery, full carpeting, more exterior trim and available on all bodystyles. By this time, six-cylinder and V8 engines were ''de rigeur'' for American compact cars, with the 307 and 350 (5.0 and 5.7L) V8s becoming fairly common. Nova SS models offered a higher-performance 350 (5.7L) V8. The 1973 Nova with a six-cylinder engine or 307 V8 were among the last Chevrolets to be offered with the now-outdated two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission, which was in its final year.

===1974===

For 1974, the powerglide was replaced by a lightweight version of the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 already offered with the 350 V8, which was now the only V8 offered this year. The SS option was still available but became more of a sporty trim package than a performance offering and now offered with any Nova engine, much like the 1963-67 Nova SS. The 250 I6 remained standard, and transmission choices, with the exception of the 2-speed Powerglide, remained the same as well. There would be an all-new Nova for 1975.

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:77rally.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1975-1979
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1975-1979) 4.3L (262 cid) V8 (1975) 5.0L (305 cid) V8 (1976-1979) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1975-1978)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|110-170 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Skylark]] [[Cadillac Seville]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]/[[Pontiac Phoenix|Phoenix]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Fourth generation (1975–1979)==

A completely redesigned Nova was introduced in 1975. Bodystyles were still the 2-door coupe, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedans. Base coupes, including the hatchback, had fixed side windows (or optional flip-out windows) and simulated vertical vents on the B-pillar (sedans would have simulated horizontal vents at the bottom of the C-pillar). Engines this year were the standard 250 cid I6 carried over from the previous generations, a 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and 350 V8 were optional. The front suspension and subframe assembly was similar to the one used in the second-generation GM F-body ([[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]], [[Pontiac Firebird|Firebird]]), whereas the rear axle and suspension were carried over from the 1968-74 generation.

The Nova lineup now ranged from the stripped-down '''S''' model, base, '''Custom''', and the luxury-themed '''LN''' ("Luxury Nova"). The Nova '''SS''' continued for 1975 and got a unique grille and requisite badges. Dashboards and other controls were virtually identical in layout compared to the previous generation. A high-performance 9C1 police version of the Nova was introduced for the 1975 model year, making it the first compact car certified for police duty in the U.S. Most were initially purchased by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department in 1976.

The LN was replaced with the Nova '''Concours''' in 1976, and the Custom model was gone (temporarily). The grille was changed slightly, and the short-lived 262 V8 was replaced by the new 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and was standard on the Concours. The 350 V8 remained the top engine option. Transmissions included the 3-speed manual standard with the I6, with a 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic optional. The 305 could have a 4-speed manual or automatic, while the 350 was automatic only. 1977 Concours models got a new 3-taillight lens scheme very similar to the larger [[Chevrolet Impala|Impala]] with a [[Cadillac]]-esque front clip that included chrome squared-off headlight bezels and a more elegant-looking vertically-barred grille with extra chrome trim. The SS was dropped, but it would continue as the '''Nova Rally''', which was basically the same sporty-themed idea. Other models also got a slightly revised grille and all got a new dashboard with round gauges and an 80 MPH speedo.

1978 Novas continued with little change, other than the '''Custom''' model returning as the base model. The 2-door, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedan bodystyles, and Concours and Rally models, were still available. By now, however, the Nova was starting to fall out of favor with much of the buying public, largely due to increased competition from the new [[Ford Fairmont]] and even Chevrolet's own [[Chevrolet Malibu|Malibu]], which was an all-new downsized model for 1978. Even though 1979 was a final abbreviated model year, the front end was nonetheless revised again with square headlights and a new horizontally-barred grille for the short run. The 9C1 police package was dropped for '79, along with the Rally model and 350 V8 engine. Production ended on December 22, 1978. The Nova was replaced by the all-new front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] for 1980. The Nova name, however, would reappear again in 1985 on an unrelated model.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:156392062X01LZZZZZZ.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
| 1985-1988
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|4-Door Sedan 5-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2500-2700 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|5-Speed Manual, FWD 3-Speed Automatic, FWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|1.6L (97 cid) I4
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Toyota Corolla]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|S
|}

==1985-1988 Nova==

In 1985 the Nova name was applied to a rebadged [[Toyota Corolla]] and was produced at the NUMMI plant in Fremont, California, as an historic first joint venture between [[General Motors]] and [[Toyota]]. It shared the Corolla's drivetrain and running gear, and was available as a 4-door sedan and a 5-door hatchback (just like the Corolla). It differed from the Corolla mainly with slightly different front-end styling. It also shared many interior parts, such as audio systems, with other GM's offerings whereas the Corolla did not. The Corolla had been redesigned for 1988, but the Nova continued to use the old platform for its last year. The Nova would be replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]], which was also a twin to the Corolla.

==Main Competitors 1985-1988==

*[[Dodge Omni]]
*[[Ford Escort]]
*[[Honda Civic]]
*[[Isuzu I-Mark]]
*[[Mazda 323]]
*[[Mercury Lynx]]
*[[Nissan Sentra]]
*[[Plymouth Horizon]]
*[[Volkswagen Golf]]

{{-}}

==Photos==
<gallery>
Image:Ad77police350x496.jpg
</gallery>

==Main Competitors 1968-1979==
*[[Dodge Dart]]/[[Dodge Aspen|Aspen]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]/[[Ford Maverick|Maverick]]/[[Ford Fairmont|Fairmont]]
*[[Ford Granada]]
*[[Mercury Comet]]/[[Mercury Zephyr|Zephyr]]
*[[Mercury Monarch]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]/[[Plymouth Volare|Volare]]

==The urban legend==
A popular urban legend asserts that the Nova sold poorly in Mexico and other Latin American countries because the phrase ''no va'' means "does not go" in Spanish. In reality, the Spanish language ''no va'' and ''nova'' are as different as the English ''no table'' and ''notable'', or ''therapist'' and ''the rapist''. [http://www.snopes.com/business/misxlate/nova.asp] The word ''nova'' exists in [http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nova Spanish] with the same meaning as in English. Also, the Spanish word for 'new' (nuevo or nueva) is cognate to ''nova'', which originally meant "new" in Latin. Finally, as NOVA was a brand of gasoline sold for many years by PEMEX in Mexico, the largest of all Spanish-speaking Latin American countries, it is clear that this urban legend, while perhaps entertaining, is utterly baseless.

==See Also==
{{Chevrolet}}

==External links==
*[http://www.nnnova.com/ National Nostalgic Nova] The original National Nostalgic Nova Club Celebrating 25 Years of Helping Nova People The only Monthly Magazine dedicated to Only Novas!
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/nova/ Chevrolet Nova Internet Source] — The second known Nova site on the Internet
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/novaList.html Nova listserv] — The first and only known public [[Electronic mailing list|mailing list]] dedicated to Chevrolet Novas and other X-bodies; in continuous existence since January 1998
*[http://automotivehistoryonline.com/Chevrolet1960m.htm Automotive History Online] - Chevrolet Nova History & Photos
*[http://www.novaresource.org/ NovaResource.com] — Excellent source of history, production numbers, and option code information for 1962-79 Novas
*[http://www.stevesnovasite.com/ Steve's Nova Site] - Includes Q&A discussion board; another excellent resource for Nova owners
*[http://www.musclecarfacts.com/mcf/nova/nova.asp Chevy Nova SS at Muscle Car Facts] — A year-by-year history.
*[http://www.gen4novas.com/ Gen4Novas.com] — Source for the 'stepchild' Disco-era X-car.
*[http://www.2quicknovas.com/ 2QuickNovas.com] — Nova, technical, drag racing and general car info.
*[http://www.chevynova.org/1968.html]

[[Category:Classic cars]]

Chevrolet Nova

2010-10-18T21:31:41Z

Yankee: /* Third generation (1968–1974) */

The '''[[Chevrolet]] Nova''', or '''Chevy II''', was an American compact car introduced by [[General Motors]] in 1962. The original Chevy II was of unibody construction, powered by an OHV inline four or six-cylinder engine (and V8s later), and available in two- and four-door sedan configurations as well as convertible and station wagon versions. After the rear-engine [[Chevrolet Corvair]] was handily outsold by the conventional [[Ford Falcon]] in 1960, Chevrolet began work on a more conventional compact car that would eventually become the Chevy II. The Chevy II/Nova continued on throughout the 1960s and 70s with great success until it was supplanted by the front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] in 1980. The Nova name would reappear briefly again in 1985 as a twin to (of all things) the [[Toyota Corolla]]. The "Toyolet" Nova was discontinued after 1988, replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]].

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:1962 Chevrolet II.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1962-1965
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 2-Door Convertible 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 153" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 70.8"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 55"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1962-1965) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1962-1965) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1964-1965) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1964-1965) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1965)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-300 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==First Generation (1962-1965)==

Three different levels of this car were made - the baseline Chevy II '''100''', the mid-grade Chevy II '''300''' and the top-line Chevy II Nova '''400'''. Their was also the sport-oriented Chevy II Nova Super Sport ('''SS'''), available on the 2-door coupe or convertible. Available powerplants included the standard 2.5L (153 cid) I4 and optional the 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (standard on the SS). Bodystyles included a 2-door sedan and hardtop, 4-door sedan, 5-door wagon (with an optional rear-facing 3rd seat) and a 2-door convertible. Unlike its [[Dodge Dart]]/[[Plymouth Valiant]] and [[Ford Falcon]] competition, no V8s were initially offered, but Chevrolet 283 and 327 cid V8s were offered in some areas as dealer-installed options, up to and including the fuel injected version available in the [[Chevrolet Corvette]]. Transmissions were a column or floor 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed manual or 2-speed Powerglide automatic. SSs could have bucket seats with a floor console-shift.

For 1963, grilles and taillights were slightly revised but otherwise were largely unchanged. All bodystyles and engine choices remained the same. For 1964, the Chevy II's first factory V8 option was introduced - a "Turbo-Fire" 195 hp 4.7L (283 cid) V8 with a 2-bbl carb, or a 225 hp 4-bbl version. A larger I6 was also offered, the "Turbo-Thrift" 3.8L (230 cid). Other drivetrain choices remained the same. The convertible was dropped, and the SS was also dropped at the beginning of this year, but it was reinstated mid-year due to high popular demand. The 300 series trim level was discontinued, leaving the 100 and 400 levels. In 1965, the grille was redesigned and the parking lights were relocated from directly below the headlights to the bumper. Taillights were revised also. The 5.3L (327 cid) V8 debuted this year (also called "Turbo Fire") with 250 and 300 horsepower versions. Other drivetrain choices remained the same as before. There would be a restyled Nova for 1966.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Chevrolet-nova 66.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1966-1967
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 154.7" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 71.3"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 55.4"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1966-1967) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1967) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1966-1967) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1966-1967)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-350 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Second Generation (1966-1967)==

The second generation Novas would be short-lived, only going 2 model years. 1966 Novas saw a significant restyling, based in part on the Super Nova concept car. In general, external proportions were squared up but dimensions and features changed little. Wheelbase remained the same at 110". Trim choices were still the '''100''' and '''400'''. Engine options still included the basic 153 I4, 194 I6, the 195 hp and 225 hp 283s and 275 hp (up 25 from '65) and 350 hp (up 50 from '65) 327 V8s. V8 models got special lower fender badges behind the front wheels. Transmission choices remained the column or floor-shift 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed and 2-speed Powerglide automatics. The 327/350 engine was manual-shift only (3- or 4-speed) and was not available on the 100 series or wagon. Inside, there was a new dashboard that strongly resembled the larger [[Chevrolet Chevelle|Chevelle's]] (also all-new this year) and revised seat designs, but the Chevy II line during this time was still very spartan. The 90 hp 153 I4 was only offered in the base Chevy II 100 series models, with the 120-horsepower 194 I6 standard on the Nova and Nova SS lines. A new engine offering included a 140 hp 3.8L (230 cid) I6, available in all models except the baseline 100. The SS could still have bucket seats with a console floor shift.

Not many changes for 1967, but a 155 hp 4.1L (250 cid) I6 became available in all models except the 100. The 350 hp L79 327 V8 was unfortunately dropped this year, but other drivetrain choices remained the same as the previous year's. There would be an all-new Chevy II/Nova for 1968.

==Main Competitors 1962-1967==

*[[Dodge Dart]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]
*[[Studebaker Lark]]

[[Image:Nova front fender emblem 68-72.jpg|left|350px]]

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:477.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1968-1974
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1968-1970) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1968-1974) 5.0L (307 cid) V8 (1968-1973) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1968-1974) 6.5L (396 cid) cid V8 (1968-1970) 7.0L (427 cid) V8 (1970)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-425 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Apollo]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Third generation (1968–1974)==

An extensive redesign came in 1968, when the station wagon and two door hardtop bodystyles were discontinued. This body style continued (with a minor restyle in 1973) through 1974. One notable change was the front subframe assembly — as compared with [[Ford]], [[Chrysler]] and [[AMC]], in whose cars the entire front suspension was integrated with the bodyshell, a separate subframe housing the powertrain and front suspension (similar to the front part of the frame of GM's full-size, full-framed vehicles) replaced the earlier style. Although the front subframe design was a Chevy II-exclusive design, the [[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]] introduced a year earlier was the first to incorporate such a design; the redesigned Chevy II was pushed a year back to 1968 instead of 1967. 1968 was the final year that the Chevy II nameplate was used, although all 1968 models were "Chevy II Novas" with one single trim line.

The 90 hp 153 I4 carried over from the previous generation as standard on the baseline model. Far more popular were the 140 hp 230 I6 and 155 hp 250 I6 and the new 200 hp 5.0L (307 cid) V8, which replaced the 283 offered in previous generations. At mid-year a semi-automatic transmission based on the Powerglide called Torque-Drive was introduced as a low-cost option for shiftless motoring for both the four and six-cylinder engines. The two-speed Powerglide was still the only fully-automatic gearbox available with most engines as the more desirable three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic was only available with the largest V8 engines. An interesting engine option was the 5.3L (327 cid) V8 rated at 350 hp (RPO code L79).

The '''SS''' was transformed from a trim package to a performance option for 1968 and now included a "Turbo Fire" 295 hp 5.7L (350 cid) V8 engine along with front disc brakes, heavy-duty suspension and other performance hardware. Optional engines included two versions of the big-block 6.5L (396 cid) V8 rated at 350 and 375 hp. Both 396 engines were offered with a choice of transmissions including the M-21 close-ratio four-speed manual, the M-22 heavy-duty "Rock Crusher" four-speed manual, or the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 400 for those who preferred automatic shifting. SSs (and lesser coupes) could have a console with optional auxiliary gauges very similar to the contemporary Camaro design.

===1969===

The Chevy II nameplate was retired and the car became the "Chevy Nova" for this year (some sources referred to it as the Chevrolet Chevy Nova - perhaps the decision to drop the Chevy II moniker was a last-minute decision for 1969). Like other 1969 GM vehicles, locking steering columns were incorporated along with column ignitions. Simulated vents were added below the Nova script, which was relocated to the front fender instead of the rear quarter panel. The 350-4 that came standard with the SS option was revised with a five-hp increase to 300 while a 350-2 rated at 255 hp was a new option on non-SS models. A new Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 three-speed automatic was made available for non-SS Novas with six-cylinder and V8 engines.

===1970===

Basically a carryover from 1969; the side markers and taillight lenses were wider and positioned slightly differently, which placed the reverse lights in the middle of the taillight lens instead of the inward portion. This was the final year for the SS396. All other engines were carried over including the seldom-ordered four-cylinder which was in its final year. The car finally became simply the Chevrolet Nova this year after two years of transitional nameplates (Chevy II Nova in 1968 and Chevrolet Chevy Nova in 1969).

Approximately 177 COPO Novas were ordered, with 175 converted by Yenko Chevrolet (the other two were sold in Canada). These had the mighty LT1 (350 cid) V8 engine

A beater 1970 Nova coupe is prominently featured in the movie ''Beverly Hills Cop''.

===1971===

1971 Novas were similar to the previous year but with the loss of the simulated fender vents and the discontinuation of the 396 motor for the SS with the L48 350-4 taking its place. 1971 also saw the introduction of the '''Rally Nova''', a trim level that only lasted two years and was marketed as sort of a budget-SS. The Rally package included black or white stripes that ran the length of the car and around the back, a Rally Nova sticker on the driver's side of the hood, and Rally wheels.

The 250 I6 was now the standard Nova powerplant with the demise of the 153 I4 and 230 I6 engines. The 307 and 350 V8s were carried over from 1970 and all engines featured lowered compression ratios to enable the use of unleaded gasoline as a result of a GM corporate mandate that took effect with the 1971 model year.

After 1971, other GM divisions began rebadging the Nova as their new entry-level vehicle, such as the [[Pontiac Ventura]] II (once a trim option for full-size Pontiacs to 1970), [[Oldsmobile Omega]] (1973) and the [[Buick Apollo]] (mid-1973). Interestingly, the intials of the four model names spelled out the acronym '''NOVA''' (Nova, Omega, Ventura, Apollo.)

===1972===

A virtual rerun of 1971, the 1972 Nova received only minor trim changes and both the Rally Nova and SS options carried over. At mid-year a manual canvas sunroof option became available on two-door models. Also, the optional Strato bucket seats available on coupes switched from the previous low-back design with adjustable headrests to the high back units with built-in headrests introduced the previous year on Camaros and Vegas. Standard engine was still the 250 I6 with either a 3- or 4-speed manual or 2- or 3-speed automatics. The 307 and 350 V8s remained optional. There would be a restyled Nova for 1973.

===1973===

The 1973 model year introduced a new hatchback bodystyle based on the 2-door coupe, as well as a front and rear restyling and a modified rear side window shape, plus a revised rear suspension adapted from the second-generation Camaro with multi-leaf springs replacing the mono-leaf springs used on Novas since the original 1966 model. A luxury-themed '''Custom''' became part of the model lineup which included upgraded upholstery, full carpeting and more exterior trim. By this time, six-cylinder and V8 engines were ''de rigeur'' for American compact cars, with the 307 and 350 (5.0 and 5.7L) V8s becoming fairly common. Nova SS models offered a higher-performance 350 (5.7L) V8. The 1973 Nova with a six-cylinder engine or 307 V8 were among the last Chevrolets to be offered with the now-outdated two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission, which was in its final year.

===1974===

For 1974, the powerglide was replaced by a lightweight version of the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 already offered with the 350 V8, which was now the only V8 offered this year. The SS option was still available but became more of a sporty trim package than a performance offering and now offered with any Nova engine, much like the 1963-67 Nova SS. The 250 I6 remained standard, and transmission choices, with the exception of the 2-speed Powerglide, remained the same as well. There would be an all-new Nova for 1975.

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:77rally.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1975-1979
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1975-1979) 4.3L (262 cid) V8 (1975) 5.0L (305 cid) V8 (1976-1979) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1975-1978)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|110-170 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Skylark]] [[Cadillac Seville]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]/[[Pontiac Phoenix|Phoenix]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Fourth generation (1975–1979)==

A completely redesigned Nova was introduced in 1975. Bodystyles were still the 2-door coupe, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedans. Base coupes, including the hatchback, had fixed side windows (or optional flip-out windows) and simulated vertical vents on the B-pillar (sedans would have simulated horizontal vents at the bottom of the C-pillar). Engines this year were the standard 250 cid I6 carried over from the previous generations, a 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and 350 V8 were optional. The front suspension and subframe assembly was similar to the one used in the second-generation GM F-body ([[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]], [[Pontiac Firebird|Firebird]]), whereas the rear axle and suspension were carried over from the 1968-74 generation.

The Nova lineup now ranged from the stripped-down '''S''' model, base, '''Custom''', and the luxury-themed '''LN''' ("Luxury Nova"). The Nova '''SS''' continued for 1975 and got a unique grille and requisite badges. Dashboards and other controls were virtually identical in layout compared to the previous generation. A high-performance 9C1 police version of the Nova was introduced for the 1975 model year, making it the first compact car certified for police duty in the U.S. Most were initially purchased by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department in 1976.

The LN was replaced with the Nova '''Concours''' in 1976, and the Custom model was gone (temporarily). The grille was changed slightly, and the short-lived 262 V8 was replaced by the new 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and was standard on the Concours. The 350 V8 remained the top engine option. Transmissions included the 3-speed manual standard with the I6, with a 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic optional. The 305 could have a 4-speed manual or automatic, while the 350 was automatic only. 1977 Concours models got a new 3-taillight lens scheme very similar to the larger [[Chevrolet Impala|Impala]] with a [[Cadillac]]-esque front clip that included chrome squared-off headlight bezels and a more elegant-looking vertically-barred grille with extra chrome trim. The SS was dropped, but it would continue as the '''Nova Rally''', which was basically the same sporty-themed idea. Other models also got a slightly revised grille and all got a new dashboard with round gauges and an 80 MPH speedo.

1978 Novas continued with little change, other than the '''Custom''' model returning as the base model. The 2-door, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedan bodystyles, and Concours and Rally models, were still available. By now, however, the Nova was starting to fall out of favor with much of the buying public, largely due to increased competition from the new [[Ford Fairmont]] and even Chevrolet's own [[Chevrolet Malibu|Malibu]], which was an all-new downsized model for 1978. Even though 1979 was a final abbreviated model year, the front end was nonetheless revised again with square headlights and a new horizontally-barred grille for the short run. The 9C1 police package was dropped for '79, along with the Rally model and 350 V8 engine. Production ended on December 22, 1978. The Nova was replaced by the all-new front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] for 1980. The Nova name, however, would reappear again in 1985 on an unrelated model.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:156392062X01LZZZZZZ.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
| 1985-1988
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|4-Door Sedan 5-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2500-2700 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|5-Speed Manual, FWD 3-Speed Automatic, FWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|1.6L (97 cid) I4
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Toyota Corolla]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|S
|}

==1985-1988 Nova==

In 1985 the Nova name was applied to a rebadged [[Toyota Corolla]] and was produced at the NUMMI plant in Fremont, California, as an historic first joint venture between [[General Motors]] and [[Toyota]]. It shared the Corolla's drivetrain and running gear, and was available as a 4-door sedan and a 5-door hatchback (just like the Corolla). It differed from the Corolla mainly with slightly different front-end styling. It also shared many interior parts, such as audio systems, with other GM's offerings whereas the Corolla did not. The Corolla had been redesigned for 1988, but the Nova continued to use the old platform for its last year. The Nova would be replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]], which was also a twin to the Corolla.

==Main Competitors 1985-1988==

*[[Dodge Omni]]
*[[Ford Escort]]
*[[Honda Civic]]
*[[Isuzu I-Mark]]
*[[Mazda 323]]
*[[Mercury Lynx]]
*[[Nissan Sentra]]
*[[Plymouth Horizon]]
*[[Volkswagen Golf]]

{{-}}

==Photos==
<gallery>
Image:Ad77police350x496.jpg
</gallery>

==Main Competitors 1968-1979==
*[[Dodge Dart]]/[[Dodge Aspen|Aspen]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]/[[Ford Maverick|Maverick]]/[[Ford Fairmont|Fairmont]]
*[[Ford Granada]]
*[[Mercury Comet]]/[[Mercury Zephyr|Zephyr]]
*[[Mercury Monarch]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]/[[Plymouth Volare|Volare]]

==The urban legend==
A popular urban legend asserts that the Nova sold poorly in Mexico and other Latin American countries because the phrase ''no va'' means "does not go" in Spanish. In reality, the Spanish language ''no va'' and ''nova'' are as different as the English ''no table'' and ''notable'', or ''therapist'' and ''the rapist''. [http://www.snopes.com/business/misxlate/nova.asp] The word ''nova'' exists in [http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nova Spanish] with the same meaning as in English. Also, the Spanish word for 'new' (nuevo or nueva) is cognate to ''nova'', which originally meant "new" in Latin. Finally, as NOVA was a brand of gasoline sold for many years by PEMEX in Mexico, the largest of all Spanish-speaking Latin American countries, it is clear that this urban legend, while perhaps entertaining, is utterly baseless.

==See Also==
{{Chevrolet}}

==External links==
*[http://www.nnnova.com/ National Nostalgic Nova] The original National Nostalgic Nova Club Celebrating 25 Years of Helping Nova People The only Monthly Magazine dedicated to Only Novas!
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/nova/ Chevrolet Nova Internet Source] — The second known Nova site on the Internet
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/novaList.html Nova listserv] — The first and only known public [[Electronic mailing list|mailing list]] dedicated to Chevrolet Novas and other X-bodies; in continuous existence since January 1998
*[http://automotivehistoryonline.com/Chevrolet1960m.htm Automotive History Online] - Chevrolet Nova History & Photos
*[http://www.novaresource.org/ NovaResource.com] — Excellent source of history, production numbers, and option code information for 1962-79 Novas
*[http://www.stevesnovasite.com/ Steve's Nova Site] - Includes Q&A discussion board; another excellent resource for Nova owners
*[http://www.musclecarfacts.com/mcf/nova/nova.asp Chevy Nova SS at Muscle Car Facts] — A year-by-year history.
*[http://www.gen4novas.com/ Gen4Novas.com] — Source for the 'stepchild' Disco-era X-car.
*[http://www.2quicknovas.com/ 2QuickNovas.com] — Nova, technical, drag racing and general car info.
*[http://www.chevynova.org/1968.html]

[[Category:Classic cars]]

Chevrolet Nova

2010-10-18T21:23:46Z

Yankee: /* Third generation (1968–1974) */

The '''[[Chevrolet]] Nova''', or '''Chevy II''', was an American compact car introduced by [[General Motors]] in 1962. The original Chevy II was of unibody construction, powered by an OHV inline four or six-cylinder engine (and V8s later), and available in two- and four-door sedan configurations as well as convertible and station wagon versions. After the rear-engine [[Chevrolet Corvair]] was handily outsold by the conventional [[Ford Falcon]] in 1960, Chevrolet began work on a more conventional compact car that would eventually become the Chevy II. The Chevy II/Nova continued on throughout the 1960s and 70s with great success until it was supplanted by the front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] in 1980. The Nova name would reappear briefly again in 1985 as a twin to (of all things) the [[Toyota Corolla]]. The "Toyolet" Nova was discontinued after 1988, replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]].

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:1962 Chevrolet II.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1962-1965
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 2-Door Convertible 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 153" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 70.8"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 55"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1962-1965) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1962-1965) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1964-1965) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1964-1965) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1965)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-300 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==First Generation (1962-1965)==

Three different levels of this car were made - the baseline Chevy II '''100''', the mid-grade Chevy II '''300''' and the top-line Chevy II Nova '''400'''. Their was also the sport-oriented Chevy II Nova Super Sport ('''SS'''), available on the 2-door coupe or convertible. Available powerplants included the standard 2.5L (153 cid) I4 and optional the 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (standard on the SS). Bodystyles included a 2-door sedan and hardtop, 4-door sedan, 5-door wagon (with an optional rear-facing 3rd seat) and a 2-door convertible. Unlike its [[Dodge Dart]]/[[Plymouth Valiant]] and [[Ford Falcon]] competition, no V8s were initially offered, but Chevrolet 283 and 327 cid V8s were offered in some areas as dealer-installed options, up to and including the fuel injected version available in the [[Chevrolet Corvette]]. Transmissions were a column or floor 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed manual or 2-speed Powerglide automatic. SSs could have bucket seats with a floor console-shift.

For 1963, grilles and taillights were slightly revised but otherwise were largely unchanged. All bodystyles and engine choices remained the same. For 1964, the Chevy II's first factory V8 option was introduced - a "Turbo-Fire" 195 hp 4.7L (283 cid) V8 with a 2-bbl carb, or a 225 hp 4-bbl version. A larger I6 was also offered, the "Turbo-Thrift" 3.8L (230 cid). Other drivetrain choices remained the same. The convertible was dropped, and the SS was also dropped at the beginning of this year, but it was reinstated mid-year due to high popular demand. The 300 series trim level was discontinued, leaving the 100 and 400 levels. In 1965, the grille was redesigned and the parking lights were relocated from directly below the headlights to the bumper. Taillights were revised also. The 5.3L (327 cid) V8 debuted this year (also called "Turbo Fire") with 250 and 300 horsepower versions. Other drivetrain choices remained the same as before. There would be a restyled Nova for 1966.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Chevrolet-nova 66.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1966-1967
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 154.7" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 71.3"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 55.4"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1966-1967) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1967) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1966-1967) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1966-1967)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-350 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Second Generation (1966-1967)==

The second generation Novas would be short-lived, only going 2 model years. 1966 Novas saw a significant restyling, based in part on the Super Nova concept car. In general, external proportions were squared up but dimensions and features changed little. Wheelbase remained the same at 110". Trim choices were still the '''100''' and '''400'''. Engine options still included the basic 153 I4, 194 I6, the 195 hp and 225 hp 283s and 275 hp (up 25 from '65) and 350 hp (up 50 from '65) 327 V8s. V8 models got special lower fender badges behind the front wheels. Transmission choices remained the column or floor-shift 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed and 2-speed Powerglide automatics. The 327/350 engine was manual-shift only (3- or 4-speed) and was not available on the 100 series or wagon. Inside, there was a new dashboard that strongly resembled the larger [[Chevrolet Chevelle|Chevelle's]] (also all-new this year) and revised seat designs, but the Chevy II line during this time was still very spartan. The 90 hp 153 I4 was only offered in the base Chevy II 100 series models, with the 120-horsepower 194 I6 standard on the Nova and Nova SS lines. A new engine offering included a 140 hp 3.8L (230 cid) I6, available in all models except the baseline 100. The SS could still have bucket seats with a console floor shift.

Not many changes for 1967, but a 155 hp 4.1L (250 cid) I6 became available in all models except the 100. The 350 hp L79 327 V8 was unfortunately dropped this year, but other drivetrain choices remained the same as the previous year's. There would be an all-new Chevy II/Nova for 1968.

==Main Competitors 1962-1967==

*[[Dodge Dart]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]
*[[Studebaker Lark]]

[[Image:Nova front fender emblem 68-72.jpg|left|350px]]

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:477.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1968-1974
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1968-1970) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1968-1974) 5.0L (307 cid) V8 (1968-1973) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1968-1974) 6.5L (396 cid) cid V8 (1968-1970) 7.0L (427 cid) V8 (1970)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-425 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Apollo]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Third generation (1968–1974)==

An extensive redesign came in 1968, when the station wagon and two door hardtop bodystyles were discontinued. This body style continued (with a minor restyle in 1973) through 1974. One notable change was the front subframe assembly — as compared with [[Ford]], [[Chrysler]] and [[AMC]], in whose cars the entire front suspension was integrated with the bodyshell, a separate subframe housing the powertrain and front suspension (similar to the front part of the frame of GM's full-size, full-framed vehicles) replaced the earlier style. Although the front subframe design was a Chevy II-exclusive design, the [[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]] introduced a year earlier was the first to incorporate such a design; the redesigned Chevy II was pushed a year back to 1968 instead of 1967. 1968 was the final year that the Chevy II nameplate was used, although all 1968 models were "Chevy II Novas" with one single trim line.

The 153 I4 carried over from the previous generation as standard on the baseline model. Far more popular were the 250 I6 and the new 5.0L (307 cid) V8, which replaced the 283 offered in previous generations. At mid-year a semi-automatic transmission based on the Powerglide called Torque-Drive was introduced as a low-cost option for shiftless motoring for both the four and six-cylinder engines. The two-speed Powerglide was still the only fully-automatic gearbox available with most engines as the more desirable three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic was only available with the largest V8 engines. An interesting engine option was the 5.3L (327 cid) V8 rated at 350 hp (RPO code L79).

The '''SS''' was transformed from a trim package to a performance option for 1968 and now included a "Turbo Fire" 295 hp 5.7L (350 cid) V8 engine along with front disc brakes, heavy-duty suspension and other performance hardware. Optional engines included two versions of the big-block 6.5L (396 cid) V8 rated at 350 and 375 hp. Both 396 engines were offered with a choice of transmissions including the M-21 close-ratio four-speed manual, the M-22 heavy-duty "Rock Crusher" four-speed manual, or the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 400 for those who preferred automatic shifting. SSs (and lesser coupes) could have a console with optional auxiliary gauges very similar to the contemporary Camaro design.

===1969===

The Chevy II nameplate was retired and the car became the "Chevy Nova" for this year (some sources referred to it as the Chevrolet Chevy Nova - perhaps the decision to drop the Chevy II moniker was a last-minute decision for 1969). Like other 1969 GM vehicles, locking steering columns were incorporated along with column ignitions. Simulated vents were added below the Nova script, which was relocated to the front fender instead of the rear quarter panel. The 350-4 that came standard with the SS option was revised with a five-hp increase to 300 while a 350-2 rated at 255 hp was a new option on non-SS models. A new Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 three-speed automatic was made available for non-SS Novas with six-cylinder and V8 engines.

===1970===

Basically a carryover from 1969; the side markers and taillight lenses were wider and positioned slightly differently, which placed the reverse lights in the middle of the taillight lens instead of the inward portion. This was the final year for the SS396. All other engines were carried over including the seldom-ordered four-cylinder which was in its final year. The car finally became simply the Chevrolet Nova this year after two years of transitional nameplates (Chevy II Nova in 1968 and Chevrolet Chevy Nova in 1969).

Approximately 177 COPO Novas were ordered, with 175 converted by Yenko Chevrolet (the other two were sold in Canada). These had the mighty LT1 (350 cid) V8 engine

A beater 1970 Nova coupe is prominently featured in the movie ''Beverly Hills Cop''.

===1971===

1971 Novas were similar to the previous year but with the loss of the simulated fender vents and the discontinuation of the 396 motor for the SS with the L48 350-4 taking its place. 1971 also saw the introduction of the '''Rally Nova''', a trim level that only lasted two years and was marketed as sort of a budget-SS. The Rally package included black or white stripes that ran the length of the car and around the back, a Rally Nova sticker on the driver's side of the hood, and Rally wheels.

The 250 I6 was now the standard Nova powerplant with the demise of the 153 I4 and 230 I6 engines. The 307 and 350 V8s were carried over from 1970 and all engines featured lowered compression ratios to enable the use of unleaded gasoline as a result of a GM corporate mandate that took effect with the 1971 model year.

After 1971, other GM divisions began rebadging the Nova as their new entry-level vehicle, such as the [[Pontiac Ventura]] II (once a trim option for full-size Pontiacs to 1970), [[Oldsmobile Omega]] (1973) and the [[Buick Apollo]] (mid-1973). Interestingly, the intials of the four model names spelled out the acronym '''NOVA''' (Nova, Omega, Ventura, Apollo.)

===1972===

A virtual rerun of 1971, the 1972 Nova received only minor trim changes and both the Rally Nova and SS options carried over. At mid-year a manual canvas sunroof option became available on two-door models. Also, the optional Strato bucket seats available on coupes switched from the previous low-back design with adjustable headrests to the high back units with built-in headrests introduced the previous year on Camaros and Vegas. Standard engine was still the 250 I6 with either a 3- or 4-speed manual or 2- or 3-speed automatics. The 307 and 350 V8s remained optional. There would be a restyled Nova for 1973.

===1973===

The 1973 model year introduced a new hatchback bodystyle based on the 2-door coupe, as well as a front and rear restyling and a modified rear side window shape, plus a revised rear suspension adapted from the second-generation Camaro with multi-leaf springs replacing the mono-leaf springs used on Novas since the original 1966 model. A luxury-themed '''Custom''' became part of the model lineup which included upgraded upholstery, full carpeting and more exterior trim. By this time, six-cylinder and V8 engines were ''de rigeur'' for American compact cars, with the 307 and 350 (5.0 and 5.7L) V8s becoming fairly common. Nova SS models offered a higher-performance 350 (5.7L) V8. The 1973 Nova with a six-cylinder engine or 307 V8 were among the last Chevrolets to be offered with the now-outdated two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission, which was in its final year.

===1974===

For 1974, the powerglide was replaced by a lightweight version of the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 already offered with the 350 V8, which was now the only V8 offered this year. The SS option was still available but became more of a sporty trim package than a performance offering and now offered with any Nova engine, much like the 1963-67 Nova SS. The 250 I6 remained standard, and transmission choices, with the exception of the 2-speed Powerglide, remained the same as well. There would be an all-new Nova for 1975.

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:77rally.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1975-1979
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1975-1979) 4.3L (262 cid) V8 (1975) 5.0L (305 cid) V8 (1976-1979) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1975-1978)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|110-170 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Skylark]] [[Cadillac Seville]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]/[[Pontiac Phoenix|Phoenix]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Fourth generation (1975–1979)==

A completely redesigned Nova was introduced in 1975. Bodystyles were still the 2-door coupe, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedans. Base coupes, including the hatchback, had fixed side windows (or optional flip-out windows) and simulated vertical vents on the B-pillar (sedans would have simulated horizontal vents at the bottom of the C-pillar). Engines this year were the standard 250 cid I6 carried over from the previous generations, a 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and 350 V8 were optional. The front suspension and subframe assembly was similar to the one used in the second-generation GM F-body ([[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]], [[Pontiac Firebird|Firebird]]), whereas the rear axle and suspension were carried over from the 1968-74 generation.

The Nova lineup now ranged from the stripped-down '''S''' model, base, '''Custom''', and the luxury-themed '''LN''' ("Luxury Nova"). The Nova '''SS''' continued for 1975 and got a unique grille and requisite badges. Dashboards and other controls were virtually identical in layout compared to the previous generation. A high-performance 9C1 police version of the Nova was introduced for the 1975 model year, making it the first compact car certified for police duty in the U.S. Most were initially purchased by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department in 1976.

The LN was replaced with the Nova '''Concours''' in 1976, and the Custom model was gone (temporarily). The grille was changed slightly, and the short-lived 262 V8 was replaced by the new 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and was standard on the Concours. The 350 V8 remained the top engine option. Transmissions included the 3-speed manual standard with the I6, with a 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic optional. The 305 could have a 4-speed manual or automatic, while the 350 was automatic only. 1977 Concours models got a new 3-taillight lens scheme very similar to the larger [[Chevrolet Impala|Impala]] with a [[Cadillac]]-esque front clip that included chrome squared-off headlight bezels and a more elegant-looking vertically-barred grille with extra chrome trim. The SS was dropped, but it would continue as the '''Nova Rally''', which was basically the same sporty-themed idea. Other models also got a slightly revised grille and all got a new dashboard with round gauges and an 80 MPH speedo.

1978 Novas continued with little change, other than the '''Custom''' model returning as the base model. The 2-door, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedan bodystyles, and Concours and Rally models, were still available. By now, however, the Nova was starting to fall out of favor with much of the buying public, largely due to increased competition from the new [[Ford Fairmont]] and even Chevrolet's own [[Chevrolet Malibu|Malibu]], which was an all-new downsized model for 1978. Even though 1979 was a final abbreviated model year, the front end was nonetheless revised again with square headlights and a new horizontally-barred grille for the short run. The 9C1 police package was dropped for '79, along with the Rally model and 350 V8 engine. Production ended on December 22, 1978. The Nova was replaced by the all-new front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] for 1980. The Nova name, however, would reappear again in 1985 on an unrelated model.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:156392062X01LZZZZZZ.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
| 1985-1988
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|4-Door Sedan 5-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2500-2700 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|5-Speed Manual, FWD 3-Speed Automatic, FWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|1.6L (97 cid) I4
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Toyota Corolla]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|S
|}

==1985-1988 Nova==

In 1985 the Nova name was applied to a rebadged [[Toyota Corolla]] and was produced at the NUMMI plant in Fremont, California, as an historic first joint venture between [[General Motors]] and [[Toyota]]. It shared the Corolla's drivetrain and running gear, and was available as a 4-door sedan and a 5-door hatchback (just like the Corolla). It differed from the Corolla mainly with slightly different front-end styling. It also shared many interior parts, such as audio systems, with other GM's offerings whereas the Corolla did not. The Corolla had been redesigned for 1988, but the Nova continued to use the old platform for its last year. The Nova would be replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]], which was also a twin to the Corolla.

==Main Competitors 1985-1988==

*[[Dodge Omni]]
*[[Ford Escort]]
*[[Honda Civic]]
*[[Isuzu I-Mark]]
*[[Mazda 323]]
*[[Mercury Lynx]]
*[[Nissan Sentra]]
*[[Plymouth Horizon]]
*[[Volkswagen Golf]]

{{-}}

==Photos==
<gallery>
Image:Ad77police350x496.jpg
</gallery>

==Main Competitors 1968-1979==
*[[Dodge Dart]]/[[Dodge Aspen|Aspen]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]/[[Ford Maverick|Maverick]]/[[Ford Fairmont|Fairmont]]
*[[Ford Granada]]
*[[Mercury Comet]]/[[Mercury Zephyr|Zephyr]]
*[[Mercury Monarch]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]/[[Plymouth Volare|Volare]]

==The urban legend==
A popular urban legend asserts that the Nova sold poorly in Mexico and other Latin American countries because the phrase ''no va'' means "does not go" in Spanish. In reality, the Spanish language ''no va'' and ''nova'' are as different as the English ''no table'' and ''notable'', or ''therapist'' and ''the rapist''. [http://www.snopes.com/business/misxlate/nova.asp] The word ''nova'' exists in [http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nova Spanish] with the same meaning as in English. Also, the Spanish word for 'new' (nuevo or nueva) is cognate to ''nova'', which originally meant "new" in Latin. Finally, as NOVA was a brand of gasoline sold for many years by PEMEX in Mexico, the largest of all Spanish-speaking Latin American countries, it is clear that this urban legend, while perhaps entertaining, is utterly baseless.

==See Also==
{{Chevrolet}}

==External links==
*[http://www.nnnova.com/ National Nostalgic Nova] The original National Nostalgic Nova Club Celebrating 25 Years of Helping Nova People The only Monthly Magazine dedicated to Only Novas!
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/nova/ Chevrolet Nova Internet Source] — The second known Nova site on the Internet
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/novaList.html Nova listserv] — The first and only known public [[Electronic mailing list|mailing list]] dedicated to Chevrolet Novas and other X-bodies; in continuous existence since January 1998
*[http://automotivehistoryonline.com/Chevrolet1960m.htm Automotive History Online] - Chevrolet Nova History & Photos
*[http://www.novaresource.org/ NovaResource.com] — Excellent source of history, production numbers, and option code information for 1962-79 Novas
*[http://www.stevesnovasite.com/ Steve's Nova Site] - Includes Q&A discussion board; another excellent resource for Nova owners
*[http://www.musclecarfacts.com/mcf/nova/nova.asp Chevy Nova SS at Muscle Car Facts] — A year-by-year history.
*[http://www.gen4novas.com/ Gen4Novas.com] — Source for the 'stepchild' Disco-era X-car.
*[http://www.2quicknovas.com/ 2QuickNovas.com] — Nova, technical, drag racing and general car info.
*[http://www.chevynova.org/1968.html]

[[Category:Classic cars]]

Chevrolet Nova

2010-10-18T21:20:09Z

Yankee: /* Second Generation (1966-1967) */

The '''[[Chevrolet]] Nova''', or '''Chevy II''', was an American compact car introduced by [[General Motors]] in 1962. The original Chevy II was of unibody construction, powered by an OHV inline four or six-cylinder engine (and V8s later), and available in two- and four-door sedan configurations as well as convertible and station wagon versions. After the rear-engine [[Chevrolet Corvair]] was handily outsold by the conventional [[Ford Falcon]] in 1960, Chevrolet began work on a more conventional compact car that would eventually become the Chevy II. The Chevy II/Nova continued on throughout the 1960s and 70s with great success until it was supplanted by the front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] in 1980. The Nova name would reappear briefly again in 1985 as a twin to (of all things) the [[Toyota Corolla]]. The "Toyolet" Nova was discontinued after 1988, replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]].

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:1962 Chevrolet II.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1962-1965
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 2-Door Convertible 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 153" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 70.8"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 55"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1962-1965) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1962-1965) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1964-1965) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1964-1965) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1965)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-300 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==First Generation (1962-1965)==

Three different levels of this car were made - the baseline Chevy II '''100''', the mid-grade Chevy II '''300''' and the top-line Chevy II Nova '''400'''. Their was also the sport-oriented Chevy II Nova Super Sport ('''SS'''), available on the 2-door coupe or convertible. Available powerplants included the standard 2.5L (153 cid) I4 and optional the 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (standard on the SS). Bodystyles included a 2-door sedan and hardtop, 4-door sedan, 5-door wagon (with an optional rear-facing 3rd seat) and a 2-door convertible. Unlike its [[Dodge Dart]]/[[Plymouth Valiant]] and [[Ford Falcon]] competition, no V8s were initially offered, but Chevrolet 283 and 327 cid V8s were offered in some areas as dealer-installed options, up to and including the fuel injected version available in the [[Chevrolet Corvette]]. Transmissions were a column or floor 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed manual or 2-speed Powerglide automatic. SSs could have bucket seats with a floor console-shift.

For 1963, grilles and taillights were slightly revised but otherwise were largely unchanged. All bodystyles and engine choices remained the same. For 1964, the Chevy II's first factory V8 option was introduced - a "Turbo-Fire" 195 hp 4.7L (283 cid) V8 with a 2-bbl carb, or a 225 hp 4-bbl version. A larger I6 was also offered, the "Turbo-Thrift" 3.8L (230 cid). Other drivetrain choices remained the same. The convertible was dropped, and the SS was also dropped at the beginning of this year, but it was reinstated mid-year due to high popular demand. The 300 series trim level was discontinued, leaving the 100 and 400 levels. In 1965, the grille was redesigned and the parking lights were relocated from directly below the headlights to the bumper. Taillights were revised also. The 5.3L (327 cid) V8 debuted this year (also called "Turbo Fire") with 250 and 300 horsepower versions. Other drivetrain choices remained the same as before. There would be a restyled Nova for 1966.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Chevrolet-nova 66.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1966-1967
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 154.7" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 71.3"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 55.4"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1966-1967) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1967) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1966-1967) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1966-1967)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-350 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Second Generation (1966-1967)==

The second generation Novas would be short-lived, only going 2 model years. 1966 Novas saw a significant restyling, based in part on the Super Nova concept car. In general, external proportions were squared up but dimensions and features changed little. Wheelbase remained the same at 110". Trim choices were still the '''100''' and '''400'''. Engine options still included the basic 153 I4, 194 I6, the 195 hp and 225 hp 283s and 275 hp (up 25 from '65) and 350 hp (up 50 from '65) 327 V8s. V8 models got special lower fender badges behind the front wheels. Transmission choices remained the column or floor-shift 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed and 2-speed Powerglide automatics. The 327/350 engine was manual-shift only (3- or 4-speed) and was not available on the 100 series or wagon. Inside, there was a new dashboard that strongly resembled the larger [[Chevrolet Chevelle|Chevelle's]] (also all-new this year) and revised seat designs, but the Chevy II line during this time was still very spartan. The 90 hp 153 I4 was only offered in the base Chevy II 100 series models, with the 120-horsepower 194 I6 standard on the Nova and Nova SS lines. A new engine offering included a 140 hp 3.8L (230 cid) I6, available in all models except the baseline 100. The SS could still have bucket seats with a console floor shift.

Not many changes for 1967, but a 155 hp 4.1L (250 cid) I6 became available in all models except the 100. The 350 hp L79 327 V8 was unfortunately dropped this year, but other drivetrain choices remained the same as the previous year's. There would be an all-new Chevy II/Nova for 1968.

==Main Competitors 1962-1967==

*[[Dodge Dart]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]
*[[Studebaker Lark]]

[[Image:Nova front fender emblem 68-72.jpg|left|350px]]

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:477.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1968-1974
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1968-1970) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1968-1974) 5.0L (307 cid) V8 (1968-1973) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1968-1974) 6.5L (396 cid) cid V8 (1968-1970) 7.0L (427 cid) V8 (1970)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-425 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Apollo]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Third generation (1968–1974)==

An extensive redesign came in 1968, when the station wagon and two door hardtop bodystyles were discontinued. This body style continued (with a minor restyle in 1973) through 1974. One notable change was the front subframe assembly — as compared with [[Ford]], [[Chrysler]] and [[AMC]], in whose cars the entire front suspension was integrated with the bodyshell, a separate subframe housing the powertrain and front suspension (similar to the front part of the frame of GM's full-size, full-framed vehicles) replaced the earlier style. Although the front subframe design was a Chevy II-exclusive design, the [[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]] introduced a year earlier was the first to incorporate such a design; the redesigned Chevy II was pushed a year back to 1968 instead of 1967. 1968 was the final year that the Chevy II nameplate was used, although all 1968 models were "Chevy II Novas" with one single trim line.

The 153 I4 carried over from the previous generation as standard on the baseline model. Far more popular were the 250 I6 and the new 5.0L (307 cid) V8, which replaced the 283 offered in previous generations. At mid-year a semi-automatic transmission based on the Powerglide called Torque-Drive was introduced as a low-cost option for shiftless motoring for both the four and six-cylinder engines. The two-speed Powerglide was still the only fully-automatic gearbox available with most engines as the more desirable three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic was only available with the largest V8 engines. An interesting engine option was the 5.3L (327 cid) V8 rated at 350 hp (RPO code L79).

The '''SS''' was transformed from a trim package to a performance option for 1968 and now included a 295 hp 5.7L (350 cid) V8 engine along with front disc brakes, heavy-duty suspension and other performance hardware. Optional engines included two versions of the big-block 6.5L (396 cid) V8 rated at 350 and 375 hp. Both 396 engines were offered with a choice of transmissions including the M-21 close-ratio four-speed manual, the M-22 heavy-duty "Rock Crusher" four-speed manual, or the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 400 for those who preferred automatic shifting. SSs could have a console with optional auxiliary gauges very similar to the contemporary Camaro design.

===1969===

The Chevy II nameplate was retired and the car became the "Chevy Nova" for this year (some sources referred to it as the Chevrolet Chevy Nova - perhaps the decision to drop the Chevy II moniker was a last-minute decision for 1969). Like other 1969 GM vehicles, locking steering columns were incorporated along with column ignitions. Simulated vents were added below the Nova script, which was relocated to the front fender instead of the rear quarter panel. The 350-4 that came standard with the SS option was revised with a five-hp increase to 300 while a 350-2 rated at 255 hp was a new option on non-SS models. A new Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 three-speed automatic was made available for non-SS Novas with six-cylinder and V8 engines.

===1970===

Basically a carryover from 1969; the side markers and taillight lenses were wider and positioned slightly differently, which placed the reverse lights in the middle of the taillight lens instead of the inward portion. This was the final year for the SS396. All other engines were carried over including the seldom-ordered four-cylinder which was in its final year. The car finally became simply the Chevrolet Nova this year after two years of transitional nameplates (Chevy II Nova in 1968 and Chevrolet Chevy Nova in 1969).

Approximately 177 COPO Novas were ordered, with 175 converted by Yenko Chevrolet (the other two were sold in Canada). These had the mighty LT1 (350 cid) V8 engine

A beater 1970 Nova coupe is prominently featured in the movie ''Beverly Hills Cop''.

===1971===

1971 Novas were similar to the previous year but with the loss of the simulated fender vents and the discontinuation of the 396 motor for the SS with the L48 350-4 taking its place. 1971 also saw the introduction of the '''Rally Nova''', a trim level that only lasted two years and was marketed as sort of a budget-SS. The Rally package included black or white stripes that ran the length of the car and around the back, a Rally Nova sticker on the driver's side of the hood, and Rally wheels.

The 250 I6 was now the standard Nova powerplant with the demise of the 153 I4 and 230 I6 engines. The 307 and 350 V8s were carried over from 1970 and all engines featured lowered compression ratios to enable the use of unleaded gasoline as a result of a GM corporate mandate that took effect with the 1971 model year.

