Did a 1963 Nova SS come with a 6 cylinder?
No. The 1963 Nova SS was a V8-only performance package and did not factory-issue a six-cylinder engine under the SS badge.
Context: the Chevy II/Nova and the SS option in 1963
The Chevy II, introduced as a compact ChevroLet in the early 1960s, evolved into the Nova name in the same era. For the 1963 model year, Chevrolet introduced the Super Sport (SS) package for the Nova, branding a sportier, performance-oriented variant. The SS designation in 1963 was tied to V8 power and distinct styling cues, not to a six-cylinder configuration. In other words, if a Nova carried the SS badge, it came with a V8 under the hood rather than a six-cylinder engine.
Engine options tied to the SS package
When buyers opted for the Nova SS in 1963, the car was equipped with V8 powertrains. The most commonly cited V8 options for SS cars were the small-block Chevrolet engines, including the 283 cubic-inch V8 and the larger 327 cubic-inch V8. Inline-6 engines remained available on standard (non-SS) Chevy II/Nova models, but they were not part of the factory SS package. In short, the SS path was a V8-focused one.
What to look for in a genuine 1963 Nova SS
Authentic 1963 Nova SS models typically feature SS-specific badging, distinctive interior and exterior cues, and option codes that align with a factory V8 setup. To verify authenticity, collectors examine the car’s VIN, build sheet, and cowl tag, cross-referencing with Chevrolet’s option catalogs from the era. Mislabeling or later modifications can sometimes blur the history, so careful documentation is essential.
Bottom line for enthusiasts and collectors
For the 1963 model year, the Nova SS signified a factory-backed V8 performance version of the Chevy II/Nova. A six-cylinder engine paired with the SS package did not exist at the time of production. If a claimed 1963 Nova SS shows a six-cylinder engine, it is likely the result of a non-factory modification or misidentification. Verified SS cars are those with V8 power, correct SS badging, and matching build documentation.
Summary
The 1963 Nova SS was introduced as a V8-only variant of Chevy’s compact Nova, with common engine options including the 283 and 327 cubic-inch V8s. There was no factory six-cylinder SS model in 1963. For collectors, authenticating an SS involves checking VIN, build sheets, and period-correct documentation to confirm the V8 configuration and SS-specific features.
What engines were available in the 1963 Nova SS?
The Nova Super Sport (SS) version had a black grille with an SS emblem, body side stripes, and Super Sport detailing. It was a popular choice for drag racing due to its light weight and powerful engine options. Engine options included a 155 bhp six-cylinder and a 275 bhp 327 V-8.
What engine did the 1963 Impala SS come with?
409 cu in
A special 427 cu in (7.0 L) version of the 409 cu in (6.7 L) engine was used in the 1963 Chevrolet Impala Sport Coupe, ordered under Chevrolet Regular Production Option (RPO) Z11.
What engine did the Nova SS have?
396 CID big block V8
1970 Chevrolet Nova SS
This car is a Nova SS and the package included 375 horsepower – 396 CID big block V8, dual exhausts, power front brakes, simulated hood air intake, simulated fender louvers, black out grille 14x7 inch wheels and E70 – 14 white-stripe tires.
How do you tell if a 1963 Nova is a true SS?
And that's the way it worked. Out. Now in 1964. The Super Sport was actually a body style. So what you're looking for is the letter uh the numbers 47. In the fourth. And fifth digits of your VIN.
