What is a 1963 Chevy 2 Nova worth?
In today’s market, a 1963 Chevy II Nova can range from roughly $12,000 for a driver-quality project up to $60,000 or more for a pristine, numbers-matching show car. Real-world prices depend on condition, originality, options, and provenance.
The 1963 Chevy II Nova sits in the early years of Chevrolet’s small-car lineage, with a variety of body styles and engine choices that can influence value. Collectors prize cars with documented history, original components, and accurate restorations, and prices reflect how closely a car aligns with those ideals.
How value is determined
Several factors drive what a 1963 Nova is worth today. Understanding these helps buyers and sellers set realistic expectations in a fluctuating market.
- Condition and mechanical state (whether it runs, drives, stops, and what work it needs).
- originality and matching numbers (VIN, engine serial number, and factory drivetrain).
- Rarity and configuration (body style, interior trim, engine type, and transmission).
- Documentation and provenance (build sheet, window sticker, service history, and any restoration records).
- Market demand and regional differences (some areas favor classic Nove-style compact cars more than others).
These factors collectively determine the premium a collector is willing to pay for a given example.
Typical price ranges by condition
Below are general ranges to set expectations for a 1963 Nova, noting that regional demand and specific options can push values higher or lower.
- Project or not-running car needing extensive restoration: roughly $8,000–$18,000
- Running/driving with cosmetic or mechanical flaws: roughly $15,000–$28,000
- Clean, solid driver with presentable cosmetics: roughly $28,000–$42,000
- Nicely restored or well-preserved original with a credible warranty and documentation: roughly $40,000–$60,000
- Show-quality, numbers-matching, highly documented examples: roughly $60,000–$80,000+, with some exceptional cases pushing higher
Keep in mind that the most valuable examples are those that combine strong documentation, originality, and a faithful restoration or presentation that appeals to purists as well as casual collectors.
Where to check current market values
To stay up to date, consult established valuation guides and recent auction results, which reflect current demand and pricing trends for 1963 Chevy II Nova models.
- Hagerty Price Guide (classic car pricing based on condition and options)
- Classic.com (market activity and valuation trends)
- Bring a Trailer (auction results and current listings)
- Mecum Auctions (live and cataloged auction results)
- Hemmings Price Guide (historical pricing and listings)
Prices at auctions and in private sales can vary widely by condition, provenance, and timing. Use these sources to corroborate values and observe current market momentum for the 1963 Chevy II Nova.
Summary: The value of a 1963 Chevy II Nova hinges on condition, originality, and provenance. While you might find project cars in the low teens of thousands, well-restored or historically significant examples can command strong six-figure attention in selective markets. For accurate, up-to-date pricing, consult multiple valuation guides and recent auction results, and tailor expectations to the car’s specific configuration and documentation.
What's the difference between a Chevy 2 and a Nova?
The Chevy Nova was a trim level within the Chevy II lineup, so the distinction is a matter of branding and time period. From 1962 to 1968, the car was officially the "Chevy II," with "Nova" being the top trim level, like the Malibu for a Chevelle. In 1969, Chevrolet dropped the "Chevy II" name altogether, and the car was known simply as the "Nova" until production ended in 1979.
This video explains the difference between Chevy II and Nova: 58sNovaResourceYouTube · Dec 3, 2017
- Chevy II (1962–1968): The official model name was the Chevy II. The "Nova" was a higher-end trim package within the Chevy II series, which included features like bucket seats and other style upgrades, especially on the Nova 400 models.
- Nova (1969–1979): The "Chevy II" part of the name was dropped, and the car became the Chevrolet Nova. This is when the Nova became its own standalone model, continuing from the previous year's Chevy II Nova design.
You can watch this video to learn more about classic Chevy II Nova: 1mAfter The Smoke ClearedYouTube · Jun 15, 2020
How much is a 1963 Chevy worth?
Typically, you can expect to pay around $37,417 for a 1963 Chevrolet Impala in good condition with average spec.
What is a 1963 Chevy Nova worth?
The value of a 1963 Chevy Nova varies significantly, with average prices around $18,625 for a Nova 400 in good condition, but ranging from a low of about $9,495 to a high of over $136,995 for exceptional or custom examples. Factors like the car's condition, original features versus modifications, and rarity all play a major role in determining its final price.
- Average Value: A 1963 Nova 400 in good, average condition is valued at approximately $18,625. For a base model, the average price is around $15,900, while a two-door hardtop can be closer to $15,900.
- Low-End Value: The lowest prices are typically for cars in poor condition, with prices as low as $9,495 for some models. A 1963 Nova 400 in rough shape might sell for around $11,025.
- High-End Value: Highly desirable and well-maintained or custom-built cars can fetch prices over $136,995. For example, a highly customized SS Coupe with a modern engine swap sold for $82,500.
- Factors influencing price:
- Condition: Whether it's restored or in original condition significantly impacts price.
- Rarity: The 400 model and especially the convertible were produced in fewer numbers, making them potentially more valuable.
- Modifications: While some modifications can increase value (e.g., a modern LS3 engine swap in a custom build), others might decrease it depending on the quality and type.
- Trim level: The SS (Super Sport) and 400 trims are often more valuable than the standard 300 trim.
What made the '63 Chevy II Nova special?
1963 Chevy II Nova SS
A new Super Sport package was available on the Nova 400 coupe and convertible. The SS package included finned wheel covers, wider body-side moldings, aluminized rear panels, 6.50x13 bsw tires, SS emblems and cost $161.