After 1971, other GM divisions began rebadging the Nova as their new entry-level vehicle, such as the [[Pontiac Ventura]] II (once a trim option for full-size Pontiacs to 1970), [[Oldsmobile Omega]] (1973) and the [[Buick Apollo]] (mid-1973). Interestingly, the intials of the four model names spelled out the acronym '''NOVA''' (Nova, Omega, Ventura, Apollo.)

===1972===

A virtual rerun of 1971, the 1972 Nova received only minor trim changes and both the Rally Nova and SS options carried over. At mid-year a manual canvas sunroof option became available on two-door models. Also, the optional Strato bucket seats available on coupes switched from the previous low-back design with adjustable headrests to the high back units with built-in headrests introduced the previous year on Camaros and Vegas. Standard engine was still the 250 I6 with either a 3- or 4-speed manual or 2- or 3-speed automatics. The 307 and 350 V8s remained optional. There would be a restyled Nova for 1973.

===1973===

The 1973 model year introduced a new hatchback bodystyle based on the 2-door coupe, as well as a front and rear restyling and a modified rear side window shape, plus a revised rear suspension adapted from the second-generation Camaro with multi-leaf springs replacing the mono-leaf springs used on Novas since the original 1966 model. A luxury-themed '''Custom''' became part of the model lineup which included upgraded upholstery, full carpeting and more exterior trim. By this time, six-cylinder and V8 engines were ''de rigeur'' for American compact cars, with the 307 and 350 (5.0 and 5.7L) V8s becoming fairly common. Nova SS models offered a higher-performance 350 (5.7L) V8. The 1973 Nova with a six-cylinder engine or 307 V8 were among the last Chevrolets to be offered with the now-outdated two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission, which was in its final year.

===1974===

For 1974, the powerglide was replaced by a lightweight version of the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 already offered with the 350 V8, which was now the only V8 offered this year. The SS option was still available but became more of a sporty trim package than a performance offering and now offered with any Nova engine, much like the 1963-67 Nova SS. The 250 I6 remained standard, and transmission choices, with the exception of the 2-speed Powerglide, remained the same as well. There would be an all-new Nova for 1975.

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:77rally.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1975-1979
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1975-1979) 4.3L (262 cid) V8 (1975) 5.0L (305 cid) V8 (1976-1979) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1975-1978)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|110-170 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Skylark]] [[Cadillac Seville]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]/[[Pontiac Phoenix|Phoenix]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Fourth generation (1975–1979)==

A completely redesigned Nova was introduced in 1975. Bodystyles were still the 2-door coupe, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedans. Base coupes, including the hatchback, had fixed side windows (or optional flip-out windows) and simulated vertical vents on the B-pillar (sedans would have simulated horizontal vents at the bottom of the C-pillar). Engines this year were the standard 250 cid I6 carried over from the previous generations, a 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and 350 V8 were optional. The front suspension and subframe assembly was similar to the one used in the second-generation GM F-body ([[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]], [[Pontiac Firebird|Firebird]]), whereas the rear axle and suspension were carried over from the 1968-74 generation.

The Nova lineup now ranged from the stripped-down '''S''' model, base, '''Custom''', and the luxury-themed '''LN''' ("Luxury Nova"). The Nova '''SS''' continued for 1975 and got a unique grille and requisite badges. Dashboards and other controls were virtually identical in layout compared to the previous generation. A high-performance 9C1 police version of the Nova was introduced for the 1975 model year, making it the first compact car certified for police duty in the U.S. Most were initially purchased by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department in 1976.

The LN was replaced with the Nova '''Concours''' in 1976, and the Custom model was gone (temporarily). The grille was changed slightly, and the short-lived 262 V8 was replaced by the new 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and was standard on the Concours. The 350 V8 remained the top engine option. Transmissions included the 3-speed manual standard with the I6, with a 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic optional. The 305 could have a 4-speed manual or automatic, while the 350 was automatic only. 1977 Concours models got a new 3-taillight lens scheme very similar to the larger [[Chevrolet Impala|Impala]] with a [[Cadillac]]-esque front clip that included chrome squared-off headlight bezels and a more elegant-looking vertically-barred grille with extra chrome trim. The SS was dropped, but it would continue as the '''Nova Rally''', which was basically the same sporty-themed idea. Other models also got a slightly revised grille and all got a new dashboard with round gauges and an 80 MPH speedo.

1978 Novas continued with little change, other than the '''Custom''' model returning as the base model. The 2-door, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedan bodystyles, and Concours and Rally models, were still available. By now, however, the Nova was starting to fall out of favor with much of the buying public, largely due to increased competition from the new [[Ford Fairmont]] and even Chevrolet's own [[Chevrolet Malibu|Malibu]], which was an all-new downsized model for 1978. Even though 1979 was a final abbreviated model year, the front end was nonetheless revised again with square headlights and a new horizontally-barred grille for the short run. The 9C1 police package was dropped for '79, along with the Rally model and 350 V8 engine. Production ended on December 22, 1978. The Nova was replaced by the all-new front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] for 1980. The Nova name, however, would reappear again in 1985 on an unrelated model.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:156392062X01LZZZZZZ.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
| 1985-1988
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|4-Door Sedan 5-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2500-2700 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|5-Speed Manual, FWD 3-Speed Automatic, FWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|1.6L (97 cid) I4
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Toyota Corolla]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|S
|}

==1985-1988 Nova==

In 1985 the Nova name was applied to a rebadged [[Toyota Corolla]] and was produced at the NUMMI plant in Fremont, California, as an historic first joint venture between [[General Motors]] and [[Toyota]]. It shared the Corolla's drivetrain and running gear, and was available as a 4-door sedan and a 5-door hatchback (just like the Corolla). It differed from the Corolla mainly with slightly different front-end styling. It also shared many interior parts, such as audio systems, with other GM's offerings whereas the Corolla did not. The Corolla had been redesigned for 1988, but the Nova continued to use the old platform for its last year. The Nova would be replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]], which was also a twin to the Corolla.

==Main Competitors 1985-1988==

*[[Dodge Omni]]
*[[Ford Escort]]
*[[Honda Civic]]
*[[Isuzu I-Mark]]
*[[Mazda 323]]
*[[Mercury Lynx]]
*[[Nissan Sentra]]
*[[Plymouth Horizon]]
*[[Volkswagen Golf]]

{{-}}

==Photos==
<gallery>
Image:Ad77police350x496.jpg
</gallery>

==Main Competitors 1968-1979==
*[[Dodge Dart]]/[[Dodge Aspen|Aspen]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]/[[Ford Maverick|Maverick]]/[[Ford Fairmont|Fairmont]]
*[[Ford Granada]]
*[[Mercury Comet]]/[[Mercury Zephyr|Zephyr]]
*[[Mercury Monarch]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]/[[Plymouth Volare|Volare]]

==The urban legend==
A popular urban legend asserts that the Nova sold poorly in Mexico and other Latin American countries because the phrase ''no va'' means "does not go" in Spanish. In reality, the Spanish language ''no va'' and ''nova'' are as different as the English ''no table'' and ''notable'', or ''therapist'' and ''the rapist''. [http://www.snopes.com/business/misxlate/nova.asp] The word ''nova'' exists in [http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nova Spanish] with the same meaning as in English. Also, the Spanish word for 'new' (nuevo or nueva) is cognate to ''nova'', which originally meant "new" in Latin. Finally, as NOVA was a brand of gasoline sold for many years by PEMEX in Mexico, the largest of all Spanish-speaking Latin American countries, it is clear that this urban legend, while perhaps entertaining, is utterly baseless.

==See Also==
{{Chevrolet}}

==External links==
*[http://www.nnnova.com/ National Nostalgic Nova] The original National Nostalgic Nova Club Celebrating 25 Years of Helping Nova People The only Monthly Magazine dedicated to Only Novas!
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/nova/ Chevrolet Nova Internet Source] — The second known Nova site on the Internet
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/novaList.html Nova listserv] — The first and only known public [[Electronic mailing list|mailing list]] dedicated to Chevrolet Novas and other X-bodies; in continuous existence since January 1998
*[http://automotivehistoryonline.com/Chevrolet1960m.htm Automotive History Online] - Chevrolet Nova History & Photos
*[http://www.novaresource.org/ NovaResource.com] — Excellent source of history, production numbers, and option code information for 1962-79 Novas
*[http://www.stevesnovasite.com/ Steve's Nova Site] - Includes Q&A discussion board; another excellent resource for Nova owners
*[http://www.musclecarfacts.com/mcf/nova/nova.asp Chevy Nova SS at Muscle Car Facts] — A year-by-year history.
*[http://www.gen4novas.com/ Gen4Novas.com] — Source for the 'stepchild' Disco-era X-car.
*[http://www.2quicknovas.com/ 2QuickNovas.com] — Nova, technical, drag racing and general car info.
*[http://www.chevynova.org/1968.html]

[[Category:Classic cars]]

Chevrolet Nova

2010-10-18T21:17:59Z

Yankee: /* Second Generation (1966-1967) */

The '''[[Chevrolet]] Nova''', or '''Chevy II''', was an American compact car introduced by [[General Motors]] in 1962. The original Chevy II was of unibody construction, powered by an OHV inline four or six-cylinder engine (and V8s later), and available in two- and four-door sedan configurations as well as convertible and station wagon versions. After the rear-engine [[Chevrolet Corvair]] was handily outsold by the conventional [[Ford Falcon]] in 1960, Chevrolet began work on a more conventional compact car that would eventually become the Chevy II. The Chevy II/Nova continued on throughout the 1960s and 70s with great success until it was supplanted by the front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] in 1980. The Nova name would reappear briefly again in 1985 as a twin to (of all things) the [[Toyota Corolla]]. The "Toyolet" Nova was discontinued after 1988, replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]].

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:1962 Chevrolet II.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1962-1965
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 2-Door Convertible 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 153" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 70.8"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 55"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1962-1965) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1962-1965) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1964-1965) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1964-1965) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1965)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-300 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==First Generation (1962-1965)==

Three different levels of this car were made - the baseline Chevy II '''100''', the mid-grade Chevy II '''300''' and the top-line Chevy II Nova '''400'''. Their was also the sport-oriented Chevy II Nova Super Sport ('''SS'''), available on the 2-door coupe or convertible. Available powerplants included the standard 2.5L (153 cid) I4 and optional the 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (standard on the SS). Bodystyles included a 2-door sedan and hardtop, 4-door sedan, 5-door wagon (with an optional rear-facing 3rd seat) and a 2-door convertible. Unlike its [[Dodge Dart]]/[[Plymouth Valiant]] and [[Ford Falcon]] competition, no V8s were initially offered, but Chevrolet 283 and 327 cid V8s were offered in some areas as dealer-installed options, up to and including the fuel injected version available in the [[Chevrolet Corvette]]. Transmissions were a column or floor 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed manual or 2-speed Powerglide automatic. SSs could have bucket seats with a floor console-shift.

For 1963, grilles and taillights were slightly revised but otherwise were largely unchanged. All bodystyles and engine choices remained the same. For 1964, the Chevy II's first factory V8 option was introduced - a "Turbo-Fire" 195 hp 4.7L (283 cid) V8 with a 2-bbl carb, or a 225 hp 4-bbl version. A larger I6 was also offered, the "Turbo-Thrift" 3.8L (230 cid). Other drivetrain choices remained the same. The convertible was dropped, and the SS was also dropped at the beginning of this year, but it was reinstated mid-year due to high popular demand. The 300 series trim level was discontinued, leaving the 100 and 400 levels. In 1965, the grille was redesigned and the parking lights were relocated from directly below the headlights to the bumper. Taillights were revised also. The 5.3L (327 cid) V8 debuted this year (also called "Turbo Fire") with 250 and 300 horsepower versions. Other drivetrain choices remained the same as before. There would be a restyled Nova for 1966.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Chevrolet-nova 66.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1966-1967
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 154.7" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 71.3"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 55.4"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1966-1967) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1967) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1966-1967) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1966-1967)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-350 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Second Generation (1966-1967)==

1966 Novas saw a significant restyling, based in part on the Super Nova concept car. In general, external proportions were squared up but dimensions and features changed little. Wheelbase remained the same at 110". Trim choices were still the '''100''' and '''400'''. Engine options still included the basic 153 I4, 194 I6, the 195 hp and 225 hp 283s and 275 hp (up 25 from '65) and 350 hp (up 50 from '65) 327 V8s. V8 models got special lower fender badges behind the front wheels. Transmission choices remained the column or floor-shift 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed and 2-speed Powerglide automatics. The 327/350 engine was manual-shift only (3- or 4-speed) and was not available on the 100 series or wagon. Inside, there was a new dashboard that strongly resembled the larger [[Chevrolet Chevelle|Chevelle's]] (also all-new this year) and revised seat designs, but the Chevy II line during this time was still very spartan. The 90 hp 153 I4 was only offered in the base Chevy II 100 series models, with the 120-horsepower 194 I6 standard on the Nova and Nova SS lines. A new engine offering included a 140 hp 3.8L (230 cid) I6, available in all models except the baseline 100. The SS could still have bucket seats with a console floor shift.

Not many changes for 1967, but a 155 hp 4.1L (250 cid) I6 became available in all models except the 100. The 350 hp L79 327 V8 was unfortunately dropped this year, but other drivetrain choices remained the same as the previous year's. There would be an all-new Chevy II/Nova for 1968.

==Main Competitors 1962-1967==

*[[Dodge Dart]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]
*[[Studebaker Lark]]

[[Image:Nova front fender emblem 68-72.jpg|left|350px]]

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:477.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1968-1974
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1968-1970) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1968-1974) 5.0L (307 cid) V8 (1968-1973) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1968-1974) 6.5L (396 cid) cid V8 (1968-1970) 7.0L (427 cid) V8 (1970)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-425 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Apollo]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Third generation (1968–1974)==

An extensive redesign came in 1968, when the station wagon and two door hardtop bodystyles were discontinued. This body style continued (with a minor restyle in 1973) through 1974. One notable change was the front subframe assembly — as compared with [[Ford]], [[Chrysler]] and [[AMC]], in whose cars the entire front suspension was integrated with the bodyshell, a separate subframe housing the powertrain and front suspension (similar to the front part of the frame of GM's full-size, full-framed vehicles) replaced the earlier style. Although the front subframe design was a Chevy II-exclusive design, the [[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]] introduced a year earlier was the first to incorporate such a design; the redesigned Chevy II was pushed a year back to 1968 instead of 1967. 1968 was the final year that the Chevy II nameplate was used, although all 1968 models were "Chevy II Novas" with one single trim line.

The 153 I4 carried over from the previous generation as standard on the baseline model. Far more popular were the 250 I6 and the new 5.0L (307 cid) V8, which replaced the 283 offered in previous generations. At mid-year a semi-automatic transmission based on the Powerglide called Torque-Drive was introduced as a low-cost option for shiftless motoring for both the four and six-cylinder engines. The two-speed Powerglide was still the only fully-automatic gearbox available with most engines as the more desirable three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic was only available with the largest V8 engines. An interesting engine option was the 5.3L (327 cid) V8 rated at 350 hp (RPO code L79).

The '''SS''' was transformed from a trim package to a performance option for 1968 and now included a 295 hp 5.7L (350 cid) V8 engine along with front disc brakes, heavy-duty suspension and other performance hardware. Optional engines included two versions of the big-block 6.5L (396 cid) V8 rated at 350 and 375 hp. Both 396 engines were offered with a choice of transmissions including the M-21 close-ratio four-speed manual, the M-22 heavy-duty "Rock Crusher" four-speed manual, or the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 400 for those who preferred automatic shifting. SSs could have a console with optional auxiliary gauges very similar to the contemporary Camaro design.

===1969===

The Chevy II nameplate was retired and the car became the "Chevy Nova" for this year (some sources referred to it as the Chevrolet Chevy Nova - perhaps the decision to drop the Chevy II moniker was a last-minute decision for 1969). Like other 1969 GM vehicles, locking steering columns were incorporated along with column ignitions. Simulated vents were added below the Nova script, which was relocated to the front fender instead of the rear quarter panel. The 350-4 that came standard with the SS option was revised with a five-hp increase to 300 while a 350-2 rated at 255 hp was a new option on non-SS models. A new Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 three-speed automatic was made available for non-SS Novas with six-cylinder and V8 engines.

===1970===

Basically a carryover from 1969; the side markers and taillight lenses were wider and positioned slightly differently, which placed the reverse lights in the middle of the taillight lens instead of the inward portion. This was the final year for the SS396. All other engines were carried over including the seldom-ordered four-cylinder which was in its final year. The car finally became simply the Chevrolet Nova this year after two years of transitional nameplates (Chevy II Nova in 1968 and Chevrolet Chevy Nova in 1969).

Approximately 177 COPO Novas were ordered, with 175 converted by Yenko Chevrolet (the other two were sold in Canada). These had the mighty LT1 (350 cid) V8 engine

A beater 1970 Nova coupe is prominently featured in the movie ''Beverly Hills Cop''.

===1971===

1971 Novas were similar to the previous year but with the loss of the simulated fender vents and the discontinuation of the 396 motor for the SS with the L48 350-4 taking its place. 1971 also saw the introduction of the '''Rally Nova''', a trim level that only lasted two years and was marketed as sort of a budget-SS. The Rally package included black or white stripes that ran the length of the car and around the back, a Rally Nova sticker on the driver's side of the hood, and Rally wheels.

The 250 I6 was now the standard Nova powerplant with the demise of the 153 I4 and 230 I6 engines. The 307 and 350 V8s were carried over from 1970 and all engines featured lowered compression ratios to enable the use of unleaded gasoline as a result of a GM corporate mandate that took effect with the 1971 model year.

After 1971, other GM divisions began rebadging the Nova as their new entry-level vehicle, such as the [[Pontiac Ventura]] II (once a trim option for full-size Pontiacs to 1970), [[Oldsmobile Omega]] (1973) and the [[Buick Apollo]] (mid-1973). Interestingly, the intials of the four model names spelled out the acronym '''NOVA''' (Nova, Omega, Ventura, Apollo.)

===1972===

A virtual rerun of 1971, the 1972 Nova received only minor trim changes and both the Rally Nova and SS options carried over. At mid-year a manual canvas sunroof option became available on two-door models. Also, the optional Strato bucket seats available on coupes switched from the previous low-back design with adjustable headrests to the high back units with built-in headrests introduced the previous year on Camaros and Vegas. Standard engine was still the 250 I6 with either a 3- or 4-speed manual or 2- or 3-speed automatics. The 307 and 350 V8s remained optional. There would be a restyled Nova for 1973.

===1973===

The 1973 model year introduced a new hatchback bodystyle based on the 2-door coupe, as well as a front and rear restyling and a modified rear side window shape, plus a revised rear suspension adapted from the second-generation Camaro with multi-leaf springs replacing the mono-leaf springs used on Novas since the original 1966 model. A luxury-themed '''Custom''' became part of the model lineup which included upgraded upholstery, full carpeting and more exterior trim. By this time, six-cylinder and V8 engines were ''de rigeur'' for American compact cars, with the 307 and 350 (5.0 and 5.7L) V8s becoming fairly common. Nova SS models offered a higher-performance 350 (5.7L) V8. The 1973 Nova with a six-cylinder engine or 307 V8 were among the last Chevrolets to be offered with the now-outdated two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission, which was in its final year.

===1974===

For 1974, the powerglide was replaced by a lightweight version of the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 already offered with the 350 V8, which was now the only V8 offered this year. The SS option was still available but became more of a sporty trim package than a performance offering and now offered with any Nova engine, much like the 1963-67 Nova SS. The 250 I6 remained standard, and transmission choices, with the exception of the 2-speed Powerglide, remained the same as well. There would be an all-new Nova for 1975.

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:77rally.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1975-1979
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1975-1979) 4.3L (262 cid) V8 (1975) 5.0L (305 cid) V8 (1976-1979) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1975-1978)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|110-170 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Skylark]] [[Cadillac Seville]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]/[[Pontiac Phoenix|Phoenix]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Fourth generation (1975–1979)==

A completely redesigned Nova was introduced in 1975. Bodystyles were still the 2-door coupe, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedans. Base coupes, including the hatchback, had fixed side windows (or optional flip-out windows) and simulated vertical vents on the B-pillar (sedans would have simulated horizontal vents at the bottom of the C-pillar). Engines this year were the standard 250 cid I6 carried over from the previous generations, a 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and 350 V8 were optional. The front suspension and subframe assembly was similar to the one used in the second-generation GM F-body ([[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]], [[Pontiac Firebird|Firebird]]), whereas the rear axle and suspension were carried over from the 1968-74 generation.

The Nova lineup now ranged from the stripped-down '''S''' model, base, '''Custom''', and the luxury-themed '''LN''' ("Luxury Nova"). The Nova '''SS''' continued for 1975 and got a unique grille and requisite badges. Dashboards and other controls were virtually identical in layout compared to the previous generation. A high-performance 9C1 police version of the Nova was introduced for the 1975 model year, making it the first compact car certified for police duty in the U.S. Most were initially purchased by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department in 1976.

The LN was replaced with the Nova '''Concours''' in 1976, and the Custom model was gone (temporarily). The grille was changed slightly, and the short-lived 262 V8 was replaced by the new 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and was standard on the Concours. The 350 V8 remained the top engine option. Transmissions included the 3-speed manual standard with the I6, with a 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic optional. The 305 could have a 4-speed manual or automatic, while the 350 was automatic only. 1977 Concours models got a new 3-taillight lens scheme very similar to the larger [[Chevrolet Impala|Impala]] with a [[Cadillac]]-esque front clip that included chrome squared-off headlight bezels and a more elegant-looking vertically-barred grille with extra chrome trim. The SS was dropped, but it would continue as the '''Nova Rally''', which was basically the same sporty-themed idea. Other models also got a slightly revised grille and all got a new dashboard with round gauges and an 80 MPH speedo.

1978 Novas continued with little change, other than the '''Custom''' model returning as the base model. The 2-door, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedan bodystyles, and Concours and Rally models, were still available. By now, however, the Nova was starting to fall out of favor with much of the buying public, largely due to increased competition from the new [[Ford Fairmont]] and even Chevrolet's own [[Chevrolet Malibu|Malibu]], which was an all-new downsized model for 1978. Even though 1979 was a final abbreviated model year, the front end was nonetheless revised again with square headlights and a new horizontally-barred grille for the short run. The 9C1 police package was dropped for '79, along with the Rally model and 350 V8 engine. Production ended on December 22, 1978. The Nova was replaced by the all-new front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] for 1980. The Nova name, however, would reappear again in 1985 on an unrelated model.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:156392062X01LZZZZZZ.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
| 1985-1988
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|4-Door Sedan 5-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2500-2700 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|5-Speed Manual, FWD 3-Speed Automatic, FWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|1.6L (97 cid) I4
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Toyota Corolla]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|S
|}

==1985-1988 Nova==

In 1985 the Nova name was applied to a rebadged [[Toyota Corolla]] and was produced at the NUMMI plant in Fremont, California, as an historic first joint venture between [[General Motors]] and [[Toyota]]. It shared the Corolla's drivetrain and running gear, and was available as a 4-door sedan and a 5-door hatchback (just like the Corolla). It differed from the Corolla mainly with slightly different front-end styling. It also shared many interior parts, such as audio systems, with other GM's offerings whereas the Corolla did not. The Corolla had been redesigned for 1988, but the Nova continued to use the old platform for its last year. The Nova would be replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]], which was also a twin to the Corolla.

==Main Competitors 1985-1988==

*[[Dodge Omni]]
*[[Ford Escort]]
*[[Honda Civic]]
*[[Isuzu I-Mark]]
*[[Mazda 323]]
*[[Mercury Lynx]]
*[[Nissan Sentra]]
*[[Plymouth Horizon]]
*[[Volkswagen Golf]]

{{-}}

==Photos==
<gallery>
Image:Ad77police350x496.jpg
</gallery>

==Main Competitors 1968-1979==
*[[Dodge Dart]]/[[Dodge Aspen|Aspen]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]/[[Ford Maverick|Maverick]]/[[Ford Fairmont|Fairmont]]
*[[Ford Granada]]
*[[Mercury Comet]]/[[Mercury Zephyr|Zephyr]]
*[[Mercury Monarch]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]/[[Plymouth Volare|Volare]]

==The urban legend==
A popular urban legend asserts that the Nova sold poorly in Mexico and other Latin American countries because the phrase ''no va'' means "does not go" in Spanish. In reality, the Spanish language ''no va'' and ''nova'' are as different as the English ''no table'' and ''notable'', or ''therapist'' and ''the rapist''. [http://www.snopes.com/business/misxlate/nova.asp] The word ''nova'' exists in [http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nova Spanish] with the same meaning as in English. Also, the Spanish word for 'new' (nuevo or nueva) is cognate to ''nova'', which originally meant "new" in Latin. Finally, as NOVA was a brand of gasoline sold for many years by PEMEX in Mexico, the largest of all Spanish-speaking Latin American countries, it is clear that this urban legend, while perhaps entertaining, is utterly baseless.

==See Also==
{{Chevrolet}}

==External links==
*[http://www.nnnova.com/ National Nostalgic Nova] The original National Nostalgic Nova Club Celebrating 25 Years of Helping Nova People The only Monthly Magazine dedicated to Only Novas!
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/nova/ Chevrolet Nova Internet Source] — The second known Nova site on the Internet
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/novaList.html Nova listserv] — The first and only known public [[Electronic mailing list|mailing list]] dedicated to Chevrolet Novas and other X-bodies; in continuous existence since January 1998
*[http://automotivehistoryonline.com/Chevrolet1960m.htm Automotive History Online] - Chevrolet Nova History & Photos
*[http://www.novaresource.org/ NovaResource.com] — Excellent source of history, production numbers, and option code information for 1962-79 Novas
*[http://www.stevesnovasite.com/ Steve's Nova Site] - Includes Q&A discussion board; another excellent resource for Nova owners
*[http://www.musclecarfacts.com/mcf/nova/nova.asp Chevy Nova SS at Muscle Car Facts] — A year-by-year history.
*[http://www.gen4novas.com/ Gen4Novas.com] — Source for the 'stepchild' Disco-era X-car.
*[http://www.2quicknovas.com/ 2QuickNovas.com] — Nova, technical, drag racing and general car info.
*[http://www.chevynova.org/1968.html]

[[Category:Classic cars]]

Chevrolet Nova

2010-10-18T21:16:45Z

Yankee: /* Second Generation (1966-1967) */

The '''[[Chevrolet]] Nova''', or '''Chevy II''', was an American compact car introduced by [[General Motors]] in 1962. The original Chevy II was of unibody construction, powered by an OHV inline four or six-cylinder engine (and V8s later), and available in two- and four-door sedan configurations as well as convertible and station wagon versions. After the rear-engine [[Chevrolet Corvair]] was handily outsold by the conventional [[Ford Falcon]] in 1960, Chevrolet began work on a more conventional compact car that would eventually become the Chevy II. The Chevy II/Nova continued on throughout the 1960s and 70s with great success until it was supplanted by the front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] in 1980. The Nova name would reappear briefly again in 1985 as a twin to (of all things) the [[Toyota Corolla]]. The "Toyolet" Nova was discontinued after 1988, replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]].

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:1962 Chevrolet II.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1962-1965
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 2-Door Convertible 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 153" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 70.8"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 55"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1962-1965) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1962-1965) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1964-1965) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1964-1965) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1965)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-300 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==First Generation (1962-1965)==

Three different levels of this car were made - the baseline Chevy II '''100''', the mid-grade Chevy II '''300''' and the top-line Chevy II Nova '''400'''. Their was also the sport-oriented Chevy II Nova Super Sport ('''SS'''), available on the 2-door coupe or convertible. Available powerplants included the standard 2.5L (153 cid) I4 and optional the 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (standard on the SS). Bodystyles included a 2-door sedan and hardtop, 4-door sedan, 5-door wagon (with an optional rear-facing 3rd seat) and a 2-door convertible. Unlike its [[Dodge Dart]]/[[Plymouth Valiant]] and [[Ford Falcon]] competition, no V8s were initially offered, but Chevrolet 283 and 327 cid V8s were offered in some areas as dealer-installed options, up to and including the fuel injected version available in the [[Chevrolet Corvette]]. Transmissions were a column or floor 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed manual or 2-speed Powerglide automatic. SSs could have bucket seats with a floor console-shift.

For 1963, grilles and taillights were slightly revised but otherwise were largely unchanged. All bodystyles and engine choices remained the same. For 1964, the Chevy II's first factory V8 option was introduced - a "Turbo-Fire" 195 hp 4.7L (283 cid) V8 with a 2-bbl carb, or a 225 hp 4-bbl version. A larger I6 was also offered, the "Turbo-Thrift" 3.8L (230 cid). Other drivetrain choices remained the same. The convertible was dropped, and the SS was also dropped at the beginning of this year, but it was reinstated mid-year due to high popular demand. The 300 series trim level was discontinued, leaving the 100 and 400 levels. In 1965, the grille was redesigned and the parking lights were relocated from directly below the headlights to the bumper. Taillights were revised also. The 5.3L (327 cid) V8 debuted this year (also called "Turbo Fire") with 250 and 300 horsepower versions. Other drivetrain choices remained the same as before. There would be a restyled Nova for 1966.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Chevrolet-nova 66.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1966-1967
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 154.7" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 71.3"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 55.4"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1966-1967) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1967) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1966-1967) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1966-1967)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-350 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Second Generation (1966-1967)==

1966 Novas saw a significant restyling, based in part on the Super Nova concept car. In general, external proportions were squared up but dimensions and features changed little. Wheelbase remained the same at 110". Trim choices were still the '''100''' and '''400'''. Engine options still included the basic 153 I4, 194 I6, the 195 hp and 225 hp 283s and 275 hp (up 25 from '65) and 350 hp 327 V8s. V8 models got special lower fender badges behind the front wheels. Transmission choices remained the column or floor-shift 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed and 2-speed Powerglide automatics. The 327/350 engine was manual-shift only (3- or 4-speed) and was not available on the 100 series or wagon. Inside, there was a new dashboard that strongly resembled the larger [[Chevrolet Chevelle|Chevelle's]] (also all-new this year) and revised seat designs, but the Chevy II line during this time was still very spartan. The 90 hp 153 I4 was only offered in the base Chevy II 100 series models, with the 120-horsepower 194 I6 standard on the Nova and Nova SS lines. A new engine offering included a 140 hp 3.8L (230 cid) I6, available in all models except the baseline 100. The SS could still have bucket seats with a console floor shift.

Not many changes for 1967, but a 155 hp 4.1L (250 cid) I6 became available in all models except the 100. The 350 hp L79 327 V8 was unfortunately dropped this year, but other drivetrain choices remained the same as the previous year's. There would be an all-new Chevy II/Nova for 1968.

==Main Competitors 1962-1967==

*[[Dodge Dart]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]
*[[Studebaker Lark]]

[[Image:Nova front fender emblem 68-72.jpg|left|350px]]

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:477.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1968-1974
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1968-1970) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1968-1974) 5.0L (307 cid) V8 (1968-1973) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1968-1974) 6.5L (396 cid) cid V8 (1968-1970) 7.0L (427 cid) V8 (1970)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-425 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Apollo]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Third generation (1968–1974)==

An extensive redesign came in 1968, when the station wagon and two door hardtop bodystyles were discontinued. This body style continued (with a minor restyle in 1973) through 1974. One notable change was the front subframe assembly — as compared with [[Ford]], [[Chrysler]] and [[AMC]], in whose cars the entire front suspension was integrated with the bodyshell, a separate subframe housing the powertrain and front suspension (similar to the front part of the frame of GM's full-size, full-framed vehicles) replaced the earlier style. Although the front subframe design was a Chevy II-exclusive design, the [[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]] introduced a year earlier was the first to incorporate such a design; the redesigned Chevy II was pushed a year back to 1968 instead of 1967. 1968 was the final year that the Chevy II nameplate was used, although all 1968 models were "Chevy II Novas" with one single trim line.

The 153 I4 carried over from the previous generation as standard on the baseline model. Far more popular were the 250 I6 and the new 5.0L (307 cid) V8, which replaced the 283 offered in previous generations. At mid-year a semi-automatic transmission based on the Powerglide called Torque-Drive was introduced as a low-cost option for shiftless motoring for both the four and six-cylinder engines. The two-speed Powerglide was still the only fully-automatic gearbox available with most engines as the more desirable three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic was only available with the largest V8 engines. An interesting engine option was the 5.3L (327 cid) V8 rated at 350 hp (RPO code L79).

The '''SS''' was transformed from a trim package to a performance option for 1968 and now included a 295 hp 5.7L (350 cid) V8 engine along with front disc brakes, heavy-duty suspension and other performance hardware. Optional engines included two versions of the big-block 6.5L (396 cid) V8 rated at 350 and 375 hp. Both 396 engines were offered with a choice of transmissions including the M-21 close-ratio four-speed manual, the M-22 heavy-duty "Rock Crusher" four-speed manual, or the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 400 for those who preferred automatic shifting. SSs could have a console with optional auxiliary gauges very similar to the contemporary Camaro design.

===1969===

The Chevy II nameplate was retired and the car became the "Chevy Nova" for this year (some sources referred to it as the Chevrolet Chevy Nova - perhaps the decision to drop the Chevy II moniker was a last-minute decision for 1969). Like other 1969 GM vehicles, locking steering columns were incorporated along with column ignitions. Simulated vents were added below the Nova script, which was relocated to the front fender instead of the rear quarter panel. The 350-4 that came standard with the SS option was revised with a five-hp increase to 300 while a 350-2 rated at 255 hp was a new option on non-SS models. A new Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 three-speed automatic was made available for non-SS Novas with six-cylinder and V8 engines.

===1970===

Basically a carryover from 1969; the side markers and taillight lenses were wider and positioned slightly differently, which placed the reverse lights in the middle of the taillight lens instead of the inward portion. This was the final year for the SS396. All other engines were carried over including the seldom-ordered four-cylinder which was in its final year. The car finally became simply the Chevrolet Nova this year after two years of transitional nameplates (Chevy II Nova in 1968 and Chevrolet Chevy Nova in 1969).

Approximately 177 COPO Novas were ordered, with 175 converted by Yenko Chevrolet (the other two were sold in Canada). These had the mighty LT1 (350 cid) V8 engine

A beater 1970 Nova coupe is prominently featured in the movie ''Beverly Hills Cop''.

===1971===

1971 Novas were similar to the previous year but with the loss of the simulated fender vents and the discontinuation of the 396 motor for the SS with the L48 350-4 taking its place. 1971 also saw the introduction of the '''Rally Nova''', a trim level that only lasted two years and was marketed as sort of a budget-SS. The Rally package included black or white stripes that ran the length of the car and around the back, a Rally Nova sticker on the driver's side of the hood, and Rally wheels.

The 250 I6 was now the standard Nova powerplant with the demise of the 153 I4 and 230 I6 engines. The 307 and 350 V8s were carried over from 1970 and all engines featured lowered compression ratios to enable the use of unleaded gasoline as a result of a GM corporate mandate that took effect with the 1971 model year.

After 1971, other GM divisions began rebadging the Nova as their new entry-level vehicle, such as the [[Pontiac Ventura]] II (once a trim option for full-size Pontiacs to 1970), [[Oldsmobile Omega]] (1973) and the [[Buick Apollo]] (mid-1973). Interestingly, the intials of the four model names spelled out the acronym '''NOVA''' (Nova, Omega, Ventura, Apollo.)

===1972===

A virtual rerun of 1971, the 1972 Nova received only minor trim changes and both the Rally Nova and SS options carried over. At mid-year a manual canvas sunroof option became available on two-door models. Also, the optional Strato bucket seats available on coupes switched from the previous low-back design with adjustable headrests to the high back units with built-in headrests introduced the previous year on Camaros and Vegas. Standard engine was still the 250 I6 with either a 3- or 4-speed manual or 2- or 3-speed automatics. The 307 and 350 V8s remained optional. There would be a restyled Nova for 1973.

===1973===

The 1973 model year introduced a new hatchback bodystyle based on the 2-door coupe, as well as a front and rear restyling and a modified rear side window shape, plus a revised rear suspension adapted from the second-generation Camaro with multi-leaf springs replacing the mono-leaf springs used on Novas since the original 1966 model. A luxury-themed '''Custom''' became part of the model lineup which included upgraded upholstery, full carpeting and more exterior trim. By this time, six-cylinder and V8 engines were ''de rigeur'' for American compact cars, with the 307 and 350 (5.0 and 5.7L) V8s becoming fairly common. Nova SS models offered a higher-performance 350 (5.7L) V8. The 1973 Nova with a six-cylinder engine or 307 V8 were among the last Chevrolets to be offered with the now-outdated two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission, which was in its final year.

===1974===

For 1974, the powerglide was replaced by a lightweight version of the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 already offered with the 350 V8, which was now the only V8 offered this year. The SS option was still available but became more of a sporty trim package than a performance offering and now offered with any Nova engine, much like the 1963-67 Nova SS. The 250 I6 remained standard, and transmission choices, with the exception of the 2-speed Powerglide, remained the same as well. There would be an all-new Nova for 1975.

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:77rally.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1975-1979
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1975-1979) 4.3L (262 cid) V8 (1975) 5.0L (305 cid) V8 (1976-1979) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1975-1978)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|110-170 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Skylark]] [[Cadillac Seville]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]/[[Pontiac Phoenix|Phoenix]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Fourth generation (1975–1979)==

A completely redesigned Nova was introduced in 1975. Bodystyles were still the 2-door coupe, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedans. Base coupes, including the hatchback, had fixed side windows (or optional flip-out windows) and simulated vertical vents on the B-pillar (sedans would have simulated horizontal vents at the bottom of the C-pillar). Engines this year were the standard 250 cid I6 carried over from the previous generations, a 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and 350 V8 were optional. The front suspension and subframe assembly was similar to the one used in the second-generation GM F-body ([[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]], [[Pontiac Firebird|Firebird]]), whereas the rear axle and suspension were carried over from the 1968-74 generation.

The Nova lineup now ranged from the stripped-down '''S''' model, base, '''Custom''', and the luxury-themed '''LN''' ("Luxury Nova"). The Nova '''SS''' continued for 1975 and got a unique grille and requisite badges. Dashboards and other controls were virtually identical in layout compared to the previous generation. A high-performance 9C1 police version of the Nova was introduced for the 1975 model year, making it the first compact car certified for police duty in the U.S. Most were initially purchased by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department in 1976.

The LN was replaced with the Nova '''Concours''' in 1976, and the Custom model was gone (temporarily). The grille was changed slightly, and the short-lived 262 V8 was replaced by the new 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and was standard on the Concours. The 350 V8 remained the top engine option. Transmissions included the 3-speed manual standard with the I6, with a 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic optional. The 305 could have a 4-speed manual or automatic, while the 350 was automatic only. 1977 Concours models got a new 3-taillight lens scheme very similar to the larger [[Chevrolet Impala|Impala]] with a [[Cadillac]]-esque front clip that included chrome squared-off headlight bezels and a more elegant-looking vertically-barred grille with extra chrome trim. The SS was dropped, but it would continue as the '''Nova Rally''', which was basically the same sporty-themed idea. Other models also got a slightly revised grille and all got a new dashboard with round gauges and an 80 MPH speedo.

1978 Novas continued with little change, other than the '''Custom''' model returning as the base model. The 2-door, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedan bodystyles, and Concours and Rally models, were still available. By now, however, the Nova was starting to fall out of favor with much of the buying public, largely due to increased competition from the new [[Ford Fairmont]] and even Chevrolet's own [[Chevrolet Malibu|Malibu]], which was an all-new downsized model for 1978. Even though 1979 was a final abbreviated model year, the front end was nonetheless revised again with square headlights and a new horizontally-barred grille for the short run. The 9C1 police package was dropped for '79, along with the Rally model and 350 V8 engine. Production ended on December 22, 1978. The Nova was replaced by the all-new front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] for 1980. The Nova name, however, would reappear again in 1985 on an unrelated model.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:156392062X01LZZZZZZ.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
| 1985-1988
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|4-Door Sedan 5-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2500-2700 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|5-Speed Manual, FWD 3-Speed Automatic, FWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|1.6L (97 cid) I4
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Toyota Corolla]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|S
|}

==1985-1988 Nova==

In 1985 the Nova name was applied to a rebadged [[Toyota Corolla]] and was produced at the NUMMI plant in Fremont, California, as an historic first joint venture between [[General Motors]] and [[Toyota]]. It shared the Corolla's drivetrain and running gear, and was available as a 4-door sedan and a 5-door hatchback (just like the Corolla). It differed from the Corolla mainly with slightly different front-end styling. It also shared many interior parts, such as audio systems, with other GM's offerings whereas the Corolla did not. The Corolla had been redesigned for 1988, but the Nova continued to use the old platform for its last year. The Nova would be replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]], which was also a twin to the Corolla.

==Main Competitors 1985-1988==

*[[Dodge Omni]]
*[[Ford Escort]]
*[[Honda Civic]]
*[[Isuzu I-Mark]]
*[[Mazda 323]]
*[[Mercury Lynx]]
*[[Nissan Sentra]]
*[[Plymouth Horizon]]
*[[Volkswagen Golf]]

{{-}}

==Photos==
<gallery>
Image:Ad77police350x496.jpg
</gallery>

==Main Competitors 1968-1979==
*[[Dodge Dart]]/[[Dodge Aspen|Aspen]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]/[[Ford Maverick|Maverick]]/[[Ford Fairmont|Fairmont]]
*[[Ford Granada]]
*[[Mercury Comet]]/[[Mercury Zephyr|Zephyr]]
*[[Mercury Monarch]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]/[[Plymouth Volare|Volare]]

==The urban legend==
A popular urban legend asserts that the Nova sold poorly in Mexico and other Latin American countries because the phrase ''no va'' means "does not go" in Spanish. In reality, the Spanish language ''no va'' and ''nova'' are as different as the English ''no table'' and ''notable'', or ''therapist'' and ''the rapist''. [http://www.snopes.com/business/misxlate/nova.asp] The word ''nova'' exists in [http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nova Spanish] with the same meaning as in English. Also, the Spanish word for 'new' (nuevo or nueva) is cognate to ''nova'', which originally meant "new" in Latin. Finally, as NOVA was a brand of gasoline sold for many years by PEMEX in Mexico, the largest of all Spanish-speaking Latin American countries, it is clear that this urban legend, while perhaps entertaining, is utterly baseless.

==See Also==
{{Chevrolet}}

==External links==
*[http://www.nnnova.com/ National Nostalgic Nova] The original National Nostalgic Nova Club Celebrating 25 Years of Helping Nova People The only Monthly Magazine dedicated to Only Novas!
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/nova/ Chevrolet Nova Internet Source] — The second known Nova site on the Internet
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/novaList.html Nova listserv] — The first and only known public [[Electronic mailing list|mailing list]] dedicated to Chevrolet Novas and other X-bodies; in continuous existence since January 1998
*[http://automotivehistoryonline.com/Chevrolet1960m.htm Automotive History Online] - Chevrolet Nova History & Photos
*[http://www.novaresource.org/ NovaResource.com] — Excellent source of history, production numbers, and option code information for 1962-79 Novas
*[http://www.stevesnovasite.com/ Steve's Nova Site] - Includes Q&A discussion board; another excellent resource for Nova owners
*[http://www.musclecarfacts.com/mcf/nova/nova.asp Chevy Nova SS at Muscle Car Facts] — A year-by-year history.
*[http://www.gen4novas.com/ Gen4Novas.com] — Source for the 'stepchild' Disco-era X-car.
*[http://www.2quicknovas.com/ 2QuickNovas.com] — Nova, technical, drag racing and general car info.
*[http://www.chevynova.org/1968.html]

[[Category:Classic cars]]

Chevrolet Nova

2010-10-18T21:12:42Z

Yankee:

The '''[[Chevrolet]] Nova''', or '''Chevy II''', was an American compact car introduced by [[General Motors]] in 1962. The original Chevy II was of unibody construction, powered by an OHV inline four or six-cylinder engine (and V8s later), and available in two- and four-door sedan configurations as well as convertible and station wagon versions. After the rear-engine [[Chevrolet Corvair]] was handily outsold by the conventional [[Ford Falcon]] in 1960, Chevrolet began work on a more conventional compact car that would eventually become the Chevy II. The Chevy II/Nova continued on throughout the 1960s and 70s with great success until it was supplanted by the front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] in 1980. The Nova name would reappear briefly again in 1985 as a twin to (of all things) the [[Toyota Corolla]]. The "Toyolet" Nova was discontinued after 1988, replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]].

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:1962 Chevrolet II.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1962-1965
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 2-Door Convertible 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 153" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 70.8"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 55"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1962-1965) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1962-1965) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1964-1965) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1964-1965) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1965)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-300 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==First Generation (1962-1965)==

Three different levels of this car were made - the baseline Chevy II '''100''', the mid-grade Chevy II '''300''' and the top-line Chevy II Nova '''400'''. Their was also the sport-oriented Chevy II Nova Super Sport ('''SS'''), available on the 2-door coupe or convertible. Available powerplants included the standard 2.5L (153 cid) I4 and optional the 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (standard on the SS). Bodystyles included a 2-door sedan and hardtop, 4-door sedan, 5-door wagon (with an optional rear-facing 3rd seat) and a 2-door convertible. Unlike its [[Dodge Dart]]/[[Plymouth Valiant]] and [[Ford Falcon]] competition, no V8s were initially offered, but Chevrolet 283 and 327 cid V8s were offered in some areas as dealer-installed options, up to and including the fuel injected version available in the [[Chevrolet Corvette]]. Transmissions were a column or floor 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed manual or 2-speed Powerglide automatic. SSs could have bucket seats with a floor console-shift.

For 1963, grilles and taillights were slightly revised but otherwise were largely unchanged. All bodystyles and engine choices remained the same. For 1964, the Chevy II's first factory V8 option was introduced - a "Turbo-Fire" 195 hp 4.7L (283 cid) V8 with a 2-bbl carb, or a 225 hp 4-bbl version. A larger I6 was also offered, the "Turbo-Thrift" 3.8L (230 cid). Other drivetrain choices remained the same. The convertible was dropped, and the SS was also dropped at the beginning of this year, but it was reinstated mid-year due to high popular demand. The 300 series trim level was discontinued, leaving the 100 and 400 levels. In 1965, the grille was redesigned and the parking lights were relocated from directly below the headlights to the bumper. Taillights were revised also. The 5.3L (327 cid) V8 debuted this year (also called "Turbo Fire") with 250 and 300 horsepower versions. Other drivetrain choices remained the same as before. There would be a restyled Nova for 1966.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Chevrolet-nova 66.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1966-1967
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 154.7" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 71.3"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 55.4"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1966-1967) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1967) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1966-1967) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1966-1967)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-350 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Second Generation (1966-1967)==

1966 Novas saw a significant restyling, based in part on the Super Nova concept car. In general, external proportions were squared up but dimensions and features changed little. Wheelbase remained the same at 110". Trim choices were still the '''100''' and '''400'''. Engine options still included the basic 153 I4, 194 I6, the 195 hp and 225 hp 283s and 275 hp (up 25 from '65) and 350 hp 327 V8s. V8 models got special lower fender badges behind the front wheels. Transmission choices remained the column or floor-shift 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed and 2-speed Powerglide automatics. Inside, there was a new dashboard that strongly resembled the larger [[Chevrolet Chevelle|Chevelle's]] (also all-new this year) and revised seat designs, but the Chevy II line during this time was still very spartan. The 90 hp 153 I4 was only offered in the base Chevy II 100 series models, with the 120-horsepower 194 I6 standard on the Nova and Nova SS lines. A new engine offering included a 140 hp 3.8L (230 cid) I6, available in all models except the baseline 100. The SS could still have bucket seats with a console floor shift. Not many changes for 1967, but a 155 hp 4.1L (250 cid) I6 became available in all models except the 100. The 350 hp L79 327 V8 was unfortunately dropped this year, but other drivetrain choices remained the same as the previous year's. There would be an all-new Chevy II/Nova for 1968.

==Main Competitors 1962-1967==

*[[Dodge Dart]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]
*[[Studebaker Lark]]

[[Image:Nova front fender emblem 68-72.jpg|left|350px]]

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:477.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1968-1974
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1968-1970) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1968-1974) 5.0L (307 cid) V8 (1968-1973) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1968-1974) 6.5L (396 cid) cid V8 (1968-1970) 7.0L (427 cid) V8 (1970)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-425 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Apollo]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Third generation (1968–1974)==

An extensive redesign came in 1968, when the station wagon and two door hardtop bodystyles were discontinued. This body style continued (with a minor restyle in 1973) through 1974. One notable change was the front subframe assembly — as compared with [[Ford]], [[Chrysler]] and [[AMC]], in whose cars the entire front suspension was integrated with the bodyshell, a separate subframe housing the powertrain and front suspension (similar to the front part of the frame of GM's full-size, full-framed vehicles) replaced the earlier style. Although the front subframe design was a Chevy II-exclusive design, the [[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]] introduced a year earlier was the first to incorporate such a design; the redesigned Chevy II was pushed a year back to 1968 instead of 1967. 1968 was the final year that the Chevy II nameplate was used, although all 1968 models were "Chevy II Novas" with one single trim line.

The 153 I4 carried over from the previous generation as standard on the baseline model. Far more popular were the 250 I6 and the new 5.0L (307 cid) V8, which replaced the 283 offered in previous generations. At mid-year a semi-automatic transmission based on the Powerglide called Torque-Drive was introduced as a low-cost option for shiftless motoring for both the four and six-cylinder engines. The two-speed Powerglide was still the only fully-automatic gearbox available with most engines as the more desirable three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic was only available with the largest V8 engines. An interesting engine option was the 5.3L (327 cid) V8 rated at 350 hp (RPO code L79).

The '''SS''' was transformed from a trim package to a performance option for 1968 and now included a 295 hp 5.7L (350 cid) V8 engine along with front disc brakes, heavy-duty suspension and other performance hardware. Optional engines included two versions of the big-block 6.5L (396 cid) V8 rated at 350 and 375 hp. Both 396 engines were offered with a choice of transmissions including the M-21 close-ratio four-speed manual, the M-22 heavy-duty "Rock Crusher" four-speed manual, or the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 400 for those who preferred automatic shifting. SSs could have a console with optional auxiliary gauges very similar to the contemporary Camaro design.

===1969===

The Chevy II nameplate was retired and the car became the "Chevy Nova" for this year (some sources referred to it as the Chevrolet Chevy Nova - perhaps the decision to drop the Chevy II moniker was a last-minute decision for 1969). Like other 1969 GM vehicles, locking steering columns were incorporated along with column ignitions. Simulated vents were added below the Nova script, which was relocated to the front fender instead of the rear quarter panel. The 350-4 that came standard with the SS option was revised with a five-hp increase to 300 while a 350-2 rated at 255 hp was a new option on non-SS models. A new Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 three-speed automatic was made available for non-SS Novas with six-cylinder and V8 engines.

===1970===

Basically a carryover from 1969; the side markers and taillight lenses were wider and positioned slightly differently, which placed the reverse lights in the middle of the taillight lens instead of the inward portion. This was the final year for the SS396. All other engines were carried over including the seldom-ordered four-cylinder which was in its final year. The car finally became simply the Chevrolet Nova this year after two years of transitional nameplates (Chevy II Nova in 1968 and Chevrolet Chevy Nova in 1969).

Approximately 177 COPO Novas were ordered, with 175 converted by Yenko Chevrolet (the other two were sold in Canada). These had the mighty LT1 (350 cid) V8 engine

A beater 1970 Nova coupe is prominently featured in the movie ''Beverly Hills Cop''.

