The Chevrolet Nova of 1966 - 1967

1966 :

Hot on the heels of the newly restyled Chevelle came the Chevy II Nova. It, too, underwent a complete restyling in 1966 into what many Nova aficionados consider the most desirable example of the marquee. The new Nova Super Sport was available with the economical six cylinder, or myriad -motor derivatives, but clearly the hot ticket was the L79 version of the 327.

Rated at 350 horsepower, this mighty sported factory hardware that rivalled even the best stuff down at the local speed parts emporium. Forged high-compression pistons, a performance-profile camshaft, big-valve heads, and an aluminium intake mounting a four-barrel Holley comprised the basis of this tarmac terror. Chrome engine accents finished off the package, including the valve covers, oil filler and cap, and the unique dual opposing-snorkel air cleaner. When strapped into a lightweight package like the Nova (less than 3000 pounds, ready to run!), well, you don't need much imagination to figure out the rest. Out of the box, the L79 was good for a 15-second quarter at about 95 mph. With a few judicious tuning tricks, headers, and some much needed slicks, even a novice could click off 13's without much difficulty.

There was little to differentiate the SS version from its more sedate siblings, save for a few innocuous emblems found on the grille, rear cove and both flanks

1967 :

Very few changes were implemented on the '67 Nova, both physically and mechanically. After all, why mess with a good thing?

An almost indiscernible grille change was the main external difference between the '66 and '67, while on the interior a new pattern was used on the seat covers along with a contrasting color stripe cantered in each seat.

While it was only produced for two years, the '66-'67 Nova is certainly one of the cleanest, most collectible Chevy's of all time. And with the right engine combination, it was one small-block Muscle Car that cooked as good as it looked!