What kind of engine does a Chevy Nova have?
The Chevy Nova was powered by inline-six engines and small-block V8s, with rare big-block options on certain performance variants. In short, two main engine families defined its powertrains, evolving across generations.
The Chevy II/Nova lineup spanned the 1960s through the late 1970s, and engine choices varied by year and trim. Buyers could opt for an efficient inline-six or upgrade to Chevrolet's widely used small-block V8s for more performance, while select high-performance SS models could be equipped with larger displacement V8s. The exact engine depended on the model year and trim, influencing both driving characteristics and restoration decisions.
First generation engines (1962–1965)
In the early Chevy II/Nova era, buyers could choose between two main engine families: an inline-six for efficiency and a small-block V8 for added performance.
Engine options
- Inline-six engines (Chevrolet I6 family)
- Small-block V8 engines (Chevrolet small-block family)
These two options established the baseline for the Nova, offering a straightforward path from economy to more spirited driving.
Second generation engines (1966–1967)
The second generation retained the familiar two-family strategy, with refinements that broadened performance potential and kept the inline-six as a viable choice alongside a wider array of V8 options.
Engine options
- Inline-six engines remained available
- Small-block V8 engines were expanded, including higher-performance variants on select trims
Enthusiasts could pick a balanced setup or push toward stronger V8 performance without abandoning the familiar Nova platform.
Third generation engines (1968–1974/79)
From 1968 onward, V8 power dominated the Nova lineup, with the small-block V8 serving as the backbone for most models. High-performance SS variants could even be equipped with larger displacement engines, while the inline-six persisted in some trims but became less common as powertrain emphasis shifted toward V8s.
Engine options
- Small-block V8 engines (primary powertrain for most Novas)
- Big-block V8 option for SS performance models (more rare, high-performance)
The era marked a clear shift toward V8-centric powertrains, aligning the Nova with Chevrolet’s broader performance-focused lineup.
Why engine choice matters for Nova enthusiasts: Understanding the engine lineage helps collectors and restorers identify the correct powertrain for a given model year and trim. The same body could be paired with different engines, affecting performance, parts availability, and value.
Summary: The Chevy Nova’s engine lineup centers on inline-six and small-block V8 families, with occasional big-block V8 options on certain SS variants. The exact engine depended on year and trim, so checking the specific VIN and trim data is essential for research, restoration, or purchase.