===1971===

1971 Novas were similar to the previous year but with the loss of the simulated fender vents and the discontinuation of the 396 motor for the SS with the L48 350-4 taking its place. 1971 also saw the introduction of the '''Rally Nova''', a trim level that only lasted two years and was marketed as sort of a budget-SS. The Rally package included black or white stripes that ran the length of the car and around the back, a Rally Nova sticker on the driver's side of the hood, and Rally wheels.

The 250 I6 was now the standard Nova powerplant with the demise of the 153 I4 and 230 I6 engines. The 307 and 350 V8s were carried over from 1970 and all engines featured lowered compression ratios to enable the use of unleaded gasoline as a result of a GM corporate mandate that took effect with the 1971 model year.

After 1971, other GM divisions began rebadging the Nova as their new entry-level vehicle, such as the [[Pontiac Ventura]] II (once a trim option for full-size Pontiacs to 1970), [[Oldsmobile Omega]] (1973) and the [[Buick Apollo]] (mid-1973). Interestingly, the intials of the four model names spelled out the acronym '''NOVA''' (Nova, Omega, Ventura, Apollo.)

===1972===

A virtual rerun of 1971, the 1972 Nova received only minor trim changes and both the Rally Nova and SS options carried over. At mid-year a manual canvas sunroof option became available on two-door models. Also, the optional Strato bucket seats available on coupes switched from the previous low-back design with adjustable headrests to the high back units with built-in headrests introduced the previous year on Camaros and Vegas. Standard engine was still the 250 I6 with either a 3- or 4-speed manual or 2- or 3-speed automatics. The 307 and 350 V8s remained optional. There would be a restyled Nova for 1973.

===1973===

The 1973 model year introduced a new hatchback bodystyle based on the 2-door coupe, as well as a front and rear restyling and a modified rear side window shape, plus a revised rear suspension adapted from the second-generation Camaro with multi-leaf springs replacing the mono-leaf springs used on Novas since the original 1966 model. A luxury-themed '''Custom''' became part of the model lineup which included upgraded upholstery, full carpeting and more exterior trim. By this time, six-cylinder and V8 engines were ''de rigeur'' for American compact cars, with the 307 and 350 (5.0 and 5.7L) V8s becoming fairly common. Nova SS models offered a higher-performance 350 (5.7L) V8. The 1973 Nova with a six-cylinder engine or 307 V8 were among the last Chevrolets to be offered with the now-outdated two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission, which was in its final year.

===1974===

For 1974, the powerglide was replaced by a lightweight version of the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 already offered with the 350 V8, which was now the only V8 offered this year. The SS option was still available but became more of a sporty trim package than a performance offering and now offered with any Nova engine, much like the 1963-67 Nova SS. The 250 I6 remained standard, and transmission choices, with the exception of the 2-speed Powerglide, remained the same as well. There would be an all-new Nova for 1975.

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:77rally.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1975-1979
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1975-1979) 4.3L (262 cid) V8 (1975) 5.0L (305 cid) V8 (1976-1979) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1975-1978)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|110-170 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Skylark]] [[Cadillac Seville]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]/[[Pontiac Phoenix|Phoenix]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Fourth generation (1975–1979)==

A completely redesigned Nova was introduced in 1975. Bodystyles were still the 2-door coupe, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedans. Base coupes, including the hatchback, had fixed side windows (or optional flip-out windows) and simulated vertical vents on the B-pillar (sedans would have simulated horizontal vents at the bottom of the C-pillar). Engines this year were the standard 250 cid I6 carried over from the previous generations, a 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and 350 V8 were optional. The front suspension and subframe assembly was similar to the one used in the second-generation GM F-body ([[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]], [[Pontiac Firebird|Firebird]]), whereas the rear axle and suspension were carried over from the 1968-74 generation.

The Nova lineup now ranged from the stripped-down '''S''' model, base, '''Custom''', and the luxury-themed '''LN''' ("Luxury Nova"). The Nova '''SS''' continued for 1975 and got a unique grille and requisite badges. Dashboards and other controls were virtually identical in layout compared to the previous generation. A high-performance 9C1 police version of the Nova was introduced for the 1975 model year, making it the first compact car certified for police duty in the U.S. Most were initially purchased by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department in 1976.

The LN was replaced with the Nova '''Concours''' in 1976, and the Custom model was gone (temporarily). The grille was changed slightly, and the short-lived 262 V8 was replaced by the new 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and was standard on the Concours. The 350 V8 remained the top engine option. Transmissions included the 3-speed manual standard with the I6, with a 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic optional. The 305 could have a 4-speed manual or automatic, while the 350 was automatic only. 1977 Concours models got a new 3-taillight lens scheme very similar to the larger [[Chevrolet Impala|Impala]] with a [[Cadillac]]-esque front clip that included chrome squared-off headlight bezels and a more elegant-looking vertically-barred grille with extra chrome trim. The SS was dropped, but it would continue as the '''Nova Rally''', which was basically the same sporty-themed idea. Other models also got a slightly revised grille and all got a new dashboard with round gauges and an 80 MPH speedo.

1978 Novas continued with little change, other than the '''Custom''' model returning as the base model. The 2-door, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedan bodystyles, and Concours and Rally models, were still available. By now, however, the Nova was starting to fall out of favor with much of the buying public, largely due to increased competition from the new [[Ford Fairmont]] and even Chevrolet's own [[Chevrolet Malibu|Malibu]], which was an all-new downsized model for 1978. Even though 1979 was a final abbreviated model year, the front end was nonetheless revised again with square headlights and a new horizontally-barred grille for the short run. The 9C1 police package was dropped for '79, along with the Rally model and 350 V8 engine. Production ended on December 22, 1978. The Nova was replaced by the all-new front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] for 1980. The Nova name, however, would reappear again in 1985 on an unrelated model.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:156392062X01LZZZZZZ.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
| 1985-1988
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|4-Door Sedan 5-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2500-2700 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|5-Speed Manual, FWD 3-Speed Automatic, FWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|1.6L (97 cid) I4
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Toyota Corolla]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|S
|}

==1985-1988 Nova==

In 1985 the Nova name was applied to a rebadged [[Toyota Corolla]] and was produced at the NUMMI plant in Fremont, California, as an historic first joint venture between [[General Motors]] and [[Toyota]]. It shared the Corolla's drivetrain and running gear, and was available as a 4-door sedan and a 5-door hatchback (just like the Corolla). It differed from the Corolla mainly with slightly different front-end styling. It also shared many interior parts, such as audio systems, with other GM's offerings whereas the Corolla did not. The Corolla had been redesigned for 1988, but the Nova continued to use the old platform for its last year. The Nova would be replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]], which was also a twin to the Corolla.

==Main Competitors 1985-1988==

*[[Dodge Omni]]
*[[Ford Escort]]
*[[Honda Civic]]
*[[Isuzu I-Mark]]
*[[Mazda 323]]
*[[Mercury Lynx]]
*[[Nissan Sentra]]
*[[Plymouth Horizon]]
*[[Volkswagen Golf]]

{{-}}

==Photos==
<gallery>
Image:Ad77police350x496.jpg
</gallery>

==Main Competitors 1968-1979==
*[[Dodge Dart]]/[[Dodge Aspen|Aspen]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]/[[Ford Maverick|Maverick]]/[[Ford Fairmont|Fairmont]]
*[[Ford Granada]]
*[[Mercury Comet]]/[[Mercury Zephyr|Zephyr]]
*[[Mercury Monarch]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]/[[Plymouth Volare|Volare]]

==The urban legend==
A popular urban legend asserts that the Nova sold poorly in Mexico and other Latin American countries because the phrase ''no va'' means "does not go" in Spanish. In reality, the Spanish language ''no va'' and ''nova'' are as different as the English ''no table'' and ''notable'', or ''therapist'' and ''the rapist''. [http://www.snopes.com/business/misxlate/nova.asp] The word ''nova'' exists in [http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nova Spanish] with the same meaning as in English. Also, the Spanish word for 'new' (nuevo or nueva) is cognate to ''nova'', which originally meant "new" in Latin. Finally, as NOVA was a brand of gasoline sold for many years by PEMEX in Mexico, the largest of all Spanish-speaking Latin American countries, it is clear that this urban legend, while perhaps entertaining, is utterly baseless.

==See Also==
{{Chevrolet}}

==External links==
*[http://www.nnnova.com/ National Nostalgic Nova] The original National Nostalgic Nova Club Celebrating 25 Years of Helping Nova People The only Monthly Magazine dedicated to Only Novas!
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/nova/ Chevrolet Nova Internet Source] — The second known Nova site on the Internet
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/novaList.html Nova listserv] — The first and only known public [[Electronic mailing list|mailing list]] dedicated to Chevrolet Novas and other X-bodies; in continuous existence since January 1998
*[http://automotivehistoryonline.com/Chevrolet1960m.htm Automotive History Online] - Chevrolet Nova History & Photos
*[http://www.novaresource.org/ NovaResource.com] — Excellent source of history, production numbers, and option code information for 1962-79 Novas
*[http://www.stevesnovasite.com/ Steve's Nova Site] - Includes Q&A discussion board; another excellent resource for Nova owners
*[http://www.musclecarfacts.com/mcf/nova/nova.asp Chevy Nova SS at Muscle Car Facts] — A year-by-year history.
*[http://www.gen4novas.com/ Gen4Novas.com] — Source for the 'stepchild' Disco-era X-car.
*[http://www.2quicknovas.com/ 2QuickNovas.com] — Nova, technical, drag racing and general car info.
*[http://www.chevynova.org/1968.html]

[[Category:Classic cars]]

Chevrolet Nova

2010-10-18T21:07:40Z

Yankee: /* Second Generation (1966-1967) */

The '''[[Chevrolet]] Nova''', or '''Chevy II''', was an American compact car introduced by [[General Motors]] in 1962. The original Chevy II was of unibody construction, powered by an OHV inline four or six-cylinder engine (and V8s later), and available in two- and four-door sedan configurations as well as convertible and station wagon versions. After the rear-engine [[Chevrolet Corvair]] was handily outsold by the conventional [[Ford Falcon]] in 1960, Chevrolet began work on a more conventional compact car that would eventually become the Chevy II. The Chevy II/Nova continued on throughout the 1960s and 70s with great success until it was supplanted by the front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] in 1980. The Nova name would reappear briefly again in 1985 as a twin to (of all things) the [[Toyota Corolla]]. The "Toyolet" Nova was discontinued after 1988, replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]].

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:1962 Chevrolet II.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1962-1965
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 2-Door Convertible 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 153" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 70.8"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 55"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1962-1965) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1962-1965) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1964-1965) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1964-1965) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1965)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-300 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==First Generation (1962-1965)==

Three different levels of this car were made - the baseline Chevy II '''100''', the mid-grade Chevy II '''300''' and the top-line Chevy II Nova '''400'''. Their was also the sport-oriented Chevy II Nova Super Sport ('''SS'''), available on the 2-door coupe or convertible. Available powerplants included the standard 2.5L (153 cid) I4 and optional the 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (standard on the SS). Bodystyles included a 2-door sedan and hardtop, 4-door sedan, 5-door wagon (with an optional rear-facing 3rd seat) and a 2-door convertible. Unlike its [[Dodge Dart]]/[[Plymouth Valiant]] and [[Ford Falcon]] competition, no V8s were initially offered, but Chevrolet 283 and 327 cid V8s were offered in some areas as dealer-installed options, up to and including the fuel injected version available in the [[Chevrolet Corvette]]. Transmissions were a column or floor 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed manual or 2-speed Powerglide automatic. SSs could have bucket seats with a floor console-shift.

For 1963, grilles and taillights were slightly revised but otherwise were largely unchanged. All bodystyles and engine choices remained the same. For 1964, the Chevy II's first factory V8 option was introduced - a "Turbo-Fire" 195 hp 4.7L (283 cid) V8 with a 2-bbl carb, or a 225 hp 4-bbl version. A larger I6 was also offered, the "Turbo-Thrift" 3.8L (230 cid). Other drivetrain choices remained the same. The convertible was dropped, and the SS was also dropped at the beginning of this year, but it was reinstated mid-year due to high popular demand. The 300 series trim level was discontinued, leaving the 100 and 400 levels. In 1965, the grille was redesigned and the parking lights were relocated from directly below the headlights to the bumper. Taillights were revised also. The 5.3L (327 cid) V8 debuted this year (also called "Turbo Fire") with 250 and 300 horsepower versions. Other drivetrain choices remained the same as before. There would be a restyled Nova for 1966.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Chevrolet-nova 66.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1966-1967
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 154.7" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1966-1967) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1967) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1966-1967) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1966-1967)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-350 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Second Generation (1966-1967)==

1966 Novas saw a significant restyling, based in part on the Super Nova concept car. In general, external proportions were squared up but dimensions and features changed little. Trim choices were still the '''100''' and '''400'''. Engine options still included the basic 153 I4, 194 I6, the 195 hp and 225 hp 283s and 275 hp (up 25 from '65) and 350 hp 327 V8s. V8 models got special lower fender badges behind the front wheels. Transmission choices remained the column or floor-shift 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed and 2-speed Powerglide automatics. Inside, there was a new dashboard that strongly resembled the larger [[Chevrolet Chevelle|Chevelle's]] (also all-new this year) and revised seat designs, but the Chevy II line during this time was still very spartan. The 90 hp 153 I4 was only offered in the base Chevy II 100 series models, with the 120-horsepower 194 I6 standard on the Nova and Nova SS lines. A new engine offering included a 140 hp 3.8L (230 cid) I6, available in all models except the baseline 100. The SS could still have bucket seats with a console floor shift. Not many changes for 1967, but a 155 hp 4.1L (250 cid) I6 became available in all models except the 100. The 350 hp L79 327 V8 was unfortunately dropped this year, but other drivetrain choices remained the same as the previous year's. There would be an all-new Chevy II/Nova for 1968.

==Main Competitors 1962-1967==

*[[Dodge Dart]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]
*[[Studebaker Lark]]

[[Image:Nova front fender emblem 68-72.jpg|left|350px]]

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:477.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1968-1974
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1968-1970) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1968-1974) 5.0L (307 cid) V8 (1968-1973) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1968-1974) 6.5L (396 cid) cid V8 (1968-1970) 7.0L (427 cid) V8 (1970)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-425 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Apollo]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Third generation (1968–1974)==

An extensive redesign came in 1968, when the station wagon and two door hardtop bodystyles were discontinued. This body style continued (with a minor restyle in 1973) through 1974. One notable change was the front subframe assembly — as compared with [[Ford]], [[Chrysler]] and [[AMC]], in whose cars the entire front suspension was integrated with the bodyshell, a separate subframe housing the powertrain and front suspension (similar to the front part of the frame of GM's full-size, full-framed vehicles) replaced the earlier style. Although the front subframe design was a Chevy II-exclusive design, the [[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]] introduced a year earlier was the first to incorporate such a design; the redesigned Chevy II was pushed a year back to 1968 instead of 1967. 1968 was the final year that the Chevy II nameplate was used, although all 1968 models were "Chevy II Novas" with one single trim line.

The 153 I4 carried over from the previous generation as standard on the baseline model. Far more popular were the 250 I6 and the new 5.0L (307 cid) V8, which replaced the 283 offered in previous generations. At mid-year a semi-automatic transmission based on the Powerglide called Torque-Drive was introduced as a low-cost option for shiftless motoring for both the four and six-cylinder engines. The two-speed Powerglide was still the only fully-automatic gearbox available with most engines as the more desirable three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic was only available with the largest V8 engines. An interesting engine option was the 5.3L (327 cid) V8 rated at 350 hp (RPO code L79).

The '''SS''' was transformed from a trim package to a performance option for 1968 and now included a 295 hp 5.7L (350 cid) V8 engine along with front disc brakes, heavy-duty suspension and other performance hardware. Optional engines included two versions of the big-block 6.5L (396 cid) V8 rated at 350 and 375 hp. Both 396 engines were offered with a choice of transmissions including the M-21 close-ratio four-speed manual, the M-22 heavy-duty "Rock Crusher" four-speed manual, or the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 400 for those who preferred automatic shifting. SSs could have a console with optional auxiliary gauges very similar to the contemporary Camaro design.

===1969===

The Chevy II nameplate was retired and the car became the "Chevy Nova" for this year (some sources referred to it as the Chevrolet Chevy Nova - perhaps the decision to drop the Chevy II moniker was a last-minute decision for 1969). Like other 1969 GM vehicles, locking steering columns were incorporated along with column ignitions. Simulated vents were added below the Nova script, which was relocated to the front fender instead of the rear quarter panel. The 350-4 that came standard with the SS option was revised with a five-hp increase to 300 while a 350-2 rated at 255 hp was a new option on non-SS models. A new Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 three-speed automatic was made available for non-SS Novas with six-cylinder and V8 engines.

===1970===

Basically a carryover from 1969; the side markers and taillight lenses were wider and positioned slightly differently, which placed the reverse lights in the middle of the taillight lens instead of the inward portion. This was the final year for the SS396. All other engines were carried over including the seldom-ordered four-cylinder which was in its final year. The car finally became simply the Chevrolet Nova this year after two years of transitional nameplates (Chevy II Nova in 1968 and Chevrolet Chevy Nova in 1969).

Approximately 177 COPO Novas were ordered, with 175 converted by Yenko Chevrolet (the other two were sold in Canada). These had the mighty LT1 (350 cid) V8 engine

A beater 1970 Nova coupe is prominently featured in the movie ''Beverly Hills Cop''.

===1971===

1971 Novas were similar to the previous year but with the loss of the simulated fender vents and the discontinuation of the 396 motor for the SS with the L48 350-4 taking its place. 1971 also saw the introduction of the '''Rally Nova''', a trim level that only lasted two years and was marketed as sort of a budget-SS. The Rally package included black or white stripes that ran the length of the car and around the back, a Rally Nova sticker on the driver's side of the hood, and Rally wheels.

The 250 I6 was now the standard Nova powerplant with the demise of the 153 I4 and 230 I6 engines. The 307 and 350 V8s were carried over from 1970 and all engines featured lowered compression ratios to enable the use of unleaded gasoline as a result of a GM corporate mandate that took effect with the 1971 model year.

After 1971, other GM divisions began rebadging the Nova as their new entry-level vehicle, such as the [[Pontiac Ventura]] II (once a trim option for full-size Pontiacs to 1970), [[Oldsmobile Omega]] (1973) and the [[Buick Apollo]] (mid-1973). Interestingly, the intials of the four model names spelled out the acronym '''NOVA''' (Nova, Omega, Ventura, Apollo.)

===1972===

A virtual rerun of 1971, the 1972 Nova received only minor trim changes and both the Rally Nova and SS options carried over. At mid-year a manual canvas sunroof option became available on two-door models. Also, the optional Strato bucket seats available on coupes switched from the previous low-back design with adjustable headrests to the high back units with built-in headrests introduced the previous year on Camaros and Vegas. Standard engine was still the 250 I6 with either a 3- or 4-speed manual or 2- or 3-speed automatics. The 307 and 350 V8s remained optional. There would be a restyled Nova for 1973.

===1973===

The 1973 model year introduced a new hatchback bodystyle based on the 2-door coupe, as well as a front and rear restyling and a modified rear side window shape, plus a revised rear suspension adapted from the second-generation Camaro with multi-leaf springs replacing the mono-leaf springs used on Novas since the original 1966 model. A luxury-themed '''Custom''' became part of the model lineup which included upgraded upholstery, full carpeting and more exterior trim. By this time, six-cylinder and V8 engines were ''de rigeur'' for American compact cars, with the 307 and 350 (5.0 and 5.7L) V8s becoming fairly common. Nova SS models offered a higher-performance 350 (5.7L) V8. The 1973 Nova with a six-cylinder engine or 307 V8 were among the last Chevrolets to be offered with the now-outdated two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission, which was in its final year.

===1974===

For 1974, the powerglide was replaced by a lightweight version of the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 already offered with the 350 V8, which was now the only V8 offered this year. The SS option was still available but became more of a sporty trim package than a performance offering and now offered with any Nova engine, much like the 1963-67 Nova SS. The 250 I6 remained standard, and transmission choices, with the exception of the 2-speed Powerglide, remained the same as well. There would be an all-new Nova for 1975.

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:77rally.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1975-1979
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1975-1979) 4.3L (262 cid) V8 (1975) 5.0L (305 cid) V8 (1976-1979) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1975-1978)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|110-170 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Skylark]] [[Cadillac Seville]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]/[[Pontiac Phoenix|Phoenix]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Fourth generation (1975–1979)==

A completely redesigned Nova was introduced in 1975. Bodystyles were still the 2-door coupe, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedans. Base coupes, including the hatchback, had fixed side windows (or optional flip-out windows) and simulated vertical vents on the B-pillar (sedans would have simulated horizontal vents at the bottom of the C-pillar). Engines this year were the standard 250 cid I6 carried over from the previous generations, a 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and 350 V8 were optional. The front suspension and subframe assembly was similar to the one used in the second-generation GM F-body ([[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]], [[Pontiac Firebird|Firebird]]), whereas the rear axle and suspension were carried over from the 1968-74 generation.

The Nova lineup now ranged from the stripped-down '''S''' model, base, '''Custom''', and the luxury-themed '''LN''' ("Luxury Nova"). The Nova '''SS''' continued for 1975 and got a unique grille and requisite badges. Dashboards and other controls were virtually identical in layout compared to the previous generation. A high-performance 9C1 police version of the Nova was introduced for the 1975 model year, making it the first compact car certified for police duty in the U.S. Most were initially purchased by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department in 1976.

The LN was replaced with the Nova '''Concours''' in 1976, and the Custom model was gone (temporarily). The grille was changed slightly, and the short-lived 262 V8 was replaced by the new 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and was standard on the Concours. The 350 V8 remained the top engine option. Transmissions included the 3-speed manual standard with the I6, with a 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic optional. The 305 could have a 4-speed manual or automatic, while the 350 was automatic only. 1977 Concours models got a new 3-taillight lens scheme very similar to the larger [[Chevrolet Impala|Impala]] with a [[Cadillac]]-esque front clip that included chrome squared-off headlight bezels and a more elegant-looking vertically-barred grille with extra chrome trim. The SS was dropped, but it would continue as the '''Nova Rally''', which was basically the same sporty-themed idea. Other models also got a slightly revised grille and all got a new dashboard with round gauges and an 80 MPH speedo.

1978 Novas continued with little change, other than the '''Custom''' model returning as the base model. The 2-door, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedan bodystyles, and Concours and Rally models, were still available. By now, however, the Nova was starting to fall out of favor with much of the buying public, largely due to increased competition from the new [[Ford Fairmont]] and even Chevrolet's own [[Chevrolet Malibu|Malibu]], which was an all-new downsized model for 1978. Even though 1979 was a final abbreviated model year, the front end was nonetheless revised again with square headlights and a new horizontally-barred grille for the short run. The 9C1 police package was dropped for '79, along with the Rally model and 350 V8 engine. Production ended on December 22, 1978. The Nova was replaced by the all-new front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] for 1980. The Nova name, however, would reappear again in 1985 on an unrelated model.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:156392062X01LZZZZZZ.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
| 1985-1988
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|4-Door Sedan 5-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2500-2700 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|5-Speed Manual, FWD 3-Speed Automatic, FWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|1.6L (97 cid) I4
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Toyota Corolla]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|S
|}

==1985-1988 Nova==

In 1985 the Nova name was applied to a rebadged [[Toyota Corolla]] and was produced at the NUMMI plant in Fremont, California, as an historic first joint venture between [[General Motors]] and [[Toyota]]. It shared the Corolla's drivetrain and running gear, and was available as a 4-door sedan and a 5-door hatchback (just like the Corolla). It differed from the Corolla mainly with slightly different front-end styling. It also shared many interior parts, such as audio systems, with other GM's offerings whereas the Corolla did not. The Corolla had been redesigned for 1988, but the Nova continued to use the old platform for its last year. The Nova would be replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]], which was also a twin to the Corolla.

==Main Competitors 1985-1988==

*[[Dodge Omni]]
*[[Ford Escort]]
*[[Honda Civic]]
*[[Isuzu I-Mark]]
*[[Mazda 323]]
*[[Mercury Lynx]]
*[[Nissan Sentra]]
*[[Plymouth Horizon]]
*[[Volkswagen Golf]]

{{-}}

==Photos==
<gallery>
Image:Ad77police350x496.jpg
</gallery>

==Main Competitors 1968-1979==
*[[Dodge Dart]]/[[Dodge Aspen|Aspen]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]/[[Ford Maverick|Maverick]]/[[Ford Fairmont|Fairmont]]
*[[Ford Granada]]
*[[Mercury Comet]]/[[Mercury Zephyr|Zephyr]]
*[[Mercury Monarch]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]/[[Plymouth Volare|Volare]]

==The urban legend==
A popular urban legend asserts that the Nova sold poorly in Mexico and other Latin American countries because the phrase ''no va'' means "does not go" in Spanish. In reality, the Spanish language ''no va'' and ''nova'' are as different as the English ''no table'' and ''notable'', or ''therapist'' and ''the rapist''. [http://www.snopes.com/business/misxlate/nova.asp] The word ''nova'' exists in [http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nova Spanish] with the same meaning as in English. Also, the Spanish word for 'new' (nuevo or nueva) is cognate to ''nova'', which originally meant "new" in Latin. Finally, as NOVA was a brand of gasoline sold for many years by PEMEX in Mexico, the largest of all Spanish-speaking Latin American countries, it is clear that this urban legend, while perhaps entertaining, is utterly baseless.

==See Also==
{{Chevrolet}}

==External links==
*[http://www.nnnova.com/ National Nostalgic Nova] The original National Nostalgic Nova Club Celebrating 25 Years of Helping Nova People The only Monthly Magazine dedicated to Only Novas!
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/nova/ Chevrolet Nova Internet Source] — The second known Nova site on the Internet
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/novaList.html Nova listserv] — The first and only known public [[Electronic mailing list|mailing list]] dedicated to Chevrolet Novas and other X-bodies; in continuous existence since January 1998
*[http://automotivehistoryonline.com/Chevrolet1960m.htm Automotive History Online] - Chevrolet Nova History & Photos
*[http://www.novaresource.org/ NovaResource.com] — Excellent source of history, production numbers, and option code information for 1962-79 Novas
*[http://www.stevesnovasite.com/ Steve's Nova Site] - Includes Q&A discussion board; another excellent resource for Nova owners
*[http://www.musclecarfacts.com/mcf/nova/nova.asp Chevy Nova SS at Muscle Car Facts] — A year-by-year history.
*[http://www.gen4novas.com/ Gen4Novas.com] — Source for the 'stepchild' Disco-era X-car.
*[http://www.2quicknovas.com/ 2QuickNovas.com] — Nova, technical, drag racing and general car info.
*[http://www.chevynova.org/1968.html]

[[Category:Classic cars]]

Chevrolet Nova

2010-10-18T21:06:31Z

Yankee: /* Second Generation (1966-1967) */

The '''[[Chevrolet]] Nova''', or '''Chevy II''', was an American compact car introduced by [[General Motors]] in 1962. The original Chevy II was of unibody construction, powered by an OHV inline four or six-cylinder engine (and V8s later), and available in two- and four-door sedan configurations as well as convertible and station wagon versions. After the rear-engine [[Chevrolet Corvair]] was handily outsold by the conventional [[Ford Falcon]] in 1960, Chevrolet began work on a more conventional compact car that would eventually become the Chevy II. The Chevy II/Nova continued on throughout the 1960s and 70s with great success until it was supplanted by the front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] in 1980. The Nova name would reappear briefly again in 1985 as a twin to (of all things) the [[Toyota Corolla]]. The "Toyolet" Nova was discontinued after 1988, replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]].

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:1962 Chevrolet II.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1962-1965
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 2-Door Convertible 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 153" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 70.8"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 55"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1962-1965) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1962-1965) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1964-1965) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1964-1965) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1965)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-300 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==First Generation (1962-1965)==

Three different levels of this car were made - the baseline Chevy II '''100''', the mid-grade Chevy II '''300''' and the top-line Chevy II Nova '''400'''. Their was also the sport-oriented Chevy II Nova Super Sport ('''SS'''), available on the 2-door coupe or convertible. Available powerplants included the standard 2.5L (153 cid) I4 and optional the 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (standard on the SS). Bodystyles included a 2-door sedan and hardtop, 4-door sedan, 5-door wagon (with an optional rear-facing 3rd seat) and a 2-door convertible. Unlike its [[Dodge Dart]]/[[Plymouth Valiant]] and [[Ford Falcon]] competition, no V8s were initially offered, but Chevrolet 283 and 327 cid V8s were offered in some areas as dealer-installed options, up to and including the fuel injected version available in the [[Chevrolet Corvette]]. Transmissions were a column or floor 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed manual or 2-speed Powerglide automatic. SSs could have bucket seats with a floor console-shift.

For 1963, grilles and taillights were slightly revised but otherwise were largely unchanged. All bodystyles and engine choices remained the same. For 1964, the Chevy II's first factory V8 option was introduced - a "Turbo-Fire" 195 hp 4.7L (283 cid) V8 with a 2-bbl carb, or a 225 hp 4-bbl version. A larger I6 was also offered, the "Turbo-Thrift" 3.8L (230 cid). Other drivetrain choices remained the same. The convertible was dropped, and the SS was also dropped at the beginning of this year, but it was reinstated mid-year due to high popular demand. The 300 series trim level was discontinued, leaving the 100 and 400 levels. In 1965, the grille was redesigned and the parking lights were relocated from directly below the headlights to the bumper. Taillights were revised also. The 5.3L (327 cid) V8 debuted this year (also called "Turbo Fire") with 250 and 300 horsepower versions. Other drivetrain choices remained the same as before. There would be a restyled Nova for 1966.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Chevrolet-nova 66.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1966-1967
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 154.7" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1966-1967) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1967) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1966-1967) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1966-1967)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-350 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Second Generation (1966-1967)==

1966 Novas saw a significant restyling, based in part on the Super Nova concept car. In general, external proportions were squared up but dimensions and features changed little. Trim choices were still the '''100''' and '''400'''. Engine options still included the basic 153 I4, 194 I6, the 195 hp and 225 hp 283s and 275 hp (up 25 from '65) and 350 hp 327 V8s (SS only). V8 models got special lower fender badges behind the front wheels. Transmission choices remained the column or floor-shift 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed and 2-speed Powerglide automatics. Inside, there was a new dashboard that strongly resembled the larger [[Chevrolet Chevelle|Chevelle's]] (also all-new this year) and revised seat designs, but the Chevy II line during this time was still very spartan. The 90 hp 153 I4 was only offered in the base Chevy II 100 series models, with the 120-horsepower 194 I6 standard on the Nova and Nova SS lines. A new engine offering included a 140 hp 3.8L (230 cid) I6, available in all models except the baseline 100. The SS could still have bucket seats with a console floor shift. Not many changes for 1967, but a 155 hp 4.1L (250 cid) I6 became available in all models except the 100. The 350 hp L79 327 V8 was unfortunately dropped this year, but other drivetrain choices remained the same as the previous year's. There would be an all-new Chevy II/Nova for 1968.

==Main Competitors 1962-1967==

*[[Dodge Dart]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]
*[[Studebaker Lark]]

[[Image:Nova front fender emblem 68-72.jpg|left|350px]]

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:477.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1968-1974
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1968-1970) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1968-1974) 5.0L (307 cid) V8 (1968-1973) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1968-1974) 6.5L (396 cid) cid V8 (1968-1970) 7.0L (427 cid) V8 (1970)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-425 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Apollo]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Third generation (1968–1974)==

An extensive redesign came in 1968, when the station wagon and two door hardtop bodystyles were discontinued. This body style continued (with a minor restyle in 1973) through 1974. One notable change was the front subframe assembly — as compared with [[Ford]], [[Chrysler]] and [[AMC]], in whose cars the entire front suspension was integrated with the bodyshell, a separate subframe housing the powertrain and front suspension (similar to the front part of the frame of GM's full-size, full-framed vehicles) replaced the earlier style. Although the front subframe design was a Chevy II-exclusive design, the [[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]] introduced a year earlier was the first to incorporate such a design; the redesigned Chevy II was pushed a year back to 1968 instead of 1967. 1968 was the final year that the Chevy II nameplate was used, although all 1968 models were "Chevy II Novas" with one single trim line.

The 153 I4 carried over from the previous generation as standard on the baseline model. Far more popular were the 250 I6 and the new 5.0L (307 cid) V8, which replaced the 283 offered in previous generations. At mid-year a semi-automatic transmission based on the Powerglide called Torque-Drive was introduced as a low-cost option for shiftless motoring for both the four and six-cylinder engines. The two-speed Powerglide was still the only fully-automatic gearbox available with most engines as the more desirable three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic was only available with the largest V8 engines. An interesting engine option was the 5.3L (327 cid) V8 rated at 350 hp (RPO code L79).

The '''SS''' was transformed from a trim package to a performance option for 1968 and now included a 295 hp 5.7L (350 cid) V8 engine along with front disc brakes, heavy-duty suspension and other performance hardware. Optional engines included two versions of the big-block 6.5L (396 cid) V8 rated at 350 and 375 hp. Both 396 engines were offered with a choice of transmissions including the M-21 close-ratio four-speed manual, the M-22 heavy-duty "Rock Crusher" four-speed manual, or the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 400 for those who preferred automatic shifting. SSs could have a console with optional auxiliary gauges very similar to the contemporary Camaro design.

===1969===

The Chevy II nameplate was retired and the car became the "Chevy Nova" for this year (some sources referred to it as the Chevrolet Chevy Nova - perhaps the decision to drop the Chevy II moniker was a last-minute decision for 1969). Like other 1969 GM vehicles, locking steering columns were incorporated along with column ignitions. Simulated vents were added below the Nova script, which was relocated to the front fender instead of the rear quarter panel. The 350-4 that came standard with the SS option was revised with a five-hp increase to 300 while a 350-2 rated at 255 hp was a new option on non-SS models. A new Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 three-speed automatic was made available for non-SS Novas with six-cylinder and V8 engines.

===1970===

Basically a carryover from 1969; the side markers and taillight lenses were wider and positioned slightly differently, which placed the reverse lights in the middle of the taillight lens instead of the inward portion. This was the final year for the SS396. All other engines were carried over including the seldom-ordered four-cylinder which was in its final year. The car finally became simply the Chevrolet Nova this year after two years of transitional nameplates (Chevy II Nova in 1968 and Chevrolet Chevy Nova in 1969).

Approximately 177 COPO Novas were ordered, with 175 converted by Yenko Chevrolet (the other two were sold in Canada). These had the mighty LT1 (350 cid) V8 engine

A beater 1970 Nova coupe is prominently featured in the movie ''Beverly Hills Cop''.

===1971===

1971 Novas were similar to the previous year but with the loss of the simulated fender vents and the discontinuation of the 396 motor for the SS with the L48 350-4 taking its place. 1971 also saw the introduction of the '''Rally Nova''', a trim level that only lasted two years and was marketed as sort of a budget-SS. The Rally package included black or white stripes that ran the length of the car and around the back, a Rally Nova sticker on the driver's side of the hood, and Rally wheels.

The 250 I6 was now the standard Nova powerplant with the demise of the 153 I4 and 230 I6 engines. The 307 and 350 V8s were carried over from 1970 and all engines featured lowered compression ratios to enable the use of unleaded gasoline as a result of a GM corporate mandate that took effect with the 1971 model year.

After 1971, other GM divisions began rebadging the Nova as their new entry-level vehicle, such as the [[Pontiac Ventura]] II (once a trim option for full-size Pontiacs to 1970), [[Oldsmobile Omega]] (1973) and the [[Buick Apollo]] (mid-1973). Interestingly, the intials of the four model names spelled out the acronym '''NOVA''' (Nova, Omega, Ventura, Apollo.)

===1972===

A virtual rerun of 1971, the 1972 Nova received only minor trim changes and both the Rally Nova and SS options carried over. At mid-year a manual canvas sunroof option became available on two-door models. Also, the optional Strato bucket seats available on coupes switched from the previous low-back design with adjustable headrests to the high back units with built-in headrests introduced the previous year on Camaros and Vegas. Standard engine was still the 250 I6 with either a 3- or 4-speed manual or 2- or 3-speed automatics. The 307 and 350 V8s remained optional. There would be a restyled Nova for 1973.

===1973===

The 1973 model year introduced a new hatchback bodystyle based on the 2-door coupe, as well as a front and rear restyling and a modified rear side window shape, plus a revised rear suspension adapted from the second-generation Camaro with multi-leaf springs replacing the mono-leaf springs used on Novas since the original 1966 model. A luxury-themed '''Custom''' became part of the model lineup which included upgraded upholstery, full carpeting and more exterior trim. By this time, six-cylinder and V8 engines were ''de rigeur'' for American compact cars, with the 307 and 350 (5.0 and 5.7L) V8s becoming fairly common. Nova SS models offered a higher-performance 350 (5.7L) V8. The 1973 Nova with a six-cylinder engine or 307 V8 were among the last Chevrolets to be offered with the now-outdated two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission, which was in its final year.

===1974===

For 1974, the powerglide was replaced by a lightweight version of the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 already offered with the 350 V8, which was now the only V8 offered this year. The SS option was still available but became more of a sporty trim package than a performance offering and now offered with any Nova engine, much like the 1963-67 Nova SS. The 250 I6 remained standard, and transmission choices, with the exception of the 2-speed Powerglide, remained the same as well. There would be an all-new Nova for 1975.

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:77rally.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1975-1979
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1975-1979) 4.3L (262 cid) V8 (1975) 5.0L (305 cid) V8 (1976-1979) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1975-1978)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|110-170 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Skylark]] [[Cadillac Seville]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]/[[Pontiac Phoenix|Phoenix]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Fourth generation (1975–1979)==

A completely redesigned Nova was introduced in 1975. Bodystyles were still the 2-door coupe, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedans. Base coupes, including the hatchback, had fixed side windows (or optional flip-out windows) and simulated vertical vents on the B-pillar (sedans would have simulated horizontal vents at the bottom of the C-pillar). Engines this year were the standard 250 cid I6 carried over from the previous generations, a 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and 350 V8 were optional. The front suspension and subframe assembly was similar to the one used in the second-generation GM F-body ([[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]], [[Pontiac Firebird|Firebird]]), whereas the rear axle and suspension were carried over from the 1968-74 generation.

The Nova lineup now ranged from the stripped-down '''S''' model, base, '''Custom''', and the luxury-themed '''LN''' ("Luxury Nova"). The Nova '''SS''' continued for 1975 and got a unique grille and requisite badges. Dashboards and other controls were virtually identical in layout compared to the previous generation. A high-performance 9C1 police version of the Nova was introduced for the 1975 model year, making it the first compact car certified for police duty in the U.S. Most were initially purchased by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department in 1976.

The LN was replaced with the Nova '''Concours''' in 1976, and the Custom model was gone (temporarily). The grille was changed slightly, and the short-lived 262 V8 was replaced by the new 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and was standard on the Concours. The 350 V8 remained the top engine option. Transmissions included the 3-speed manual standard with the I6, with a 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic optional. The 305 could have a 4-speed manual or automatic, while the 350 was automatic only. 1977 Concours models got a new 3-taillight lens scheme very similar to the larger [[Chevrolet Impala|Impala]] with a [[Cadillac]]-esque front clip that included chrome squared-off headlight bezels and a more elegant-looking vertically-barred grille with extra chrome trim. The SS was dropped, but it would continue as the '''Nova Rally''', which was basically the same sporty-themed idea. Other models also got a slightly revised grille and all got a new dashboard with round gauges and an 80 MPH speedo.

1978 Novas continued with little change, other than the '''Custom''' model returning as the base model. The 2-door, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedan bodystyles, and Concours and Rally models, were still available. By now, however, the Nova was starting to fall out of favor with much of the buying public, largely due to increased competition from the new [[Ford Fairmont]] and even Chevrolet's own [[Chevrolet Malibu|Malibu]], which was an all-new downsized model for 1978. Even though 1979 was a final abbreviated model year, the front end was nonetheless revised again with square headlights and a new horizontally-barred grille for the short run. The 9C1 police package was dropped for '79, along with the Rally model and 350 V8 engine. Production ended on December 22, 1978. The Nova was replaced by the all-new front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] for 1980. The Nova name, however, would reappear again in 1985 on an unrelated model.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:156392062X01LZZZZZZ.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
| 1985-1988
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|4-Door Sedan 5-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2500-2700 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|5-Speed Manual, FWD 3-Speed Automatic, FWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|1.6L (97 cid) I4
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Toyota Corolla]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|S
|}

==1985-1988 Nova==

In 1985 the Nova name was applied to a rebadged [[Toyota Corolla]] and was produced at the NUMMI plant in Fremont, California, as an historic first joint venture between [[General Motors]] and [[Toyota]]. It shared the Corolla's drivetrain and running gear, and was available as a 4-door sedan and a 5-door hatchback (just like the Corolla). It differed from the Corolla mainly with slightly different front-end styling. It also shared many interior parts, such as audio systems, with other GM's offerings whereas the Corolla did not. The Corolla had been redesigned for 1988, but the Nova continued to use the old platform for its last year. The Nova would be replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]], which was also a twin to the Corolla.

==Main Competitors 1985-1988==

*[[Dodge Omni]]
*[[Ford Escort]]
*[[Honda Civic]]
*[[Isuzu I-Mark]]
*[[Mazda 323]]
*[[Mercury Lynx]]
*[[Nissan Sentra]]
*[[Plymouth Horizon]]
*[[Volkswagen Golf]]

{{-}}

==Photos==
<gallery>
Image:Ad77police350x496.jpg
</gallery>

==Main Competitors 1968-1979==
*[[Dodge Dart]]/[[Dodge Aspen|Aspen]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]/[[Ford Maverick|Maverick]]/[[Ford Fairmont|Fairmont]]
*[[Ford Granada]]
*[[Mercury Comet]]/[[Mercury Zephyr|Zephyr]]
*[[Mercury Monarch]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]/[[Plymouth Volare|Volare]]

==The urban legend==
A popular urban legend asserts that the Nova sold poorly in Mexico and other Latin American countries because the phrase ''no va'' means "does not go" in Spanish. In reality, the Spanish language ''no va'' and ''nova'' are as different as the English ''no table'' and ''notable'', or ''therapist'' and ''the rapist''. [http://www.snopes.com/business/misxlate/nova.asp] The word ''nova'' exists in [http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nova Spanish] with the same meaning as in English. Also, the Spanish word for 'new' (nuevo or nueva) is cognate to ''nova'', which originally meant "new" in Latin. Finally, as NOVA was a brand of gasoline sold for many years by PEMEX in Mexico, the largest of all Spanish-speaking Latin American countries, it is clear that this urban legend, while perhaps entertaining, is utterly baseless.

==See Also==
{{Chevrolet}}

==External links==
*[http://www.nnnova.com/ National Nostalgic Nova] The original National Nostalgic Nova Club Celebrating 25 Years of Helping Nova People The only Monthly Magazine dedicated to Only Novas!
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/nova/ Chevrolet Nova Internet Source] — The second known Nova site on the Internet
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/novaList.html Nova listserv] — The first and only known public [[Electronic mailing list|mailing list]] dedicated to Chevrolet Novas and other X-bodies; in continuous existence since January 1998
*[http://automotivehistoryonline.com/Chevrolet1960m.htm Automotive History Online] - Chevrolet Nova History & Photos
*[http://www.novaresource.org/ NovaResource.com] — Excellent source of history, production numbers, and option code information for 1962-79 Novas
*[http://www.stevesnovasite.com/ Steve's Nova Site] - Includes Q&A discussion board; another excellent resource for Nova owners
*[http://www.musclecarfacts.com/mcf/nova/nova.asp Chevy Nova SS at Muscle Car Facts] — A year-by-year history.
*[http://www.gen4novas.com/ Gen4Novas.com] — Source for the 'stepchild' Disco-era X-car.
*[http://www.2quicknovas.com/ 2QuickNovas.com] — Nova, technical, drag racing and general car info.
*[http://www.chevynova.org/1968.html]

[[Category:Classic cars]]

Chevrolet Nova

2010-10-18T21:02:28Z

Yankee: /* First Generation (1962-1965) */

The '''[[Chevrolet]] Nova''', or '''Chevy II''', was an American compact car introduced by [[General Motors]] in 1962. The original Chevy II was of unibody construction, powered by an OHV inline four or six-cylinder engine (and V8s later), and available in two- and four-door sedan configurations as well as convertible and station wagon versions. After the rear-engine [[Chevrolet Corvair]] was handily outsold by the conventional [[Ford Falcon]] in 1960, Chevrolet began work on a more conventional compact car that would eventually become the Chevy II. The Chevy II/Nova continued on throughout the 1960s and 70s with great success until it was supplanted by the front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] in 1980. The Nova name would reappear briefly again in 1985 as a twin to (of all things) the [[Toyota Corolla]]. The "Toyolet" Nova was discontinued after 1988, replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]].

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:1962 Chevrolet II.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1962-1965
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 2-Door Convertible 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 153" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 70.8"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 55"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1962-1965) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1962-1965) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1964-1965) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1964-1965) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1965)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-300 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==First Generation (1962-1965)==

Three different levels of this car were made - the baseline Chevy II '''100''', the mid-grade Chevy II '''300''' and the top-line Chevy II Nova '''400'''. Their was also the sport-oriented Chevy II Nova Super Sport ('''SS'''), available on the 2-door coupe or convertible. Available powerplants included the standard 2.5L (153 cid) I4 and optional the 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (standard on the SS). Bodystyles included a 2-door sedan and hardtop, 4-door sedan, 5-door wagon (with an optional rear-facing 3rd seat) and a 2-door convertible. Unlike its [[Dodge Dart]]/[[Plymouth Valiant]] and [[Ford Falcon]] competition, no V8s were initially offered, but Chevrolet 283 and 327 cid V8s were offered in some areas as dealer-installed options, up to and including the fuel injected version available in the [[Chevrolet Corvette]]. Transmissions were a column or floor 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed manual or 2-speed Powerglide automatic. SSs could have bucket seats with a floor console-shift.

For 1963, grilles and taillights were slightly revised but otherwise were largely unchanged. All bodystyles and engine choices remained the same. For 1964, the Chevy II's first factory V8 option was introduced - a "Turbo-Fire" 195 hp 4.7L (283 cid) V8 with a 2-bbl carb, or a 225 hp 4-bbl version. A larger I6 was also offered, the "Turbo-Thrift" 3.8L (230 cid). Other drivetrain choices remained the same. The convertible was dropped, and the SS was also dropped at the beginning of this year, but it was reinstated mid-year due to high popular demand. The 300 series trim level was discontinued, leaving the 100 and 400 levels. In 1965, the grille was redesigned and the parking lights were relocated from directly below the headlights to the bumper. Taillights were revised also. The 5.3L (327 cid) V8 debuted this year (also called "Turbo Fire") with 250 and 300 horsepower versions. Other drivetrain choices remained the same as before. There would be a restyled Nova for 1966.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Chevrolet-nova 66.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1966-1967
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 154.7" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1966-1967) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1967) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1966-1967) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1966-1967)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-350 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Second Generation (1966-1967)==

1966 Novas saw a significant restyling, based in part on the Super Nova concept car. In general, external proportions were squared up but dimensions and features changed little. Trim choices were still the '''100''' and '''400'''. Engine options still included the basic 153 I4, 194 I6 and the 283 and 327 V8s, the latter offering now offering up to 350 horsepower. V8 models got special lower fender badges behind the front wheels. Transmission choices remained the column or floor-shift 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed and 2-speed Powerglide automatics. Inside, there was a new dashboard that strongly resembled the larger [[Chevrolet Chevelle|Chevelle's]] (also all-new this year) and revised seat designs, but the Chevy II line during this time was still very spartan. The 90 hp 153 I4 was only offered in the base Chevy II 100 series models, with the 120-horsepower 194 I6 standard on the Nova and Nova SS lines. A new engine offering included a 140 hp 3.8L (230 cid) I6, available in all models except the baseline 100. The SS could still have bucket seats with a console floor shift. Not many changes for 1967, but a 155 hp 4.1L (250 cid) I6 became available in all models except the 100. The 350 hp L79 327 V8 was unfortunately dropped this year, but other drivetrain choices remained the same as the previous year's. There would be an all-new Chevy II/Nova for 1968.

==Main Competitors 1962-1967==

*[[Dodge Dart]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]
*[[Studebaker Lark]]

[[Image:Nova front fender emblem 68-72.jpg|left|350px]]

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:477.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1968-1974
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1968-1970) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1968-1974) 5.0L (307 cid) V8 (1968-1973) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1968-1974) 6.5L (396 cid) cid V8 (1968-1970) 7.0L (427 cid) V8 (1970)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-425 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Apollo]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Third generation (1968–1974)==

An extensive redesign came in 1968, when the station wagon and two door hardtop bodystyles were discontinued. This body style continued (with a minor restyle in 1973) through 1974. One notable change was the front subframe assembly — as compared with [[Ford]], [[Chrysler]] and [[AMC]], in whose cars the entire front suspension was integrated with the bodyshell, a separate subframe housing the powertrain and front suspension (similar to the front part of the frame of GM's full-size, full-framed vehicles) replaced the earlier style. Although the front subframe design was a Chevy II-exclusive design, the [[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]] introduced a year earlier was the first to incorporate such a design; the redesigned Chevy II was pushed a year back to 1968 instead of 1967. 1968 was the final year that the Chevy II nameplate was used, although all 1968 models were "Chevy II Novas" with one single trim line.

The 153 I4 carried over from the previous generation as standard on the baseline model. Far more popular were the 250 I6 and the new 5.0L (307 cid) V8, which replaced the 283 offered in previous generations. At mid-year a semi-automatic transmission based on the Powerglide called Torque-Drive was introduced as a low-cost option for shiftless motoring for both the four and six-cylinder engines. The two-speed Powerglide was still the only fully-automatic gearbox available with most engines as the more desirable three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic was only available with the largest V8 engines. An interesting engine option was the 5.3L (327 cid) V8 rated at 350 hp (RPO code L79).

The '''SS''' was transformed from a trim package to a performance option for 1968 and now included a 295 hp 5.7L (350 cid) V8 engine along with front disc brakes, heavy-duty suspension and other performance hardware. Optional engines included two versions of the big-block 6.5L (396 cid) V8 rated at 350 and 375 hp. Both 396 engines were offered with a choice of transmissions including the M-21 close-ratio four-speed manual, the M-22 heavy-duty "Rock Crusher" four-speed manual, or the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 400 for those who preferred automatic shifting. SSs could have a console with optional auxiliary gauges very similar to the contemporary Camaro design.

===1969===

The Chevy II nameplate was retired and the car became the "Chevy Nova" for this year (some sources referred to it as the Chevrolet Chevy Nova - perhaps the decision to drop the Chevy II moniker was a last-minute decision for 1969). Like other 1969 GM vehicles, locking steering columns were incorporated along with column ignitions. Simulated vents were added below the Nova script, which was relocated to the front fender instead of the rear quarter panel. The 350-4 that came standard with the SS option was revised with a five-hp increase to 300 while a 350-2 rated at 255 hp was a new option on non-SS models. A new Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 three-speed automatic was made available for non-SS Novas with six-cylinder and V8 engines.

===1970===

Basically a carryover from 1969; the side markers and taillight lenses were wider and positioned slightly differently, which placed the reverse lights in the middle of the taillight lens instead of the inward portion. This was the final year for the SS396. All other engines were carried over including the seldom-ordered four-cylinder which was in its final year. The car finally became simply the Chevrolet Nova this year after two years of transitional nameplates (Chevy II Nova in 1968 and Chevrolet Chevy Nova in 1969).

