Did they make a 1975 SS Nova?
In short, Chevrolet did not offer a factory-built SS Nova for the 1975 model year. If you encounter a 1975 Nova described as “SS,” it is typically a dealer-installed option or aftermarket modification rather than a factory-equipped Super Sport.
This article explains how the Nova’s Super Sport badge has been used across generations, why the 1975 model year did not include a genuine factory SS, and how collectors can distinguish true factory options from later embellishments. It’s a concise guide for enthusiasts who want to understand the history and avoid mislabeling.
Historical context of the Nova Super Sport badge
The Super Sport (SS) badge has appeared on various Chevrolet models over the decades, including some Nova variants in earlier generations. However, the third-generation Nova (introduced for the 1975 model year) did not reintroduce a factory SS package in Chevrolet’s official lineup. As a result, most 1975 Novas did not come with a factory SS designation; any such labeling in pictures or advertisements is usually aftermarket, dealer-installed, or simply misapplied branding.
To understand what happened, it helps to look at how the SS badge was used in different eras of the Nova and why 1975 stands apart in that history.
Before diving into specifics, here is a quick overview of how the SS option appeared across Nova generations.
- First generation (1962–1965): The Nova carried a genuine SS option with performance-oriented features on some trim levels.
- Second generation (1968–1974): The Nova SS was offered in several years as a performance-focused package, usually paired with small-block V8 engines and distinctive styling.
- Third generation (1975–1979): No factory Nova SS was offered in Chevrolet’s official lineup for the year, though some cars later bore SS badges through dealer kits or aftermarket work.
In summary, the 1975 Nova did not come from the factory as an SS model. Any true factory SS Nova would come from earlier generations or, in some cases, later re-releases or mislabeling that doesn’t reflect a formal Chevrolet package from that year.
For readers who encounter a 1975 Nova marketed as SS, these steps can help verify authenticity:
- Check the car’s build sheet, Option/PR codes, and VIN against Chevrolet’s official documentation for 1975 Nova models.
- Examine the window sticker or sales invoice for an official “SS” package designation rather than a cosmetic-only appearance package.
- Inspect interior and mechanicals for genuine SS features that were part of a factory package (not just badges or stripes).
- Be aware of dealer-installed kits or aftermarket modifications that used the SS branding without factory backing.
These checks help distinguish a true factory option from aftermarket alterations or misrepresentations.
Summary
The short answer is that there was no factory-produced 1975 Nova SS. The SS badge on Novas belongs to earlier generations where Chevrolet offered performance-oriented packages, while the 1975 model year did not include a genuine factory SS option. If you come across a 1975 Nova labeled as SS, treat it as either a dealer-installed modification or aftermarket embellishment and verify its provenance with documentation and VIN/option codes.
What engine was in the 1975 Chevy Nova?
The base engine was a 250-cubic inch (4.1L) inline-six, but buyers could also opt for one of several V8s, with the more powerful ones including: 307 cubic inch V8 (5.0L) 350 cubic inch V8 (5.7L) 396 cubic inch V8 (6.5L) – This was a high- performance engine option and provided a muscle-car experience.
What years did they make the Nova SS?
The Chevrolet Nova SS was produced for the years 1963–1976, although the performance-oriented muscle car era for the model is generally considered to be from the mid-1960s to 1972. The SS (Super Sport) package was available on various model years during this period, with significant performance upgrades and engine options becoming available in 1968 through 1970.
You can watch this video to learn about the history of the Chevrolet Nova SS: 1mClassic Car SecretsYouTube · Aug 25, 2025
- Original SS production: The Super Sport package was introduced in 1963.
- Muscle car era: The Nova SS gained popularity as a performance muscle car from the mid-1960s through 1972, especially with big-block V8 options becoming available between 1968 and 1970.
- Later years: The SS package continued to be offered, but the focus shifted towards efficiency in later generations. The SS badge was used until the 1976 model year.
This video explains the different engine options for the Chevrolet Nova SS: 1mShooting CarsYouTube · Oct 27, 2024
Did Chevy make a Nova SS in 1974?
The 1974 Nova was the final year for the third generation Chevy X-Body. It featured minor changes such as larger parking lights, a new bowtie grille emblem, and new larger bumpers that help in minor impacts. The SS option was slightly revised with new stripes now on the hood and trunk.
How much is a 1975 Nova SS worth?
Typically, you can expect to pay around $11,200 for a 1975 Chevrolet Nova SS in good condition with average spec.