Approximately 177 COPO Novas were ordered, with 175 converted by Yenko Chevrolet (the other two were sold in Canada). These had the mighty LT1 (350 cid) V8 engine

A beater 1970 Nova coupe is prominently featured in the movie ''Beverly Hills Cop''.

===1971===

1971 Novas were similar to the previous year but with the loss of the simulated fender vents and the discontinuation of the 396 motor for the SS with the L48 350-4 taking its place. 1971 also saw the introduction of the '''Rally Nova''', a trim level that only lasted two years and was marketed as sort of a budget-SS. The Rally package included black or white stripes that ran the length of the car and around the back, a Rally Nova sticker on the driver's side of the hood, and Rally wheels.

The 250 I6 was now the standard Nova powerplant with the demise of the 153 I4 and 230 I6 engines. The 307 and 350 V8s were carried over from 1970 and all engines featured lowered compression ratios to enable the use of unleaded gasoline as a result of a GM corporate mandate that took effect with the 1971 model year.

After 1971, other GM divisions began rebadging the Nova as their new entry-level vehicle, such as the [[Pontiac Ventura]] II (once a trim option for full-size Pontiacs to 1970), [[Oldsmobile Omega]] (1973) and the [[Buick Apollo]] (mid-1973). Interestingly, the intials of the four model names spelled out the acronym '''NOVA''' (Nova, Omega, Ventura, Apollo.)

===1972===

A virtual rerun of 1971, the 1972 Nova received only minor trim changes and both the Rally Nova and SS options carried over. At mid-year a manual canvas sunroof option became available on two-door models. Also, the optional Strato bucket seats available on coupes switched from the previous low-back design with adjustable headrests to the high back units with built-in headrests introduced the previous year on Camaros and Vegas. Standard engine was still the 250 I6 with either a 3- or 4-speed manual or 2- or 3-speed automatics. The 307 and 350 V8s remained optional. There would be a restyled Nova for 1973.

===1973===

The 1973 model year introduced a new hatchback bodystyle based on the 2-door coupe, as well as a front and rear restyling and a modified rear side window shape, plus a revised rear suspension adapted from the second-generation Camaro with multi-leaf springs replacing the mono-leaf springs used on Novas since the original 1966 model. A luxury-themed '''Custom''' became part of the model lineup which included upgraded upholstery, full carpeting and more exterior trim. By this time, six-cylinder and V8 engines were ''de rigeur'' for American compact cars, with the 307 and 350 (5.0 and 5.7L) V8s becoming fairly common. Nova SS models offered a higher-performance 350 (5.7L) V8. The 1973 Nova with a six-cylinder engine or 307 V8 were among the last Chevrolets to be offered with the now-outdated two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission, which was in its final year.

===1974===

For 1974, the powerglide was replaced by a lightweight version of the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 already offered with the 350 V8, which was now the only V8 offered this year. The SS option was still available but became more of a sporty trim package than a performance offering and now offered with any Nova engine, much like the 1963-67 Nova SS. The 250 I6 remained standard, and transmission choices, with the exception of the 2-speed Powerglide, remained the same as well. There would be an all-new Nova for 1975.

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:77rally.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1975-1979
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1975-1979) 4.3L (262 cid) V8 (1975) 5.0L (305 cid) V8 (1976-1979) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1975-1978)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|110-170 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Skylark]] [[Cadillac Seville]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]/[[Pontiac Phoenix|Phoenix]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Fourth generation (1975–1979)==

A completely redesigned Nova was introduced in 1975. Bodystyles were still the 2-door coupe, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedans. Base coupes, including the hatchback, had fixed side windows (or optional flip-out windows) and simulated vertical vents on the B-pillar (sedans would have simulated horizontal vents at the bottom of the C-pillar). Engines this year were the standard 250 cid I6 carried over from the previous generations, a 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and 350 V8 were optional. The front suspension and subframe assembly was similar to the one used in the second-generation GM F-body ([[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]], [[Pontiac Firebird|Firebird]]), whereas the rear axle and suspension were carried over from the 1968-74 generation.

The Nova lineup now ranged from the stripped-down '''S''' model, base, '''Custom''', and the luxury-themed '''LN''' ("Luxury Nova"). The Nova '''SS''' continued for 1975 and got a unique grille and requisite badges. Dashboards and other controls were virtually identical in layout compared to the previous generation. A high-performance 9C1 police version of the Nova was introduced for the 1975 model year, making it the first compact car certified for police duty in the U.S. Most were initially purchased by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department in 1976.

The LN was replaced with the Nova '''Concours''' in 1976, and the Custom model was gone (temporarily). The grille was changed slightly, and the short-lived 262 V8 was replaced by the new 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and was standard on the Concours. The 350 V8 remained the top engine option. Transmissions included the 3-speed manual standard with the I6, with a 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic optional. The 305 could have a 4-speed manual or automatic, while the 350 was automatic only. 1977 Concours models got a new 3-taillight lens scheme very similar to the larger [[Chevrolet Impala|Impala]] with a [[Cadillac]]-esque front clip that included chrome squared-off headlight bezels and a more elegant-looking vertically-barred grille with extra chrome trim. The SS was dropped, but it would continue as the '''Nova Rally''', which was basically the same sporty-themed idea. Other models also got a slightly revised grille and all got a new dashboard with round gauges and an 80 MPH speedo.

1978 Novas continued with little change, other than the '''Custom''' model returning as the base model. The 2-door, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedan bodystyles, and Concours and Rally models, were still available. By now, however, the Nova was starting to fall out of favor with much of the buying public, largely due to increased competition from the new [[Ford Fairmont]] and even Chevrolet's own [[Chevrolet Malibu|Malibu]], which was an all-new downsized model for 1978. Even though 1979 was a final abbreviated model year, the front end was nonetheless revised again with square headlights and a new horizontally-barred grille for the short run. The 9C1 police package was dropped for '79, along with the Rally model and 350 V8 engine. Production ended on December 22, 1978. The Nova was replaced by the all-new front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] for 1980. The Nova name, however, would reappear again in 1985 on an unrelated model.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:156392062X01LZZZZZZ.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
| 1985-1988
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|4-Door Sedan 5-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2500-2700 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|5-Speed Manual, FWD 3-Speed Automatic, FWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|1.6L (97 cid) I4
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Toyota Corolla]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|S
|}

==1985-1988 Nova==

In 1985 the Nova name was applied to a rebadged [[Toyota Corolla]] and was produced at the NUMMI plant in Fremont, California, as an historic first joint venture between [[General Motors]] and [[Toyota]]. It shared the Corolla's drivetrain and running gear, and was available as a 4-door sedan and a 5-door hatchback (just like the Corolla). It differed from the Corolla mainly with slightly different front-end styling. It also shared many interior parts, such as audio systems, with other GM's offerings whereas the Corolla did not. The Corolla had been redesigned for 1988, but the Nova continued to use the old platform for its last year. The Nova would be replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]], which was also a twin to the Corolla.

==Main Competitors 1985-1988==

*[[Dodge Omni]]
*[[Ford Escort]]
*[[Honda Civic]]
*[[Isuzu I-Mark]]
*[[Mazda 323]]
*[[Mercury Lynx]]
*[[Nissan Sentra]]
*[[Plymouth Horizon]]
*[[Volkswagen Golf]]

{{-}}

==Photos==
<gallery>
Image:Ad77police350x496.jpg
</gallery>

==Main Competitors 1968-1979==
*[[Dodge Dart]]/[[Dodge Aspen|Aspen]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]/[[Ford Maverick|Maverick]]/[[Ford Fairmont|Fairmont]]
*[[Ford Granada]]
*[[Mercury Comet]]/[[Mercury Zephyr|Zephyr]]
*[[Mercury Monarch]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]/[[Plymouth Volare|Volare]]

==The urban legend==
A popular urban legend asserts that the Nova sold poorly in Mexico and other Latin American countries because the phrase ''no va'' means "does not go" in Spanish. In reality, the Spanish language ''no va'' and ''nova'' are as different as the English ''no table'' and ''notable'', or ''therapist'' and ''the rapist''. [http://www.snopes.com/business/misxlate/nova.asp] The word ''nova'' exists in [http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nova Spanish] with the same meaning as in English. Also, the Spanish word for 'new' (nuevo or nueva) is cognate to ''nova'', which originally meant "new" in Latin. Finally, as NOVA was a brand of gasoline sold for many years by PEMEX in Mexico, the largest of all Spanish-speaking Latin American countries, it is clear that this urban legend, while perhaps entertaining, is utterly baseless.

==See Also==
{{Chevrolet}}

==External links==
*[http://www.nnnova.com/ National Nostalgic Nova] The original National Nostalgic Nova Club Celebrating 25 Years of Helping Nova People The only Monthly Magazine dedicated to Only Novas!
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/nova/ Chevrolet Nova Internet Source] — The second known Nova site on the Internet
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/novaList.html Nova listserv] — The first and only known public [[Electronic mailing list|mailing list]] dedicated to Chevrolet Novas and other X-bodies; in continuous existence since January 1998
*[http://automotivehistoryonline.com/Chevrolet1960m.htm Automotive History Online] - Chevrolet Nova History & Photos
*[http://www.novaresource.org/ NovaResource.com] — Excellent source of history, production numbers, and option code information for 1962-79 Novas
*[http://www.stevesnovasite.com/ Steve's Nova Site] - Includes Q&A discussion board; another excellent resource for Nova owners
*[http://www.musclecarfacts.com/mcf/nova/nova.asp Chevy Nova SS at Muscle Car Facts] — A year-by-year history.
*[http://www.gen4novas.com/ Gen4Novas.com] — Source for the 'stepchild' Disco-era X-car.
*[http://www.2quicknovas.com/ 2QuickNovas.com] — Nova, technical, drag racing and general car info.
*[http://www.chevynova.org/1968.html]

[[Category:Classic cars]]

Chevrolet Nova

2010-10-18T20:56:09Z

Yankee:

The '''[[Chevrolet]] Nova''', or '''Chevy II''', was an American compact car introduced by [[General Motors]] in 1962. The original Chevy II was of unibody construction, powered by an OHV inline four or six-cylinder engine (and V8s later), and available in two- and four-door sedan configurations as well as convertible and station wagon versions. After the rear-engine [[Chevrolet Corvair]] was handily outsold by the conventional [[Ford Falcon]] in 1960, Chevrolet began work on a more conventional compact car that would eventually become the Chevy II. The Chevy II/Nova continued on throughout the 1960s and 70s with great success until it was supplanted by the front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] in 1980. The Nova name would reappear briefly again in 1985 as a twin to (of all things) the [[Toyota Corolla]]. The "Toyolet" Nova was discontinued after 1988, replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]].

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:1962 Chevrolet II.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1962-1965
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 2-Door Convertible 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 153" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
| 70.8"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
| 55"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1962-1965) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1962-1965) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1964-1965) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1964-1965) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1965)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-300 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==First Generation (1962-1965)==

Three different levels of this car were made - the baseline Chevy II '''100''', the mid-grade Chevy II '''300''' and the top-line Chevy II Nova '''400'''. Their was also the sport-oriented Chevy II Nova Super Sport ('''SS'''), available on the 2-door coupe or convertible. Available powerplants included the standard 2.5L (153 cid) I4 and optional the 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (standard on the SS). Bodystyles included a 2-door sedan and hardtop, 4-door sedan, 5-door wagon (with an optional rear-facing 3rd seat) and a 2-door convertible. Unlike its [[Dodge Dart]]/[[Plymouth Valiant]] and [[Ford Falcon]] competition, no V8s were initially offered, but Chevrolet 283 and 327 cid V8s were offered in some areas as dealer-installed options, up to and including the fuel injected version available in the [[Chevrolet Corvette]]. Transmissions were a column or floor 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed manual or 2-speed Powerglide automatic. SSs could have bucket seats with a floor console-shift.

For 1963, grilles and taillights were slightly revised but otherwise were largely unchanged. All bodystyles and engine choices remained the same. For 1964, the Chevy II's first factory V8 option was introduced - a "Turbo-Fire" 195 hp 4.7L (283 cid) V8 with a 2-bbl carb, or a 225 hp 4-bbl version. A larger I6 was also offered, the "Turbo-Thrift" 3.8L (230 cid). Other drivetrain choices remained the same. The convertible was dropped, and the SS was also dropped at the beginning of this year, but it was reinstated mid-year due to high popular demand. The 300 series trim level was discontinued, leaving the 100 and 400 levels. In 1965, the grille was redesigned and the parking lights were relocated from directly below the headlights to the bumper. Taillights were revised also. The 5.3L (327 cid) V8 debuted this year in the SS with up to 300 horsepower. Other drivetrain choices remained the same as before. There would be a restyled Nova for 1966.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Chevrolet-nova 66.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1966-1967
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 154.7" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1966-1967) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1967) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1966-1967) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1966-1967)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-350 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Second Generation (1966-1967)==

1966 Novas saw a significant restyling, based in part on the Super Nova concept car. In general, external proportions were squared up but dimensions and features changed little. Trim choices were still the '''100''' and '''400'''. Engine options still included the basic 153 I4, 194 I6 and the 283 and 327 V8s, the latter offering now offering up to 350 horsepower. V8 models got special lower fender badges behind the front wheels. Transmission choices remained the column or floor-shift 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed and 2-speed Powerglide automatics. Inside, there was a new dashboard that strongly resembled the larger [[Chevrolet Chevelle|Chevelle's]] (also all-new this year) and revised seat designs, but the Chevy II line during this time was still very spartan. The 90 hp 153 I4 was only offered in the base Chevy II 100 series models, with the 120-horsepower 194 I6 standard on the Nova and Nova SS lines. A new engine offering included a 140 hp 3.8L (230 cid) I6, available in all models except the baseline 100. The SS could still have bucket seats with a console floor shift. Not many changes for 1967, but a 155 hp 4.1L (250 cid) I6 became available in all models except the 100. The 350 hp L79 327 V8 was unfortunately dropped this year, but other drivetrain choices remained the same as the previous year's. There would be an all-new Chevy II/Nova for 1968.

==Main Competitors 1962-1967==

*[[Dodge Dart]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]
*[[Studebaker Lark]]

[[Image:Nova front fender emblem 68-72.jpg|left|350px]]

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:477.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1968-1974
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1968-1970) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1968-1974) 5.0L (307 cid) V8 (1968-1973) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1968-1974) 6.5L (396 cid) cid V8 (1968-1970) 7.0L (427 cid) V8 (1970)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-425 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Apollo]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Third generation (1968–1974)==

An extensive redesign came in 1968, when the station wagon and two door hardtop bodystyles were discontinued. This body style continued (with a minor restyle in 1973) through 1974. One notable change was the front subframe assembly — as compared with [[Ford]], [[Chrysler]] and [[AMC]], in whose cars the entire front suspension was integrated with the bodyshell, a separate subframe housing the powertrain and front suspension (similar to the front part of the frame of GM's full-size, full-framed vehicles) replaced the earlier style. Although the front subframe design was a Chevy II-exclusive design, the [[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]] introduced a year earlier was the first to incorporate such a design; the redesigned Chevy II was pushed a year back to 1968 instead of 1967. 1968 was the final year that the Chevy II nameplate was used, although all 1968 models were "Chevy II Novas" with one single trim line.

The 153 I4 carried over from the previous generation as standard on the baseline model. Far more popular were the 250 I6 and the new 5.0L (307 cid) V8, which replaced the 283 offered in previous generations. At mid-year a semi-automatic transmission based on the Powerglide called Torque-Drive was introduced as a low-cost option for shiftless motoring for both the four and six-cylinder engines. The two-speed Powerglide was still the only fully-automatic gearbox available with most engines as the more desirable three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic was only available with the largest V8 engines. An interesting engine option was the 5.3L (327 cid) V8 rated at 350 hp (RPO code L79).

The '''SS''' was transformed from a trim package to a performance option for 1968 and now included a 295 hp 5.7L (350 cid) V8 engine along with front disc brakes, heavy-duty suspension and other performance hardware. Optional engines included two versions of the big-block 6.5L (396 cid) V8 rated at 350 and 375 hp. Both 396 engines were offered with a choice of transmissions including the M-21 close-ratio four-speed manual, the M-22 heavy-duty "Rock Crusher" four-speed manual, or the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 400 for those who preferred automatic shifting. SSs could have a console with optional auxiliary gauges very similar to the contemporary Camaro design.

===1969===

The Chevy II nameplate was retired and the car became the "Chevy Nova" for this year (some sources referred to it as the Chevrolet Chevy Nova - perhaps the decision to drop the Chevy II moniker was a last-minute decision for 1969). Like other 1969 GM vehicles, locking steering columns were incorporated along with column ignitions. Simulated vents were added below the Nova script, which was relocated to the front fender instead of the rear quarter panel. The 350-4 that came standard with the SS option was revised with a five-hp increase to 300 while a 350-2 rated at 255 hp was a new option on non-SS models. A new Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 three-speed automatic was made available for non-SS Novas with six-cylinder and V8 engines.

===1970===

Basically a carryover from 1969; the side markers and taillight lenses were wider and positioned slightly differently, which placed the reverse lights in the middle of the taillight lens instead of the inward portion. This was the final year for the SS396. All other engines were carried over including the seldom-ordered four-cylinder which was in its final year. The car finally became simply the Chevrolet Nova this year after two years of transitional nameplates (Chevy II Nova in 1968 and Chevrolet Chevy Nova in 1969).

Approximately 177 COPO Novas were ordered, with 175 converted by Yenko Chevrolet (the other two were sold in Canada). These had the mighty LT1 (350 cid) V8 engine

A beater 1970 Nova coupe is prominently featured in the movie ''Beverly Hills Cop''.

===1971===

1971 Novas were similar to the previous year but with the loss of the simulated fender vents and the discontinuation of the 396 motor for the SS with the L48 350-4 taking its place. 1971 also saw the introduction of the '''Rally Nova''', a trim level that only lasted two years and was marketed as sort of a budget-SS. The Rally package included black or white stripes that ran the length of the car and around the back, a Rally Nova sticker on the driver's side of the hood, and Rally wheels.

The 250 I6 was now the standard Nova powerplant with the demise of the 153 I4 and 230 I6 engines. The 307 and 350 V8s were carried over from 1970 and all engines featured lowered compression ratios to enable the use of unleaded gasoline as a result of a GM corporate mandate that took effect with the 1971 model year.

After 1971, other GM divisions began rebadging the Nova as their new entry-level vehicle, such as the [[Pontiac Ventura]] II (once a trim option for full-size Pontiacs to 1970), [[Oldsmobile Omega]] (1973) and the [[Buick Apollo]] (mid-1973). Interestingly, the intials of the four model names spelled out the acronym '''NOVA''' (Nova, Omega, Ventura, Apollo.)

===1972===

A virtual rerun of 1971, the 1972 Nova received only minor trim changes and both the Rally Nova and SS options carried over. At mid-year a manual canvas sunroof option became available on two-door models. Also, the optional Strato bucket seats available on coupes switched from the previous low-back design with adjustable headrests to the high back units with built-in headrests introduced the previous year on Camaros and Vegas. Standard engine was still the 250 I6 with either a 3- or 4-speed manual or 2- or 3-speed automatics. The 307 and 350 V8s remained optional. There would be a restyled Nova for 1973.

===1973===

The 1973 model year introduced a new hatchback bodystyle based on the 2-door coupe, as well as a front and rear restyling and a modified rear side window shape, plus a revised rear suspension adapted from the second-generation Camaro with multi-leaf springs replacing the mono-leaf springs used on Novas since the original 1966 model. A luxury-themed '''Custom''' became part of the model lineup which included upgraded upholstery, full carpeting and more exterior trim. By this time, six-cylinder and V8 engines were ''de rigeur'' for American compact cars, with the 307 and 350 (5.0 and 5.7L) V8s becoming fairly common. Nova SS models offered a higher-performance 350 (5.7L) V8. The 1973 Nova with a six-cylinder engine or 307 V8 were among the last Chevrolets to be offered with the now-outdated two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission, which was in its final year.

===1974===

For 1974, the powerglide was replaced by a lightweight version of the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 already offered with the 350 V8, which was now the only V8 offered this year. The SS option was still available but became more of a sporty trim package than a performance offering and now offered with any Nova engine, much like the 1963-67 Nova SS. The 250 I6 remained standard, and transmission choices, with the exception of the 2-speed Powerglide, remained the same as well. There would be an all-new Nova for 1975.

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:77rally.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1975-1979
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1975-1979) 4.3L (262 cid) V8 (1975) 5.0L (305 cid) V8 (1976-1979) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1975-1978)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|110-170 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Skylark]] [[Cadillac Seville]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]/[[Pontiac Phoenix|Phoenix]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Fourth generation (1975–1979)==

A completely redesigned Nova was introduced in 1975. Bodystyles were still the 2-door coupe, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedans. Base coupes, including the hatchback, had fixed side windows (or optional flip-out windows) and simulated vertical vents on the B-pillar (sedans would have simulated horizontal vents at the bottom of the C-pillar). Engines this year were the standard 250 cid I6 carried over from the previous generations, a 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and 350 V8 were optional. The front suspension and subframe assembly was similar to the one used in the second-generation GM F-body ([[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]], [[Pontiac Firebird|Firebird]]), whereas the rear axle and suspension were carried over from the 1968-74 generation.

The Nova lineup now ranged from the stripped-down '''S''' model, base, '''Custom''', and the luxury-themed '''LN''' ("Luxury Nova"). The Nova '''SS''' continued for 1975 and got a unique grille and requisite badges. Dashboards and other controls were virtually identical in layout compared to the previous generation. A high-performance 9C1 police version of the Nova was introduced for the 1975 model year, making it the first compact car certified for police duty in the U.S. Most were initially purchased by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department in 1976.

The LN was replaced with the Nova '''Concours''' in 1976, and the Custom model was gone (temporarily). The grille was changed slightly, and the short-lived 262 V8 was replaced by the new 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and was standard on the Concours. The 350 V8 remained the top engine option. Transmissions included the 3-speed manual standard with the I6, with a 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic optional. The 305 could have a 4-speed manual or automatic, while the 350 was automatic only. 1977 Concours models got a new 3-taillight lens scheme very similar to the larger [[Chevrolet Impala|Impala]] with a [[Cadillac]]-esque front clip that included chrome squared-off headlight bezels and a more elegant-looking vertically-barred grille with extra chrome trim. The SS was dropped, but it would continue as the '''Nova Rally''', which was basically the same sporty-themed idea. Other models also got a slightly revised grille and all got a new dashboard with round gauges and an 80 MPH speedo.

1978 Novas continued with little change, other than the '''Custom''' model returning as the base model. The 2-door, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedan bodystyles, and Concours and Rally models, were still available. By now, however, the Nova was starting to fall out of favor with much of the buying public, largely due to increased competition from the new [[Ford Fairmont]] and even Chevrolet's own [[Chevrolet Malibu|Malibu]], which was an all-new downsized model for 1978. Even though 1979 was a final abbreviated model year, the front end was nonetheless revised again with square headlights and a new horizontally-barred grille for the short run. The 9C1 police package was dropped for '79, along with the Rally model and 350 V8 engine. Production ended on December 22, 1978. The Nova was replaced by the all-new front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] for 1980. The Nova name, however, would reappear again in 1985 on an unrelated model.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:156392062X01LZZZZZZ.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
| 1985-1988
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|4-Door Sedan 5-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2500-2700 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|5-Speed Manual, FWD 3-Speed Automatic, FWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|1.6L (97 cid) I4
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Toyota Corolla]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|S
|}

==1985-1988 Nova==

In 1985 the Nova name was applied to a rebadged [[Toyota Corolla]] and was produced at the NUMMI plant in Fremont, California, as an historic first joint venture between [[General Motors]] and [[Toyota]]. It shared the Corolla's drivetrain and running gear, and was available as a 4-door sedan and a 5-door hatchback (just like the Corolla). It differed from the Corolla mainly with slightly different front-end styling. It also shared many interior parts, such as audio systems, with other GM's offerings whereas the Corolla did not. The Corolla had been redesigned for 1988, but the Nova continued to use the old platform for its last year. The Nova would be replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]], which was also a twin to the Corolla.

==Main Competitors 1985-1988==

*[[Dodge Omni]]
*[[Ford Escort]]
*[[Honda Civic]]
*[[Isuzu I-Mark]]
*[[Mazda 323]]
*[[Mercury Lynx]]
*[[Nissan Sentra]]
*[[Plymouth Horizon]]
*[[Volkswagen Golf]]

{{-}}

==Photos==
<gallery>
Image:Ad77police350x496.jpg
</gallery>

==Main Competitors 1968-1979==
*[[Dodge Dart]]/[[Dodge Aspen|Aspen]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]/[[Ford Maverick|Maverick]]/[[Ford Fairmont|Fairmont]]
*[[Ford Granada]]
*[[Mercury Comet]]/[[Mercury Zephyr|Zephyr]]
*[[Mercury Monarch]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]/[[Plymouth Volare|Volare]]

==The urban legend==
A popular urban legend asserts that the Nova sold poorly in Mexico and other Latin American countries because the phrase ''no va'' means "does not go" in Spanish. In reality, the Spanish language ''no va'' and ''nova'' are as different as the English ''no table'' and ''notable'', or ''therapist'' and ''the rapist''. [http://www.snopes.com/business/misxlate/nova.asp] The word ''nova'' exists in [http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nova Spanish] with the same meaning as in English. Also, the Spanish word for 'new' (nuevo or nueva) is cognate to ''nova'', which originally meant "new" in Latin. Finally, as NOVA was a brand of gasoline sold for many years by PEMEX in Mexico, the largest of all Spanish-speaking Latin American countries, it is clear that this urban legend, while perhaps entertaining, is utterly baseless.

==See Also==
{{Chevrolet}}

==External links==
*[http://www.nnnova.com/ National Nostalgic Nova] The original National Nostalgic Nova Club Celebrating 25 Years of Helping Nova People The only Monthly Magazine dedicated to Only Novas!
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/nova/ Chevrolet Nova Internet Source] — The second known Nova site on the Internet
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/novaList.html Nova listserv] — The first and only known public [[Electronic mailing list|mailing list]] dedicated to Chevrolet Novas and other X-bodies; in continuous existence since January 1998
*[http://automotivehistoryonline.com/Chevrolet1960m.htm Automotive History Online] - Chevrolet Nova History & Photos
*[http://www.novaresource.org/ NovaResource.com] — Excellent source of history, production numbers, and option code information for 1962-79 Novas
*[http://www.stevesnovasite.com/ Steve's Nova Site] - Includes Q&A discussion board; another excellent resource for Nova owners
*[http://www.musclecarfacts.com/mcf/nova/nova.asp Chevy Nova SS at Muscle Car Facts] — A year-by-year history.
*[http://www.gen4novas.com/ Gen4Novas.com] — Source for the 'stepchild' Disco-era X-car.
*[http://www.2quicknovas.com/ 2QuickNovas.com] — Nova, technical, drag racing and general car info.
*[http://www.chevynova.org/1968.html]

[[Category:Classic cars]]

Chevrolet Nova

2010-10-18T20:52:24Z

Yankee: /* First Generation (1962-1965) */

The '''[[Chevrolet]] Nova''', or '''Chevy II''', was an American compact car introduced by [[General Motors]] in 1962. The original Chevy II was of unibody construction, powered by an OHV inline four or six-cylinder engine (and V8s later), and available in two- and four-door sedan configurations as well as convertible and station wagon versions. After the rear-engine [[Chevrolet Corvair]] was handily outsold by the conventional [[Ford Falcon]] in 1960, Chevrolet began work on a more conventional compact car that would eventually become the Chevy II. The Chevy II/Nova continued on throughout the 1960s and 70s with great success until it was supplanted by the front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] in 1980. The Nova name would reappear briefly again in 1985 as a twin to (of all things) the [[Toyota Corolla]]. The "Toyolet" Nova was discontinued after 1988, replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]].

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:1962 Chevrolet II.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1962-1965
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 2-Door Convertible 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 153" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1962-1965) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1962-1965) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1964-1965) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1964-1965) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1965)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-300 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==First Generation (1962-1965)==

Three different levels of this car were made - the baseline Chevy II '''100''', the mid-grade Chevy II '''300''' and the top-line Chevy II Nova '''400'''. Their was also the sport-oriented Chevy II Nova Super Sport ('''SS'''), available on the 2-door coupe or convertible. Available powerplants included the standard 2.5L (153 cid) I4 and optional the 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (standard on the SS). Bodystyles included a 2-door sedan and hardtop, 4-door sedan, 5-door wagon (with an optional rear-facing 3rd seat) and a 2-door convertible. Unlike its [[Dodge Dart]]/[[Plymouth Valiant]] and [[Ford Falcon]] competition, no V8s were initially offered, but Chevrolet 283 and 327 cid V8s were offered in some areas as dealer-installed options, up to and including the fuel injected version available in the [[Chevrolet Corvette]]. Transmissions were a column or floor 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed manual or 2-speed Powerglide automatic. SSs could have bucket seats with a floor console-shift.

For 1963, grilles and taillights were slightly revised but otherwise were largely unchanged. All bodystyles and engine choices remained the same. For 1964, the Chevy II's first factory V8 option was introduced - a "Turbo-Fire" 195 hp 4.7L (283 cid) V8 with a 2-bbl carb, or a 225 hp 4-bbl version. A larger I6 was also offered, the "Turbo-Thrift" 3.8L (230 cid). Other drivetrain choices remained the same. The convertible was dropped, and the SS was also dropped at the beginning of this year, but it was reinstated mid-year due to high popular demand. The 300 series trim level was discontinued, leaving the 100 and 400 levels. In 1965, the grille was redesigned and the parking lights were relocated from directly below the headlights to the bumper. Taillights were revised also. The 5.3L (327 cid) V8 debuted this year in the SS with up to 300 horsepower. Other drivetrain choices remained the same as before. There would be a restyled Nova for 1966.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Chevrolet-nova 66.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1966-1967
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 154.7" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1966-1967) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1967) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1966-1967) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1966-1967)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-350 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Second Generation (1966-1967)==

1966 Novas saw a significant restyling, based in part on the Super Nova concept car. In general, external proportions were squared up but dimensions and features changed little. Trim choices were still the '''100''' and '''400'''. Engine options still included the basic 153 I4, 194 I6 and the 283 and 327 V8s, the latter offering now offering up to 350 horsepower. V8 models got special lower fender badges behind the front wheels. Transmission choices remained the column or floor-shift 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed and 2-speed Powerglide automatics. Inside, there was a new dashboard that strongly resembled the larger [[Chevrolet Chevelle|Chevelle's]] (also all-new this year) and revised seat designs, but the Chevy II line during this time was still very spartan. The 90 hp 153 I4 was only offered in the base Chevy II 100 series models, with the 120-horsepower 194 I6 standard on the Nova and Nova SS lines. A new engine offering included a 140 hp 3.8L (230 cid) I6, available in all models except the baseline 100. The SS could still have bucket seats with a console floor shift. Not many changes for 1967, but a 155 hp 4.1L (250 cid) I6 became available in all models except the 100. The 350 hp L79 327 V8 was unfortunately dropped this year, but other drivetrain choices remained the same as the previous year's. There would be an all-new Chevy II/Nova for 1968.

==Main Competitors 1962-1967==

*[[Dodge Dart]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]
*[[Studebaker Lark]]

[[Image:Nova front fender emblem 68-72.jpg|left|350px]]

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:477.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1968-1974
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1968-1970) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1968-1974) 5.0L (307 cid) V8 (1968-1973) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1968-1974) 6.5L (396 cid) cid V8 (1968-1970) 7.0L (427 cid) V8 (1970)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-425 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Apollo]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Third generation (1968–1974)==

An extensive redesign came in 1968, when the station wagon and two door hardtop bodystyles were discontinued. This body style continued (with a minor restyle in 1973) through 1974. One notable change was the front subframe assembly — as compared with [[Ford]], [[Chrysler]] and [[AMC]], in whose cars the entire front suspension was integrated with the bodyshell, a separate subframe housing the powertrain and front suspension (similar to the front part of the frame of GM's full-size, full-framed vehicles) replaced the earlier style. Although the front subframe design was a Chevy II-exclusive design, the [[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]] introduced a year earlier was the first to incorporate such a design; the redesigned Chevy II was pushed a year back to 1968 instead of 1967. 1968 was the final year that the Chevy II nameplate was used, although all 1968 models were "Chevy II Novas" with one single trim line.

The 153 I4 carried over from the previous generation as standard on the baseline model. Far more popular were the 250 I6 and the new 5.0L (307 cid) V8, which replaced the 283 offered in previous generations. At mid-year a semi-automatic transmission based on the Powerglide called Torque-Drive was introduced as a low-cost option for shiftless motoring for both the four and six-cylinder engines. The two-speed Powerglide was still the only fully-automatic gearbox available with most engines as the more desirable three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic was only available with the largest V8 engines. An interesting engine option was the 5.3L (327 cid) V8 rated at 350 hp (RPO code L79).

The '''SS''' was transformed from a trim package to a performance option for 1968 and now included a 295 hp 5.7L (350 cid) V8 engine along with front disc brakes, heavy-duty suspension and other performance hardware. Optional engines included two versions of the big-block 6.5L (396 cid) V8 rated at 350 and 375 hp. Both 396 engines were offered with a choice of transmissions including the M-21 close-ratio four-speed manual, the M-22 heavy-duty "Rock Crusher" four-speed manual, or the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 400 for those who preferred automatic shifting. SSs could have a console with optional auxiliary gauges very similar to the contemporary Camaro design.

===1969===

The Chevy II nameplate was retired and the car became the "Chevy Nova" for this year (some sources referred to it as the Chevrolet Chevy Nova - perhaps the decision to drop the Chevy II moniker was a last-minute decision for 1969). Like other 1969 GM vehicles, locking steering columns were incorporated along with column ignitions. Simulated vents were added below the Nova script, which was relocated to the front fender instead of the rear quarter panel. The 350-4 that came standard with the SS option was revised with a five-hp increase to 300 while a 350-2 rated at 255 hp was a new option on non-SS models. A new Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 three-speed automatic was made available for non-SS Novas with six-cylinder and V8 engines.

===1970===

Basically a carryover from 1969; the side markers and taillight lenses were wider and positioned slightly differently, which placed the reverse lights in the middle of the taillight lens instead of the inward portion. This was the final year for the SS396. All other engines were carried over including the seldom-ordered four-cylinder which was in its final year. The car finally became simply the Chevrolet Nova this year after two years of transitional nameplates (Chevy II Nova in 1968 and Chevrolet Chevy Nova in 1969).

Approximately 177 COPO Novas were ordered, with 175 converted by Yenko Chevrolet (the other two were sold in Canada). These had the mighty LT1 (350 cid) V8 engine

A beater 1970 Nova coupe is prominently featured in the movie ''Beverly Hills Cop''.

===1971===

1971 Novas were similar to the previous year but with the loss of the simulated fender vents and the discontinuation of the 396 motor for the SS with the L48 350-4 taking its place. 1971 also saw the introduction of the '''Rally Nova''', a trim level that only lasted two years and was marketed as sort of a budget-SS. The Rally package included black or white stripes that ran the length of the car and around the back, a Rally Nova sticker on the driver's side of the hood, and Rally wheels.

The 250 I6 was now the standard Nova powerplant with the demise of the 153 I4 and 230 I6 engines. The 307 and 350 V8s were carried over from 1970 and all engines featured lowered compression ratios to enable the use of unleaded gasoline as a result of a GM corporate mandate that took effect with the 1971 model year.

After 1971, other GM divisions began rebadging the Nova as their new entry-level vehicle, such as the [[Pontiac Ventura]] II (once a trim option for full-size Pontiacs to 1970), [[Oldsmobile Omega]] (1973) and the [[Buick Apollo]] (mid-1973). Interestingly, the intials of the four model names spelled out the acronym '''NOVA''' (Nova, Omega, Ventura, Apollo.)

===1972===

A virtual rerun of 1971, the 1972 Nova received only minor trim changes and both the Rally Nova and SS options carried over. At mid-year a manual canvas sunroof option became available on two-door models. Also, the optional Strato bucket seats available on coupes switched from the previous low-back design with adjustable headrests to the high back units with built-in headrests introduced the previous year on Camaros and Vegas. Standard engine was still the 250 I6 with either a 3- or 4-speed manual or 2- or 3-speed automatics. The 307 and 350 V8s remained optional. There would be a restyled Nova for 1973.

===1973===

The 1973 model year introduced a new hatchback bodystyle based on the 2-door coupe, as well as a front and rear restyling and a modified rear side window shape, plus a revised rear suspension adapted from the second-generation Camaro with multi-leaf springs replacing the mono-leaf springs used on Novas since the original 1966 model. A luxury-themed '''Custom''' became part of the model lineup which included upgraded upholstery, full carpeting and more exterior trim. By this time, six-cylinder and V8 engines were ''de rigeur'' for American compact cars, with the 307 and 350 (5.0 and 5.7L) V8s becoming fairly common. Nova SS models offered a higher-performance 350 (5.7L) V8. The 1973 Nova with a six-cylinder engine or 307 V8 were among the last Chevrolets to be offered with the now-outdated two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission, which was in its final year.

===1974===

For 1974, the powerglide was replaced by a lightweight version of the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 already offered with the 350 V8, which was now the only V8 offered this year. The SS option was still available but became more of a sporty trim package than a performance offering and now offered with any Nova engine, much like the 1963-67 Nova SS. The 250 I6 remained standard, and transmission choices, with the exception of the 2-speed Powerglide, remained the same as well. There would be an all-new Nova for 1975.

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:77rally.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1975-1979
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1975-1979) 4.3L (262 cid) V8 (1975) 5.0L (305 cid) V8 (1976-1979) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1975-1978)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|110-170 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Skylark]] [[Cadillac Seville]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]/[[Pontiac Phoenix|Phoenix]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Fourth generation (1975–1979)==

A completely redesigned Nova was introduced in 1975. Bodystyles were still the 2-door coupe, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedans. Base coupes, including the hatchback, had fixed side windows (or optional flip-out windows) and simulated vertical vents on the B-pillar (sedans would have simulated horizontal vents at the bottom of the C-pillar). Engines this year were the standard 250 cid I6 carried over from the previous generations, a 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and 350 V8 were optional. The front suspension and subframe assembly was similar to the one used in the second-generation GM F-body ([[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]], [[Pontiac Firebird|Firebird]]), whereas the rear axle and suspension were carried over from the 1968-74 generation.

The Nova lineup now ranged from the stripped-down '''S''' model, base, '''Custom''', and the luxury-themed '''LN''' ("Luxury Nova"). The Nova '''SS''' continued for 1975 and got a unique grille and requisite badges. Dashboards and other controls were virtually identical in layout compared to the previous generation. A high-performance 9C1 police version of the Nova was introduced for the 1975 model year, making it the first compact car certified for police duty in the U.S. Most were initially purchased by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department in 1976.

The LN was replaced with the Nova '''Concours''' in 1976, and the Custom model was gone (temporarily). The grille was changed slightly, and the short-lived 262 V8 was replaced by the new 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and was standard on the Concours. The 350 V8 remained the top engine option. Transmissions included the 3-speed manual standard with the I6, with a 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic optional. The 305 could have a 4-speed manual or automatic, while the 350 was automatic only. 1977 Concours models got a new 3-taillight lens scheme very similar to the larger [[Chevrolet Impala|Impala]] with a [[Cadillac]]-esque front clip that included chrome squared-off headlight bezels and a more elegant-looking vertically-barred grille with extra chrome trim. The SS was dropped, but it would continue as the '''Nova Rally''', which was basically the same sporty-themed idea. Other models also got a slightly revised grille and all got a new dashboard with round gauges and an 80 MPH speedo.

1978 Novas continued with little change, other than the '''Custom''' model returning as the base model. The 2-door, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedan bodystyles, and Concours and Rally models, were still available. By now, however, the Nova was starting to fall out of favor with much of the buying public, largely due to increased competition from the new [[Ford Fairmont]] and even Chevrolet's own [[Chevrolet Malibu|Malibu]], which was an all-new downsized model for 1978. Even though 1979 was a final abbreviated model year, the front end was nonetheless revised again with square headlights and a new horizontally-barred grille for the short run. The 9C1 police package was dropped for '79, along with the Rally model and 350 V8 engine. Production ended on December 22, 1978. The Nova was replaced by the all-new front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] for 1980. The Nova name, however, would reappear again in 1985 on an unrelated model.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:156392062X01LZZZZZZ.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
| 1985-1988
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|4-Door Sedan 5-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2500-2700 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|5-Speed Manual, FWD 3-Speed Automatic, FWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|1.6L (97 cid) I4
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Toyota Corolla]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|S
|}

==1985-1988 Nova==

In 1985 the Nova name was applied to a rebadged [[Toyota Corolla]] and was produced at the NUMMI plant in Fremont, California, as an historic first joint venture between [[General Motors]] and [[Toyota]]. It shared the Corolla's drivetrain and running gear, and was available as a 4-door sedan and a 5-door hatchback (just like the Corolla). It differed from the Corolla mainly with slightly different front-end styling. It also shared many interior parts, such as audio systems, with other GM's offerings whereas the Corolla did not. The Corolla had been redesigned for 1988, but the Nova continued to use the old platform for its last year. The Nova would be replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]], which was also a twin to the Corolla.

==Main Competitors 1985-1988==

*[[Dodge Omni]]
*[[Ford Escort]]
*[[Honda Civic]]
*[[Isuzu I-Mark]]
*[[Mazda 323]]
*[[Mercury Lynx]]
*[[Nissan Sentra]]
*[[Plymouth Horizon]]
*[[Volkswagen Golf]]

{{-}}

==Photos==
<gallery>
Image:Ad77police350x496.jpg
</gallery>

==Main Competitors 1968-1979==
*[[Dodge Dart]]/[[Dodge Aspen|Aspen]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]/[[Ford Maverick|Maverick]]/[[Ford Fairmont|Fairmont]]
*[[Ford Granada]]
*[[Mercury Comet]]/[[Mercury Zephyr|Zephyr]]
*[[Mercury Monarch]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]/[[Plymouth Volare|Volare]]

==The urban legend==
A popular urban legend asserts that the Nova sold poorly in Mexico and other Latin American countries because the phrase ''no va'' means "does not go" in Spanish. In reality, the Spanish language ''no va'' and ''nova'' are as different as the English ''no table'' and ''notable'', or ''therapist'' and ''the rapist''. [http://www.snopes.com/business/misxlate/nova.asp] The word ''nova'' exists in [http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nova Spanish] with the same meaning as in English. Also, the Spanish word for 'new' (nuevo or nueva) is cognate to ''nova'', which originally meant "new" in Latin. Finally, as NOVA was a brand of gasoline sold for many years by PEMEX in Mexico, the largest of all Spanish-speaking Latin American countries, it is clear that this urban legend, while perhaps entertaining, is utterly baseless.

==See Also==
{{Chevrolet}}

==External links==
*[http://www.nnnova.com/ National Nostalgic Nova] The original National Nostalgic Nova Club Celebrating 25 Years of Helping Nova People The only Monthly Magazine dedicated to Only Novas!
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/nova/ Chevrolet Nova Internet Source] — The second known Nova site on the Internet
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/novaList.html Nova listserv] — The first and only known public [[Electronic mailing list|mailing list]] dedicated to Chevrolet Novas and other X-bodies; in continuous existence since January 1998
*[http://automotivehistoryonline.com/Chevrolet1960m.htm Automotive History Online] - Chevrolet Nova History & Photos
*[http://www.novaresource.org/ NovaResource.com] — Excellent source of history, production numbers, and option code information for 1962-79 Novas
*[http://www.stevesnovasite.com/ Steve's Nova Site] - Includes Q&A discussion board; another excellent resource for Nova owners
*[http://www.musclecarfacts.com/mcf/nova/nova.asp Chevy Nova SS at Muscle Car Facts] — A year-by-year history.
*[http://www.gen4novas.com/ Gen4Novas.com] — Source for the 'stepchild' Disco-era X-car.
*[http://www.2quicknovas.com/ 2QuickNovas.com] — Nova, technical, drag racing and general car info.
*[http://www.chevynova.org/1968.html]

[[Category:Classic cars]]

Chevrolet Nova

2010-10-18T20:50:38Z

Yankee: /* First Generation (1962-1965) */

The '''[[Chevrolet]] Nova''', or '''Chevy II''', was an American compact car introduced by [[General Motors]] in 1962. The original Chevy II was of unibody construction, powered by an OHV inline four or six-cylinder engine (and V8s later), and available in two- and four-door sedan configurations as well as convertible and station wagon versions. After the rear-engine [[Chevrolet Corvair]] was handily outsold by the conventional [[Ford Falcon]] in 1960, Chevrolet began work on a more conventional compact car that would eventually become the Chevy II. The Chevy II/Nova continued on throughout the 1960s and 70s with great success until it was supplanted by the front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] in 1980. The Nova name would reappear briefly again in 1985 as a twin to (of all things) the [[Toyota Corolla]]. The "Toyolet" Nova was discontinued after 1988, replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]].

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:1962 Chevrolet II.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1962-1965
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 2-Door Convertible 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 153" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1962-1965) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1962-1965) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1964-1965) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1964-1965) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1965)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-300 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==First Generation (1962-1965)==

Three different levels of this car were made - the baseline Chevy II '''100''', the mid-grade Chevy II '''300''' and the top-line Chevy II Nova '''400'''. Their was also the sport-oriented Chevy II Nova Super Sport ('''SS'''), available on the 2-door coupe or convertible. Available powerplants included the standard 2.5L (153 cid) I4 and optional the 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (standard on the SS). Bodystyles included a 2-door sedan and hardtop, 4-door sedan, 5-door wagon (with an optional rear-facing 3rd seat) and a 2-door convertible. Unlike its [[Dodge Dart]]/[[Plymouth Valiant]] and [[Ford Falcon]] competition, no V8s were initially offered, but Chevrolet 283 and 327 cid V8s were offered in some areas as dealer-installed options, up to and including the fuel injected version available in the [[Chevrolet Corvette]]. Transmissions were a column or floor 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed manual or 2-speed Powerglide automatic. SSs could have bucket seats with a floor console-shift.

For 1963, grilles and taillights were slightly revised but otherwise were largely unchanged. All bodystyles and engine choices remained the same. For 1964, the Chevy II's first factory V8 option was introduced - a "Turbo-Fire" 195 hp 4.7L (283 cid) V8 with a 2-bbl carb, or a 225 hp 4-bbl version. The convertible was dropped, and the SS was also dropped at the beginning of this year, but it was reinstated mid-year due to high popular demand. The 300 series trim level was discontinued, leaving the 100 and 400 levels. In 1965, the grille was redesigned and the parking lights were relocated from directly below the headlights to the bumper. Taillights were revised also. The 5.3L (327 cid) V8 debuted this year in the SS with up to 300 horsepower. Other drivetrain choices remained the same as before. There would be a restyled Nova for 1966.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Chevrolet-nova 66.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1966-1967
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 154.7" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1966-1967) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1967) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1966-1967) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1966-1967)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-350 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Second Generation (1966-1967)==

1966 Novas saw a significant restyling, based in part on the Super Nova concept car. In general, external proportions were squared up but dimensions and features changed little. Trim choices were still the '''100''' and '''400'''. Engine options still included the basic 153 I4, 194 I6 and the 283 and 327 V8s, the latter offering now offering up to 350 horsepower. V8 models got special lower fender badges behind the front wheels. Transmission choices remained the column or floor-shift 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed and 2-speed Powerglide automatics. Inside, there was a new dashboard that strongly resembled the larger [[Chevrolet Chevelle|Chevelle's]] (also all-new this year) and revised seat designs, but the Chevy II line during this time was still very spartan. The 90 hp 153 I4 was only offered in the base Chevy II 100 series models, with the 120-horsepower 194 I6 standard on the Nova and Nova SS lines. A new engine offering included a 140 hp 3.8L (230 cid) I6, available in all models except the baseline 100. The SS could still have bucket seats with a console floor shift. Not many changes for 1967, but a 155 hp 4.1L (250 cid) I6 became available in all models except the 100. The 350 hp L79 327 V8 was unfortunately dropped this year, but other drivetrain choices remained the same as the previous year's. There would be an all-new Chevy II/Nova for 1968.

==Main Competitors 1962-1967==

*[[Dodge Dart]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]
*[[Studebaker Lark]]

[[Image:Nova front fender emblem 68-72.jpg|left|350px]]

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:477.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1968-1974
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1968-1970) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1968-1974) 5.0L (307 cid) V8 (1968-1973) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1968-1974) 6.5L (396 cid) cid V8 (1968-1970) 7.0L (427 cid) V8 (1970)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-425 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Apollo]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Third generation (1968–1974)==

An extensive redesign came in 1968, when the station wagon and two door hardtop bodystyles were discontinued. This body style continued (with a minor restyle in 1973) through 1974. One notable change was the front subframe assembly — as compared with [[Ford]], [[Chrysler]] and [[AMC]], in whose cars the entire front suspension was integrated with the bodyshell, a separate subframe housing the powertrain and front suspension (similar to the front part of the frame of GM's full-size, full-framed vehicles) replaced the earlier style. Although the front subframe design was a Chevy II-exclusive design, the [[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]] introduced a year earlier was the first to incorporate such a design; the redesigned Chevy II was pushed a year back to 1968 instead of 1967. 1968 was the final year that the Chevy II nameplate was used, although all 1968 models were "Chevy II Novas" with one single trim line.

The 153 I4 carried over from the previous generation as standard on the baseline model. Far more popular were the 250 I6 and the new 5.0L (307 cid) V8, which replaced the 283 offered in previous generations. At mid-year a semi-automatic transmission based on the Powerglide called Torque-Drive was introduced as a low-cost option for shiftless motoring for both the four and six-cylinder engines. The two-speed Powerglide was still the only fully-automatic gearbox available with most engines as the more desirable three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic was only available with the largest V8 engines. An interesting engine option was the 5.3L (327 cid) V8 rated at 350 hp (RPO code L79).

The '''SS''' was transformed from a trim package to a performance option for 1968 and now included a 295 hp 5.7L (350 cid) V8 engine along with front disc brakes, heavy-duty suspension and other performance hardware. Optional engines included two versions of the big-block 6.5L (396 cid) V8 rated at 350 and 375 hp. Both 396 engines were offered with a choice of transmissions including the M-21 close-ratio four-speed manual, the M-22 heavy-duty "Rock Crusher" four-speed manual, or the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 400 for those who preferred automatic shifting. SSs could have a console with optional auxiliary gauges very similar to the contemporary Camaro design.

===1969===

The Chevy II nameplate was retired and the car became the "Chevy Nova" for this year (some sources referred to it as the Chevrolet Chevy Nova - perhaps the decision to drop the Chevy II moniker was a last-minute decision for 1969). Like other 1969 GM vehicles, locking steering columns were incorporated along with column ignitions. Simulated vents were added below the Nova script, which was relocated to the front fender instead of the rear quarter panel. The 350-4 that came standard with the SS option was revised with a five-hp increase to 300 while a 350-2 rated at 255 hp was a new option on non-SS models. A new Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 three-speed automatic was made available for non-SS Novas with six-cylinder and V8 engines.

===1970===

Basically a carryover from 1969; the side markers and taillight lenses were wider and positioned slightly differently, which placed the reverse lights in the middle of the taillight lens instead of the inward portion. This was the final year for the SS396. All other engines were carried over including the seldom-ordered four-cylinder which was in its final year. The car finally became simply the Chevrolet Nova this year after two years of transitional nameplates (Chevy II Nova in 1968 and Chevrolet Chevy Nova in 1969).

Approximately 177 COPO Novas were ordered, with 175 converted by Yenko Chevrolet (the other two were sold in Canada). These had the mighty LT1 (350 cid) V8 engine

A beater 1970 Nova coupe is prominently featured in the movie ''Beverly Hills Cop''.

===1971===

1971 Novas were similar to the previous year but with the loss of the simulated fender vents and the discontinuation of the 396 motor for the SS with the L48 350-4 taking its place. 1971 also saw the introduction of the '''Rally Nova''', a trim level that only lasted two years and was marketed as sort of a budget-SS. The Rally package included black or white stripes that ran the length of the car and around the back, a Rally Nova sticker on the driver's side of the hood, and Rally wheels.

The 250 I6 was now the standard Nova powerplant with the demise of the 153 I4 and 230 I6 engines. The 307 and 350 V8s were carried over from 1970 and all engines featured lowered compression ratios to enable the use of unleaded gasoline as a result of a GM corporate mandate that took effect with the 1971 model year.

After 1971, other GM divisions began rebadging the Nova as their new entry-level vehicle, such as the [[Pontiac Ventura]] II (once a trim option for full-size Pontiacs to 1970), [[Oldsmobile Omega]] (1973) and the [[Buick Apollo]] (mid-1973). Interestingly, the intials of the four model names spelled out the acronym '''NOVA''' (Nova, Omega, Ventura, Apollo.)

===1972===

A virtual rerun of 1971, the 1972 Nova received only minor trim changes and both the Rally Nova and SS options carried over. At mid-year a manual canvas sunroof option became available on two-door models. Also, the optional Strato bucket seats available on coupes switched from the previous low-back design with adjustable headrests to the high back units with built-in headrests introduced the previous year on Camaros and Vegas. Standard engine was still the 250 I6 with either a 3- or 4-speed manual or 2- or 3-speed automatics. The 307 and 350 V8s remained optional. There would be a restyled Nova for 1973.

===1973===

The 1973 model year introduced a new hatchback bodystyle based on the 2-door coupe, as well as a front and rear restyling and a modified rear side window shape, plus a revised rear suspension adapted from the second-generation Camaro with multi-leaf springs replacing the mono-leaf springs used on Novas since the original 1966 model. A luxury-themed '''Custom''' became part of the model lineup which included upgraded upholstery, full carpeting and more exterior trim. By this time, six-cylinder and V8 engines were ''de rigeur'' for American compact cars, with the 307 and 350 (5.0 and 5.7L) V8s becoming fairly common. Nova SS models offered a higher-performance 350 (5.7L) V8. The 1973 Nova with a six-cylinder engine or 307 V8 were among the last Chevrolets to be offered with the now-outdated two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission, which was in its final year.

===1974===

For 1974, the powerglide was replaced by a lightweight version of the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 already offered with the 350 V8, which was now the only V8 offered this year. The SS option was still available but became more of a sporty trim package than a performance offering and now offered with any Nova engine, much like the 1963-67 Nova SS. The 250 I6 remained standard, and transmission choices, with the exception of the 2-speed Powerglide, remained the same as well. There would be an all-new Nova for 1975.

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:77rally.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1975-1979
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1975-1979) 4.3L (262 cid) V8 (1975) 5.0L (305 cid) V8 (1976-1979) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1975-1978)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|110-170 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Skylark]] [[Cadillac Seville]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]/[[Pontiac Phoenix|Phoenix]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Fourth generation (1975–1979)==

A completely redesigned Nova was introduced in 1975. Bodystyles were still the 2-door coupe, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedans. Base coupes, including the hatchback, had fixed side windows (or optional flip-out windows) and simulated vertical vents on the B-pillar (sedans would have simulated horizontal vents at the bottom of the C-pillar). Engines this year were the standard 250 cid I6 carried over from the previous generations, a 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and 350 V8 were optional. The front suspension and subframe assembly was similar to the one used in the second-generation GM F-body ([[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]], [[Pontiac Firebird|Firebird]]), whereas the rear axle and suspension were carried over from the 1968-74 generation.

The Nova lineup now ranged from the stripped-down '''S''' model, base, '''Custom''', and the luxury-themed '''LN''' ("Luxury Nova"). The Nova '''SS''' continued for 1975 and got a unique grille and requisite badges. Dashboards and other controls were virtually identical in layout compared to the previous generation. A high-performance 9C1 police version of the Nova was introduced for the 1975 model year, making it the first compact car certified for police duty in the U.S. Most were initially purchased by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department in 1976.

The LN was replaced with the Nova '''Concours''' in 1976, and the Custom model was gone (temporarily). The grille was changed slightly, and the short-lived 262 V8 was replaced by the new 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and was standard on the Concours. The 350 V8 remained the top engine option. Transmissions included the 3-speed manual standard with the I6, with a 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic optional. The 305 could have a 4-speed manual or automatic, while the 350 was automatic only. 1977 Concours models got a new 3-taillight lens scheme very similar to the larger [[Chevrolet Impala|Impala]] with a [[Cadillac]]-esque front clip that included chrome squared-off headlight bezels and a more elegant-looking vertically-barred grille with extra chrome trim. The SS was dropped, but it would continue as the '''Nova Rally''', which was basically the same sporty-themed idea. Other models also got a slightly revised grille and all got a new dashboard with round gauges and an 80 MPH speedo.

1978 Novas continued with little change, other than the '''Custom''' model returning as the base model. The 2-door, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedan bodystyles, and Concours and Rally models, were still available. By now, however, the Nova was starting to fall out of favor with much of the buying public, largely due to increased competition from the new [[Ford Fairmont]] and even Chevrolet's own [[Chevrolet Malibu|Malibu]], which was an all-new downsized model for 1978. Even though 1979 was a final abbreviated model year, the front end was nonetheless revised again with square headlights and a new horizontally-barred grille for the short run. The 9C1 police package was dropped for '79, along with the Rally model and 350 V8 engine. Production ended on December 22, 1978. The Nova was replaced by the all-new front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] for 1980. The Nova name, however, would reappear again in 1985 on an unrelated model.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:156392062X01LZZZZZZ.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
| 1985-1988
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|4-Door Sedan 5-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2500-2700 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|5-Speed Manual, FWD 3-Speed Automatic, FWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|1.6L (97 cid) I4
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Toyota Corolla]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|S
|}

==1985-1988 Nova==

In 1985 the Nova name was applied to a rebadged [[Toyota Corolla]] and was produced at the NUMMI plant in Fremont, California, as an historic first joint venture between [[General Motors]] and [[Toyota]]. It shared the Corolla's drivetrain and running gear, and was available as a 4-door sedan and a 5-door hatchback (just like the Corolla). It differed from the Corolla mainly with slightly different front-end styling. It also shared many interior parts, such as audio systems, with other GM's offerings whereas the Corolla did not. The Corolla had been redesigned for 1988, but the Nova continued to use the old platform for its last year. The Nova would be replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]], which was also a twin to the Corolla.

==Main Competitors 1985-1988==

*[[Dodge Omni]]
*[[Ford Escort]]
*[[Honda Civic]]
*[[Isuzu I-Mark]]
*[[Mazda 323]]
*[[Mercury Lynx]]
*[[Nissan Sentra]]
*[[Plymouth Horizon]]
*[[Volkswagen Golf]]

{{-}}

==Photos==
<gallery>
Image:Ad77police350x496.jpg
</gallery>

==Main Competitors 1968-1979==
*[[Dodge Dart]]/[[Dodge Aspen|Aspen]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]/[[Ford Maverick|Maverick]]/[[Ford Fairmont|Fairmont]]
*[[Ford Granada]]
*[[Mercury Comet]]/[[Mercury Zephyr|Zephyr]]
*[[Mercury Monarch]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]/[[Plymouth Volare|Volare]]

==The urban legend==
A popular urban legend asserts that the Nova sold poorly in Mexico and other Latin American countries because the phrase ''no va'' means "does not go" in Spanish. In reality, the Spanish language ''no va'' and ''nova'' are as different as the English ''no table'' and ''notable'', or ''therapist'' and ''the rapist''. [http://www.snopes.com/business/misxlate/nova.asp] The word ''nova'' exists in [http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nova Spanish] with the same meaning as in English. Also, the Spanish word for 'new' (nuevo or nueva) is cognate to ''nova'', which originally meant "new" in Latin. Finally, as NOVA was a brand of gasoline sold for many years by PEMEX in Mexico, the largest of all Spanish-speaking Latin American countries, it is clear that this urban legend, while perhaps entertaining, is utterly baseless.

==See Also==
{{Chevrolet}}

==External links==
*[http://www.nnnova.com/ National Nostalgic Nova] The original National Nostalgic Nova Club Celebrating 25 Years of Helping Nova People The only Monthly Magazine dedicated to Only Novas!
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/nova/ Chevrolet Nova Internet Source] — The second known Nova site on the Internet
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/novaList.html Nova listserv] — The first and only known public [[Electronic mailing list|mailing list]] dedicated to Chevrolet Novas and other X-bodies; in continuous existence since January 1998
*[http://automotivehistoryonline.com/Chevrolet1960m.htm Automotive History Online] - Chevrolet Nova History & Photos
*[http://www.novaresource.org/ NovaResource.com] — Excellent source of history, production numbers, and option code information for 1962-79 Novas
*[http://www.stevesnovasite.com/ Steve's Nova Site] - Includes Q&A discussion board; another excellent resource for Nova owners
*[http://www.musclecarfacts.com/mcf/nova/nova.asp Chevy Nova SS at Muscle Car Facts] — A year-by-year history.
*[http://www.gen4novas.com/ Gen4Novas.com] — Source for the 'stepchild' Disco-era X-car.
*[http://www.2quicknovas.com/ 2QuickNovas.com] — Nova, technical, drag racing and general car info.
*[http://www.chevynova.org/1968.html]

[[Category:Classic cars]]

Chevrolet Nova

2010-10-18T20:44:03Z

Yankee: /* First Generation (1962-1965) */

The '''[[Chevrolet]] Nova''', or '''Chevy II''', was an American compact car introduced by [[General Motors]] in 1962. The original Chevy II was of unibody construction, powered by an OHV inline four or six-cylinder engine (and V8s later), and available in two- and four-door sedan configurations as well as convertible and station wagon versions. After the rear-engine [[Chevrolet Corvair]] was handily outsold by the conventional [[Ford Falcon]] in 1960, Chevrolet began work on a more conventional compact car that would eventually become the Chevy II. The Chevy II/Nova continued on throughout the 1960s and 70s with great success until it was supplanted by the front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] in 1980. The Nova name would reappear briefly again in 1985 as a twin to (of all things) the [[Toyota Corolla]]. The "Toyolet" Nova was discontinued after 1988, replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]].

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:1962 Chevrolet II.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1962-1965
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 2-Door Convertible 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 153" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1962-1965) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1962-1965) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1964-1965) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1964-1965) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1965)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-300 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==First Generation (1962-1965)==

Three different levels of this car were made - the baseline Chevy II '''100''', the mid-grade Chevy II '''300''' and the top-line Chevy II Nova '''400'''. Their was also the sport-oriented Chevy II Nova Super Sport ('''SS'''), available on the 2-door coupe or convertible. Available powerplants included the standard 2.5L (153 cid) I4 and optional the 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (standard on the SS). Bodystyles included a 2-door sedan and hardtop, 4-door sedan, 5-door wagon (with an optional rear-facing 3rd seat) and a 2-door convertible. Unlike its [[Dodge Dart]]/[[Plymouth Valiant]] and [[Ford Falcon]] competition, no V8s were initially offered, but Chevrolet 283 and 327 cid V8s were offered in some areas as dealer-installed options, up to and including the fuel injected version available in the [[Chevrolet Corvette]]. Transmissions were a column or floor 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed manual or 2-speed Powerglide automatic. SSs could have bucket seats with a floor console-shift.

For 1963, grilles and taillights were slightly revised but otherwise were largely unchanged. All bodystyles and engine choices remained the same. For 1964, the Chevy II's first factory V8 option was introduced - a 195 hp 4.7L (283 cid) V8. The convertible was dropped, and the SS was also dropped at the beginning of this year, but it was reinstated mid-year due to high popular demand. The 300 series trim level was discontinued, leaving the 100 and 400 levels. In 1965, the grille was redesigned and the parking lights were relocated from directly below the headlights to the bumper. Taillights were revised also. The 5.3L (327 cid) V8 debuted this year in the SS with up to 300 horsepower. Other drivetrain choices remained the same as before. There would be a restyled Nova for 1966.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Chevrolet-nova 66.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1966-1967
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 154.7" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1966-1967) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1967) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1966-1967) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1966-1967)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-350 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Second Generation (1966-1967)==

1966 Novas saw a significant restyling, based in part on the Super Nova concept car. In general, external proportions were squared up but dimensions and features changed little. Trim choices were still the '''100''' and '''400'''. Engine options still included the basic 153 I4, 194 I6 and the 283 and 327 V8s, the latter offering now offering up to 350 horsepower. V8 models got special lower fender badges behind the front wheels. Transmission choices remained the column or floor-shift 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed and 2-speed Powerglide automatics. Inside, there was a new dashboard that strongly resembled the larger [[Chevrolet Chevelle|Chevelle's]] (also all-new this year) and revised seat designs, but the Chevy II line during this time was still very spartan. The 90 hp 153 I4 was only offered in the base Chevy II 100 series models, with the 120-horsepower 194 I6 standard on the Nova and Nova SS lines. A new engine offering included a 140 hp 3.8L (230 cid) I6, available in all models except the baseline 100. The SS could still have bucket seats with a console floor shift. Not many changes for 1967, but a 155 hp 4.1L (250 cid) I6 became available in all models except the 100. The 350 hp L79 327 V8 was unfortunately dropped this year, but other drivetrain choices remained the same as the previous year's. There would be an all-new Chevy II/Nova for 1968.

==Main Competitors 1962-1967==

*[[Dodge Dart]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]
*[[Studebaker Lark]]

[[Image:Nova front fender emblem 68-72.jpg|left|350px]]

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:477.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1968-1974
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1968-1970) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1968-1974) 5.0L (307 cid) V8 (1968-1973) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1968-1974) 6.5L (396 cid) cid V8 (1968-1970) 7.0L (427 cid) V8 (1970)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-425 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Apollo]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Third generation (1968–1974)==

An extensive redesign came in 1968, when the station wagon and two door hardtop bodystyles were discontinued. This body style continued (with a minor restyle in 1973) through 1974. One notable change was the front subframe assembly — as compared with [[Ford]], [[Chrysler]] and [[AMC]], in whose cars the entire front suspension was integrated with the bodyshell, a separate subframe housing the powertrain and front suspension (similar to the front part of the frame of GM's full-size, full-framed vehicles) replaced the earlier style. Although the front subframe design was a Chevy II-exclusive design, the [[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]] introduced a year earlier was the first to incorporate such a design; the redesigned Chevy II was pushed a year back to 1968 instead of 1967. 1968 was the final year that the Chevy II nameplate was used, although all 1968 models were "Chevy II Novas" with one single trim line.

The 153 I4 carried over from the previous generation as standard on the baseline model. Far more popular were the 250 I6 and the new 5.0L (307 cid) V8, which replaced the 283 offered in previous generations. At mid-year a semi-automatic transmission based on the Powerglide called Torque-Drive was introduced as a low-cost option for shiftless motoring for both the four and six-cylinder engines. The two-speed Powerglide was still the only fully-automatic gearbox available with most engines as the more desirable three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic was only available with the largest V8 engines. An interesting engine option was the 5.3L (327 cid) V8 rated at 350 hp (RPO code L79).

The '''SS''' was transformed from a trim package to a performance option for 1968 and now included a 295 hp 5.7L (350 cid) V8 engine along with front disc brakes, heavy-duty suspension and other performance hardware. Optional engines included two versions of the big-block 6.5L (396 cid) V8 rated at 350 and 375 hp. Both 396 engines were offered with a choice of transmissions including the M-21 close-ratio four-speed manual, the M-22 heavy-duty "Rock Crusher" four-speed manual, or the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 400 for those who preferred automatic shifting. SSs could have a console with optional auxiliary gauges very similar to the contemporary Camaro design.

===1969===

The Chevy II nameplate was retired and the car became the "Chevy Nova" for this year (some sources referred to it as the Chevrolet Chevy Nova - perhaps the decision to drop the Chevy II moniker was a last-minute decision for 1969). Like other 1969 GM vehicles, locking steering columns were incorporated along with column ignitions. Simulated vents were added below the Nova script, which was relocated to the front fender instead of the rear quarter panel. The 350-4 that came standard with the SS option was revised with a five-hp increase to 300 while a 350-2 rated at 255 hp was a new option on non-SS models. A new Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 three-speed automatic was made available for non-SS Novas with six-cylinder and V8 engines.

===1970===

Basically a carryover from 1969; the side markers and taillight lenses were wider and positioned slightly differently, which placed the reverse lights in the middle of the taillight lens instead of the inward portion. This was the final year for the SS396. All other engines were carried over including the seldom-ordered four-cylinder which was in its final year. The car finally became simply the Chevrolet Nova this year after two years of transitional nameplates (Chevy II Nova in 1968 and Chevrolet Chevy Nova in 1969).

Approximately 177 COPO Novas were ordered, with 175 converted by Yenko Chevrolet (the other two were sold in Canada). These had the mighty LT1 (350 cid) V8 engine

A beater 1970 Nova coupe is prominently featured in the movie ''Beverly Hills Cop''.

===1971===

1971 Novas were similar to the previous year but with the loss of the simulated fender vents and the discontinuation of the 396 motor for the SS with the L48 350-4 taking its place. 1971 also saw the introduction of the '''Rally Nova''', a trim level that only lasted two years and was marketed as sort of a budget-SS. The Rally package included black or white stripes that ran the length of the car and around the back, a Rally Nova sticker on the driver's side of the hood, and Rally wheels.

The 250 I6 was now the standard Nova powerplant with the demise of the 153 I4 and 230 I6 engines. The 307 and 350 V8s were carried over from 1970 and all engines featured lowered compression ratios to enable the use of unleaded gasoline as a result of a GM corporate mandate that took effect with the 1971 model year.

After 1971, other GM divisions began rebadging the Nova as their new entry-level vehicle, such as the [[Pontiac Ventura]] II (once a trim option for full-size Pontiacs to 1970), [[Oldsmobile Omega]] (1973) and the [[Buick Apollo]] (mid-1973). Interestingly, the intials of the four model names spelled out the acronym '''NOVA''' (Nova, Omega, Ventura, Apollo.)

===1972===

A virtual rerun of 1971, the 1972 Nova received only minor trim changes and both the Rally Nova and SS options carried over. At mid-year a manual canvas sunroof option became available on two-door models. Also, the optional Strato bucket seats available on coupes switched from the previous low-back design with adjustable headrests to the high back units with built-in headrests introduced the previous year on Camaros and Vegas. Standard engine was still the 250 I6 with either a 3- or 4-speed manual or 2- or 3-speed automatics. The 307 and 350 V8s remained optional. There would be a restyled Nova for 1973.

===1973===

The 1973 model year introduced a new hatchback bodystyle based on the 2-door coupe, as well as a front and rear restyling and a modified rear side window shape, plus a revised rear suspension adapted from the second-generation Camaro with multi-leaf springs replacing the mono-leaf springs used on Novas since the original 1966 model. A luxury-themed '''Custom''' became part of the model lineup which included upgraded upholstery, full carpeting and more exterior trim. By this time, six-cylinder and V8 engines were ''de rigeur'' for American compact cars, with the 307 and 350 (5.0 and 5.7L) V8s becoming fairly common. Nova SS models offered a higher-performance 350 (5.7L) V8. The 1973 Nova with a six-cylinder engine or 307 V8 were among the last Chevrolets to be offered with the now-outdated two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission, which was in its final year.

===1974===

For 1974, the powerglide was replaced by a lightweight version of the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 already offered with the 350 V8, which was now the only V8 offered this year. The SS option was still available but became more of a sporty trim package than a performance offering and now offered with any Nova engine, much like the 1963-67 Nova SS. The 250 I6 remained standard, and transmission choices, with the exception of the 2-speed Powerglide, remained the same as well. There would be an all-new Nova for 1975.

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:77rally.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1975-1979
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1975-1979) 4.3L (262 cid) V8 (1975) 5.0L (305 cid) V8 (1976-1979) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1975-1978)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|110-170 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Skylark]] [[Cadillac Seville]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]/[[Pontiac Phoenix|Phoenix]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Fourth generation (1975–1979)==

A completely redesigned Nova was introduced in 1975. Bodystyles were still the 2-door coupe, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedans. Base coupes, including the hatchback, had fixed side windows (or optional flip-out windows) and simulated vertical vents on the B-pillar (sedans would have simulated horizontal vents at the bottom of the C-pillar). Engines this year were the standard 250 cid I6 carried over from the previous generations, a 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and 350 V8 were optional. The front suspension and subframe assembly was similar to the one used in the second-generation GM F-body ([[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]], [[Pontiac Firebird|Firebird]]), whereas the rear axle and suspension were carried over from the 1968-74 generation.

The Nova lineup now ranged from the stripped-down '''S''' model, base, '''Custom''', and the luxury-themed '''LN''' ("Luxury Nova"). The Nova '''SS''' continued for 1975 and got a unique grille and requisite badges. Dashboards and other controls were virtually identical in layout compared to the previous generation. A high-performance 9C1 police version of the Nova was introduced for the 1975 model year, making it the first compact car certified for police duty in the U.S. Most were initially purchased by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department in 1976.

The LN was replaced with the Nova '''Concours''' in 1976, and the Custom model was gone (temporarily). The grille was changed slightly, and the short-lived 262 V8 was replaced by the new 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and was standard on the Concours. The 350 V8 remained the top engine option. Transmissions included the 3-speed manual standard with the I6, with a 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic optional. The 305 could have a 4-speed manual or automatic, while the 350 was automatic only. 1977 Concours models got a new 3-taillight lens scheme very similar to the larger [[Chevrolet Impala|Impala]] with a [[Cadillac]]-esque front clip that included chrome squared-off headlight bezels and a more elegant-looking vertically-barred grille with extra chrome trim. The SS was dropped, but it would continue as the '''Nova Rally''', which was basically the same sporty-themed idea. Other models also got a slightly revised grille and all got a new dashboard with round gauges and an 80 MPH speedo.

1978 Novas continued with little change, other than the '''Custom''' model returning as the base model. The 2-door, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedan bodystyles, and Concours and Rally models, were still available. By now, however, the Nova was starting to fall out of favor with much of the buying public, largely due to increased competition from the new [[Ford Fairmont]] and even Chevrolet's own [[Chevrolet Malibu|Malibu]], which was an all-new downsized model for 1978. Even though 1979 was a final abbreviated model year, the front end was nonetheless revised again with square headlights and a new horizontally-barred grille for the short run. The 9C1 police package was dropped for '79, along with the Rally model and 350 V8 engine. Production ended on December 22, 1978. The Nova was replaced by the all-new front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] for 1980. The Nova name, however, would reappear again in 1985 on an unrelated model.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:156392062X01LZZZZZZ.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
| 1985-1988
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|4-Door Sedan 5-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2500-2700 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|5-Speed Manual, FWD 3-Speed Automatic, FWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|1.6L (97 cid) I4
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Toyota Corolla]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|S
|}

==1985-1988 Nova==

In 1985 the Nova name was applied to a rebadged [[Toyota Corolla]] and was produced at the NUMMI plant in Fremont, California, as an historic first joint venture between [[General Motors]] and [[Toyota]]. It shared the Corolla's drivetrain and running gear, and was available as a 4-door sedan and a 5-door hatchback (just like the Corolla). It differed from the Corolla mainly with slightly different front-end styling. It also shared many interior parts, such as audio systems, with other GM's offerings whereas the Corolla did not. The Corolla had been redesigned for 1988, but the Nova continued to use the old platform for its last year. The Nova would be replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]], which was also a twin to the Corolla.

==Main Competitors 1985-1988==

*[[Dodge Omni]]
*[[Ford Escort]]
*[[Honda Civic]]
*[[Isuzu I-Mark]]
*[[Mazda 323]]
*[[Mercury Lynx]]
*[[Nissan Sentra]]
*[[Plymouth Horizon]]
*[[Volkswagen Golf]]

{{-}}

==Photos==
<gallery>
Image:Ad77police350x496.jpg
</gallery>

==Main Competitors 1968-1979==
*[[Dodge Dart]]/[[Dodge Aspen|Aspen]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]/[[Ford Maverick|Maverick]]/[[Ford Fairmont|Fairmont]]
*[[Ford Granada]]
*[[Mercury Comet]]/[[Mercury Zephyr|Zephyr]]
*[[Mercury Monarch]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]/[[Plymouth Volare|Volare]]

==The urban legend==
A popular urban legend asserts that the Nova sold poorly in Mexico and other Latin American countries because the phrase ''no va'' means "does not go" in Spanish. In reality, the Spanish language ''no va'' and ''nova'' are as different as the English ''no table'' and ''notable'', or ''therapist'' and ''the rapist''. [http://www.snopes.com/business/misxlate/nova.asp] The word ''nova'' exists in [http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nova Spanish] with the same meaning as in English. Also, the Spanish word for 'new' (nuevo or nueva) is cognate to ''nova'', which originally meant "new" in Latin. Finally, as NOVA was a brand of gasoline sold for many years by PEMEX in Mexico, the largest of all Spanish-speaking Latin American countries, it is clear that this urban legend, while perhaps entertaining, is utterly baseless.

==See Also==
{{Chevrolet}}

==External links==
*[http://www.nnnova.com/ National Nostalgic Nova] The original National Nostalgic Nova Club Celebrating 25 Years of Helping Nova People The only Monthly Magazine dedicated to Only Novas!
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/nova/ Chevrolet Nova Internet Source] — The second known Nova site on the Internet
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/novaList.html Nova listserv] — The first and only known public [[Electronic mailing list|mailing list]] dedicated to Chevrolet Novas and other X-bodies; in continuous existence since January 1998
*[http://automotivehistoryonline.com/Chevrolet1960m.htm Automotive History Online] - Chevrolet Nova History & Photos
*[http://www.novaresource.org/ NovaResource.com] — Excellent source of history, production numbers, and option code information for 1962-79 Novas
*[http://www.stevesnovasite.com/ Steve's Nova Site] - Includes Q&A discussion board; another excellent resource for Nova owners
*[http://www.musclecarfacts.com/mcf/nova/nova.asp Chevy Nova SS at Muscle Car Facts] — A year-by-year history.
*[http://www.gen4novas.com/ Gen4Novas.com] — Source for the 'stepchild' Disco-era X-car.
*[http://www.2quicknovas.com/ 2QuickNovas.com] — Nova, technical, drag racing and general car info.
*[http://www.chevynova.org/1968.html]

[[Category:Classic cars]]

Chevrolet Nova

2010-10-18T20:41:57Z

Yankee: /* First Generation (1962-1965) */

The '''[[Chevrolet]] Nova''', or '''Chevy II''', was an American compact car introduced by [[General Motors]] in 1962. The original Chevy II was of unibody construction, powered by an OHV inline four or six-cylinder engine (and V8s later), and available in two- and four-door sedan configurations as well as convertible and station wagon versions. After the rear-engine [[Chevrolet Corvair]] was handily outsold by the conventional [[Ford Falcon]] in 1960, Chevrolet began work on a more conventional compact car that would eventually become the Chevy II. The Chevy II/Nova continued on throughout the 1960s and 70s with great success until it was supplanted by the front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] in 1980. The Nova name would reappear briefly again in 1985 as a twin to (of all things) the [[Toyota Corolla]]. The "Toyolet" Nova was discontinued after 1988, replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]].

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:1962 Chevrolet II.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1962-1965
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 2-Door Convertible 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 153" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1962-1965) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1962-1965) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1964-1965) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1964-1965) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1965)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-300 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==First Generation (1962-1965)==

Three different levels of this car were made - the baseline Chevy II '''100''', the mid-grade Chevy II '''300''' and the top-line Chevy II Nova '''400'''. Their was also the sport-oriented Chevy II Nova Super Sport ('''SS'''), available on the 2-door coupe or convertible. Available powerplants included the standard 2.5L (153 cid) I4 and optional the 3.2L (194 cid) I6. Bodystyles included a 2-door sedan and hardtop, 4-door sedan, 5-door wagon (with an optional rear-facing 3rd seat) and a 2-door convertible. Unlike its [[Dodge Dart]]/[[Plymouth Valiant]] and [[Ford Falcon]] competition, no V8s were initially offered, but Chevrolet 283 and 327 cid V8s were offered in some areas as dealer-installed options, up to and including the fuel injected version available in the [[Chevrolet Corvette]]. Transmissions were a column or floor 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed manual or 2-speed Powerglide automatic. SSs could have bucket seats with a floor console-shift.

For 1963, grilles and taillights were slightly revised but otherwise were largely unchanged. All bodystyles and engine choices remained the same. For 1964, the Chevy II's first factory V8 option was introduced - a 195 hp 4.7L (283 cid) V8. The convertible was dropped, and the SS was also dropped at the beginning of this year, but it was reinstated mid-year due to high popular demand. The 300 series trim level was discontinued, leaving the 100 and 400 levels. In 1965, the grille was redesigned and the parking lights were relocated from directly below the headlights to the bumper. Taillights were revised also. The 5.3L (327 cid) V8 debuted this year in the SS with up to 300 horsepower. Other drivetrain choices remained the same as before. There would be a restyled Nova for 1966.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Chevrolet-nova 66.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1966-1967
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 154.7" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1966-1967) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1967) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1966-1967) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1966-1967)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-350 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Second Generation (1966-1967)==

1966 Novas saw a significant restyling, based in part on the Super Nova concept car. In general, external proportions were squared up but dimensions and features changed little. Trim choices were still the '''100''' and '''400'''. Engine options still included the basic 153 I4, 194 I6 and the 283 and 327 V8s, the latter offering now offering up to 350 horsepower. V8 models got special lower fender badges behind the front wheels. Transmission choices remained the column or floor-shift 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed and 2-speed Powerglide automatics. Inside, there was a new dashboard that strongly resembled the larger [[Chevrolet Chevelle|Chevelle's]] (also all-new this year) and revised seat designs, but the Chevy II line during this time was still very spartan. The 90 hp 153 I4 was only offered in the base Chevy II 100 series models, with the 120-horsepower 194 I6 standard on the Nova and Nova SS lines. A new engine offering included a 140 hp 3.8L (230 cid) I6, available in all models except the baseline 100. The SS could still have bucket seats with a console floor shift. Not many changes for 1967, but a 155 hp 4.1L (250 cid) I6 became available in all models except the 100. The 350 hp L79 327 V8 was unfortunately dropped this year, but other drivetrain choices remained the same as the previous year's. There would be an all-new Chevy II/Nova for 1968.

==Main Competitors 1962-1967==

*[[Dodge Dart]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]
*[[Studebaker Lark]]

[[Image:Nova front fender emblem 68-72.jpg|left|350px]]

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:477.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1968-1974
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1968-1970) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1968-1974) 5.0L (307 cid) V8 (1968-1973) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1968-1974) 6.5L (396 cid) cid V8 (1968-1970) 7.0L (427 cid) V8 (1970)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-425 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Apollo]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Third generation (1968–1974)==

An extensive redesign came in 1968, when the station wagon and two door hardtop bodystyles were discontinued. This body style continued (with a minor restyle in 1973) through 1974. One notable change was the front subframe assembly — as compared with [[Ford]], [[Chrysler]] and [[AMC]], in whose cars the entire front suspension was integrated with the bodyshell, a separate subframe housing the powertrain and front suspension (similar to the front part of the frame of GM's full-size, full-framed vehicles) replaced the earlier style. Although the front subframe design was a Chevy II-exclusive design, the [[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]] introduced a year earlier was the first to incorporate such a design; the redesigned Chevy II was pushed a year back to 1968 instead of 1967. 1968 was the final year that the Chevy II nameplate was used, although all 1968 models were "Chevy II Novas" with one single trim line.

The 153 I4 carried over from the previous generation as standard on the baseline model. Far more popular were the 250 I6 and the new 5.0L (307 cid) V8, which replaced the 283 offered in previous generations. At mid-year a semi-automatic transmission based on the Powerglide called Torque-Drive was introduced as a low-cost option for shiftless motoring for both the four and six-cylinder engines. The two-speed Powerglide was still the only fully-automatic gearbox available with most engines as the more desirable three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic was only available with the largest V8 engines. An interesting engine option was the 5.3L (327 cid) V8 rated at 350 hp (RPO code L79).

The '''SS''' was transformed from a trim package to a performance option for 1968 and now included a 295 hp 5.7L (350 cid) V8 engine along with front disc brakes, heavy-duty suspension and other performance hardware. Optional engines included two versions of the big-block 6.5L (396 cid) V8 rated at 350 and 375 hp. Both 396 engines were offered with a choice of transmissions including the M-21 close-ratio four-speed manual, the M-22 heavy-duty "Rock Crusher" four-speed manual, or the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 400 for those who preferred automatic shifting. SSs could have a console with optional auxiliary gauges very similar to the contemporary Camaro design.

===1969===

The Chevy II nameplate was retired and the car became the "Chevy Nova" for this year (some sources referred to it as the Chevrolet Chevy Nova - perhaps the decision to drop the Chevy II moniker was a last-minute decision for 1969). Like other 1969 GM vehicles, locking steering columns were incorporated along with column ignitions. Simulated vents were added below the Nova script, which was relocated to the front fender instead of the rear quarter panel. The 350-4 that came standard with the SS option was revised with a five-hp increase to 300 while a 350-2 rated at 255 hp was a new option on non-SS models. A new Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 three-speed automatic was made available for non-SS Novas with six-cylinder and V8 engines.

===1970===

Basically a carryover from 1969; the side markers and taillight lenses were wider and positioned slightly differently, which placed the reverse lights in the middle of the taillight lens instead of the inward portion. This was the final year for the SS396. All other engines were carried over including the seldom-ordered four-cylinder which was in its final year. The car finally became simply the Chevrolet Nova this year after two years of transitional nameplates (Chevy II Nova in 1968 and Chevrolet Chevy Nova in 1969).

Approximately 177 COPO Novas were ordered, with 175 converted by Yenko Chevrolet (the other two were sold in Canada). These had the mighty LT1 (350 cid) V8 engine

A beater 1970 Nova coupe is prominently featured in the movie ''Beverly Hills Cop''.

===1971===

1971 Novas were similar to the previous year but with the loss of the simulated fender vents and the discontinuation of the 396 motor for the SS with the L48 350-4 taking its place. 1971 also saw the introduction of the '''Rally Nova''', a trim level that only lasted two years and was marketed as sort of a budget-SS. The Rally package included black or white stripes that ran the length of the car and around the back, a Rally Nova sticker on the driver's side of the hood, and Rally wheels.

The 250 I6 was now the standard Nova powerplant with the demise of the 153 I4 and 230 I6 engines. The 307 and 350 V8s were carried over from 1970 and all engines featured lowered compression ratios to enable the use of unleaded gasoline as a result of a GM corporate mandate that took effect with the 1971 model year.

After 1971, other GM divisions began rebadging the Nova as their new entry-level vehicle, such as the [[Pontiac Ventura]] II (once a trim option for full-size Pontiacs to 1970), [[Oldsmobile Omega]] (1973) and the [[Buick Apollo]] (mid-1973). Interestingly, the intials of the four model names spelled out the acronym '''NOVA''' (Nova, Omega, Ventura, Apollo.)

===1972===

A virtual rerun of 1971, the 1972 Nova received only minor trim changes and both the Rally Nova and SS options carried over. At mid-year a manual canvas sunroof option became available on two-door models. Also, the optional Strato bucket seats available on coupes switched from the previous low-back design with adjustable headrests to the high back units with built-in headrests introduced the previous year on Camaros and Vegas. Standard engine was still the 250 I6 with either a 3- or 4-speed manual or 2- or 3-speed automatics. The 307 and 350 V8s remained optional. There would be a restyled Nova for 1973.

===1973===

The 1973 model year introduced a new hatchback bodystyle based on the 2-door coupe, as well as a front and rear restyling and a modified rear side window shape, plus a revised rear suspension adapted from the second-generation Camaro with multi-leaf springs replacing the mono-leaf springs used on Novas since the original 1966 model. A luxury-themed '''Custom''' became part of the model lineup which included upgraded upholstery, full carpeting and more exterior trim. By this time, six-cylinder and V8 engines were ''de rigeur'' for American compact cars, with the 307 and 350 (5.0 and 5.7L) V8s becoming fairly common. Nova SS models offered a higher-performance 350 (5.7L) V8. The 1973 Nova with a six-cylinder engine or 307 V8 were among the last Chevrolets to be offered with the now-outdated two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission, which was in its final year.

===1974===

For 1974, the powerglide was replaced by a lightweight version of the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 already offered with the 350 V8, which was now the only V8 offered this year. The SS option was still available but became more of a sporty trim package than a performance offering and now offered with any Nova engine, much like the 1963-67 Nova SS. The 250 I6 remained standard, and transmission choices, with the exception of the 2-speed Powerglide, remained the same as well. There would be an all-new Nova for 1975.

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:77rally.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1975-1979
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1975-1979) 4.3L (262 cid) V8 (1975) 5.0L (305 cid) V8 (1976-1979) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1975-1978)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|110-170 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Skylark]] [[Cadillac Seville]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]/[[Pontiac Phoenix|Phoenix]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Fourth generation (1975–1979)==

A completely redesigned Nova was introduced in 1975. Bodystyles were still the 2-door coupe, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedans. Base coupes, including the hatchback, had fixed side windows (or optional flip-out windows) and simulated vertical vents on the B-pillar (sedans would have simulated horizontal vents at the bottom of the C-pillar). Engines this year were the standard 250 cid I6 carried over from the previous generations, a 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and 350 V8 were optional. The front suspension and subframe assembly was similar to the one used in the second-generation GM F-body ([[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]], [[Pontiac Firebird|Firebird]]), whereas the rear axle and suspension were carried over from the 1968-74 generation.

The Nova lineup now ranged from the stripped-down '''S''' model, base, '''Custom''', and the luxury-themed '''LN''' ("Luxury Nova"). The Nova '''SS''' continued for 1975 and got a unique grille and requisite badges. Dashboards and other controls were virtually identical in layout compared to the previous generation. A high-performance 9C1 police version of the Nova was introduced for the 1975 model year, making it the first compact car certified for police duty in the U.S. Most were initially purchased by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department in 1976.

The LN was replaced with the Nova '''Concours''' in 1976, and the Custom model was gone (temporarily). The grille was changed slightly, and the short-lived 262 V8 was replaced by the new 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and was standard on the Concours. The 350 V8 remained the top engine option. Transmissions included the 3-speed manual standard with the I6, with a 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic optional. The 305 could have a 4-speed manual or automatic, while the 350 was automatic only. 1977 Concours models got a new 3-taillight lens scheme very similar to the larger [[Chevrolet Impala|Impala]] with a [[Cadillac]]-esque front clip that included chrome squared-off headlight bezels and a more elegant-looking vertically-barred grille with extra chrome trim. The SS was dropped, but it would continue as the '''Nova Rally''', which was basically the same sporty-themed idea. Other models also got a slightly revised grille and all got a new dashboard with round gauges and an 80 MPH speedo.

1978 Novas continued with little change, other than the '''Custom''' model returning as the base model. The 2-door, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedan bodystyles, and Concours and Rally models, were still available. By now, however, the Nova was starting to fall out of favor with much of the buying public, largely due to increased competition from the new [[Ford Fairmont]] and even Chevrolet's own [[Chevrolet Malibu|Malibu]], which was an all-new downsized model for 1978. Even though 1979 was a final abbreviated model year, the front end was nonetheless revised again with square headlights and a new horizontally-barred grille for the short run. The 9C1 police package was dropped for '79, along with the Rally model and 350 V8 engine. Production ended on December 22, 1978. The Nova was replaced by the all-new front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] for 1980. The Nova name, however, would reappear again in 1985 on an unrelated model.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:156392062X01LZZZZZZ.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
| 1985-1988
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|4-Door Sedan 5-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2500-2700 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|5-Speed Manual, FWD 3-Speed Automatic, FWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|1.6L (97 cid) I4
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Toyota Corolla]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|S
|}

==1985-1988 Nova==

In 1985 the Nova name was applied to a rebadged [[Toyota Corolla]] and was produced at the NUMMI plant in Fremont, California, as an historic first joint venture between [[General Motors]] and [[Toyota]]. It shared the Corolla's drivetrain and running gear, and was available as a 4-door sedan and a 5-door hatchback (just like the Corolla). It differed from the Corolla mainly with slightly different front-end styling. It also shared many interior parts, such as audio systems, with other GM's offerings whereas the Corolla did not. The Corolla had been redesigned for 1988, but the Nova continued to use the old platform for its last year. The Nova would be replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]], which was also a twin to the Corolla.

==Main Competitors 1985-1988==

*[[Dodge Omni]]
*[[Ford Escort]]
*[[Honda Civic]]
*[[Isuzu I-Mark]]
*[[Mazda 323]]
*[[Mercury Lynx]]
*[[Nissan Sentra]]
*[[Plymouth Horizon]]
*[[Volkswagen Golf]]

{{-}}

==Photos==
<gallery>
Image:Ad77police350x496.jpg
</gallery>

==Main Competitors 1968-1979==
*[[Dodge Dart]]/[[Dodge Aspen|Aspen]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]/[[Ford Maverick|Maverick]]/[[Ford Fairmont|Fairmont]]
*[[Ford Granada]]
*[[Mercury Comet]]/[[Mercury Zephyr|Zephyr]]
*[[Mercury Monarch]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]/[[Plymouth Volare|Volare]]

==The urban legend==
A popular urban legend asserts that the Nova sold poorly in Mexico and other Latin American countries because the phrase ''no va'' means "does not go" in Spanish. In reality, the Spanish language ''no va'' and ''nova'' are as different as the English ''no table'' and ''notable'', or ''therapist'' and ''the rapist''. [http://www.snopes.com/business/misxlate/nova.asp] The word ''nova'' exists in [http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nova Spanish] with the same meaning as in English. Also, the Spanish word for 'new' (nuevo or nueva) is cognate to ''nova'', which originally meant "new" in Latin. Finally, as NOVA was a brand of gasoline sold for many years by PEMEX in Mexico, the largest of all Spanish-speaking Latin American countries, it is clear that this urban legend, while perhaps entertaining, is utterly baseless.

==See Also==
{{Chevrolet}}

==External links==
*[http://www.nnnova.com/ National Nostalgic Nova] The original National Nostalgic Nova Club Celebrating 25 Years of Helping Nova People The only Monthly Magazine dedicated to Only Novas!
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/nova/ Chevrolet Nova Internet Source] — The second known Nova site on the Internet
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/novaList.html Nova listserv] — The first and only known public [[Electronic mailing list|mailing list]] dedicated to Chevrolet Novas and other X-bodies; in continuous existence since January 1998
*[http://automotivehistoryonline.com/Chevrolet1960m.htm Automotive History Online] - Chevrolet Nova History & Photos
*[http://www.novaresource.org/ NovaResource.com] — Excellent source of history, production numbers, and option code information for 1962-79 Novas
*[http://www.stevesnovasite.com/ Steve's Nova Site] - Includes Q&A discussion board; another excellent resource for Nova owners
*[http://www.musclecarfacts.com/mcf/nova/nova.asp Chevy Nova SS at Muscle Car Facts] — A year-by-year history.
*[http://www.gen4novas.com/ Gen4Novas.com] — Source for the 'stepchild' Disco-era X-car.
*[http://www.2quicknovas.com/ 2QuickNovas.com] — Nova, technical, drag racing and general car info.
*[http://www.chevynova.org/1968.html]

[[Category:Classic cars]]

Chevrolet Nova

2010-10-18T20:41:10Z

Yankee: /* First Generation (1962-1965) */

The '''[[Chevrolet]] Nova''', or '''Chevy II''', was an American compact car introduced by [[General Motors]] in 1962. The original Chevy II was of unibody construction, powered by an OHV inline four or six-cylinder engine (and V8s later), and available in two- and four-door sedan configurations as well as convertible and station wagon versions. After the rear-engine [[Chevrolet Corvair]] was handily outsold by the conventional [[Ford Falcon]] in 1960, Chevrolet began work on a more conventional compact car that would eventually become the Chevy II. The Chevy II/Nova continued on throughout the 1960s and 70s with great success until it was supplanted by the front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] in 1980. The Nova name would reappear briefly again in 1985 as a twin to (of all things) the [[Toyota Corolla]]. The "Toyolet" Nova was discontinued after 1988, replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]].

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:1962 Chevrolet II.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1962-1965
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 2-Door Convertible 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 153" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1962-1965) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1962-1965) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1964-1965) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1964-1965) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1965)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-300 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==First Generation (1962-1965)==

Three different levels of this car were made - the baseline Chevy II '''100''', the mid-grade Chevy II '''300''' and the top-line Chevy II Nova '''400'''. Their was also the sport-oriented Chevy II Nova Super Sport ('''SS'''). Available powerplants included the standard 2.5L (153 cid) I4 and optional the 3.2L (194 cid) I6. Bodystyles included a 2-door sedan and hardtop, 4-door sedan, 5-door wagon (with an optional rear-facing 3rd seat) and a 2-door convertible. Unlike its [[Dodge Dart]]/[[Plymouth Valiant]] and [[Ford Falcon]] competition, no V8s were initially offered, but Chevrolet 283 and 327 cid V8s were offered in some areas as dealer-installed options, up to and including the fuel injected version available in the [[Chevrolet Corvette]]. Transmissions were a column or floor 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed manual or 2-speed Powerglide automatic. SSs could have bucket seats with a floor console-shift.

For 1963, grilles and taillights were slightly revised but otherwise were largely unchanged. All bodystyles and engine choices remained the same. For 1964, the Chevy II's first factory V8 option was introduced - a 195 hp 4.7L (283 cid) V8. The convertible was dropped, and the SS was also dropped at the beginning of this year, but it was reinstated mid-year due to high popular demand. The 300 series trim level was discontinued, leaving the 100 and 400 levels. In 1965, the grille was redesigned and the parking lights were relocated from directly below the headlights to the bumper. Taillights were revised also. The 5.3L (327 cid) V8 debuted this year in the SS with up to 300 horsepower. Other drivetrain choices remained the same as before. There would be a restyled Nova for 1966.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Chevrolet-nova 66.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1966-1967
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 154.7" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1966-1967) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1967) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1966-1967) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1966-1967)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-350 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Second Generation (1966-1967)==

1966 Novas saw a significant restyling, based in part on the Super Nova concept car. In general, external proportions were squared up but dimensions and features changed little. Trim choices were still the '''100''' and '''400'''. Engine options still included the basic 153 I4, 194 I6 and the 283 and 327 V8s, the latter offering now offering up to 350 horsepower. V8 models got special lower fender badges behind the front wheels. Transmission choices remained the column or floor-shift 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed and 2-speed Powerglide automatics. Inside, there was a new dashboard that strongly resembled the larger [[Chevrolet Chevelle|Chevelle's]] (also all-new this year) and revised seat designs, but the Chevy II line during this time was still very spartan. The 90 hp 153 I4 was only offered in the base Chevy II 100 series models, with the 120-horsepower 194 I6 standard on the Nova and Nova SS lines. A new engine offering included a 140 hp 3.8L (230 cid) I6, available in all models except the baseline 100. The SS could still have bucket seats with a console floor shift. Not many changes for 1967, but a 155 hp 4.1L (250 cid) I6 became available in all models except the 100. The 350 hp L79 327 V8 was unfortunately dropped this year, but other drivetrain choices remained the same as the previous year's. There would be an all-new Chevy II/Nova for 1968.

==Main Competitors 1962-1967==

*[[Dodge Dart]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]
*[[Studebaker Lark]]

[[Image:Nova front fender emblem 68-72.jpg|left|350px]]

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:477.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1968-1974
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1968-1970) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1968-1974) 5.0L (307 cid) V8 (1968-1973) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1968-1974) 6.5L (396 cid) cid V8 (1968-1970) 7.0L (427 cid) V8 (1970)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-425 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Apollo]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Third generation (1968–1974)==

An extensive redesign came in 1968, when the station wagon and two door hardtop bodystyles were discontinued. This body style continued (with a minor restyle in 1973) through 1974. One notable change was the front subframe assembly — as compared with [[Ford]], [[Chrysler]] and [[AMC]], in whose cars the entire front suspension was integrated with the bodyshell, a separate subframe housing the powertrain and front suspension (similar to the front part of the frame of GM's full-size, full-framed vehicles) replaced the earlier style. Although the front subframe design was a Chevy II-exclusive design, the [[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]] introduced a year earlier was the first to incorporate such a design; the redesigned Chevy II was pushed a year back to 1968 instead of 1967. 1968 was the final year that the Chevy II nameplate was used, although all 1968 models were "Chevy II Novas" with one single trim line.

The 153 I4 carried over from the previous generation as standard on the baseline model. Far more popular were the 250 I6 and the new 5.0L (307 cid) V8, which replaced the 283 offered in previous generations. At mid-year a semi-automatic transmission based on the Powerglide called Torque-Drive was introduced as a low-cost option for shiftless motoring for both the four and six-cylinder engines. The two-speed Powerglide was still the only fully-automatic gearbox available with most engines as the more desirable three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic was only available with the largest V8 engines. An interesting engine option was the 5.3L (327 cid) V8 rated at 350 hp (RPO code L79).

The '''SS''' was transformed from a trim package to a performance option for 1968 and now included a 295 hp 5.7L (350 cid) V8 engine along with front disc brakes, heavy-duty suspension and other performance hardware. Optional engines included two versions of the big-block 6.5L (396 cid) V8 rated at 350 and 375 hp. Both 396 engines were offered with a choice of transmissions including the M-21 close-ratio four-speed manual, the M-22 heavy-duty "Rock Crusher" four-speed manual, or the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 400 for those who preferred automatic shifting. SSs could have a console with optional auxiliary gauges very similar to the contemporary Camaro design.

===1969===

The Chevy II nameplate was retired and the car became the "Chevy Nova" for this year (some sources referred to it as the Chevrolet Chevy Nova - perhaps the decision to drop the Chevy II moniker was a last-minute decision for 1969). Like other 1969 GM vehicles, locking steering columns were incorporated along with column ignitions. Simulated vents were added below the Nova script, which was relocated to the front fender instead of the rear quarter panel. The 350-4 that came standard with the SS option was revised with a five-hp increase to 300 while a 350-2 rated at 255 hp was a new option on non-SS models. A new Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 three-speed automatic was made available for non-SS Novas with six-cylinder and V8 engines.

===1970===

Basically a carryover from 1969; the side markers and taillight lenses were wider and positioned slightly differently, which placed the reverse lights in the middle of the taillight lens instead of the inward portion. This was the final year for the SS396. All other engines were carried over including the seldom-ordered four-cylinder which was in its final year. The car finally became simply the Chevrolet Nova this year after two years of transitional nameplates (Chevy II Nova in 1968 and Chevrolet Chevy Nova in 1969).

Approximately 177 COPO Novas were ordered, with 175 converted by Yenko Chevrolet (the other two were sold in Canada). These had the mighty LT1 (350 cid) V8 engine

A beater 1970 Nova coupe is prominently featured in the movie ''Beverly Hills Cop''.

===1971===

1971 Novas were similar to the previous year but with the loss of the simulated fender vents and the discontinuation of the 396 motor for the SS with the L48 350-4 taking its place. 1971 also saw the introduction of the '''Rally Nova''', a trim level that only lasted two years and was marketed as sort of a budget-SS. The Rally package included black or white stripes that ran the length of the car and around the back, a Rally Nova sticker on the driver's side of the hood, and Rally wheels.

The 250 I6 was now the standard Nova powerplant with the demise of the 153 I4 and 230 I6 engines. The 307 and 350 V8s were carried over from 1970 and all engines featured lowered compression ratios to enable the use of unleaded gasoline as a result of a GM corporate mandate that took effect with the 1971 model year.

After 1971, other GM divisions began rebadging the Nova as their new entry-level vehicle, such as the [[Pontiac Ventura]] II (once a trim option for full-size Pontiacs to 1970), [[Oldsmobile Omega]] (1973) and the [[Buick Apollo]] (mid-1973). Interestingly, the intials of the four model names spelled out the acronym '''NOVA''' (Nova, Omega, Ventura, Apollo.)

===1972===

A virtual rerun of 1971, the 1972 Nova received only minor trim changes and both the Rally Nova and SS options carried over. At mid-year a manual canvas sunroof option became available on two-door models. Also, the optional Strato bucket seats available on coupes switched from the previous low-back design with adjustable headrests to the high back units with built-in headrests introduced the previous year on Camaros and Vegas. Standard engine was still the 250 I6 with either a 3- or 4-speed manual or 2- or 3-speed automatics. The 307 and 350 V8s remained optional. There would be a restyled Nova for 1973.

===1973===

The 1973 model year introduced a new hatchback bodystyle based on the 2-door coupe, as well as a front and rear restyling and a modified rear side window shape, plus a revised rear suspension adapted from the second-generation Camaro with multi-leaf springs replacing the mono-leaf springs used on Novas since the original 1966 model. A luxury-themed '''Custom''' became part of the model lineup which included upgraded upholstery, full carpeting and more exterior trim. By this time, six-cylinder and V8 engines were ''de rigeur'' for American compact cars, with the 307 and 350 (5.0 and 5.7L) V8s becoming fairly common. Nova SS models offered a higher-performance 350 (5.7L) V8. The 1973 Nova with a six-cylinder engine or 307 V8 were among the last Chevrolets to be offered with the now-outdated two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission, which was in its final year.

===1974===

For 1974, the powerglide was replaced by a lightweight version of the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 already offered with the 350 V8, which was now the only V8 offered this year. The SS option was still available but became more of a sporty trim package than a performance offering and now offered with any Nova engine, much like the 1963-67 Nova SS. The 250 I6 remained standard, and transmission choices, with the exception of the 2-speed Powerglide, remained the same as well. There would be an all-new Nova for 1975.

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:77rally.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1975-1979
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1975-1979) 4.3L (262 cid) V8 (1975) 5.0L (305 cid) V8 (1976-1979) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1975-1978)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|110-170 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Skylark]] [[Cadillac Seville]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]/[[Pontiac Phoenix|Phoenix]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Fourth generation (1975–1979)==

A completely redesigned Nova was introduced in 1975. Bodystyles were still the 2-door coupe, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedans. Base coupes, including the hatchback, had fixed side windows (or optional flip-out windows) and simulated vertical vents on the B-pillar (sedans would have simulated horizontal vents at the bottom of the C-pillar). Engines this year were the standard 250 cid I6 carried over from the previous generations, a 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and 350 V8 were optional. The front suspension and subframe assembly was similar to the one used in the second-generation GM F-body ([[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]], [[Pontiac Firebird|Firebird]]), whereas the rear axle and suspension were carried over from the 1968-74 generation.

The Nova lineup now ranged from the stripped-down '''S''' model, base, '''Custom''', and the luxury-themed '''LN''' ("Luxury Nova"). The Nova '''SS''' continued for 1975 and got a unique grille and requisite badges. Dashboards and other controls were virtually identical in layout compared to the previous generation. A high-performance 9C1 police version of the Nova was introduced for the 1975 model year, making it the first compact car certified for police duty in the U.S. Most were initially purchased by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department in 1976.

The LN was replaced with the Nova '''Concours''' in 1976, and the Custom model was gone (temporarily). The grille was changed slightly, and the short-lived 262 V8 was replaced by the new 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and was standard on the Concours. The 350 V8 remained the top engine option. Transmissions included the 3-speed manual standard with the I6, with a 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic optional. The 305 could have a 4-speed manual or automatic, while the 350 was automatic only. 1977 Concours models got a new 3-taillight lens scheme very similar to the larger [[Chevrolet Impala|Impala]] with a [[Cadillac]]-esque front clip that included chrome squared-off headlight bezels and a more elegant-looking vertically-barred grille with extra chrome trim. The SS was dropped, but it would continue as the '''Nova Rally''', which was basically the same sporty-themed idea. Other models also got a slightly revised grille and all got a new dashboard with round gauges and an 80 MPH speedo.

1978 Novas continued with little change, other than the '''Custom''' model returning as the base model. The 2-door, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedan bodystyles, and Concours and Rally models, were still available. By now, however, the Nova was starting to fall out of favor with much of the buying public, largely due to increased competition from the new [[Ford Fairmont]] and even Chevrolet's own [[Chevrolet Malibu|Malibu]], which was an all-new downsized model for 1978. Even though 1979 was a final abbreviated model year, the front end was nonetheless revised again with square headlights and a new horizontally-barred grille for the short run. The 9C1 police package was dropped for '79, along with the Rally model and 350 V8 engine. Production ended on December 22, 1978. The Nova was replaced by the all-new front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] for 1980. The Nova name, however, would reappear again in 1985 on an unrelated model.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:156392062X01LZZZZZZ.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
| 1985-1988
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|4-Door Sedan 5-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2500-2700 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|5-Speed Manual, FWD 3-Speed Automatic, FWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|1.6L (97 cid) I4
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Toyota Corolla]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|S
|}

==1985-1988 Nova==

In 1985 the Nova name was applied to a rebadged [[Toyota Corolla]] and was produced at the NUMMI plant in Fremont, California, as an historic first joint venture between [[General Motors]] and [[Toyota]]. It shared the Corolla's drivetrain and running gear, and was available as a 4-door sedan and a 5-door hatchback (just like the Corolla). It differed from the Corolla mainly with slightly different front-end styling. It also shared many interior parts, such as audio systems, with other GM's offerings whereas the Corolla did not. The Corolla had been redesigned for 1988, but the Nova continued to use the old platform for its last year. The Nova would be replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]], which was also a twin to the Corolla.

==Main Competitors 1985-1988==

*[[Dodge Omni]]
*[[Ford Escort]]
*[[Honda Civic]]
*[[Isuzu I-Mark]]
*[[Mazda 323]]
*[[Mercury Lynx]]
*[[Nissan Sentra]]
*[[Plymouth Horizon]]
*[[Volkswagen Golf]]

{{-}}

==Photos==
<gallery>
Image:Ad77police350x496.jpg
</gallery>

==Main Competitors 1968-1979==
*[[Dodge Dart]]/[[Dodge Aspen|Aspen]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]/[[Ford Maverick|Maverick]]/[[Ford Fairmont|Fairmont]]
*[[Ford Granada]]
*[[Mercury Comet]]/[[Mercury Zephyr|Zephyr]]
*[[Mercury Monarch]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]/[[Plymouth Volare|Volare]]

==The urban legend==
A popular urban legend asserts that the Nova sold poorly in Mexico and other Latin American countries because the phrase ''no va'' means "does not go" in Spanish. In reality, the Spanish language ''no va'' and ''nova'' are as different as the English ''no table'' and ''notable'', or ''therapist'' and ''the rapist''. [http://www.snopes.com/business/misxlate/nova.asp] The word ''nova'' exists in [http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nova Spanish] with the same meaning as in English. Also, the Spanish word for 'new' (nuevo or nueva) is cognate to ''nova'', which originally meant "new" in Latin. Finally, as NOVA was a brand of gasoline sold for many years by PEMEX in Mexico, the largest of all Spanish-speaking Latin American countries, it is clear that this urban legend, while perhaps entertaining, is utterly baseless.

==See Also==
{{Chevrolet}}

==External links==
*[http://www.nnnova.com/ National Nostalgic Nova] The original National Nostalgic Nova Club Celebrating 25 Years of Helping Nova People The only Monthly Magazine dedicated to Only Novas!
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/nova/ Chevrolet Nova Internet Source] — The second known Nova site on the Internet
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/novaList.html Nova listserv] — The first and only known public [[Electronic mailing list|mailing list]] dedicated to Chevrolet Novas and other X-bodies; in continuous existence since January 1998
*[http://automotivehistoryonline.com/Chevrolet1960m.htm Automotive History Online] - Chevrolet Nova History & Photos
*[http://www.novaresource.org/ NovaResource.com] — Excellent source of history, production numbers, and option code information for 1962-79 Novas
*[http://www.stevesnovasite.com/ Steve's Nova Site] - Includes Q&A discussion board; another excellent resource for Nova owners
*[http://www.musclecarfacts.com/mcf/nova/nova.asp Chevy Nova SS at Muscle Car Facts] — A year-by-year history.
*[http://www.gen4novas.com/ Gen4Novas.com] — Source for the 'stepchild' Disco-era X-car.
*[http://www.2quicknovas.com/ 2QuickNovas.com] — Nova, technical, drag racing and general car info.
*[http://www.chevynova.org/1968.html]

[[Category:Classic cars]]

Chevrolet Nova

2010-10-18T20:37:03Z

Yankee: /* First Generation (1962-1965) */

The '''[[Chevrolet]] Nova''', or '''Chevy II''', was an American compact car introduced by [[General Motors]] in 1962. The original Chevy II was of unibody construction, powered by an OHV inline four or six-cylinder engine (and V8s later), and available in two- and four-door sedan configurations as well as convertible and station wagon versions. After the rear-engine [[Chevrolet Corvair]] was handily outsold by the conventional [[Ford Falcon]] in 1960, Chevrolet began work on a more conventional compact car that would eventually become the Chevy II. The Chevy II/Nova continued on throughout the 1960s and 70s with great success until it was supplanted by the front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] in 1980. The Nova name would reappear briefly again in 1985 as a twin to (of all things) the [[Toyota Corolla]]. The "Toyolet" Nova was discontinued after 1988, replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]].

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:1962 Chevrolet II.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1962-1965
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 2-Door Convertible 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 153" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1962-1965) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1962-1965) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1964-1965) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1964-1965) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1965)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-300 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==First Generation (1962-1965)==

Three different levels of this car were made - the baseline Chevy II '''100''', the mid-grade Chevy II '''300''' and the top-line Chevy II Nova '''400'''. Available powerplants included the standard 2.5L (153 cid) I4 and optional the 3.2L (194 cid) I6. Bodystyles included a 2-door sedan and hardtop, 4-door sedan, 5-door wagon (with an optional rear-facing 3rd seat) and a 2-door convertible. Unlike its [[Dodge Dart]]/[[Plymouth Valiant]] and [[Ford Falcon]] competition, no V8s were initially offered, but Chevrolet 283 and 327 cid V8s were offered in some areas as dealer-installed options, up to and including the fuel injected version available in the [[Chevrolet Corvette]]. Transmissions were a column or floor 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed manual or 2-speed Powerglide automatic.

For 1963, the sport-oriented Chevy II Nova Super Sport ('''SS''') was released. Grilles and taillights were slightly revised. All bodystyles and engine choices remained the same. SSs could have bucket seats with a floor console-shift. For 1964, the Chevy II's first factory V8 option was introduced - a 195 hp 4.7L (283 cid) V8. The convertible was dropped, and the SS was also dropped at the beginning of this year, but it was reinstated mid-year due to high popular demand. The 300 series trim level was discontinued, leaving the 100 and 400 levels. In 1965, the grille was redesigned and the parking lights were relocated from directly below the headlights to the bumper. Taillights were revised also. The 5.3L (327 cid) V8 debuted this year in the SS with up to 300 horsepower. Other drivetrain choices remained the same as before. There would be a restyled Nova for 1966.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Chevrolet-nova 66.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1966-1967
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 154.7" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1966-1967) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1967) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1966-1967) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1966-1967)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-350 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Second Generation (1966-1967)==

1966 Novas saw a significant restyling, based in part on the Super Nova concept car. In general, external proportions were squared up but dimensions and features changed little. Trim choices were still the '''100''' and '''400'''. Engine options still included the basic 153 I4, 194 I6 and the 283 and 327 V8s, the latter offering now offering up to 350 horsepower. V8 models got special lower fender badges behind the front wheels. Transmission choices remained the column or floor-shift 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed and 2-speed Powerglide automatics. Inside, there was a new dashboard that strongly resembled the larger [[Chevrolet Chevelle|Chevelle's]] (also all-new this year) and revised seat designs, but the Chevy II line during this time was still very spartan. The 90 hp 153 I4 was only offered in the base Chevy II 100 series models, with the 120-horsepower 194 I6 standard on the Nova and Nova SS lines. A new engine offering included a 140 hp 3.8L (230 cid) I6, available in all models except the baseline 100. The SS could still have bucket seats with a console floor shift. Not many changes for 1967, but a 155 hp 4.1L (250 cid) I6 became available in all models except the 100. The 350 hp L79 327 V8 was unfortunately dropped this year, but other drivetrain choices remained the same as the previous year's. There would be an all-new Chevy II/Nova for 1968.

==Main Competitors 1962-1967==

*[[Dodge Dart]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]
*[[Studebaker Lark]]

[[Image:Nova front fender emblem 68-72.jpg|left|350px]]

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:477.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1968-1974
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1968-1970) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1968-1974) 5.0L (307 cid) V8 (1968-1973) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1968-1974) 6.5L (396 cid) cid V8 (1968-1970) 7.0L (427 cid) V8 (1970)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-425 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Apollo]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Third generation (1968–1974)==

An extensive redesign came in 1968, when the station wagon and two door hardtop bodystyles were discontinued. This body style continued (with a minor restyle in 1973) through 1974. One notable change was the front subframe assembly — as compared with [[Ford]], [[Chrysler]] and [[AMC]], in whose cars the entire front suspension was integrated with the bodyshell, a separate subframe housing the powertrain and front suspension (similar to the front part of the frame of GM's full-size, full-framed vehicles) replaced the earlier style. Although the front subframe design was a Chevy II-exclusive design, the [[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]] introduced a year earlier was the first to incorporate such a design; the redesigned Chevy II was pushed a year back to 1968 instead of 1967. 1968 was the final year that the Chevy II nameplate was used, although all 1968 models were "Chevy II Novas" with one single trim line.

The 153 I4 carried over from the previous generation as standard on the baseline model. Far more popular were the 250 I6 and the new 5.0L (307 cid) V8, which replaced the 283 offered in previous generations. At mid-year a semi-automatic transmission based on the Powerglide called Torque-Drive was introduced as a low-cost option for shiftless motoring for both the four and six-cylinder engines. The two-speed Powerglide was still the only fully-automatic gearbox available with most engines as the more desirable three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic was only available with the largest V8 engines. An interesting engine option was the 5.3L (327 cid) V8 rated at 350 hp (RPO code L79).

The '''SS''' was transformed from a trim package to a performance option for 1968 and now included a 295 hp 5.7L (350 cid) V8 engine along with front disc brakes, heavy-duty suspension and other performance hardware. Optional engines included two versions of the big-block 6.5L (396 cid) V8 rated at 350 and 375 hp. Both 396 engines were offered with a choice of transmissions including the M-21 close-ratio four-speed manual, the M-22 heavy-duty "Rock Crusher" four-speed manual, or the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 400 for those who preferred automatic shifting. SSs could have a console with optional auxiliary gauges very similar to the contemporary Camaro design.

===1969===

The Chevy II nameplate was retired and the car became the "Chevy Nova" for this year (some sources referred to it as the Chevrolet Chevy Nova - perhaps the decision to drop the Chevy II moniker was a last-minute decision for 1969). Like other 1969 GM vehicles, locking steering columns were incorporated along with column ignitions. Simulated vents were added below the Nova script, which was relocated to the front fender instead of the rear quarter panel. The 350-4 that came standard with the SS option was revised with a five-hp increase to 300 while a 350-2 rated at 255 hp was a new option on non-SS models. A new Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 three-speed automatic was made available for non-SS Novas with six-cylinder and V8 engines.

===1970===

Basically a carryover from 1969; the side markers and taillight lenses were wider and positioned slightly differently, which placed the reverse lights in the middle of the taillight lens instead of the inward portion. This was the final year for the SS396. All other engines were carried over including the seldom-ordered four-cylinder which was in its final year. The car finally became simply the Chevrolet Nova this year after two years of transitional nameplates (Chevy II Nova in 1968 and Chevrolet Chevy Nova in 1969).

Approximately 177 COPO Novas were ordered, with 175 converted by Yenko Chevrolet (the other two were sold in Canada). These had the mighty LT1 (350 cid) V8 engine

A beater 1970 Nova coupe is prominently featured in the movie ''Beverly Hills Cop''.

===1971===

1971 Novas were similar to the previous year but with the loss of the simulated fender vents and the discontinuation of the 396 motor for the SS with the L48 350-4 taking its place. 1971 also saw the introduction of the '''Rally Nova''', a trim level that only lasted two years and was marketed as sort of a budget-SS. The Rally package included black or white stripes that ran the length of the car and around the back, a Rally Nova sticker on the driver's side of the hood, and Rally wheels.

The 250 I6 was now the standard Nova powerplant with the demise of the 153 I4 and 230 I6 engines. The 307 and 350 V8s were carried over from 1970 and all engines featured lowered compression ratios to enable the use of unleaded gasoline as a result of a GM corporate mandate that took effect with the 1971 model year.

After 1971, other GM divisions began rebadging the Nova as their new entry-level vehicle, such as the [[Pontiac Ventura]] II (once a trim option for full-size Pontiacs to 1970), [[Oldsmobile Omega]] (1973) and the [[Buick Apollo]] (mid-1973). Interestingly, the intials of the four model names spelled out the acronym '''NOVA''' (Nova, Omega, Ventura, Apollo.)

===1972===

A virtual rerun of 1971, the 1972 Nova received only minor trim changes and both the Rally Nova and SS options carried over. At mid-year a manual canvas sunroof option became available on two-door models. Also, the optional Strato bucket seats available on coupes switched from the previous low-back design with adjustable headrests to the high back units with built-in headrests introduced the previous year on Camaros and Vegas. Standard engine was still the 250 I6 with either a 3- or 4-speed manual or 2- or 3-speed automatics. The 307 and 350 V8s remained optional. There would be a restyled Nova for 1973.

===1973===

The 1973 model year introduced a new hatchback bodystyle based on the 2-door coupe, as well as a front and rear restyling and a modified rear side window shape, plus a revised rear suspension adapted from the second-generation Camaro with multi-leaf springs replacing the mono-leaf springs used on Novas since the original 1966 model. A luxury-themed '''Custom''' became part of the model lineup which included upgraded upholstery, full carpeting and more exterior trim. By this time, six-cylinder and V8 engines were ''de rigeur'' for American compact cars, with the 307 and 350 (5.0 and 5.7L) V8s becoming fairly common. Nova SS models offered a higher-performance 350 (5.7L) V8. The 1973 Nova with a six-cylinder engine or 307 V8 were among the last Chevrolets to be offered with the now-outdated two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission, which was in its final year.

===1974===

For 1974, the powerglide was replaced by a lightweight version of the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 already offered with the 350 V8, which was now the only V8 offered this year. The SS option was still available but became more of a sporty trim package than a performance offering and now offered with any Nova engine, much like the 1963-67 Nova SS. The 250 I6 remained standard, and transmission choices, with the exception of the 2-speed Powerglide, remained the same as well. There would be an all-new Nova for 1975.

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:77rally.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1975-1979
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1975-1979) 4.3L (262 cid) V8 (1975) 5.0L (305 cid) V8 (1976-1979) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1975-1978)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|110-170 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Skylark]] [[Cadillac Seville]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]/[[Pontiac Phoenix|Phoenix]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Fourth generation (1975–1979)==

A completely redesigned Nova was introduced in 1975. Bodystyles were still the 2-door coupe, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedans. Base coupes, including the hatchback, had fixed side windows (or optional flip-out windows) and simulated vertical vents on the B-pillar (sedans would have simulated horizontal vents at the bottom of the C-pillar). Engines this year were the standard 250 cid I6 carried over from the previous generations, a 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and 350 V8 were optional. The front suspension and subframe assembly was similar to the one used in the second-generation GM F-body ([[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]], [[Pontiac Firebird|Firebird]]), whereas the rear axle and suspension were carried over from the 1968-74 generation.

The Nova lineup now ranged from the stripped-down '''S''' model, base, '''Custom''', and the luxury-themed '''LN''' ("Luxury Nova"). The Nova '''SS''' continued for 1975 and got a unique grille and requisite badges. Dashboards and other controls were virtually identical in layout compared to the previous generation. A high-performance 9C1 police version of the Nova was introduced for the 1975 model year, making it the first compact car certified for police duty in the U.S. Most were initially purchased by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department in 1976.

The LN was replaced with the Nova '''Concours''' in 1976, and the Custom model was gone (temporarily). The grille was changed slightly, and the short-lived 262 V8 was replaced by the new 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and was standard on the Concours. The 350 V8 remained the top engine option. Transmissions included the 3-speed manual standard with the I6, with a 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic optional. The 305 could have a 4-speed manual or automatic, while the 350 was automatic only. 1977 Concours models got a new 3-taillight lens scheme very similar to the larger [[Chevrolet Impala|Impala]] with a [[Cadillac]]-esque front clip that included chrome squared-off headlight bezels and a more elegant-looking vertically-barred grille with extra chrome trim. The SS was dropped, but it would continue as the '''Nova Rally''', which was basically the same sporty-themed idea. Other models also got a slightly revised grille and all got a new dashboard with round gauges and an 80 MPH speedo.

1978 Novas continued with little change, other than the '''Custom''' model returning as the base model. The 2-door, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedan bodystyles, and Concours and Rally models, were still available. By now, however, the Nova was starting to fall out of favor with much of the buying public, largely due to increased competition from the new [[Ford Fairmont]] and even Chevrolet's own [[Chevrolet Malibu|Malibu]], which was an all-new downsized model for 1978. Even though 1979 was a final abbreviated model year, the front end was nonetheless revised again with square headlights and a new horizontally-barred grille for the short run. The 9C1 police package was dropped for '79, along with the Rally model and 350 V8 engine. Production ended on December 22, 1978. The Nova was replaced by the all-new front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] for 1980. The Nova name, however, would reappear again in 1985 on an unrelated model.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:156392062X01LZZZZZZ.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
| 1985-1988
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|4-Door Sedan 5-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2500-2700 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|5-Speed Manual, FWD 3-Speed Automatic, FWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|1.6L (97 cid) I4
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Toyota Corolla]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|S
|}

==1985-1988 Nova==

In 1985 the Nova name was applied to a rebadged [[Toyota Corolla]] and was produced at the NUMMI plant in Fremont, California, as an historic first joint venture between [[General Motors]] and [[Toyota]]. It shared the Corolla's drivetrain and running gear, and was available as a 4-door sedan and a 5-door hatchback (just like the Corolla). It differed from the Corolla mainly with slightly different front-end styling. It also shared many interior parts, such as audio systems, with other GM's offerings whereas the Corolla did not. The Corolla had been redesigned for 1988, but the Nova continued to use the old platform for its last year. The Nova would be replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]], which was also a twin to the Corolla.

==Main Competitors 1985-1988==

*[[Dodge Omni]]
*[[Ford Escort]]
*[[Honda Civic]]
*[[Isuzu I-Mark]]
*[[Mazda 323]]
*[[Mercury Lynx]]
*[[Nissan Sentra]]
*[[Plymouth Horizon]]
*[[Volkswagen Golf]]

{{-}}

==Photos==
<gallery>
Image:Ad77police350x496.jpg
</gallery>

==Main Competitors 1968-1979==
*[[Dodge Dart]]/[[Dodge Aspen|Aspen]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]/[[Ford Maverick|Maverick]]/[[Ford Fairmont|Fairmont]]
*[[Ford Granada]]
*[[Mercury Comet]]/[[Mercury Zephyr|Zephyr]]
*[[Mercury Monarch]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]/[[Plymouth Volare|Volare]]

==The urban legend==
A popular urban legend asserts that the Nova sold poorly in Mexico and other Latin American countries because the phrase ''no va'' means "does not go" in Spanish. In reality, the Spanish language ''no va'' and ''nova'' are as different as the English ''no table'' and ''notable'', or ''therapist'' and ''the rapist''. [http://www.snopes.com/business/misxlate/nova.asp] The word ''nova'' exists in [http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nova Spanish] with the same meaning as in English. Also, the Spanish word for 'new' (nuevo or nueva) is cognate to ''nova'', which originally meant "new" in Latin. Finally, as NOVA was a brand of gasoline sold for many years by PEMEX in Mexico, the largest of all Spanish-speaking Latin American countries, it is clear that this urban legend, while perhaps entertaining, is utterly baseless.

==See Also==
{{Chevrolet}}

==External links==
*[http://www.nnnova.com/ National Nostalgic Nova] The original National Nostalgic Nova Club Celebrating 25 Years of Helping Nova People The only Monthly Magazine dedicated to Only Novas!
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/nova/ Chevrolet Nova Internet Source] — The second known Nova site on the Internet
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/novaList.html Nova listserv] — The first and only known public [[Electronic mailing list|mailing list]] dedicated to Chevrolet Novas and other X-bodies; in continuous existence since January 1998
*[http://automotivehistoryonline.com/Chevrolet1960m.htm Automotive History Online] - Chevrolet Nova History & Photos
*[http://www.novaresource.org/ NovaResource.com] — Excellent source of history, production numbers, and option code information for 1962-79 Novas
*[http://www.stevesnovasite.com/ Steve's Nova Site] - Includes Q&A discussion board; another excellent resource for Nova owners
*[http://www.musclecarfacts.com/mcf/nova/nova.asp Chevy Nova SS at Muscle Car Facts] — A year-by-year history.
*[http://www.gen4novas.com/ Gen4Novas.com] — Source for the 'stepchild' Disco-era X-car.
*[http://www.2quicknovas.com/ 2QuickNovas.com] — Nova, technical, drag racing and general car info.
*[http://www.chevynova.org/1968.html]

[[Category:Classic cars]]

Chevrolet Nova

2010-10-18T12:04:44Z

Yankee: /* Second Generation (1966-1967) */

The '''[[Chevrolet]] Nova''', or '''Chevy II''', was an American compact car introduced by [[General Motors]] in 1962. The original Chevy II was of unibody construction, powered by an OHV inline four or six-cylinder engine (and V8s later), and available in two- and four-door sedan configurations as well as convertible and station wagon versions. After the rear-engine [[Chevrolet Corvair]] was handily outsold by the conventional [[Ford Falcon]] in 1960, Chevrolet began work on a more conventional compact car that would eventually become the Chevy II. The Chevy II/Nova continued on throughout the 1960s and 70s with great success until it was supplanted by the front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] in 1980. The Nova name would reappear briefly again in 1985 as a twin to (of all things) the [[Toyota Corolla]]. The "Toyolet" Nova was discontinued after 1988, replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]].

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:1962 Chevrolet II.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1962-1965
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 2-Door Convertible 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 153" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1962-1965) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1962-1965) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1964-1965) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1964-1965) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1965)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-300 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==First Generation (1962-1965)==

Three different levels of this car were made - the baseline Chevy II '''100''', the mid-grade Chevy II '''300''' and the top-line Chevy II Nova '''400'''. Available powerplants included the standard 2.5L (153 cid) I4 and optional the 3.2L (194 cid) I6. Bodystyles included a 2-door sedan and hardtop, 4-door sedan, 5-door wagon and a 2-door convertible. Unlike its [[Dodge Dart]]/[[Plymouth Valiant]] and [[Ford Falcon]] competition, no V8s were initially offered, but Chevrolet 283 and 327 cid V8s were offered in some areas as dealer-installed options, up to and including the fuel injected version available in the [[Chevrolet Corvette]]. Transmissions were a column or floor 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed manual or 2-speed Powerglide automatic.

For 1963, the sport-oriented Chevy II Nova Super Sport ('''SS''') was released. Grilles and taillights were slightly revised. All bodystyles and engine choices remained the same. SSs could have bucket seats with a floor console-shift. For 1964, the Chevy II's first factory V8 option was introduced - a 195 hp 4.7L (283 cid) V8. The convertible was dropped, and the SS was also dropped at the beginning of this year, but it was reinstated mid-year due to high popular demand. The 300 series trim level was discontinued, leaving the 100 and 400 levels. In 1965, the grille was redesigned and the parking lights were relocated from directly below the headlights to the bumper. Taillights were revised also. The 5.3L (327 cid) V8 debuted this year in the SS with up to 300 horsepower. Other drivetrain choices remained the same as before. There would be a restyled Nova for 1966.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Chevrolet-nova 66.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1966-1967
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 154.7" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1966-1967) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1967) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1966-1967) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1966-1967)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-350 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Second Generation (1966-1967)==

1966 Novas saw a significant restyling, based in part on the Super Nova concept car. In general, external proportions were squared up but dimensions and features changed little. Trim choices were still the '''100''' and '''400'''. Engine options still included the basic 153 I4, 194 I6 and the 283 and 327 V8s, the latter offering now offering up to 350 horsepower. V8 models got special lower fender badges behind the front wheels. Transmission choices remained the column or floor-shift 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed and 2-speed Powerglide automatics. Inside, there was a new dashboard that strongly resembled the larger [[Chevrolet Chevelle|Chevelle's]] (also all-new this year) and revised seat designs, but the Chevy II line during this time was still very spartan. The 90 hp 153 I4 was only offered in the base Chevy II 100 series models, with the 120-horsepower 194 I6 standard on the Nova and Nova SS lines. A new engine offering included a 140 hp 3.8L (230 cid) I6, available in all models except the baseline 100. The SS could still have bucket seats with a console floor shift. Not many changes for 1967, but a 155 hp 4.1L (250 cid) I6 became available in all models except the 100. The 350 hp L79 327 V8 was unfortunately dropped this year, but other drivetrain choices remained the same as the previous year's. There would be an all-new Chevy II/Nova for 1968.

==Main Competitors 1962-1967==

*[[Dodge Dart]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]
*[[Studebaker Lark]]

[[Image:Nova front fender emblem 68-72.jpg|left|350px]]

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:477.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1968-1974
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1968-1970) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1968-1974) 5.0L (307 cid) V8 (1968-1973) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1968-1974) 6.5L (396 cid) cid V8 (1968-1970) 7.0L (427 cid) V8 (1970)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-425 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Apollo]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Third generation (1968–1974)==

An extensive redesign came in 1968, when the station wagon and two door hardtop bodystyles were discontinued. This body style continued (with a minor restyle in 1973) through 1974. One notable change was the front subframe assembly — as compared with [[Ford]], [[Chrysler]] and [[AMC]], in whose cars the entire front suspension was integrated with the bodyshell, a separate subframe housing the powertrain and front suspension (similar to the front part of the frame of GM's full-size, full-framed vehicles) replaced the earlier style. Although the front subframe design was a Chevy II-exclusive design, the [[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]] introduced a year earlier was the first to incorporate such a design; the redesigned Chevy II was pushed a year back to 1968 instead of 1967. 1968 was the final year that the Chevy II nameplate was used, although all 1968 models were "Chevy II Novas" with one single trim line.

The 153 I4 carried over from the previous generation as standard on the baseline model. Far more popular were the 250 I6 and the new 5.0L (307 cid) V8, which replaced the 283 offered in previous generations. At mid-year a semi-automatic transmission based on the Powerglide called Torque-Drive was introduced as a low-cost option for shiftless motoring for both the four and six-cylinder engines. The two-speed Powerglide was still the only fully-automatic gearbox available with most engines as the more desirable three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic was only available with the largest V8 engines. An interesting engine option was the 5.3L (327 cid) V8 rated at 350 hp (RPO code L79).

The '''SS''' was transformed from a trim package to a performance option for 1968 and now included a 295 hp 5.7L (350 cid) V8 engine along with front disc brakes, heavy-duty suspension and other performance hardware. Optional engines included two versions of the big-block 6.5L (396 cid) V8 rated at 350 and 375 hp. Both 396 engines were offered with a choice of transmissions including the M-21 close-ratio four-speed manual, the M-22 heavy-duty "Rock Crusher" four-speed manual, or the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 400 for those who preferred automatic shifting. SSs could have a console with optional auxiliary gauges very similar to the contemporary Camaro design.

===1969===

The Chevy II nameplate was retired and the car became the "Chevy Nova" for this year (some sources referred to it as the Chevrolet Chevy Nova - perhaps the decision to drop the Chevy II moniker was a last-minute decision for 1969). Like other 1969 GM vehicles, locking steering columns were incorporated along with column ignitions. Simulated vents were added below the Nova script, which was relocated to the front fender instead of the rear quarter panel. The 350-4 that came standard with the SS option was revised with a five-hp increase to 300 while a 350-2 rated at 255 hp was a new option on non-SS models. A new Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 three-speed automatic was made available for non-SS Novas with six-cylinder and V8 engines.

===1970===

Basically a carryover from 1969; the side markers and taillight lenses were wider and positioned slightly differently, which placed the reverse lights in the middle of the taillight lens instead of the inward portion. This was the final year for the SS396. All other engines were carried over including the seldom-ordered four-cylinder which was in its final year. The car finally became simply the Chevrolet Nova this year after two years of transitional nameplates (Chevy II Nova in 1968 and Chevrolet Chevy Nova in 1969).

Approximately 177 COPO Novas were ordered, with 175 converted by Yenko Chevrolet (the other two were sold in Canada). These had the mighty LT1 (350 cid) V8 engine

A beater 1970 Nova coupe is prominently featured in the movie ''Beverly Hills Cop''.

===1971===

1971 Novas were similar to the previous year but with the loss of the simulated fender vents and the discontinuation of the 396 motor for the SS with the L48 350-4 taking its place. 1971 also saw the introduction of the '''Rally Nova''', a trim level that only lasted two years and was marketed as sort of a budget-SS. The Rally package included black or white stripes that ran the length of the car and around the back, a Rally Nova sticker on the driver's side of the hood, and Rally wheels.

The 250 I6 was now the standard Nova powerplant with the demise of the 153 I4 and 230 I6 engines. The 307 and 350 V8s were carried over from 1970 and all engines featured lowered compression ratios to enable the use of unleaded gasoline as a result of a GM corporate mandate that took effect with the 1971 model year.

After 1971, other GM divisions began rebadging the Nova as their new entry-level vehicle, such as the [[Pontiac Ventura]] II (once a trim option for full-size Pontiacs to 1970), [[Oldsmobile Omega]] (1973) and the [[Buick Apollo]] (mid-1973). Interestingly, the intials of the four model names spelled out the acronym '''NOVA''' (Nova, Omega, Ventura, Apollo.)

===1972===

A virtual rerun of 1971, the 1972 Nova received only minor trim changes and both the Rally Nova and SS options carried over. At mid-year a manual canvas sunroof option became available on two-door models. Also, the optional Strato bucket seats available on coupes switched from the previous low-back design with adjustable headrests to the high back units with built-in headrests introduced the previous year on Camaros and Vegas. Standard engine was still the 250 I6 with either a 3- or 4-speed manual or 2- or 3-speed automatics. The 307 and 350 V8s remained optional. There would be a restyled Nova for 1973.

===1973===

The 1973 model year introduced a new hatchback bodystyle based on the 2-door coupe, as well as a front and rear restyling and a modified rear side window shape, plus a revised rear suspension adapted from the second-generation Camaro with multi-leaf springs replacing the mono-leaf springs used on Novas since the original 1966 model. A luxury-themed '''Custom''' became part of the model lineup which included upgraded upholstery, full carpeting and more exterior trim. By this time, six-cylinder and V8 engines were ''de rigeur'' for American compact cars, with the 307 and 350 (5.0 and 5.7L) V8s becoming fairly common. Nova SS models offered a higher-performance 350 (5.7L) V8. The 1973 Nova with a six-cylinder engine or 307 V8 were among the last Chevrolets to be offered with the now-outdated two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission, which was in its final year.

===1974===

For 1974, the powerglide was replaced by a lightweight version of the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 already offered with the 350 V8, which was now the only V8 offered this year. The SS option was still available but became more of a sporty trim package than a performance offering and now offered with any Nova engine, much like the 1963-67 Nova SS. The 250 I6 remained standard, and transmission choices, with the exception of the 2-speed Powerglide, remained the same as well. There would be an all-new Nova for 1975.

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:77rally.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1975-1979
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1975-1979) 4.3L (262 cid) V8 (1975) 5.0L (305 cid) V8 (1976-1979) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1975-1978)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|110-170 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Skylark]] [[Cadillac Seville]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]/[[Pontiac Phoenix|Phoenix]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Fourth generation (1975–1979)==

A completely redesigned Nova was introduced in 1975. Bodystyles were still the 2-door coupe, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedans. Base coupes, including the hatchback, had fixed side windows (or optional flip-out windows) and simulated vertical vents on the B-pillar (sedans would have simulated horizontal vents at the bottom of the C-pillar). Engines this year were the standard 250 cid I6 carried over from the previous generations, a 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and 350 V8 were optional. The front suspension and subframe assembly was similar to the one used in the second-generation GM F-body ([[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]], [[Pontiac Firebird|Firebird]]), whereas the rear axle and suspension were carried over from the 1968-74 generation.

The Nova lineup now ranged from the stripped-down '''S''' model, base, '''Custom''', and the luxury-themed '''LN''' ("Luxury Nova"). The Nova '''SS''' continued for 1975 and got a unique grille and requisite badges. Dashboards and other controls were virtually identical in layout compared to the previous generation. A high-performance 9C1 police version of the Nova was introduced for the 1975 model year, making it the first compact car certified for police duty in the U.S. Most were initially purchased by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department in 1976.

The LN was replaced with the Nova '''Concours''' in 1976, and the Custom model was gone (temporarily). The grille was changed slightly, and the short-lived 262 V8 was replaced by the new 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and was standard on the Concours. The 350 V8 remained the top engine option. Transmissions included the 3-speed manual standard with the I6, with a 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic optional. The 305 could have a 4-speed manual or automatic, while the 350 was automatic only. 1977 Concours models got a new 3-taillight lens scheme very similar to the larger [[Chevrolet Impala|Impala]] with a [[Cadillac]]-esque front clip that included chrome squared-off headlight bezels and a more elegant-looking vertically-barred grille with extra chrome trim. The SS was dropped, but it would continue as the '''Nova Rally''', which was basically the same sporty-themed idea. Other models also got a slightly revised grille and all got a new dashboard with round gauges and an 80 MPH speedo.

1978 Novas continued with little change, other than the '''Custom''' model returning as the base model. The 2-door, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedan bodystyles, and Concours and Rally models, were still available. By now, however, the Nova was starting to fall out of favor with much of the buying public, largely due to increased competition from the new [[Ford Fairmont]] and even Chevrolet's own [[Chevrolet Malibu|Malibu]], which was an all-new downsized model for 1978. Even though 1979 was a final abbreviated model year, the front end was nonetheless revised again with square headlights and a new horizontally-barred grille for the short run. The 9C1 police package was dropped for '79, along with the Rally model and 350 V8 engine. Production ended on December 22, 1978. The Nova was replaced by the all-new front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] for 1980. The Nova name, however, would reappear again in 1985 on an unrelated model.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:156392062X01LZZZZZZ.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
| 1985-1988
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|4-Door Sedan 5-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2500-2700 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|5-Speed Manual, FWD 3-Speed Automatic, FWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|1.6L (97 cid) I4
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Toyota Corolla]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|S
|}

==1985-1988 Nova==

In 1985 the Nova name was applied to a rebadged [[Toyota Corolla]] and was produced at the NUMMI plant in Fremont, California, as an historic first joint venture between [[General Motors]] and [[Toyota]]. It shared the Corolla's drivetrain and running gear, and was available as a 4-door sedan and a 5-door hatchback (just like the Corolla). It differed from the Corolla mainly with slightly different front-end styling. It also shared many interior parts, such as audio systems, with other GM's offerings whereas the Corolla did not. The Corolla had been redesigned for 1988, but the Nova continued to use the old platform for its last year. The Nova would be replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]], which was also a twin to the Corolla.

==Main Competitors 1985-1988==

*[[Dodge Omni]]
*[[Ford Escort]]
*[[Honda Civic]]
*[[Isuzu I-Mark]]
*[[Mazda 323]]
*[[Mercury Lynx]]
*[[Nissan Sentra]]
*[[Plymouth Horizon]]
*[[Volkswagen Golf]]

{{-}}

==Photos==
<gallery>
Image:Ad77police350x496.jpg
</gallery>

==Main Competitors 1968-1979==
*[[Dodge Dart]]/[[Dodge Aspen|Aspen]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]/[[Ford Maverick|Maverick]]/[[Ford Fairmont|Fairmont]]
*[[Ford Granada]]
*[[Mercury Comet]]/[[Mercury Zephyr|Zephyr]]
*[[Mercury Monarch]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]/[[Plymouth Volare|Volare]]

==The urban legend==
A popular urban legend asserts that the Nova sold poorly in Mexico and other Latin American countries because the phrase ''no va'' means "does not go" in Spanish. In reality, the Spanish language ''no va'' and ''nova'' are as different as the English ''no table'' and ''notable'', or ''therapist'' and ''the rapist''. [http://www.snopes.com/business/misxlate/nova.asp] The word ''nova'' exists in [http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nova Spanish] with the same meaning as in English. Also, the Spanish word for 'new' (nuevo or nueva) is cognate to ''nova'', which originally meant "new" in Latin. Finally, as NOVA was a brand of gasoline sold for many years by PEMEX in Mexico, the largest of all Spanish-speaking Latin American countries, it is clear that this urban legend, while perhaps entertaining, is utterly baseless.

==See Also==
{{Chevrolet}}

==External links==
*[http://www.nnnova.com/ National Nostalgic Nova] The original National Nostalgic Nova Club Celebrating 25 Years of Helping Nova People The only Monthly Magazine dedicated to Only Novas!
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/nova/ Chevrolet Nova Internet Source] — The second known Nova site on the Internet
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/novaList.html Nova listserv] — The first and only known public [[Electronic mailing list|mailing list]] dedicated to Chevrolet Novas and other X-bodies; in continuous existence since January 1998
*[http://automotivehistoryonline.com/Chevrolet1960m.htm Automotive History Online] - Chevrolet Nova History & Photos
*[http://www.novaresource.org/ NovaResource.com] — Excellent source of history, production numbers, and option code information for 1962-79 Novas
*[http://www.stevesnovasite.com/ Steve's Nova Site] - Includes Q&A discussion board; another excellent resource for Nova owners
*[http://www.musclecarfacts.com/mcf/nova/nova.asp Chevy Nova SS at Muscle Car Facts] — A year-by-year history.
*[http://www.gen4novas.com/ Gen4Novas.com] — Source for the 'stepchild' Disco-era X-car.
*[http://www.2quicknovas.com/ 2QuickNovas.com] — Nova, technical, drag racing and general car info.
*[http://www.chevynova.org/1968.html]

[[Category:Classic cars]]

Chevrolet Nova

2010-10-18T12:04:12Z

Yankee: /* Second Generation (1966-1967) */

The '''[[Chevrolet]] Nova''', or '''Chevy II''', was an American compact car introduced by [[General Motors]] in 1962. The original Chevy II was of unibody construction, powered by an OHV inline four or six-cylinder engine (and V8s later), and available in two- and four-door sedan configurations as well as convertible and station wagon versions. After the rear-engine [[Chevrolet Corvair]] was handily outsold by the conventional [[Ford Falcon]] in 1960, Chevrolet began work on a more conventional compact car that would eventually become the Chevy II. The Chevy II/Nova continued on throughout the 1960s and 70s with great success until it was supplanted by the front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] in 1980. The Nova name would reappear briefly again in 1985 as a twin to (of all things) the [[Toyota Corolla]]. The "Toyolet" Nova was discontinued after 1988, replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]].

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:1962 Chevrolet II.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1962-1965
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 2-Door Convertible 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 153" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1962-1965) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1962-1965) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1964-1965) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1964-1965) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1965)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-300 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==First Generation (1962-1965)==

Three different levels of this car were made - the baseline Chevy II '''100''', the mid-grade Chevy II '''300''' and the top-line Chevy II Nova '''400'''. Available powerplants included the standard 2.5L (153 cid) I4 and optional the 3.2L (194 cid) I6. Bodystyles included a 2-door sedan and hardtop, 4-door sedan, 5-door wagon and a 2-door convertible. Unlike its [[Dodge Dart]]/[[Plymouth Valiant]] and [[Ford Falcon]] competition, no V8s were initially offered, but Chevrolet 283 and 327 cid V8s were offered in some areas as dealer-installed options, up to and including the fuel injected version available in the [[Chevrolet Corvette]]. Transmissions were a column or floor 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed manual or 2-speed Powerglide automatic.

For 1963, the sport-oriented Chevy II Nova Super Sport ('''SS''') was released. Grilles and taillights were slightly revised. All bodystyles and engine choices remained the same. SSs could have bucket seats with a floor console-shift. For 1964, the Chevy II's first factory V8 option was introduced - a 195 hp 4.7L (283 cid) V8. The convertible was dropped, and the SS was also dropped at the beginning of this year, but it was reinstated mid-year due to high popular demand. The 300 series trim level was discontinued, leaving the 100 and 400 levels. In 1965, the grille was redesigned and the parking lights were relocated from directly below the headlights to the bumper. Taillights were revised also. The 5.3L (327 cid) V8 debuted this year in the SS with up to 300 horsepower. Other drivetrain choices remained the same as before. There would be a restyled Nova for 1966.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Chevrolet-nova 66.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1966-1967
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 154.7" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1966-1967) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1967) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1966-1967) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1966-1967)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-350 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Second Generation (1966-1967)==

1966 Novas saw a significant restyling, based in part on the Super Nova concept car. In general, external proportions were squared up but dimensions and features changed little. Trim choices were still the '''100''' and '''400'''. Engine options still included the basic 153 I4, 194 I6 and the 283 and 327 V8s, the latter offering now offering up to 350 horsepower. V8 models got special lower fender badges behind the front wheels. Transmission choices remained the column or floor-shift 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed and 2-speed Powerglide automatics. Inside, there was a new dashboard that strongly resembled the larger [[Chevrolet Chevelle|Chevelle's]] (also all-new this year) and revised seat designs, but the Chevy II line during this time was still very spartan. The 90 hp 153 I4 was only offered in the base Chevy II 100 series models, with the 120-horsepower 194 I6 standard on the Nova and Nova SS lines. A new engine offering included a 140 hp 3.8L (230 cid) I6, available in all models except the baseline 100. The SS could still have bucket seats with a console floor shift. Not many changes for 1967, but a 155 hp 4.1L (250 cid) I6 became available and available in all models except the 100. The 350 hp L79 327 V8 was unfortunately dropped this year, but other drivetrain choices remained the same as the previous year's. There would be an all-new Chevy II/Nova for 1968.

==Main Competitors 1962-1967==

*[[Dodge Dart]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]
*[[Studebaker Lark]]

[[Image:Nova front fender emblem 68-72.jpg|left|350px]]

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:477.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1968-1974
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1968-1970) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1968-1974) 5.0L (307 cid) V8 (1968-1973) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1968-1974) 6.5L (396 cid) cid V8 (1968-1970) 7.0L (427 cid) V8 (1970)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-425 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Apollo]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Third generation (1968–1974)==

An extensive redesign came in 1968, when the station wagon and two door hardtop bodystyles were discontinued. This body style continued (with a minor restyle in 1973) through 1974. One notable change was the front subframe assembly — as compared with [[Ford]], [[Chrysler]] and [[AMC]], in whose cars the entire front suspension was integrated with the bodyshell, a separate subframe housing the powertrain and front suspension (similar to the front part of the frame of GM's full-size, full-framed vehicles) replaced the earlier style. Although the front subframe design was a Chevy II-exclusive design, the [[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]] introduced a year earlier was the first to incorporate such a design; the redesigned Chevy II was pushed a year back to 1968 instead of 1967. 1968 was the final year that the Chevy II nameplate was used, although all 1968 models were "Chevy II Novas" with one single trim line.

The 153 I4 carried over from the previous generation as standard on the baseline model. Far more popular were the 250 I6 and the new 5.0L (307 cid) V8, which replaced the 283 offered in previous generations. At mid-year a semi-automatic transmission based on the Powerglide called Torque-Drive was introduced as a low-cost option for shiftless motoring for both the four and six-cylinder engines. The two-speed Powerglide was still the only fully-automatic gearbox available with most engines as the more desirable three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic was only available with the largest V8 engines. An interesting engine option was the 5.3L (327 cid) V8 rated at 350 hp (RPO code L79).

The '''SS''' was transformed from a trim package to a performance option for 1968 and now included a 295 hp 5.7L (350 cid) V8 engine along with front disc brakes, heavy-duty suspension and other performance hardware. Optional engines included two versions of the big-block 6.5L (396 cid) V8 rated at 350 and 375 hp. Both 396 engines were offered with a choice of transmissions including the M-21 close-ratio four-speed manual, the M-22 heavy-duty "Rock Crusher" four-speed manual, or the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 400 for those who preferred automatic shifting. SSs could have a console with optional auxiliary gauges very similar to the contemporary Camaro design.

===1969===

The Chevy II nameplate was retired and the car became the "Chevy Nova" for this year (some sources referred to it as the Chevrolet Chevy Nova - perhaps the decision to drop the Chevy II moniker was a last-minute decision for 1969). Like other 1969 GM vehicles, locking steering columns were incorporated along with column ignitions. Simulated vents were added below the Nova script, which was relocated to the front fender instead of the rear quarter panel. The 350-4 that came standard with the SS option was revised with a five-hp increase to 300 while a 350-2 rated at 255 hp was a new option on non-SS models. A new Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 three-speed automatic was made available for non-SS Novas with six-cylinder and V8 engines.

===1970===

Basically a carryover from 1969; the side markers and taillight lenses were wider and positioned slightly differently, which placed the reverse lights in the middle of the taillight lens instead of the inward portion. This was the final year for the SS396. All other engines were carried over including the seldom-ordered four-cylinder which was in its final year. The car finally became simply the Chevrolet Nova this year after two years of transitional nameplates (Chevy II Nova in 1968 and Chevrolet Chevy Nova in 1969).

Approximately 177 COPO Novas were ordered, with 175 converted by Yenko Chevrolet (the other two were sold in Canada). These had the mighty LT1 (350 cid) V8 engine

A beater 1970 Nova coupe is prominently featured in the movie ''Beverly Hills Cop''.

===1971===

1971 Novas were similar to the previous year but with the loss of the simulated fender vents and the discontinuation of the 396 motor for the SS with the L48 350-4 taking its place. 1971 also saw the introduction of the '''Rally Nova''', a trim level that only lasted two years and was marketed as sort of a budget-SS. The Rally package included black or white stripes that ran the length of the car and around the back, a Rally Nova sticker on the driver's side of the hood, and Rally wheels.

The 250 I6 was now the standard Nova powerplant with the demise of the 153 I4 and 230 I6 engines. The 307 and 350 V8s were carried over from 1970 and all engines featured lowered compression ratios to enable the use of unleaded gasoline as a result of a GM corporate mandate that took effect with the 1971 model year.

After 1971, other GM divisions began rebadging the Nova as their new entry-level vehicle, such as the [[Pontiac Ventura]] II (once a trim option for full-size Pontiacs to 1970), [[Oldsmobile Omega]] (1973) and the [[Buick Apollo]] (mid-1973). Interestingly, the intials of the four model names spelled out the acronym '''NOVA''' (Nova, Omega, Ventura, Apollo.)

===1972===

A virtual rerun of 1971, the 1972 Nova received only minor trim changes and both the Rally Nova and SS options carried over. At mid-year a manual canvas sunroof option became available on two-door models. Also, the optional Strato bucket seats available on coupes switched from the previous low-back design with adjustable headrests to the high back units with built-in headrests introduced the previous year on Camaros and Vegas. Standard engine was still the 250 I6 with either a 3- or 4-speed manual or 2- or 3-speed automatics. The 307 and 350 V8s remained optional. There would be a restyled Nova for 1973.

===1973===

The 1973 model year introduced a new hatchback bodystyle based on the 2-door coupe, as well as a front and rear restyling and a modified rear side window shape, plus a revised rear suspension adapted from the second-generation Camaro with multi-leaf springs replacing the mono-leaf springs used on Novas since the original 1966 model. A luxury-themed '''Custom''' became part of the model lineup which included upgraded upholstery, full carpeting and more exterior trim. By this time, six-cylinder and V8 engines were ''de rigeur'' for American compact cars, with the 307 and 350 (5.0 and 5.7L) V8s becoming fairly common. Nova SS models offered a higher-performance 350 (5.7L) V8. The 1973 Nova with a six-cylinder engine or 307 V8 were among the last Chevrolets to be offered with the now-outdated two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission, which was in its final year.

===1974===

For 1974, the powerglide was replaced by a lightweight version of the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 already offered with the 350 V8, which was now the only V8 offered this year. The SS option was still available but became more of a sporty trim package than a performance offering and now offered with any Nova engine, much like the 1963-67 Nova SS. The 250 I6 remained standard, and transmission choices, with the exception of the 2-speed Powerglide, remained the same as well. There would be an all-new Nova for 1975.

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:77rally.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1975-1979
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1975-1979) 4.3L (262 cid) V8 (1975) 5.0L (305 cid) V8 (1976-1979) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1975-1978)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|110-170 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Skylark]] [[Cadillac Seville]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]/[[Pontiac Phoenix|Phoenix]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Fourth generation (1975–1979)==

A completely redesigned Nova was introduced in 1975. Bodystyles were still the 2-door coupe, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedans. Base coupes, including the hatchback, had fixed side windows (or optional flip-out windows) and simulated vertical vents on the B-pillar (sedans would have simulated horizontal vents at the bottom of the C-pillar). Engines this year were the standard 250 cid I6 carried over from the previous generations, a 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and 350 V8 were optional. The front suspension and subframe assembly was similar to the one used in the second-generation GM F-body ([[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]], [[Pontiac Firebird|Firebird]]), whereas the rear axle and suspension were carried over from the 1968-74 generation.

The Nova lineup now ranged from the stripped-down '''S''' model, base, '''Custom''', and the luxury-themed '''LN''' ("Luxury Nova"). The Nova '''SS''' continued for 1975 and got a unique grille and requisite badges. Dashboards and other controls were virtually identical in layout compared to the previous generation. A high-performance 9C1 police version of the Nova was introduced for the 1975 model year, making it the first compact car certified for police duty in the U.S. Most were initially purchased by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department in 1976.

The LN was replaced with the Nova '''Concours''' in 1976, and the Custom model was gone (temporarily). The grille was changed slightly, and the short-lived 262 V8 was replaced by the new 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and was standard on the Concours. The 350 V8 remained the top engine option. Transmissions included the 3-speed manual standard with the I6, with a 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic optional. The 305 could have a 4-speed manual or automatic, while the 350 was automatic only. 1977 Concours models got a new 3-taillight lens scheme very similar to the larger [[Chevrolet Impala|Impala]] with a [[Cadillac]]-esque front clip that included chrome squared-off headlight bezels and a more elegant-looking vertically-barred grille with extra chrome trim. The SS was dropped, but it would continue as the '''Nova Rally''', which was basically the same sporty-themed idea. Other models also got a slightly revised grille and all got a new dashboard with round gauges and an 80 MPH speedo.

1978 Novas continued with little change, other than the '''Custom''' model returning as the base model. The 2-door, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedan bodystyles, and Concours and Rally models, were still available. By now, however, the Nova was starting to fall out of favor with much of the buying public, largely due to increased competition from the new [[Ford Fairmont]] and even Chevrolet's own [[Chevrolet Malibu|Malibu]], which was an all-new downsized model for 1978. Even though 1979 was a final abbreviated model year, the front end was nonetheless revised again with square headlights and a new horizontally-barred grille for the short run. The 9C1 police package was dropped for '79, along with the Rally model and 350 V8 engine. Production ended on December 22, 1978. The Nova was replaced by the all-new front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] for 1980. The Nova name, however, would reappear again in 1985 on an unrelated model.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:156392062X01LZZZZZZ.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
| 1985-1988
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|4-Door Sedan 5-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2500-2700 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|5-Speed Manual, FWD 3-Speed Automatic, FWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|1.6L (97 cid) I4
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Toyota Corolla]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|S
|}

==1985-1988 Nova==

In 1985 the Nova name was applied to a rebadged [[Toyota Corolla]] and was produced at the NUMMI plant in Fremont, California, as an historic first joint venture between [[General Motors]] and [[Toyota]]. It shared the Corolla's drivetrain and running gear, and was available as a 4-door sedan and a 5-door hatchback (just like the Corolla). It differed from the Corolla mainly with slightly different front-end styling. It also shared many interior parts, such as audio systems, with other GM's offerings whereas the Corolla did not. The Corolla had been redesigned for 1988, but the Nova continued to use the old platform for its last year. The Nova would be replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]], which was also a twin to the Corolla.

==Main Competitors 1985-1988==

*[[Dodge Omni]]
*[[Ford Escort]]
*[[Honda Civic]]
*[[Isuzu I-Mark]]
*[[Mazda 323]]
*[[Mercury Lynx]]
*[[Nissan Sentra]]
*[[Plymouth Horizon]]
*[[Volkswagen Golf]]

{{-}}

==Photos==
<gallery>
Image:Ad77police350x496.jpg
</gallery>

==Main Competitors 1968-1979==
*[[Dodge Dart]]/[[Dodge Aspen|Aspen]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]/[[Ford Maverick|Maverick]]/[[Ford Fairmont|Fairmont]]
*[[Ford Granada]]
*[[Mercury Comet]]/[[Mercury Zephyr|Zephyr]]
*[[Mercury Monarch]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]/[[Plymouth Volare|Volare]]

==The urban legend==
A popular urban legend asserts that the Nova sold poorly in Mexico and other Latin American countries because the phrase ''no va'' means "does not go" in Spanish. In reality, the Spanish language ''no va'' and ''nova'' are as different as the English ''no table'' and ''notable'', or ''therapist'' and ''the rapist''. [http://www.snopes.com/business/misxlate/nova.asp] The word ''nova'' exists in [http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nova Spanish] with the same meaning as in English. Also, the Spanish word for 'new' (nuevo or nueva) is cognate to ''nova'', which originally meant "new" in Latin. Finally, as NOVA was a brand of gasoline sold for many years by PEMEX in Mexico, the largest of all Spanish-speaking Latin American countries, it is clear that this urban legend, while perhaps entertaining, is utterly baseless.

==See Also==
{{Chevrolet}}

==External links==
*[http://www.nnnova.com/ National Nostalgic Nova] The original National Nostalgic Nova Club Celebrating 25 Years of Helping Nova People The only Monthly Magazine dedicated to Only Novas!
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/nova/ Chevrolet Nova Internet Source] — The second known Nova site on the Internet
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/novaList.html Nova listserv] — The first and only known public [[Electronic mailing list|mailing list]] dedicated to Chevrolet Novas and other X-bodies; in continuous existence since January 1998
*[http://automotivehistoryonline.com/Chevrolet1960m.htm Automotive History Online] - Chevrolet Nova History & Photos
*[http://www.novaresource.org/ NovaResource.com] — Excellent source of history, production numbers, and option code information for 1962-79 Novas
*[http://www.stevesnovasite.com/ Steve's Nova Site] - Includes Q&A discussion board; another excellent resource for Nova owners
*[http://www.musclecarfacts.com/mcf/nova/nova.asp Chevy Nova SS at Muscle Car Facts] — A year-by-year history.
*[http://www.gen4novas.com/ Gen4Novas.com] — Source for the 'stepchild' Disco-era X-car.
*[http://www.2quicknovas.com/ 2QuickNovas.com] — Nova, technical, drag racing and general car info.
*[http://www.chevynova.org/1968.html]

[[Category:Classic cars]]

Chevrolet Nova

2010-10-18T11:56:45Z

Yankee: /* Second Generation (1966-1967) */

The '''[[Chevrolet]] Nova''', or '''Chevy II''', was an American compact car introduced by [[General Motors]] in 1962. The original Chevy II was of unibody construction, powered by an OHV inline four or six-cylinder engine (and V8s later), and available in two- and four-door sedan configurations as well as convertible and station wagon versions. After the rear-engine [[Chevrolet Corvair]] was handily outsold by the conventional [[Ford Falcon]] in 1960, Chevrolet began work on a more conventional compact car that would eventually become the Chevy II. The Chevy II/Nova continued on throughout the 1960s and 70s with great success until it was supplanted by the front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] in 1980. The Nova name would reappear briefly again in 1985 as a twin to (of all things) the [[Toyota Corolla]]. The "Toyolet" Nova was discontinued after 1988, replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]].

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:1962 Chevrolet II.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1962-1965
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 2-Door Convertible 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 153" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1962-1965) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1962-1965) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1964-1965) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1964-1965) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1965)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-300 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==First Generation (1962-1965)==

Three different levels of this car were made - the baseline Chevy II '''100''', the mid-grade Chevy II '''300''' and the top-line Chevy II Nova '''400'''. Available powerplants included the standard 2.5L (153 cid) I4 and optional the 3.2L (194 cid) I6. Bodystyles included a 2-door sedan and hardtop, 4-door sedan, 5-door wagon and a 2-door convertible. Unlike its [[Dodge Dart]]/[[Plymouth Valiant]] and [[Ford Falcon]] competition, no V8s were initially offered, but Chevrolet 283 and 327 cid V8s were offered in some areas as dealer-installed options, up to and including the fuel injected version available in the [[Chevrolet Corvette]]. Transmissions were a column or floor 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed manual or 2-speed Powerglide automatic.

For 1963, the sport-oriented Chevy II Nova Super Sport ('''SS''') was released. Grilles and taillights were slightly revised. All bodystyles and engine choices remained the same. SSs could have bucket seats with a floor console-shift. For 1964, the Chevy II's first factory V8 option was introduced - a 195 hp 4.7L (283 cid) V8. The convertible was dropped, and the SS was also dropped at the beginning of this year, but it was reinstated mid-year due to high popular demand. The 300 series trim level was discontinued, leaving the 100 and 400 levels. In 1965, the grille was redesigned and the parking lights were relocated from directly below the headlights to the bumper. Taillights were revised also. The 5.3L (327 cid) V8 debuted this year in the SS with up to 300 horsepower. Other drivetrain choices remained the same as before. There would be a restyled Nova for 1966.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Chevrolet-nova 66.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1966-1967
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 154.7" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1966-1967) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1967) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1966-1967) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1966-1967)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-350 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Second Generation (1966-1967)==

1966 Novas saw a significant restyling, based in part on the Super Nova concept car. In general, external proportions were squared up but dimensions and features changed little. Trim choices were still the '''100''' and '''400'''. Engine options still included the basic 153 I4, 194 I6 and the 283 and 327 V8s, the latter offering now offering up to 350 horsepower. V8 models got special lower fender badges behind the front wheels. Transmission choices remained the column or floor-shift 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed and 2-speed Powerglide automatics. Inside, there was a new dashboard that strongly resembled the larger [[Chevrolet Chevelle|Chevelle's]] (also all-new this year) and revised seat designs, but the Chevy II line during this time was still very spartan. The 90 hp 153 I4 was only offered in the base Chevy II 100 series models, with the 120-horsepower 194 I6 standard on the Nova and Nova SS lines. A new engine offering included a 140 hp 3.8L (230 cid) I6, available in all models except the baseline 100. The SS could still have bucket seats with a console floor shift. Not many changes for 1967, but a 155 hp 4.1L (250 cid) I6 became available and again available in all models except the 100. The 350 hp L79 327 V8 was unfortunately dropped this year, but other drivetrain choices remained the same as the previous year's. There would be an all-new Chevy II/Nova for 1968.

==Main Competitors 1962-1967==

*[[Dodge Dart]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]
*[[Studebaker Lark]]

[[Image:Nova front fender emblem 68-72.jpg|left|350px]]

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:477.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1968-1974
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1968-1970) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1968-1974) 5.0L (307 cid) V8 (1968-1973) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1968-1974) 6.5L (396 cid) cid V8 (1968-1970) 7.0L (427 cid) V8 (1970)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-425 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Apollo]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Third generation (1968–1974)==

An extensive redesign came in 1968, when the station wagon and two door hardtop bodystyles were discontinued. This body style continued (with a minor restyle in 1973) through 1974. One notable change was the front subframe assembly — as compared with [[Ford]], [[Chrysler]] and [[AMC]], in whose cars the entire front suspension was integrated with the bodyshell, a separate subframe housing the powertrain and front suspension (similar to the front part of the frame of GM's full-size, full-framed vehicles) replaced the earlier style. Although the front subframe design was a Chevy II-exclusive design, the [[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]] introduced a year earlier was the first to incorporate such a design; the redesigned Chevy II was pushed a year back to 1968 instead of 1967. 1968 was the final year that the Chevy II nameplate was used, although all 1968 models were "Chevy II Novas" with one single trim line.

The 153 I4 carried over from the previous generation as standard on the baseline model. Far more popular were the 250 I6 and the new 5.0L (307 cid) V8, which replaced the 283 offered in previous generations. At mid-year a semi-automatic transmission based on the Powerglide called Torque-Drive was introduced as a low-cost option for shiftless motoring for both the four and six-cylinder engines. The two-speed Powerglide was still the only fully-automatic gearbox available with most engines as the more desirable three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic was only available with the largest V8 engines. An interesting engine option was the 5.3L (327 cid) V8 rated at 350 hp (RPO code L79).

The '''SS''' was transformed from a trim package to a performance option for 1968 and now included a 295 hp 5.7L (350 cid) V8 engine along with front disc brakes, heavy-duty suspension and other performance hardware. Optional engines included two versions of the big-block 6.5L (396 cid) V8 rated at 350 and 375 hp. Both 396 engines were offered with a choice of transmissions including the M-21 close-ratio four-speed manual, the M-22 heavy-duty "Rock Crusher" four-speed manual, or the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 400 for those who preferred automatic shifting. SSs could have a console with optional auxiliary gauges very similar to the contemporary Camaro design.

===1969===

The Chevy II nameplate was retired and the car became the "Chevy Nova" for this year (some sources referred to it as the Chevrolet Chevy Nova - perhaps the decision to drop the Chevy II moniker was a last-minute decision for 1969). Like other 1969 GM vehicles, locking steering columns were incorporated along with column ignitions. Simulated vents were added below the Nova script, which was relocated to the front fender instead of the rear quarter panel. The 350-4 that came standard with the SS option was revised with a five-hp increase to 300 while a 350-2 rated at 255 hp was a new option on non-SS models. A new Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 three-speed automatic was made available for non-SS Novas with six-cylinder and V8 engines.

===1970===

Basically a carryover from 1969; the side markers and taillight lenses were wider and positioned slightly differently, which placed the reverse lights in the middle of the taillight lens instead of the inward portion. This was the final year for the SS396. All other engines were carried over including the seldom-ordered four-cylinder which was in its final year. The car finally became simply the Chevrolet Nova this year after two years of transitional nameplates (Chevy II Nova in 1968 and Chevrolet Chevy Nova in 1969).

Approximately 177 COPO Novas were ordered, with 175 converted by Yenko Chevrolet (the other two were sold in Canada). These had the mighty LT1 (350 cid) V8 engine

A beater 1970 Nova coupe is prominently featured in the movie ''Beverly Hills Cop''.

===1971===

1971 Novas were similar to the previous year but with the loss of the simulated fender vents and the discontinuation of the 396 motor for the SS with the L48 350-4 taking its place. 1971 also saw the introduction of the '''Rally Nova''', a trim level that only lasted two years and was marketed as sort of a budget-SS. The Rally package included black or white stripes that ran the length of the car and around the back, a Rally Nova sticker on the driver's side of the hood, and Rally wheels.

The 250 I6 was now the standard Nova powerplant with the demise of the 153 I4 and 230 I6 engines. The 307 and 350 V8s were carried over from 1970 and all engines featured lowered compression ratios to enable the use of unleaded gasoline as a result of a GM corporate mandate that took effect with the 1971 model year.

After 1971, other GM divisions began rebadging the Nova as their new entry-level vehicle, such as the [[Pontiac Ventura]] II (once a trim option for full-size Pontiacs to 1970), [[Oldsmobile Omega]] (1973) and the [[Buick Apollo]] (mid-1973). Interestingly, the intials of the four model names spelled out the acronym '''NOVA''' (Nova, Omega, Ventura, Apollo.)

===1972===

A virtual rerun of 1971, the 1972 Nova received only minor trim changes and both the Rally Nova and SS options carried over. At mid-year a manual canvas sunroof option became available on two-door models. Also, the optional Strato bucket seats available on coupes switched from the previous low-back design with adjustable headrests to the high back units with built-in headrests introduced the previous year on Camaros and Vegas. Standard engine was still the 250 I6 with either a 3- or 4-speed manual or 2- or 3-speed automatics. The 307 and 350 V8s remained optional. There would be a restyled Nova for 1973.

===1973===

The 1973 model year introduced a new hatchback bodystyle based on the 2-door coupe, as well as a front and rear restyling and a modified rear side window shape, plus a revised rear suspension adapted from the second-generation Camaro with multi-leaf springs replacing the mono-leaf springs used on Novas since the original 1966 model. A luxury-themed '''Custom''' became part of the model lineup which included upgraded upholstery, full carpeting and more exterior trim. By this time, six-cylinder and V8 engines were ''de rigeur'' for American compact cars, with the 307 and 350 (5.0 and 5.7L) V8s becoming fairly common. Nova SS models offered a higher-performance 350 (5.7L) V8. The 1973 Nova with a six-cylinder engine or 307 V8 were among the last Chevrolets to be offered with the now-outdated two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission, which was in its final year.

===1974===

For 1974, the powerglide was replaced by a lightweight version of the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 already offered with the 350 V8, which was now the only V8 offered this year. The SS option was still available but became more of a sporty trim package than a performance offering and now offered with any Nova engine, much like the 1963-67 Nova SS. The 250 I6 remained standard, and transmission choices, with the exception of the 2-speed Powerglide, remained the same as well. There would be an all-new Nova for 1975.

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:77rally.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1975-1979
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1975-1979) 4.3L (262 cid) V8 (1975) 5.0L (305 cid) V8 (1976-1979) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1975-1978)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|110-170 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Skylark]] [[Cadillac Seville]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]/[[Pontiac Phoenix|Phoenix]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Fourth generation (1975–1979)==

A completely redesigned Nova was introduced in 1975. Bodystyles were still the 2-door coupe, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedans. Base coupes, including the hatchback, had fixed side windows (or optional flip-out windows) and simulated vertical vents on the B-pillar (sedans would have simulated horizontal vents at the bottom of the C-pillar). Engines this year were the standard 250 cid I6 carried over from the previous generations, a 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and 350 V8 were optional. The front suspension and subframe assembly was similar to the one used in the second-generation GM F-body ([[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]], [[Pontiac Firebird|Firebird]]), whereas the rear axle and suspension were carried over from the 1968-74 generation.

The Nova lineup now ranged from the stripped-down '''S''' model, base, '''Custom''', and the luxury-themed '''LN''' ("Luxury Nova"). The Nova '''SS''' continued for 1975 and got a unique grille and requisite badges. Dashboards and other controls were virtually identical in layout compared to the previous generation. A high-performance 9C1 police version of the Nova was introduced for the 1975 model year, making it the first compact car certified for police duty in the U.S. Most were initially purchased by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department in 1976.

The LN was replaced with the Nova '''Concours''' in 1976, and the Custom model was gone (temporarily). The grille was changed slightly, and the short-lived 262 V8 was replaced by the new 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and was standard on the Concours. The 350 V8 remained the top engine option. Transmissions included the 3-speed manual standard with the I6, with a 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic optional. The 305 could have a 4-speed manual or automatic, while the 350 was automatic only. 1977 Concours models got a new 3-taillight lens scheme very similar to the larger [[Chevrolet Impala|Impala]] with a [[Cadillac]]-esque front clip that included chrome squared-off headlight bezels and a more elegant-looking vertically-barred grille with extra chrome trim. The SS was dropped, but it would continue as the '''Nova Rally''', which was basically the same sporty-themed idea. Other models also got a slightly revised grille and all got a new dashboard with round gauges and an 80 MPH speedo.

1978 Novas continued with little change, other than the '''Custom''' model returning as the base model. The 2-door, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedan bodystyles, and Concours and Rally models, were still available. By now, however, the Nova was starting to fall out of favor with much of the buying public, largely due to increased competition from the new [[Ford Fairmont]] and even Chevrolet's own [[Chevrolet Malibu|Malibu]], which was an all-new downsized model for 1978. Even though 1979 was a final abbreviated model year, the front end was nonetheless revised again with square headlights and a new horizontally-barred grille for the short run. The 9C1 police package was dropped for '79, along with the Rally model and 350 V8 engine. Production ended on December 22, 1978. The Nova was replaced by the all-new front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] for 1980. The Nova name, however, would reappear again in 1985 on an unrelated model.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:156392062X01LZZZZZZ.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
| 1985-1988
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|4-Door Sedan 5-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2500-2700 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|5-Speed Manual, FWD 3-Speed Automatic, FWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|1.6L (97 cid) I4
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Toyota Corolla]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|S
|}

==1985-1988 Nova==

In 1985 the Nova name was applied to a rebadged [[Toyota Corolla]] and was produced at the NUMMI plant in Fremont, California, as an historic first joint venture between [[General Motors]] and [[Toyota]]. It shared the Corolla's drivetrain and running gear, and was available as a 4-door sedan and a 5-door hatchback (just like the Corolla). It differed from the Corolla mainly with slightly different front-end styling. It also shared many interior parts, such as audio systems, with other GM's offerings whereas the Corolla did not. The Corolla had been redesigned for 1988, but the Nova continued to use the old platform for its last year. The Nova would be replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]], which was also a twin to the Corolla.

==Main Competitors 1985-1988==

*[[Dodge Omni]]
*[[Ford Escort]]
*[[Honda Civic]]
*[[Isuzu I-Mark]]
*[[Mazda 323]]
*[[Mercury Lynx]]
*[[Nissan Sentra]]
*[[Plymouth Horizon]]
*[[Volkswagen Golf]]

{{-}}

==Photos==
<gallery>
Image:Ad77police350x496.jpg
</gallery>

==Main Competitors 1968-1979==
*[[Dodge Dart]]/[[Dodge Aspen|Aspen]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]/[[Ford Maverick|Maverick]]/[[Ford Fairmont|Fairmont]]
*[[Ford Granada]]
*[[Mercury Comet]]/[[Mercury Zephyr|Zephyr]]
*[[Mercury Monarch]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]/[[Plymouth Volare|Volare]]

==The urban legend==
A popular urban legend asserts that the Nova sold poorly in Mexico and other Latin American countries because the phrase ''no va'' means "does not go" in Spanish. In reality, the Spanish language ''no va'' and ''nova'' are as different as the English ''no table'' and ''notable'', or ''therapist'' and ''the rapist''. [http://www.snopes.com/business/misxlate/nova.asp] The word ''nova'' exists in [http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nova Spanish] with the same meaning as in English. Also, the Spanish word for 'new' (nuevo or nueva) is cognate to ''nova'', which originally meant "new" in Latin. Finally, as NOVA was a brand of gasoline sold for many years by PEMEX in Mexico, the largest of all Spanish-speaking Latin American countries, it is clear that this urban legend, while perhaps entertaining, is utterly baseless.

==See Also==
{{Chevrolet}}

==External links==
*[http://www.nnnova.com/ National Nostalgic Nova] The original National Nostalgic Nova Club Celebrating 25 Years of Helping Nova People The only Monthly Magazine dedicated to Only Novas!
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/nova/ Chevrolet Nova Internet Source] — The second known Nova site on the Internet
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/novaList.html Nova listserv] — The first and only known public [[Electronic mailing list|mailing list]] dedicated to Chevrolet Novas and other X-bodies; in continuous existence since January 1998
*[http://automotivehistoryonline.com/Chevrolet1960m.htm Automotive History Online] - Chevrolet Nova History & Photos
*[http://www.novaresource.org/ NovaResource.com] — Excellent source of history, production numbers, and option code information for 1962-79 Novas
*[http://www.stevesnovasite.com/ Steve's Nova Site] - Includes Q&A discussion board; another excellent resource for Nova owners
*[http://www.musclecarfacts.com/mcf/nova/nova.asp Chevy Nova SS at Muscle Car Facts] — A year-by-year history.
*[http://www.gen4novas.com/ Gen4Novas.com] — Source for the 'stepchild' Disco-era X-car.
*[http://www.2quicknovas.com/ 2QuickNovas.com] — Nova, technical, drag racing and general car info.
*[http://www.chevynova.org/1968.html]

[[Category:Classic cars]]

Chevrolet Nova

2010-10-17T23:54:57Z

Yankee: /* Fourth generation (1975–1979) */

The '''[[Chevrolet]] Nova''', or '''Chevy II''', was an American compact car introduced by [[General Motors]] in 1962. The original Chevy II was of unibody construction, powered by an OHV inline four or six-cylinder engine (and V8s later), and available in two- and four-door sedan configurations as well as convertible and station wagon versions. After the rear-engine [[Chevrolet Corvair]] was handily outsold by the conventional [[Ford Falcon]] in 1960, Chevrolet began work on a more conventional compact car that would eventually become the Chevy II. The Chevy II/Nova continued on throughout the 1960s and 70s with great success until it was supplanted by the front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] in 1980. The Nova name would reappear briefly again in 1985 as a twin to (of all things) the [[Toyota Corolla]]. The "Toyolet" Nova was discontinued after 1988, replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]].

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:1962 Chevrolet II.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1962-1965
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 2-Door Convertible 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 153" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1962-1965) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1962-1965) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1964-1965) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1964-1965) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1965)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-300 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==First Generation (1962-1965)==

Three different levels of this car were made - the baseline Chevy II '''100''', the mid-grade Chevy II '''300''' and the top-line Chevy II Nova '''400'''. Available powerplants included the standard 2.5L (153 cid) I4 and optional the 3.2L (194 cid) I6. Bodystyles included a 2-door sedan and hardtop, 4-door sedan, 5-door wagon and a 2-door convertible. Unlike its [[Dodge Dart]]/[[Plymouth Valiant]] and [[Ford Falcon]] competition, no V8s were initially offered, but Chevrolet 283 and 327 cid V8s were offered in some areas as dealer-installed options, up to and including the fuel injected version available in the [[Chevrolet Corvette]]. Transmissions were a column or floor 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed manual or 2-speed Powerglide automatic.

For 1963, the sport-oriented Chevy II Nova Super Sport ('''SS''') was released. Grilles and taillights were slightly revised. All bodystyles and engine choices remained the same. SSs could have bucket seats with a floor console-shift. For 1964, the Chevy II's first factory V8 option was introduced - a 195 hp 4.7L (283 cid) V8. The convertible was dropped, and the SS was also dropped at the beginning of this year, but it was reinstated mid-year due to high popular demand. The 300 series trim level was discontinued, leaving the 100 and 400 levels. In 1965, the grille was redesigned and the parking lights were relocated from directly below the headlights to the bumper. Taillights were revised also. The 5.3L (327 cid) V8 debuted this year in the SS with up to 300 horsepower. Other drivetrain choices remained the same as before. There would be a restyled Nova for 1966.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Chevrolet-nova 66.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1966-1967
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 154.7" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1966-1967) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1967) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1966-1967) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1966-1967)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-350 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Second Generation (1966-1967)==

1966 Novas saw a significant restyling, based in part on the Super Nova concept car. In general, external proportions were squared up but dimensions and features changed little. Trim choices were still the '''100''' and '''400'''. Engine options still included the basic 153 I4, 194 I6 and the 283 and 327 V8s, the latter offering now offering up to 350 horsepower. V8 models got special lower fender badges behind the front wheels. Transmission choices remained the column or floor-shift 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed and 2-speed Powerglide automatics. Inside, there was a new dashboard that strongly resembled the larger [[Chevrolet Chevelle|Chevelle]] (also all-new this year) and revised seat designs, but the Chevy II line during this time was still very spartan. The 90 hp 153 I4 was only offered in the base Chevy II 100 series models, with the 120-horsepower 194 I6 standard on the Nova and Nova SS lines. A new engine offering included a 140 hp 3.8L (230 cid) I6, available in all models except the baseline 100. The SS could still have bucket seats with a console floor shift. Not many changes for 1967, but a 155 hp 4.1L (250 cid) I6 became available and again available in all models except the 100. The 350 hp L79 327 V8 was unfortunately dropped this year, but other drivetrain choices remained the same as the previous year's. There would be an all-new Chevy II/Nova for 1968.

==Main Competitors 1962-1967==

*[[Dodge Dart]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]
*[[Studebaker Lark]]

[[Image:Nova front fender emblem 68-72.jpg|left|350px]]

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:477.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1968-1974
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1968-1970) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1968-1974) 5.0L (307 cid) V8 (1968-1973) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1968-1974) 6.5L (396 cid) cid V8 (1968-1970) 7.0L (427 cid) V8 (1970)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-425 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Apollo]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Third generation (1968–1974)==

An extensive redesign came in 1968, when the station wagon and two door hardtop bodystyles were discontinued. This body style continued (with a minor restyle in 1973) through 1974. One notable change was the front subframe assembly — as compared with [[Ford]], [[Chrysler]] and [[AMC]], in whose cars the entire front suspension was integrated with the bodyshell, a separate subframe housing the powertrain and front suspension (similar to the front part of the frame of GM's full-size, full-framed vehicles) replaced the earlier style. Although the front subframe design was a Chevy II-exclusive design, the [[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]] introduced a year earlier was the first to incorporate such a design; the redesigned Chevy II was pushed a year back to 1968 instead of 1967. 1968 was the final year that the Chevy II nameplate was used, although all 1968 models were "Chevy II Novas" with one single trim line.

The 153 I4 carried over from the previous generation as standard on the baseline model. Far more popular were the 250 I6 and the new 5.0L (307 cid) V8, which replaced the 283 offered in previous generations. At mid-year a semi-automatic transmission based on the Powerglide called Torque-Drive was introduced as a low-cost option for shiftless motoring for both the four and six-cylinder engines. The two-speed Powerglide was still the only fully-automatic gearbox available with most engines as the more desirable three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic was only available with the largest V8 engines. An interesting engine option was the 5.3L (327 cid) V8 rated at 350 hp (RPO code L79).

The '''SS''' was transformed from a trim package to a performance option for 1968 and now included a 295 hp 5.7L (350 cid) V8 engine along with front disc brakes, heavy-duty suspension and other performance hardware. Optional engines included two versions of the big-block 6.5L (396 cid) V8 rated at 350 and 375 hp. Both 396 engines were offered with a choice of transmissions including the M-21 close-ratio four-speed manual, the M-22 heavy-duty "Rock Crusher" four-speed manual, or the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 400 for those who preferred automatic shifting. SSs could have a console with optional auxiliary gauges very similar to the contemporary Camaro design.

===1969===

The Chevy II nameplate was retired and the car became the "Chevy Nova" for this year (some sources referred to it as the Chevrolet Chevy Nova - perhaps the decision to drop the Chevy II moniker was a last-minute decision for 1969). Like other 1969 GM vehicles, locking steering columns were incorporated along with column ignitions. Simulated vents were added below the Nova script, which was relocated to the front fender instead of the rear quarter panel. The 350-4 that came standard with the SS option was revised with a five-hp increase to 300 while a 350-2 rated at 255 hp was a new option on non-SS models. A new Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 three-speed automatic was made available for non-SS Novas with six-cylinder and V8 engines.

===1970===

Basically a carryover from 1969; the side markers and taillight lenses were wider and positioned slightly differently, which placed the reverse lights in the middle of the taillight lens instead of the inward portion. This was the final year for the SS396. All other engines were carried over including the seldom-ordered four-cylinder which was in its final year. The car finally became simply the Chevrolet Nova this year after two years of transitional nameplates (Chevy II Nova in 1968 and Chevrolet Chevy Nova in 1969).

Approximately 177 COPO Novas were ordered, with 175 converted by Yenko Chevrolet (the other two were sold in Canada). These had the mighty LT1 (350 cid) V8 engine

A beater 1970 Nova coupe is prominently featured in the movie ''Beverly Hills Cop''.

===1971===

1971 Novas were similar to the previous year but with the loss of the simulated fender vents and the discontinuation of the 396 motor for the SS with the L48 350-4 taking its place. 1971 also saw the introduction of the '''Rally Nova''', a trim level that only lasted two years and was marketed as sort of a budget-SS. The Rally package included black or white stripes that ran the length of the car and around the back, a Rally Nova sticker on the driver's side of the hood, and Rally wheels.

The 250 I6 was now the standard Nova powerplant with the demise of the 153 I4 and 230 I6 engines. The 307 and 350 V8s were carried over from 1970 and all engines featured lowered compression ratios to enable the use of unleaded gasoline as a result of a GM corporate mandate that took effect with the 1971 model year.

After 1971, other GM divisions began rebadging the Nova as their new entry-level vehicle, such as the [[Pontiac Ventura]] II (once a trim option for full-size Pontiacs to 1970), [[Oldsmobile Omega]] (1973) and the [[Buick Apollo]] (mid-1973). Interestingly, the intials of the four model names spelled out the acronym '''NOVA''' (Nova, Omega, Ventura, Apollo.)

===1972===

A virtual rerun of 1971, the 1972 Nova received only minor trim changes and both the Rally Nova and SS options carried over. At mid-year a manual canvas sunroof option became available on two-door models. Also, the optional Strato bucket seats available on coupes switched from the previous low-back design with adjustable headrests to the high back units with built-in headrests introduced the previous year on Camaros and Vegas. Standard engine was still the 250 I6 with either a 3- or 4-speed manual or 2- or 3-speed automatics. The 307 and 350 V8s remained optional. There would be a restyled Nova for 1973.

===1973===

The 1973 model year introduced a new hatchback bodystyle based on the 2-door coupe, as well as a front and rear restyling and a modified rear side window shape, plus a revised rear suspension adapted from the second-generation Camaro with multi-leaf springs replacing the mono-leaf springs used on Novas since the original 1966 model. A luxury-themed '''Custom''' became part of the model lineup which included upgraded upholstery, full carpeting and more exterior trim. By this time, six-cylinder and V8 engines were ''de rigeur'' for American compact cars, with the 307 and 350 (5.0 and 5.7L) V8s becoming fairly common. Nova SS models offered a higher-performance 350 (5.7L) V8. The 1973 Nova with a six-cylinder engine or 307 V8 were among the last Chevrolets to be offered with the now-outdated two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission, which was in its final year.

===1974===

For 1974, the powerglide was replaced by a lightweight version of the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 already offered with the 350 V8, which was now the only V8 offered this year. The SS option was still available but became more of a sporty trim package than a performance offering and now offered with any Nova engine, much like the 1963-67 Nova SS. The 250 I6 remained standard, and transmission choices, with the exception of the 2-speed Powerglide, remained the same as well. There would be an all-new Nova for 1975.

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:77rally.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1975-1979
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1975-1979) 4.3L (262 cid) V8 (1975) 5.0L (305 cid) V8 (1976-1979) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1975-1978)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|110-170 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Skylark]] [[Cadillac Seville]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]/[[Pontiac Phoenix|Phoenix]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Fourth generation (1975–1979)==

A completely redesigned Nova was introduced in 1975. Bodystyles were still the 2-door coupe, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedans. Base coupes, including the hatchback, had fixed side windows (or optional flip-out windows) and simulated vertical vents on the B-pillar (sedans would have simulated horizontal vents at the bottom of the C-pillar). Engines this year were the standard 250 cid I6 carried over from the previous generations, a 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and 350 V8 were optional. The front suspension and subframe assembly was similar to the one used in the second-generation GM F-body ([[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]], [[Pontiac Firebird|Firebird]]), whereas the rear axle and suspension were carried over from the 1968-74 generation.

The Nova lineup now ranged from the stripped-down '''S''' model, base, '''Custom''', and the luxury-themed '''LN''' ("Luxury Nova"). The Nova '''SS''' continued for 1975 and got a unique grille and requisite badges. Dashboards and other controls were virtually identical in layout compared to the previous generation. A high-performance 9C1 police version of the Nova was introduced for the 1975 model year, making it the first compact car certified for police duty in the U.S. Most were initially purchased by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department in 1976.

The LN was replaced with the Nova '''Concours''' in 1976, and the Custom model was gone (temporarily). The grille was changed slightly, and the short-lived 262 V8 was replaced by the new 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and was standard on the Concours. The 350 V8 remained the top engine option. Transmissions included the 3-speed manual standard with the I6, with a 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic optional. The 305 could have a 4-speed manual or automatic, while the 350 was automatic only. 1977 Concours models got a new 3-taillight lens scheme very similar to the larger [[Chevrolet Impala|Impala]] with a [[Cadillac]]-esque front clip that included chrome squared-off headlight bezels and a more elegant-looking vertically-barred grille with extra chrome trim. The SS was dropped, but it would continue as the '''Nova Rally''', which was basically the same sporty-themed idea. Other models also got a slightly revised grille and all got a new dashboard with round gauges and an 80 MPH speedo.

1978 Novas continued with little change, other than the '''Custom''' model returning as the base model. The 2-door, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedan bodystyles, and Concours and Rally models, were still available. By now, however, the Nova was starting to fall out of favor with much of the buying public, largely due to increased competition from the new [[Ford Fairmont]] and even Chevrolet's own [[Chevrolet Malibu|Malibu]], which was an all-new downsized model for 1978. Even though 1979 was a final abbreviated model year, the front end was nonetheless revised again with square headlights and a new horizontally-barred grille for the short run. The 9C1 police package was dropped for '79, along with the Rally model and 350 V8 engine. Production ended on December 22, 1978. The Nova was replaced by the all-new front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] for 1980. The Nova name, however, would reappear again in 1985 on an unrelated model.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:156392062X01LZZZZZZ.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
| 1985-1988
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|4-Door Sedan 5-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2500-2700 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|5-Speed Manual, FWD 3-Speed Automatic, FWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|1.6L (97 cid) I4
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Toyota Corolla]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|S
|}

==1985-1988 Nova==

In 1985 the Nova name was applied to a rebadged [[Toyota Corolla]] and was produced at the NUMMI plant in Fremont, California, as an historic first joint venture between [[General Motors]] and [[Toyota]]. It shared the Corolla's drivetrain and running gear, and was available as a 4-door sedan and a 5-door hatchback (just like the Corolla). It differed from the Corolla mainly with slightly different front-end styling. It also shared many interior parts, such as audio systems, with other GM's offerings whereas the Corolla did not. The Corolla had been redesigned for 1988, but the Nova continued to use the old platform for its last year. The Nova would be replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]], which was also a twin to the Corolla.

==Main Competitors 1985-1988==

*[[Dodge Omni]]
*[[Ford Escort]]
*[[Honda Civic]]
*[[Isuzu I-Mark]]
*[[Mazda 323]]
*[[Mercury Lynx]]
*[[Nissan Sentra]]
*[[Plymouth Horizon]]
*[[Volkswagen Golf]]

{{-}}

==Photos==
<gallery>
Image:Ad77police350x496.jpg
</gallery>

==Main Competitors 1968-1979==
*[[Dodge Dart]]/[[Dodge Aspen|Aspen]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]/[[Ford Maverick|Maverick]]/[[Ford Fairmont|Fairmont]]
*[[Ford Granada]]
*[[Mercury Comet]]/[[Mercury Zephyr|Zephyr]]
*[[Mercury Monarch]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]/[[Plymouth Volare|Volare]]

==The urban legend==
A popular urban legend asserts that the Nova sold poorly in Mexico and other Latin American countries because the phrase ''no va'' means "does not go" in Spanish. In reality, the Spanish language ''no va'' and ''nova'' are as different as the English ''no table'' and ''notable'', or ''therapist'' and ''the rapist''. [http://www.snopes.com/business/misxlate/nova.asp] The word ''nova'' exists in [http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nova Spanish] with the same meaning as in English. Also, the Spanish word for 'new' (nuevo or nueva) is cognate to ''nova'', which originally meant "new" in Latin. Finally, as NOVA was a brand of gasoline sold for many years by PEMEX in Mexico, the largest of all Spanish-speaking Latin American countries, it is clear that this urban legend, while perhaps entertaining, is utterly baseless.

==See Also==
{{Chevrolet}}

==External links==
*[http://www.nnnova.com/ National Nostalgic Nova] The original National Nostalgic Nova Club Celebrating 25 Years of Helping Nova People The only Monthly Magazine dedicated to Only Novas!
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/nova/ Chevrolet Nova Internet Source] — The second known Nova site on the Internet
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/novaList.html Nova listserv] — The first and only known public [[Electronic mailing list|mailing list]] dedicated to Chevrolet Novas and other X-bodies; in continuous existence since January 1998
*[http://automotivehistoryonline.com/Chevrolet1960m.htm Automotive History Online] - Chevrolet Nova History & Photos
*[http://www.novaresource.org/ NovaResource.com] — Excellent source of history, production numbers, and option code information for 1962-79 Novas
*[http://www.stevesnovasite.com/ Steve's Nova Site] - Includes Q&A discussion board; another excellent resource for Nova owners
*[http://www.musclecarfacts.com/mcf/nova/nova.asp Chevy Nova SS at Muscle Car Facts] — A year-by-year history.
*[http://www.gen4novas.com/ Gen4Novas.com] — Source for the 'stepchild' Disco-era X-car.
*[http://www.2quicknovas.com/ 2QuickNovas.com] — Nova, technical, drag racing and general car info.
*[http://www.chevynova.org/1968.html]

[[Category:Classic cars]]

Dodge Ram 50

2010-10-17T21:42:06Z

Yankee: /* First Generation (1979-1986) */

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Dodge Ram 50.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Dodge Ram D50'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Dodge]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production
| 1979-1986
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class
| Compact Pickup
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style
| 2-Door Pickup
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 109.4"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight
| 2500-3000 lb
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions
| 4-Speed Manual, RWD/4WD 5-Speed Manual RWD/4WD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD/4WD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines
| 2.0L (122 cid) [[I4]] (1979-1986) 2.4L (144 cid) [[I4]] Turbodiesel (1983-1986) 2.6L (156 cid) [[I4]] (1979-1986)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power
| {{{Horsepower and torque rating}}}
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar
| [[Mitsubishi Mighty Max]] Plymouth Arrow
|}

The '''[[Dodge]] Ram D50''' was a compact pickup that debuted in 1979, and competed with other captive import pickup trucks such as the contemporary [[Chevrolet LUV]] and [[Ford Courier]]. The Ram D50 (later simply Ram 50) was produced by [[Mitsubishi]] (as the L200), and briefly had a [[Plymouth]] twin called the ''Arrow'' (not to be confused with the [[Plymouth Arrow|Arrow]] sub-compact car of the same name).

==First Generation (1979-1986)==

The D50 debuted with a 2.0L I4 93 hp engine, with a 2.6L I4 "Silent Shaft" 105 hp engine as an option. 4- and 5-speed manual transmissions were standard (depending on engine) with the 3-speed automatic optional. It rode a single cab version only on a 109.4" wheelbase. A '''Power Ram 50''' sport package became available in 1982, using special paint and striping schemes. The D50 retained the same look until it traded in its dual headlights for quad units in 1983. The Plymouth Arrow pickup was discontinued after the 1982 model year, but Mitsubishi would offer its own version of the truck beginning in 1983, interestingly named [[Mitsubishi Mighty Max|Mighty Max]]. A turbodiesel I4 engine rated at 84 hp became an option for both in 1983 and lasted until 1986. An all new design would debut for the Ram 50 and Mighty Max in 1987.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | {{{Image}}}
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Dodge Ram 50'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Dodge]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production
| Dodge - 1987-1993 Mitsubishi - 1987-1995
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class
| Compact Pickup
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style
| 2-Door Pickup
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length
| 177.2"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width
| 65.2"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height
| 58.3"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 105.1
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight
| 2600-3000 lb
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions
| 4-Speed Manual, RWD/4WD 5-Speed Manual RWD/4WD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD/4WD 4-Speed Automatic, RWD/4WD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines
| 2.0L (122 cid) [[I4]] (1987-1989) 2.4L (144 cid) [[I4]] (1990-1995) 2.6L (156 cid) [[I4]] (1987-1989) 3.0L (181 cid) [[V6]] (1990-1993)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power
| {{{Horsepower and torque rating}}}
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar
| [[Mitsubishi Mighty Max]]
|}

==Second Generation (1987-1995)==

The Ram 50 and Mighty Max were all new this year (the D50 designation was dropped). The turbodiesel engine was dropped, but the 2.0L and 2.6L I4s remained. The 3-speed automatic was replaced with a 4-speed unit on the 2.6. Extended cabs were offered for the first time (Mitsubishi called their version the "Macrocab"). Dodge debuted the [[Dodge Dakota|Dakota]] pickup this year, but the Ram 50 remained due to its compact size, whereas the Dakota was a mid-size. By now, [[Chevrolet]] and [[Ford]]'s domestic-built compact trucks (the [[Chevrolet S10|S10]] and [[Ford Ranger|Ranger]]) had been out for a few years and no longer relied on captive importing for its compact trucks, but the Dodge Ram 50 remained Mitsubishi-produced.

1988 and 1989 models were pretty much unchanged, but the 1990 models got 2 new powertrains; the 2.0L and 2.6L I4s were dropped, a new 2.4L 116hp I4 was now standard and a new 3.0L 142 hp V6 was an option (with 4-speed automatic only). Despite this, the Ram 50 and Mighty Max were now bit players in the compact truck market, not being nearly as popular as the [[Nissan]] and [[Toyota]] compact trucks, let alone the Chevrolet S10 and Ford Ranger, but they soldiered on nonetheless. 1991 and 1992 models remained unchanged save for some new colors. The Dodge Ram 50 would die at the end of the 1993 model year, but the Mighty Max would survive (temporarily). In 1994, it dropped its extended cab bodystyle and V6 engine; it was now down to one cab and bed size and the I4 engine. Mitsubishi finally threw in the towel on the Mighty Max after 1995.

Neither the Ram 50 or Mighty Max had direct succcessors, but Dodge would continue with the Dakota, and Mitsubishi would have another pickup model in 2005 called the [[Mitsubishi Raider|Raider]], which was a fraternal twin to the 3rd generation Dakota.

==Competitors==
*[[Chevrolet LUV]]
*[[Chevrolet S10]]
*[[Datsun]]/[[Nissan]] Pickups
*[[Ford Courier]]
*[[Ford Ranger]]
*[[GMC S15]]/[[GMC Sonoma|Sonoma]]
*[[Isuzu P'up]]
*[[Mazda B-series]]
*[[Toyota]] Pickups

{{Dodge}}

Chevrolet LUV

2010-10-17T21:40:09Z

Yankee: /* 1st Generation (1972-1980) */

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | {{{Image}}}
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet LUV'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[General Motors]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production
| 1972-1980
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class
| Compact pickup
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style
| 2-Door Pickup
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length
| 173.5 in 191.5 in
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width
| 63 in
|- style="vertical-align:top;
| Height
| 60.3 in
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase
| 102.4 in 118 in
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight
| 2500-3000 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmission
| 4-Speed Manual, Rear/4WD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engine
| 1.8L (111 cid) I4
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power
| 75-80 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar
| N/A
|}

The '''[[Chevrolet]] LUV''' (stood for ''Light Utility Vehicle'') was a compact pickup truck that was produced by [[Isuzu]] for Chevrolet, introduced in 1972 (same year [[Ford]] introduced the [[Mazda]]-produced [[Ford Courier|Courier]]). It was a basic, (very) no-frills pickup that was made to appeal to the younger generation who otherwise would normally shun the larger, gas-hungry full-size pickup offerings. It had one redesign in 1981 and would eventually be replaced by the domestically-built [[Chevrolet S-10|S-10]] after 1982.

==1st Generation (1972-1980)==

1972 models had quad headlights with the taillights below the tailgate, and would initially offer one engine combination, by way of a 75 hp 1.8L (111 cid) I4 engine and a 4-speed manual transmission. 1973 models differed very little from the 1972s, but 1974 LUVs had new taillights and were relocated from below the tailgate to vertically-mounted on the sides. A new upper-level '''Mikado''' package debuted this year, offering a nicer interior and exterior trim than the base models. 1975 LUVs had no change, 1976 models introduced a 3-speed automatic transmission for the first time, as well as front disc brakes. Engines gained 5 hp for 1977, for a total of 80.

1978 had its first noticeable change up front, going for dual headlights instead of the former quad design. Along with the new nose came a new, optional longer bed (7.5' in addition to the 6'). The dashboard was also revised. 4 wheel drive became an option in 1979, broadening its appeal even further, but on standard bed models only. [[Dodge]] had finally thrown its compact-pickup hat in the ring this year with its [[Mitsubishi]]-produced [[Dodge Ram 50|Ram D50]], so its competition was getting more fierce, but sales topped 100,000 for the first (and only) time, making 1979 the most popular sales year. There were no changes to the 1980 models, but an all new redesigned LUV would debut for 1981.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | {{{Image}}}
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet LUV'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[General Motors]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production
| 1981-1982
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class
| Compact pickup
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style
| 2 Door Pickup
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length
| 175.5" 191.9"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width
| 64.4"
|- style="vertical-align:top;
| Height
| 60.8"
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase
| 104.3" 118"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight
| 2500-3000 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmission
| 4-Speed Manual, Rear/4WD 5-Speed Manual, Rear/4WD 3-Speed Automatic, Rear
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engine
| 1.8L (111 cid) I4 2.2L (137 cid) I4 Diesel
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power
| 58-80 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar
| [[Isuzu P'up]]
|}

==2nd Generation (1981-1982)==

An all new LUV debuted for 1981, and while the previous LUV was indeed getting long-in-the-tooth, critics nonetheless derided this new LUV design as "boring" and "uninspired". The wheelbase was stretched 2 inches on the standard models, the long beds still had the 118" wheelbase. 2- and 4-wheel-drive models were still available, and despite the all-new design, the standard drivetrain was still the same 80 hp 1.8L I4 carried over from the previous version. An all new diesel engine became optional, a 58 hp 2.2L (137 cid) I4, and was available with either a 4-speed or a 5-speed manual transmission (the only 5-speed ever offered on the LUV). The diesel was not available with the automatic. [[Isuzu]] now introduced its own version of the LUV this year, called the [[Isuzu P'up|P'up]]. 1982 models had no changes and would be the LUV's final year, although its twin, the Isuzu P'up, would live on. The LUV was effectively replaced by the all-new U.S. built [[Chevrolet S-10|S-10]], which made its debut this year (Ford would also replace the Courier with the all-new [[Ford Ranger|Ranger]] in 1983).

==Main Competitors==

*[[Datsun]] Pickup
*[[Dodge Ram 50|Dodge Ram D50]]
*[[Ford Courier]]
*[[Dodge Ram 50|Plymouth Arrow]]
*[[Toyota]] Pickup

{{Chevrolet}}

Chevrolet Nova

2010-10-17T21:37:01Z

Yankee: /* Main Competitors 1962-1967 */

The '''[[Chevrolet]] Nova''', or '''Chevy II''', was an American compact car introduced by [[General Motors]] in 1962. The original Chevy II was of unibody construction, powered by an OHV inline four or six-cylinder engine (and V8s later), and available in two- and four-door sedan configurations as well as convertible and station wagon versions. After the rear-engine [[Chevrolet Corvair]] was handily outsold by the conventional [[Ford Falcon]] in 1960, Chevrolet began work on a more conventional compact car that would eventually become the Chevy II. The Chevy II/Nova continued on throughout the 1960s and 70s with great success until it was supplanted by the front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] in 1980. The Nova name would reappear briefly again in 1985 as a twin to (of all things) the [[Toyota Corolla]]. The "Toyolet" Nova was discontinued after 1988, replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]].

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:1962 Chevrolet II.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1962-1965
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 2-Door Convertible 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 153" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1962-1965) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1962-1965) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1964-1965) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1964-1965) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1965)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-300 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==First Generation (1962-1965)==

Three different levels of this car were made - the baseline Chevy II '''100''', the mid-grade Chevy II '''300''' and the top-line Chevy II Nova '''400'''. Available powerplants included the standard 2.5L (153 cid) I4 and optional the 3.2L (194 cid) I6. Bodystyles included a 2-door sedan and hardtop, 4-door sedan, 5-door wagon and a 2-door convertible. Unlike its [[Dodge Dart]]/[[Plymouth Valiant]] and [[Ford Falcon]] competition, no V8s were initially offered, but Chevrolet 283 and 327 cid V8s were offered in some areas as dealer-installed options, up to and including the fuel injected version available in the [[Chevrolet Corvette]]. Transmissions were a column or floor 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed manual or 2-speed Powerglide automatic.

For 1963, the sport-oriented Chevy II Nova Super Sport ('''SS''') was released. Grilles and taillights were slightly revised. All bodystyles and engine choices remained the same. SSs could have bucket seats with a floor console-shift. For 1964, the Chevy II's first factory V8 option was introduced - a 195 hp 4.7L (283 cid) V8. The convertible was dropped, and the SS was also dropped at the beginning of this year, but it was reinstated mid-year due to high popular demand. The 300 series trim level was discontinued, leaving the 100 and 400 levels. In 1965, the grille was redesigned and the parking lights were relocated from directly below the headlights to the bumper. Taillights were revised also. The 5.3L (327 cid) V8 debuted this year in the SS with up to 300 horsepower. Other drivetrain choices remained the same as before. There would be a restyled Nova for 1966.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Chevrolet-nova 66.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1966-1967
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 154.7" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1966-1967) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1967) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1966-1967) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1966-1967)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-350 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Second Generation (1966-1967)==

1966 Novas saw a significant restyling, based in part on the Super Nova concept car. In general, external proportions were squared up but dimensions and features changed little. Trim choices were still the '''100''' and '''400'''. Engine options still included the basic 153 I4, 194 I6 and the 283 and 327 V8s, the latter offering now offering up to 350 horsepower. V8 models got special lower fender badges behind the front wheels. Transmission choices remained the column or floor-shift 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed and 2-speed Powerglide automatics. Inside, there was a new dashboard that strongly resembled the larger [[Chevrolet Chevelle|Chevelle]] (also all-new this year) and revised seat designs, but the Chevy II line during this time was still very spartan. The 90 hp 153 I4 was only offered in the base Chevy II 100 series models, with the 120-horsepower 194 I6 standard on the Nova and Nova SS lines. A new engine offering included a 140 hp 3.8L (230 cid) I6, available in all models except the baseline 100. The SS could still have bucket seats with a console floor shift. Not many changes for 1967, but a 155 hp 4.1L (250 cid) I6 became available and again available in all models except the 100. The 350 hp L79 327 V8 was unfortunately dropped this year, but other drivetrain choices remained the same as the previous year's. There would be an all-new Chevy II/Nova for 1968.

==Main Competitors 1962-1967==

*[[Dodge Dart]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]
*[[Studebaker Lark]]

[[Image:Nova front fender emblem 68-72.jpg|left|350px]]

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:477.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1968-1974
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1968-1970) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1968-1974) 5.0L (307 cid) V8 (1968-1973) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1968-1974) 6.5L (396 cid) cid V8 (1968-1970) 7.0L (427 cid) V8 (1970)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-425 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Apollo]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Third generation (1968–1974)==

An extensive redesign came in 1968, when the station wagon and two door hardtop bodystyles were discontinued. This body style continued (with a minor restyle in 1973) through 1974. One notable change was the front subframe assembly — as compared with [[Ford]], [[Chrysler]] and [[AMC]], in whose cars the entire front suspension was integrated with the bodyshell, a separate subframe housing the powertrain and front suspension (similar to the front part of the frame of GM's full-size, full-framed vehicles) replaced the earlier style. Although the front subframe design was a Chevy II-exclusive design, the [[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]] introduced a year earlier was the first to incorporate such a design; the redesigned Chevy II was pushed a year back to 1968 instead of 1967. 1968 was the final year that the Chevy II nameplate was used, although all 1968 models were "Chevy II Novas" with one single trim line.

The 153 I4 carried over from the previous generation as standard on the baseline model. Far more popular were the 250 I6 and the new 5.0L (307 cid) V8, which replaced the 283 offered in previous generations. At mid-year a semi-automatic transmission based on the Powerglide called Torque-Drive was introduced as a low-cost option for shiftless motoring for both the four and six-cylinder engines. The two-speed Powerglide was still the only fully-automatic gearbox available with most engines as the more desirable three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic was only available with the largest V8 engines. An interesting engine option was the 5.3L (327 cid) V8 rated at 350 hp (RPO code L79).

The '''SS''' was transformed from a trim package to a performance option for 1968 and now included a 295 hp 5.7L (350 cid) V8 engine along with front disc brakes, heavy-duty suspension and other performance hardware. Optional engines included two versions of the big-block 6.5L (396 cid) V8 rated at 350 and 375 hp. Both 396 engines were offered with a choice of transmissions including the M-21 close-ratio four-speed manual, the M-22 heavy-duty "Rock Crusher" four-speed manual, or the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 400 for those who preferred automatic shifting. SSs could have a console with optional auxiliary gauges very similar to the contemporary Camaro design.

===1969===

The Chevy II nameplate was retired and the car became the "Chevy Nova" for this year (some sources referred to it as the Chevrolet Chevy Nova - perhaps the decision to drop the Chevy II moniker was a last-minute decision for 1969). Like other 1969 GM vehicles, locking steering columns were incorporated along with column ignitions. Simulated vents were added below the Nova script, which was relocated to the front fender instead of the rear quarter panel. The 350-4 that came standard with the SS option was revised with a five-hp increase to 300 while a 350-2 rated at 255 hp was a new option on non-SS models. A new Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 three-speed automatic was made available for non-SS Novas with six-cylinder and V8 engines.

===1970===

Basically a carryover from 1969; the side markers and taillight lenses were wider and positioned slightly differently, which placed the reverse lights in the middle of the taillight lens instead of the inward portion. This was the final year for the SS396. All other engines were carried over including the seldom-ordered four-cylinder which was in its final year. The car finally became simply the Chevrolet Nova this year after two years of transitional nameplates (Chevy II Nova in 1968 and Chevrolet Chevy Nova in 1969).

Approximately 177 COPO Novas were ordered, with 175 converted by Yenko Chevrolet (the other two were sold in Canada). These had the mighty LT1 (350 cid) V8 engine

A beater 1970 Nova coupe is prominently featured in the movie ''Beverly Hills Cop''.

===1971===

1971 Novas were similar to the previous year but with the loss of the simulated fender vents and the discontinuation of the 396 motor for the SS with the L48 350-4 taking its place. 1971 also saw the introduction of the '''Rally Nova''', a trim level that only lasted two years and was marketed as sort of a budget-SS. The Rally package included black or white stripes that ran the length of the car and around the back, a Rally Nova sticker on the driver's side of the hood, and Rally wheels.

The 250 I6 was now the standard Nova powerplant with the demise of the 153 I4 and 230 I6 engines. The 307 and 350 V8s were carried over from 1970 and all engines featured lowered compression ratios to enable the use of unleaded gasoline as a result of a GM corporate mandate that took effect with the 1971 model year.

After 1971, other GM divisions began rebadging the Nova as their new entry-level vehicle, such as the [[Pontiac Ventura]] II (once a trim option for full-size Pontiacs to 1970), [[Oldsmobile Omega]] (1973) and the [[Buick Apollo]] (mid-1973). Interestingly, the intials of the four model names spelled out the acronym '''NOVA''' (Nova, Omega, Ventura, Apollo.)

===1972===

A virtual rerun of 1971, the 1972 Nova received only minor trim changes and both the Rally Nova and SS options carried over. At mid-year a manual canvas sunroof option became available on two-door models. Also, the optional Strato bucket seats available on coupes switched from the previous low-back design with adjustable headrests to the high back units with built-in headrests introduced the previous year on Camaros and Vegas. Standard engine was still the 250 I6 with either a 3- or 4-speed manual or 2- or 3-speed automatics. The 307 and 350 V8s remained optional. There would be a restyled Nova for 1973.

===1973===

The 1973 model year introduced a new hatchback bodystyle based on the 2-door coupe, as well as a front and rear restyling and a modified rear side window shape, plus a revised rear suspension adapted from the second-generation Camaro with multi-leaf springs replacing the mono-leaf springs used on Novas since the original 1966 model. A luxury-themed '''Custom''' became part of the model lineup which included upgraded upholstery, full carpeting and more exterior trim. By this time, six-cylinder and V8 engines were ''de rigeur'' for American compact cars, with the 307 and 350 (5.0 and 5.7L) V8s becoming fairly common. Nova SS models offered a higher-performance 350 (5.7L) V8. The 1973 Nova with a six-cylinder engine or 307 V8 were among the last Chevrolets to be offered with the now-outdated two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission, which was in its final year.

===1974===

For 1974, the powerglide was replaced by a lightweight version of the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 already offered with the 350 V8, which was now the only V8 offered this year. The SS option was still available but became more of a sporty trim package than a performance offering and now offered with any Nova engine, much like the 1963-67 Nova SS. The 250 I6 remained standard, and transmission choices, with the exception of the 2-speed Powerglide, remained the same as well. There would be an all-new Nova for 1975.

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:77rally.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1975-1979
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1975-1979) 4.3L (262 cid) V8 (1975) 5.0L (305 cid) V8 (1976-1979) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1975-1978)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|110-170 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Skylark]] [[Cadillac Seville]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]/[[Pontiac Phoenix|Phoenix]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Fourth generation (1975–1979)==

A completely redesigned Nova was introduced in 1975. Bodystyles were still the 2-door coupe, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedans. Base coupes, including the hatchback, had fixed side windows (or optional flip-out windows) and simulated vertical vents on the B-pillar (sedans would have simulated horizontal vents at the bottom of the C-pillar). Engines this year were the standard 250 cid I6 carried over from the previous generations, a 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and 350 V8 were optional. The front suspension and subframe assembly was similar to the one used in the second-generation GM F-body ([[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]], [[Pontiac Firebird|Firebird]]), whereas the rear axle and suspension were carried over from the 1968-74 generation.

The Nova lineup now ranged from the stripped-down '''S''' model, base, '''Custom''', and the luxury-themed '''LN''' ("Luxury Nova"). The Nova '''SS''' continued for 1975 and got a unique grille with horizontal parking lights versus the vertical units beside the headlights. A high-performance 9C1 police version of the Nova was introduced for the 1975 model year, making it the first compact car certified for police duty in the U.S. Most were initially purchased by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department in 1976.

The LN was replaced with the Nova '''Concours''' in 1976, and the Custom model was gone (temporarily). The grille was changed slightly, and the short-lived 262 V8 was replaced by the new 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and was standard on the Concours. The 350 V8 remained the top engine option. Transmissions included the 3-speed manual standard with the I6, with a 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic optional. The 305 could have a 4-speed manual or automatic, while the 350 was automatic only. 1977 Concours models got a new 3-taillight lens scheme very similar to the larger [[Chevrolet Impala|Impala]] with a [[Cadillac]]-esque front clip that included chrome squared-off headlight bezels and a more elegant-looking vertically-barred grille with extra chrome trim. The SS was dropped, but it would continue as the '''Nova Rally''', which was basically the same sporty-themed idea.

1978 Novas continued with little change, other than the Custom model returning as the base model. The 2-door, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedan bodystyles, and Concours and Rally models, were still available. By now the Nova was starting to fall out of favor with much of the buying public, largely due to increased competition from the new [[Ford Fairmont]] and even Chevrolet's own [[Chevrolet Malibu|Malibu]], which was an all-new downsized model for 1978. Even though 1979 was a final abbreviated model year, the front end was nonetheless revised again with square headlights and a new horizontally-barred grille for the short run. The 9C1 police package was dropped for '79, along with the Rally model and 350 V8 engine. Production ended on December 22, 1978. The Nova was replaced by the all-new front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] for 1980. The Nova name, however, would reappear again in 1985 on an unrelated model.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:156392062X01LZZZZZZ.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
| 1985-1988
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|4-Door Sedan 5-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2500-2700 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|5-Speed Manual, FWD 3-Speed Automatic, FWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|1.6L (97 cid) I4
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Toyota Corolla]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|S
|}

==1985-1988 Nova==

In 1985 the Nova name was applied to a rebadged [[Toyota Corolla]] and was produced at the NUMMI plant in Fremont, California, as an historic first joint venture between [[General Motors]] and [[Toyota]]. It shared the Corolla's drivetrain and running gear, and was available as a 4-door sedan and a 5-door hatchback (just like the Corolla). It differed from the Corolla mainly with slightly different front-end styling. It also shared many interior parts, such as audio systems, with other GM's offerings whereas the Corolla did not. The Corolla had been redesigned for 1988, but the Nova continued to use the old platform for its last year. The Nova would be replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]], which was also a twin to the Corolla.

==Main Competitors 1985-1988==

*[[Dodge Omni]]
*[[Ford Escort]]
*[[Honda Civic]]
*[[Isuzu I-Mark]]
*[[Mazda 323]]
*[[Mercury Lynx]]
*[[Nissan Sentra]]
*[[Plymouth Horizon]]
*[[Volkswagen Golf]]

{{-}}

==Photos==
<gallery>
Image:Ad77police350x496.jpg
</gallery>

==Main Competitors 1968-1979==
*[[Dodge Dart]]/[[Dodge Aspen|Aspen]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]/[[Ford Maverick|Maverick]]/[[Ford Fairmont|Fairmont]]
*[[Ford Granada]]
*[[Mercury Comet]]/[[Mercury Zephyr|Zephyr]]
*[[Mercury Monarch]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]/[[Plymouth Volare|Volare]]

==The urban legend==
A popular urban legend asserts that the Nova sold poorly in Mexico and other Latin American countries because the phrase ''no va'' means "does not go" in Spanish. In reality, the Spanish language ''no va'' and ''nova'' are as different as the English ''no table'' and ''notable'', or ''therapist'' and ''the rapist''. [http://www.snopes.com/business/misxlate/nova.asp] The word ''nova'' exists in [http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nova Spanish] with the same meaning as in English. Also, the Spanish word for 'new' (nuevo or nueva) is cognate to ''nova'', which originally meant "new" in Latin. Finally, as NOVA was a brand of gasoline sold for many years by PEMEX in Mexico, the largest of all Spanish-speaking Latin American countries, it is clear that this urban legend, while perhaps entertaining, is utterly baseless.

==See Also==
{{Chevrolet}}

==External links==
*[http://www.nnnova.com/ National Nostalgic Nova] The original National Nostalgic Nova Club Celebrating 25 Years of Helping Nova People The only Monthly Magazine dedicated to Only Novas!
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/nova/ Chevrolet Nova Internet Source] — The second known Nova site on the Internet
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/novaList.html Nova listserv] — The first and only known public [[Electronic mailing list|mailing list]] dedicated to Chevrolet Novas and other X-bodies; in continuous existence since January 1998
*[http://automotivehistoryonline.com/Chevrolet1960m.htm Automotive History Online] - Chevrolet Nova History & Photos
*[http://www.novaresource.org/ NovaResource.com] — Excellent source of history, production numbers, and option code information for 1962-79 Novas
*[http://www.stevesnovasite.com/ Steve's Nova Site] - Includes Q&A discussion board; another excellent resource for Nova owners
*[http://www.musclecarfacts.com/mcf/nova/nova.asp Chevy Nova SS at Muscle Car Facts] — A year-by-year history.
*[http://www.gen4novas.com/ Gen4Novas.com] — Source for the 'stepchild' Disco-era X-car.
*[http://www.2quicknovas.com/ 2QuickNovas.com] — Nova, technical, drag racing and general car info.
*[http://www.chevynova.org/1968.html]

[[Category:Classic cars]]

Chevrolet Nova

2010-10-17T21:36:30Z

Yankee:

The '''[[Chevrolet]] Nova''', or '''Chevy II''', was an American compact car introduced by [[General Motors]] in 1962. The original Chevy II was of unibody construction, powered by an OHV inline four or six-cylinder engine (and V8s later), and available in two- and four-door sedan configurations as well as convertible and station wagon versions. After the rear-engine [[Chevrolet Corvair]] was handily outsold by the conventional [[Ford Falcon]] in 1960, Chevrolet began work on a more conventional compact car that would eventually become the Chevy II. The Chevy II/Nova continued on throughout the 1960s and 70s with great success until it was supplanted by the front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] in 1980. The Nova name would reappear briefly again in 1985 as a twin to (of all things) the [[Toyota Corolla]]. The "Toyolet" Nova was discontinued after 1988, replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]].

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:1962 Chevrolet II.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1962-1965
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 2-Door Convertible 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 153" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1962-1965) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1962-1965) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1964-1965) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1964-1965) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1965)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-300 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==First Generation (1962-1965)==

Three different levels of this car were made - the baseline Chevy II '''100''', the mid-grade Chevy II '''300''' and the top-line Chevy II Nova '''400'''. Available powerplants included the standard 2.5L (153 cid) I4 and optional the 3.2L (194 cid) I6. Bodystyles included a 2-door sedan and hardtop, 4-door sedan, 5-door wagon and a 2-door convertible. Unlike its [[Dodge Dart]]/[[Plymouth Valiant]] and [[Ford Falcon]] competition, no V8s were initially offered, but Chevrolet 283 and 327 cid V8s were offered in some areas as dealer-installed options, up to and including the fuel injected version available in the [[Chevrolet Corvette]]. Transmissions were a column or floor 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed manual or 2-speed Powerglide automatic.

For 1963, the sport-oriented Chevy II Nova Super Sport ('''SS''') was released. Grilles and taillights were slightly revised. All bodystyles and engine choices remained the same. SSs could have bucket seats with a floor console-shift. For 1964, the Chevy II's first factory V8 option was introduced - a 195 hp 4.7L (283 cid) V8. The convertible was dropped, and the SS was also dropped at the beginning of this year, but it was reinstated mid-year due to high popular demand. The 300 series trim level was discontinued, leaving the 100 and 400 levels. In 1965, the grille was redesigned and the parking lights were relocated from directly below the headlights to the bumper. Taillights were revised also. The 5.3L (327 cid) V8 debuted this year in the SS with up to 300 horsepower. Other drivetrain choices remained the same as before. There would be a restyled Nova for 1966.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Chevrolet-nova 66.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1966-1967
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 154.7" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1966-1967) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1967) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1966-1967) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1966-1967)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-350 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Second Generation (1966-1967)==

1966 Novas saw a significant restyling, based in part on the Super Nova concept car. In general, external proportions were squared up but dimensions and features changed little. Trim choices were still the '''100''' and '''400'''. Engine options still included the basic 153 I4, 194 I6 and the 283 and 327 V8s, the latter offering now offering up to 350 horsepower. V8 models got special lower fender badges behind the front wheels. Transmission choices remained the column or floor-shift 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed and 2-speed Powerglide automatics. Inside, there was a new dashboard that strongly resembled the larger [[Chevrolet Chevelle|Chevelle]] (also all-new this year) and revised seat designs, but the Chevy II line during this time was still very spartan. The 90 hp 153 I4 was only offered in the base Chevy II 100 series models, with the 120-horsepower 194 I6 standard on the Nova and Nova SS lines. A new engine offering included a 140 hp 3.8L (230 cid) I6, available in all models except the baseline 100. The SS could still have bucket seats with a console floor shift. Not many changes for 1967, but a 155 hp 4.1L (250 cid) I6 became available and again available in all models except the 100. The 350 hp L79 327 V8 was unfortunately dropped this year, but other drivetrain choices remained the same as the previous year's. There would be an all-new Chevy II/Nova for 1968.

==Main Competitors 1962-1967==

*[[Dodge Dart]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]
*[[Studebaker Lark]]

[[Image:Nova front fender emblem 68-72.jpg|left|350px]]

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:477.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1968-1974
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1968-1970) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1968-1974) 5.0L (307 cid) V8 (1968-1973) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1968-1974) 6.5L (396 cid) cid V8 (1968-1970) 7.0L (427 cid) V8 (1970)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-425 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Apollo]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Third generation (1968–1974)==

An extensive redesign came in 1968, when the station wagon and two door hardtop bodystyles were discontinued. This body style continued (with a minor restyle in 1973) through 1974. One notable change was the front subframe assembly — as compared with [[Ford]], [[Chrysler]] and [[AMC]], in whose cars the entire front suspension was integrated with the bodyshell, a separate subframe housing the powertrain and front suspension (similar to the front part of the frame of GM's full-size, full-framed vehicles) replaced the earlier style. Although the front subframe design was a Chevy II-exclusive design, the [[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]] introduced a year earlier was the first to incorporate such a design; the redesigned Chevy II was pushed a year back to 1968 instead of 1967. 1968 was the final year that the Chevy II nameplate was used, although all 1968 models were "Chevy II Novas" with one single trim line.

The 153 I4 carried over from the previous generation as standard on the baseline model. Far more popular were the 250 I6 and the new 5.0L (307 cid) V8, which replaced the 283 offered in previous generations. At mid-year a semi-automatic transmission based on the Powerglide called Torque-Drive was introduced as a low-cost option for shiftless motoring for both the four and six-cylinder engines. The two-speed Powerglide was still the only fully-automatic gearbox available with most engines as the more desirable three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic was only available with the largest V8 engines. An interesting engine option was the 5.3L (327 cid) V8 rated at 350 hp (RPO code L79).

The '''SS''' was transformed from a trim package to a performance option for 1968 and now included a 295 hp 5.7L (350 cid) V8 engine along with front disc brakes, heavy-duty suspension and other performance hardware. Optional engines included two versions of the big-block 6.5L (396 cid) V8 rated at 350 and 375 hp. Both 396 engines were offered with a choice of transmissions including the M-21 close-ratio four-speed manual, the M-22 heavy-duty "Rock Crusher" four-speed manual, or the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 400 for those who preferred automatic shifting. SSs could have a console with optional auxiliary gauges very similar to the contemporary Camaro design.

===1969===

The Chevy II nameplate was retired and the car became the "Chevy Nova" for this year (some sources referred to it as the Chevrolet Chevy Nova - perhaps the decision to drop the Chevy II moniker was a last-minute decision for 1969). Like other 1969 GM vehicles, locking steering columns were incorporated along with column ignitions. Simulated vents were added below the Nova script, which was relocated to the front fender instead of the rear quarter panel. The 350-4 that came standard with the SS option was revised with a five-hp increase to 300 while a 350-2 rated at 255 hp was a new option on non-SS models. A new Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 three-speed automatic was made available for non-SS Novas with six-cylinder and V8 engines.

===1970===

Basically a carryover from 1969; the side markers and taillight lenses were wider and positioned slightly differently, which placed the reverse lights in the middle of the taillight lens instead of the inward portion. This was the final year for the SS396. All other engines were carried over including the seldom-ordered four-cylinder which was in its final year. The car finally became simply the Chevrolet Nova this year after two years of transitional nameplates (Chevy II Nova in 1968 and Chevrolet Chevy Nova in 1969).

Approximately 177 COPO Novas were ordered, with 175 converted by Yenko Chevrolet (the other two were sold in Canada). These had the mighty LT1 (350 cid) V8 engine

A beater 1970 Nova coupe is prominently featured in the movie ''Beverly Hills Cop''.

===1971===

1971 Novas were similar to the previous year but with the loss of the simulated fender vents and the discontinuation of the 396 motor for the SS with the L48 350-4 taking its place. 1971 also saw the introduction of the '''Rally Nova''', a trim level that only lasted two years and was marketed as sort of a budget-SS. The Rally package included black or white stripes that ran the length of the car and around the back, a Rally Nova sticker on the driver's side of the hood, and Rally wheels.

The 250 I6 was now the standard Nova powerplant with the demise of the 153 I4 and 230 I6 engines. The 307 and 350 V8s were carried over from 1970 and all engines featured lowered compression ratios to enable the use of unleaded gasoline as a result of a GM corporate mandate that took effect with the 1971 model year.

After 1971, other GM divisions began rebadging the Nova as their new entry-level vehicle, such as the [[Pontiac Ventura]] II (once a trim option for full-size Pontiacs to 1970), [[Oldsmobile Omega]] (1973) and the [[Buick Apollo]] (mid-1973). Interestingly, the intials of the four model names spelled out the acronym '''NOVA''' (Nova, Omega, Ventura, Apollo.)

===1972===

A virtual rerun of 1971, the 1972 Nova received only minor trim changes and both the Rally Nova and SS options carried over. At mid-year a manual canvas sunroof option became available on two-door models. Also, the optional Strato bucket seats available on coupes switched from the previous low-back design with adjustable headrests to the high back units with built-in headrests introduced the previous year on Camaros and Vegas. Standard engine was still the 250 I6 with either a 3- or 4-speed manual or 2- or 3-speed automatics. The 307 and 350 V8s remained optional. There would be a restyled Nova for 1973.

===1973===

The 1973 model year introduced a new hatchback bodystyle based on the 2-door coupe, as well as a front and rear restyling and a modified rear side window shape, plus a revised rear suspension adapted from the second-generation Camaro with multi-leaf springs replacing the mono-leaf springs used on Novas since the original 1966 model. A luxury-themed '''Custom''' became part of the model lineup which included upgraded upholstery, full carpeting and more exterior trim. By this time, six-cylinder and V8 engines were ''de rigeur'' for American compact cars, with the 307 and 350 (5.0 and 5.7L) V8s becoming fairly common. Nova SS models offered a higher-performance 350 (5.7L) V8. The 1973 Nova with a six-cylinder engine or 307 V8 were among the last Chevrolets to be offered with the now-outdated two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission, which was in its final year.

===1974===

For 1974, the powerglide was replaced by a lightweight version of the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 already offered with the 350 V8, which was now the only V8 offered this year. The SS option was still available but became more of a sporty trim package than a performance offering and now offered with any Nova engine, much like the 1963-67 Nova SS. The 250 I6 remained standard, and transmission choices, with the exception of the 2-speed Powerglide, remained the same as well. There would be an all-new Nova for 1975.

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:77rally.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1975-1979
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1975-1979) 4.3L (262 cid) V8 (1975) 5.0L (305 cid) V8 (1976-1979) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1975-1978)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|110-170 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Skylark]] [[Cadillac Seville]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]/[[Pontiac Phoenix|Phoenix]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Fourth generation (1975–1979)==

A completely redesigned Nova was introduced in 1975. Bodystyles were still the 2-door coupe, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedans. Base coupes, including the hatchback, had fixed side windows (or optional flip-out windows) and simulated vertical vents on the B-pillar (sedans would have simulated horizontal vents at the bottom of the C-pillar). Engines this year were the standard 250 cid I6 carried over from the previous generations, a 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and 350 V8 were optional. The front suspension and subframe assembly was similar to the one used in the second-generation GM F-body ([[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]], [[Pontiac Firebird|Firebird]]), whereas the rear axle and suspension were carried over from the 1968-74 generation.

The Nova lineup now ranged from the stripped-down '''S''' model, base, '''Custom''', and the luxury-themed '''LN''' ("Luxury Nova"). The Nova '''SS''' continued for 1975 and got a unique grille with horizontal parking lights versus the vertical units beside the headlights. A high-performance 9C1 police version of the Nova was introduced for the 1975 model year, making it the first compact car certified for police duty in the U.S. Most were initially purchased by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department in 1976.

The LN was replaced with the Nova '''Concours''' in 1976, and the Custom model was gone (temporarily). The grille was changed slightly, and the short-lived 262 V8 was replaced by the new 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and was standard on the Concours. The 350 V8 remained the top engine option. Transmissions included the 3-speed manual standard with the I6, with a 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic optional. The 305 could have a 4-speed manual or automatic, while the 350 was automatic only. 1977 Concours models got a new 3-taillight lens scheme very similar to the larger [[Chevrolet Impala|Impala]] with a [[Cadillac]]-esque front clip that included chrome squared-off headlight bezels and a more elegant-looking vertically-barred grille with extra chrome trim. The SS was dropped, but it would continue as the '''Nova Rally''', which was basically the same sporty-themed idea.

1978 Novas continued with little change, other than the Custom model returning as the base model. The 2-door, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedan bodystyles, and Concours and Rally models, were still available. By now the Nova was starting to fall out of favor with much of the buying public, largely due to increased competition from the new [[Ford Fairmont]] and even Chevrolet's own [[Chevrolet Malibu|Malibu]], which was an all-new downsized model for 1978. Even though 1979 was a final abbreviated model year, the front end was nonetheless revised again with square headlights and a new horizontally-barred grille for the short run. The 9C1 police package was dropped for '79, along with the Rally model and 350 V8 engine. Production ended on December 22, 1978. The Nova was replaced by the all-new front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] for 1980. The Nova name, however, would reappear again in 1985 on an unrelated model.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:156392062X01LZZZZZZ.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
| 1985-1988
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|4-Door Sedan 5-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2500-2700 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|5-Speed Manual, FWD 3-Speed Automatic, FWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|1.6L (97 cid) I4
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Toyota Corolla]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|S
|}

==1985-1988 Nova==

In 1985 the Nova name was applied to a rebadged [[Toyota Corolla]] and was produced at the NUMMI plant in Fremont, California, as an historic first joint venture between [[General Motors]] and [[Toyota]]. It shared the Corolla's drivetrain and running gear, and was available as a 4-door sedan and a 5-door hatchback (just like the Corolla). It differed from the Corolla mainly with slightly different front-end styling. It also shared many interior parts, such as audio systems, with other GM's offerings whereas the Corolla did not. The Corolla had been redesigned for 1988, but the Nova continued to use the old platform for its last year. The Nova would be replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]], which was also a twin to the Corolla.

==Main Competitors 1985-1988==

*[[Dodge Omni]]
*[[Ford Escort]]
*[[Honda Civic]]
*[[Isuzu I-Mark]]
*[[Mazda 323]]
*[[Mercury Lynx]]
*[[Nissan Sentra]]
*[[Plymouth Horizon]]
*[[Volkswagen Golf]]

{{-}}

==Photos==
<gallery>
Image:Ad77police350x496.jpg
</gallery>

==Main Competitors 1968-1979==
*[[Dodge Dart]]/[[Dodge Aspen|Aspen]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]/[[Ford Maverick|Maverick]]/[[Ford Fairmont|Fairmont]]
*[[Ford Granada]]
*[[Mercury Comet]]/[[Mercury Zephyr|Zephyr]]
*[[Mercury Monarch]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]/[[Plymouth Volare|Volare]]

==The urban legend==
A popular urban legend asserts that the Nova sold poorly in Mexico and other Latin American countries because the phrase ''no va'' means "does not go" in Spanish. In reality, the Spanish language ''no va'' and ''nova'' are as different as the English ''no table'' and ''notable'', or ''therapist'' and ''the rapist''. [http://www.snopes.com/business/misxlate/nova.asp] The word ''nova'' exists in [http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nova Spanish] with the same meaning as in English. Also, the Spanish word for 'new' (nuevo or nueva) is cognate to ''nova'', which originally meant "new" in Latin. Finally, as NOVA was a brand of gasoline sold for many years by PEMEX in Mexico, the largest of all Spanish-speaking Latin American countries, it is clear that this urban legend, while perhaps entertaining, is utterly baseless.

==See Also==
{{Chevrolet}}

==External links==
*[http://www.nnnova.com/ National Nostalgic Nova] The original National Nostalgic Nova Club Celebrating 25 Years of Helping Nova People The only Monthly Magazine dedicated to Only Novas!
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/nova/ Chevrolet Nova Internet Source] — The second known Nova site on the Internet
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/novaList.html Nova listserv] — The first and only known public [[Electronic mailing list|mailing list]] dedicated to Chevrolet Novas and other X-bodies; in continuous existence since January 1998
*[http://automotivehistoryonline.com/Chevrolet1960m.htm Automotive History Online] - Chevrolet Nova History & Photos
*[http://www.novaresource.org/ NovaResource.com] — Excellent source of history, production numbers, and option code information for 1962-79 Novas
*[http://www.stevesnovasite.com/ Steve's Nova Site] - Includes Q&A discussion board; another excellent resource for Nova owners
*[http://www.musclecarfacts.com/mcf/nova/nova.asp Chevy Nova SS at Muscle Car Facts] — A year-by-year history.
*[http://www.gen4novas.com/ Gen4Novas.com] — Source for the 'stepchild' Disco-era X-car.
*[http://www.2quicknovas.com/ 2QuickNovas.com] — Nova, technical, drag racing and general car info.
*[http://www.chevynova.org/1968.html]

[[Category:Classic cars]]

Chevrolet Nova

2010-10-17T21:34:46Z

Yankee:

The '''[[Chevrolet]] Nova''', or '''Chevy II''', was an American compact car introduced by [[General Motors]] in 1962. The original Chevy II was of unibody construction, powered by an OHV inline four or six-cylinder engine (and V8s later), and available in two- and four-door sedan configurations as well as convertible and station wagon versions. After the rear-engine [[Chevrolet Corvair]] was handily outsold by the conventional [[Ford Falcon]] in 1960, Chevrolet began work on a more conventional compact car that would eventually become the Chevy II. The Chevy II/Nova continued on throughout the 1960s and 70s with great success until it was supplanted by the front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] in 1980. The Nova name would reappear briefly again in 1985 as a twin to (of all things) the [[Toyota Corolla]]. The "Toyolet" Nova was discontinued after 1988, replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]].

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:1962 Chevrolet II.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1962-1965
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 2-Door Convertible 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 153" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1962-1965) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1962-1965) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1964-1965) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1964-1965) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1965)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-300 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==First Generation (1962-1965)==

Three different levels of this car were made - the baseline Chevy II '''100''', the mid-grade Chevy II '''300''' and the top-line Chevy II Nova '''400'''. Available powerplants included the standard 2.5L (153 cid) I4 and optional the 3.2L (194 cid) I6. Bodystyles included a 2-door sedan and hardtop, 4-door sedan, 5-door wagon and a 2-door convertible. Unlike its [[Dodge Dart]]/[[Plymouth Valiant]] and [[Ford Falcon]] competition, no V8s were initially offered, but Chevrolet 283 and 327 cid V8s were offered in some areas as dealer-installed options, up to and including the fuel injected version available in the [[Chevrolet Corvette]]. Transmissions were a column or floor 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed manual or 2-speed Powerglide automatic.

For 1963, the sport-oriented Chevy II Nova Super Sport ('''SS''') was released. Grilles and taillights were slightly revised. All bodystyles and engine choices remained the same. SSs could have bucket seats with a floor console-shift. For 1964, the Chevy II's first factory V8 option was introduced - a 195 hp 4.7L (283 cid) V8. The convertible was dropped, and the SS was also dropped at the beginning of this year, but it was reinstated mid-year due to high popular demand. The 300 series trim level was discontinued, leaving the 100 and 400 levels. In 1965, the grille was redesigned and the parking lights were relocated from directly below the headlights to the bumper. Taillights were revised also. The 5.3L (327 cid) V8 debuted this year in the SS with up to 300 horsepower. Other drivetrain choices remained the same as before. There would be a restyled Nova for 1966.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Chevrolet-nova 66.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1966-1967
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan 5-Door Wagon
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
| 154.7" 157.4" (wagon)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
| 110"
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2800-3100 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1966-1967) 3.2L (194 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 3.8L (230 cid) I6 (1966-1967) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1967) 4.7L (283 cid) V8 (1966-1967) 5.3L (327 cid) V8 (1966-1967)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-350 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Second Generation (1966-1967)==

1966 Novas saw a significant restyling, based in part on the Super Nova concept car. In general, external proportions were squared up but dimensions and features changed little. Trim choices were still the '''100''' and '''400'''. Engine options still included the basic 153 I4, 194 I6 and the 283 and 327 V8s, the latter offering now offering up to 350 horsepower. V8 models got special lower fender badges behind the front wheels. Transmission choices remained the column or floor-shift 3-speed manual, floor-shift 4-speed and 2-speed Powerglide automatics. Inside, there was a new dashboard that strongly resembled the larger [[Chevrolet Chevelle|Chevelle]] (also all-new this year) and revised seat designs, but the Chevy II line during this time was still very spartan. The 90 hp 153 I4 was only offered in the base Chevy II 100 series models, with the 120-horsepower 194 I6 standard on the Nova and Nova SS lines. A new engine offering included a 140 hp 3.8L (230 cid) I6, available in all models except the baseline 100. The SS could still have bucket seats with a console floor shift. Not many changes for 1967, but a 155 hp 4.1L (250 cid) I6 became available and again available in all models except the 100. The 350 hp L79 327 V8 was unfortunately dropped this year, but other drivetrain choices remained the same as the previous year's. There would be an all-new Chevy II/Nova for 1968.

==Main Competitors 1962-1967==

*[[Dodge Dart]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]
*[[Studebaker Lark]]

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:477.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevy II/Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1968-1974
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 2-Speed Automatic, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|2.5L (153 cid) I4 (1968-1970) 4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1968-1974) 5.0L (307 cid) V8 (1968-1973) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1968-1974) 6.5L (396 cid) cid V8 (1968-1970) 7.0L (427 cid) V8 (1970)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|90-425 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Apollo]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}
[[Image:Nova front fender emblem 68-72.jpg|right|350px]]

==Third generation (1968–1974)==

An extensive redesign came in 1968, when the station wagon and two door hardtop bodystyles were discontinued. This body style continued (with a minor restyle in 1973) through 1974. One notable change was the front subframe assembly — as compared with [[Ford]], [[Chrysler]] and [[AMC]], in whose cars the entire front suspension was integrated with the bodyshell, a separate subframe housing the powertrain and front suspension (similar to the front part of the frame of GM's full-size, full-framed vehicles) replaced the earlier style. Although the front subframe design was a Chevy II-exclusive design, the [[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]] introduced a year earlier was the first to incorporate such a design; the redesigned Chevy II was pushed a year back to 1968 instead of 1967. 1968 was the final year that the Chevy II nameplate was used, although all 1968 models were "Chevy II Novas" with one single trim line.

The 153 I4 carried over from the previous generation as standard on the baseline model. Far more popular were the 250 I6 and the new 5.0L (307 cid) V8, which replaced the 283 offered in previous generations. At mid-year a semi-automatic transmission based on the Powerglide called Torque-Drive was introduced as a low-cost option for shiftless motoring for both the four and six-cylinder engines. The two-speed Powerglide was still the only fully-automatic gearbox available with most engines as the more desirable three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic was only available with the largest V8 engines. An interesting engine option was the 5.3L (327 cid) V8 rated at 350 hp (RPO code L79).

The '''SS''' was transformed from a trim package to a performance option for 1968 and now included a 295 hp 5.7L (350 cid) V8 engine along with front disc brakes, heavy-duty suspension and other performance hardware. Optional engines included two versions of the big-block 6.5L (396 cid) V8 rated at 350 and 375 hp. Both 396 engines were offered with a choice of transmissions including the M-21 close-ratio four-speed manual, the M-22 heavy-duty "Rock Crusher" four-speed manual, or the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 400 for those who preferred automatic shifting. SSs could have a console with optional auxiliary gauges very similar to the contemporary Camaro design.

===1969===

The Chevy II nameplate was retired and the car became the "Chevy Nova" for this year (some sources referred to it as the Chevrolet Chevy Nova - perhaps the decision to drop the Chevy II moniker was a last-minute decision for 1969). Like other 1969 GM vehicles, locking steering columns were incorporated along with column ignitions. Simulated vents were added below the Nova script, which was relocated to the front fender instead of the rear quarter panel. The 350-4 that came standard with the SS option was revised with a five-hp increase to 300 while a 350-2 rated at 255 hp was a new option on non-SS models. A new Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 three-speed automatic was made available for non-SS Novas with six-cylinder and V8 engines.

===1970===

Basically a carryover from 1969; the side markers and taillight lenses were wider and positioned slightly differently, which placed the reverse lights in the middle of the taillight lens instead of the inward portion. This was the final year for the SS396. All other engines were carried over including the seldom-ordered four-cylinder which was in its final year. The car finally became simply the Chevrolet Nova this year after two years of transitional nameplates (Chevy II Nova in 1968 and Chevrolet Chevy Nova in 1969).

Approximately 177 COPO Novas were ordered, with 175 converted by Yenko Chevrolet (the other two were sold in Canada). These had the mighty LT1 (350 cid) V8 engine

A beater 1970 Nova coupe is prominently featured in the movie ''Beverly Hills Cop''.

===1971===

1971 Novas were similar to the previous year but with the loss of the simulated fender vents and the discontinuation of the 396 motor for the SS with the L48 350-4 taking its place. 1971 also saw the introduction of the '''Rally Nova''', a trim level that only lasted two years and was marketed as sort of a budget-SS. The Rally package included black or white stripes that ran the length of the car and around the back, a Rally Nova sticker on the driver's side of the hood, and Rally wheels.

The 250 I6 was now the standard Nova powerplant with the demise of the 153 I4 and 230 I6 engines. The 307 and 350 V8s were carried over from 1970 and all engines featured lowered compression ratios to enable the use of unleaded gasoline as a result of a GM corporate mandate that took effect with the 1971 model year.

After 1971, other GM divisions began rebadging the Nova as their new entry-level vehicle, such as the [[Pontiac Ventura]] II (once a trim option for full-size Pontiacs to 1970), [[Oldsmobile Omega]] (1973) and the [[Buick Apollo]] (mid-1973). Interestingly, the intials of the four model names spelled out the acronym '''NOVA''' (Nova, Omega, Ventura, Apollo.)

===1972===

A virtual rerun of 1971, the 1972 Nova received only minor trim changes and both the Rally Nova and SS options carried over. At mid-year a manual canvas sunroof option became available on two-door models. Also, the optional Strato bucket seats available on coupes switched from the previous low-back design with adjustable headrests to the high back units with built-in headrests introduced the previous year on Camaros and Vegas. Standard engine was still the 250 I6 with either a 3- or 4-speed manual or 2- or 3-speed automatics. The 307 and 350 V8s remained optional. There would be a restyled Nova for 1973.

===1973===

The 1973 model year introduced a new hatchback bodystyle based on the 2-door coupe, as well as a front and rear restyling and a modified rear side window shape, plus a revised rear suspension adapted from the second-generation Camaro with multi-leaf springs replacing the mono-leaf springs used on Novas since the original 1966 model. A luxury-themed '''Custom''' became part of the model lineup which included upgraded upholstery, full carpeting and more exterior trim. By this time, six-cylinder and V8 engines were ''de rigeur'' for American compact cars, with the 307 and 350 (5.0 and 5.7L) V8s becoming fairly common. Nova SS models offered a higher-performance 350 (5.7L) V8. The 1973 Nova with a six-cylinder engine or 307 V8 were among the last Chevrolets to be offered with the now-outdated two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission, which was in its final year.

===1974===

For 1974, the powerglide was replaced by a lightweight version of the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 already offered with the 350 V8, which was now the only V8 offered this year. The SS option was still available but became more of a sporty trim package than a performance offering and now offered with any Nova engine, much like the 1963-67 Nova SS. The 250 I6 remained standard, and transmission choices, with the exception of the 2-speed Powerglide, remained the same as well. There would be an all-new Nova for 1975.

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:77rally.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
|1975-1979
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|2-Door Coupe 3-Door Coupe 4-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|3000-3400 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|3-Speed Manual, RWD 4-Speed Manual, RWD 3-Speed Automatic, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|4.1L (250 cid) I6 (1975-1979) 4.3L (262 cid) V8 (1975) 5.0L (305 cid) V8 (1976-1979) 5.7L (350 cid) V8 (1975-1978)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|110-170 hp
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Buick Skylark]] [[Cadillac Seville]] [[Oldsmobile Omega]] [[Pontiac Ventura]]/[[Pontiac Phoenix|Phoenix]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|X
|}

==Fourth generation (1975–1979)==

A completely redesigned Nova was introduced in 1975. Bodystyles were still the 2-door coupe, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedans. Base coupes, including the hatchback, had fixed side windows (or optional flip-out windows) and simulated vertical vents on the B-pillar (sedans would have simulated horizontal vents at the bottom of the C-pillar). Engines this year were the standard 250 cid I6 carried over from the previous generations, a 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and 350 V8 were optional. The front suspension and subframe assembly was similar to the one used in the second-generation GM F-body ([[Chevrolet Camaro|Camaro]], [[Pontiac Firebird|Firebird]]), whereas the rear axle and suspension were carried over from the 1968-74 generation.

The Nova lineup now ranged from the stripped-down '''S''' model, base, '''Custom''', and the luxury-themed '''LN''' ("Luxury Nova"). The Nova '''SS''' continued for 1975 and got a unique grille with horizontal parking lights versus the vertical units beside the headlights. A high-performance 9C1 police version of the Nova was introduced for the 1975 model year, making it the first compact car certified for police duty in the U.S. Most were initially purchased by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department in 1976.

The LN was replaced with the Nova '''Concours''' in 1976, and the Custom model was gone (temporarily). The grille was changed slightly, and the short-lived 262 V8 was replaced by the new 5.0L (305 cid) V8 and was standard on the Concours. The 350 V8 remained the top engine option. Transmissions included the 3-speed manual standard with the I6, with a 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic optional. The 305 could have a 4-speed manual or automatic, while the 350 was automatic only. 1977 Concours models got a new 3-taillight lens scheme very similar to the larger [[Chevrolet Impala|Impala]] with a [[Cadillac]]-esque front clip that included chrome squared-off headlight bezels and a more elegant-looking vertically-barred grille with extra chrome trim. The SS was dropped, but it would continue as the '''Nova Rally''', which was basically the same sporty-themed idea.

1978 Novas continued with little change, other than the Custom model returning as the base model. The 2-door, 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedan bodystyles, and Concours and Rally models, were still available. By now the Nova was starting to fall out of favor with much of the buying public, largely due to increased competition from the new [[Ford Fairmont]] and even Chevrolet's own [[Chevrolet Malibu|Malibu]], which was an all-new downsized model for 1978. Even though 1979 was a final abbreviated model year, the front end was nonetheless revised again with square headlights and a new horizontally-barred grille for the short run. The 9C1 police package was dropped for '79, along with the Rally model and 350 V8 engine. Production ended on December 22, 1978. The Nova was replaced by the all-new front wheel drive [[Chevrolet Citation|Citation]] for 1980. The Nova name, however, would reappear again in 1985 on an unrelated model.

{{-}}

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:156392062X01LZZZZZZ.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Chevrolet Nova'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Chevrolet]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production:
| 1985-1988
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class:
|Compact
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style:
|4-Door Sedan 5-Door Sedan
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Height:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight:
|2500-2700 lbs
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmissions:
|5-Speed Manual, FWD 3-Speed Automatic, FWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engines:
|1.6L (97 cid) I4
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power:
|
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar:
|[[Toyota Corolla]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Platform:
|S
|}

==1985-1988 Nova==

In 1985 the Nova name was applied to a rebadged [[Toyota Corolla]] and was produced at the NUMMI plant in Fremont, California, as an historic first joint venture between [[General Motors]] and [[Toyota]]. It shared the Corolla's drivetrain and running gear, and was available as a 4-door sedan and a 5-door hatchback (just like the Corolla). It differed from the Corolla mainly with slightly different front-end styling. It also shared many interior parts, such as audio systems, with other GM's offerings whereas the Corolla did not. The Corolla had been redesigned for 1988, but the Nova continued to use the old platform for its last year. The Nova would be replaced by the [[Geo Prizm]], which was also a twin to the Corolla.

==Main Competitors 1985-1988==

*[[Dodge Omni]]
*[[Ford Escort]]
*[[Honda Civic]]
*[[Isuzu I-Mark]]
*[[Mazda 323]]
*[[Mercury Lynx]]
*[[Nissan Sentra]]
*[[Plymouth Horizon]]
*[[Volkswagen Golf]]

{{-}}

==Photos==
<gallery>
Image:Ad77police350x496.jpg
</gallery>

==Main Competitors 1968-1979==
*[[Dodge Dart]]/[[Dodge Aspen|Aspen]]
*[[Ford Falcon]]/[[Ford Maverick|Maverick]]/[[Ford Fairmont|Fairmont]]
*[[Ford Granada]]
*[[Mercury Comet]]/[[Mercury Zephyr|Zephyr]]
*[[Mercury Monarch]]
*[[Plymouth Valiant]]/[[Plymouth Volare|Volare]]

==The urban legend==
A popular urban legend asserts that the Nova sold poorly in Mexico and other Latin American countries because the phrase ''no va'' means "does not go" in Spanish. In reality, the Spanish language ''no va'' and ''nova'' are as different as the English ''no table'' and ''notable'', or ''therapist'' and ''the rapist''. [http://www.snopes.com/business/misxlate/nova.asp] The word ''nova'' exists in [http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nova Spanish] with the same meaning as in English. Also, the Spanish word for 'new' (nuevo or nueva) is cognate to ''nova'', which originally meant "new" in Latin. Finally, as NOVA was a brand of gasoline sold for many years by PEMEX in Mexico, the largest of all Spanish-speaking Latin American countries, it is clear that this urban legend, while perhaps entertaining, is utterly baseless.

==See Also==
{{Chevrolet}}

==External links==
*[http://www.nnnova.com/ National Nostalgic Nova] The original National Nostalgic Nova Club Celebrating 25 Years of Helping Nova People The only Monthly Magazine dedicated to Only Novas!
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/nova/ Chevrolet Nova Internet Source] — The second known Nova site on the Internet
*[http://people.smu.edu/acambre/novaList.html Nova listserv] — The first and only known public [[Electronic mailing list|mailing list]] dedicated to Chevrolet Novas and other X-bodies; in continuous existence since January 1998
*[http://automotivehistoryonline.com/Chevrolet1960m.htm Automotive History Online] - Chevrolet Nova History & Photos
*[http://www.novaresource.org/ NovaResource.com] — Excellent source of history, production numbers, and option code information for 1962-79 Novas
*[http://www.stevesnovasite.com/ Steve's Nova Site] - Includes Q&A discussion board; another excellent resource for Nova owners
*[http://www.musclecarfacts.com/mcf/nova/nova.asp Chevy Nova SS at Muscle Car Facts] — A year-by-year history.
*[http://www.gen4novas.com/ Gen4Novas.com] — Source for the 'stepchild' Disco-era X-car.
*[http://www.2quicknovas.com/ 2QuickNovas.com] — Nova, technical, drag racing and general car info.
*[http://www.chevynova.org/1968.html]

[[Category:Classic cars]]