What motor came in 1972 Nova?
The 1972 Chevrolet Nova offered three engine options: a 250 cubic inch inline-six, a 307 cubic inch small-block V8, and a 350 cubic inch small-block V8. There were no factory big-block engines available in the Nova that year.
To understand the question, it helps to place the 1972 Nova within Chevrolet’s lineup at the time. The second-generation Nova (Chevy II/Nova) carried a straightforward engine strategy geared toward affordability and middle-ground performance. Buyers could choose a basic inline-six for economy, or upgrade to a compact V8 for more acceleration, with the high-performance SS package leaning on the 350 V8. Big-block power, common on larger Chevrolets of the era, was not offered in the Nova in 1972, reflecting GM’s emphasis on efficiency and regulatory constraints of the era.
Engine options for the 1972 Nova
Chevrolet presented a simple, three-engine lineup that spanned efficiency to moderate performance.
- 250 cubic inch inline-six
- 307 cubic inch small-block V8
- 350 cubic inch small-block V8
These options illustrate the Nova’s balance between economy and everyday performance, without stepping into the larger, heavy-block powertrain territory.
Performance and trim notes
In performance-focused variants, the Nova SS typically used the 350 cubic inch V8 as its standard powerplant, while base and mid-range models commonly offered the 250 inline-six or the 307 V8 as alternatives. The absence of a factory big-block option in 1972 reinforced GM’s broader shift toward smaller, emissions-conscious powertrains during the era.
- Nova SS and other higher-trim versions often paired with the 350 ci V8 for improved acceleration
- Base and mid-range models could be ordered with the 250 ci inline-six or the 307 ci V8
In practice, buyers could choose from a practical six-cylinder, a mid-range V8, or the sport-oriented 350 V8, but there was no big-block Nova option in 1972.
Summary
For the 1972 Nova, Chevrolet offered three engines: the 250 inline-six, the 307 V8, and the 350 V8. The absence of big-block power was a deliberate choice in this model year, aligning with the era’s emphasis on efficiency and emissions controls. The SS package highlighted the 350 V8, while other trims provided a range from economical to reasonably spirited driving.
How much horsepower does a 1972 Nova 307 have?
130 hp
Available engines for the Rally Nova were the 110 hp (80 kW) Turbo-Thrift 250 1-barrel L6 (RPO L22), 130 hp (95 kW) Turbo-Fire 307 2-barrel V8 (RPO L14) and 165 hp (125 kW) Turbo-Fire 350 2-barrel V8 (RPO L65).
How to tell if a 1972 Nova is a true SS?
To tell if a 1972 Nova is a true SS, the most reliable method is to check the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), which must have a "K" in the fifth digit to indicate the original 350/4-barrel engine, the only engine available for the 1972 SS package. Other factory indicators include an SS hood, a black grille with an "SS" badge, bucket seats, and unique exterior trim like bright "Nova" script emblems on the fenders.
This video explains how to identify a 1972 Nova SS by checking the VIN: 1mNovaResourceYouTube · Dec 17, 2017
How to verify a 1972 Nova SS
This video demonstrates the key features of a 1972 Nova SS: 58sCoyote ClassicsYouTube · Mar 9, 2023
- Check the VIN: A "K" in the fifth digit of the VIN is the definitive way to know if the car was originally an SS, as this letter was exclusively used for the L48 350 engine, which was only offered as part of the SS package in 1972.
- Look for specific exterior features: A true SS should have an "SS" badge on the black grille, a bright front bumper, and a cowl-induction hood (which is a specific style of hood, not the standard one).
- Inspect the interior: The car should have a black vinyl bench or bucket seats, a black dash, and "SS" emblems on the interior trim, notes Ground Up Motors.
- Examine the trim and emblems: Look for the bright "Nova" script emblems on the fenders, a chrome windshield surround, and a chrome driver's side mirror.
- Note the engine: The 1972 SS package came exclusively with the L48 small-block 350 engine, so any car with a different original engine is not a true SS, according to Chevy Hardcore.
- Consult documentation: For absolute certainty, look for original factory build sheets or window stickers, as they provide the most definitive proof of the car's original specifications.
- Consider an expert appraisal: If you are still unsure, consult a classic car expert or appraiser for an authoritative opinion.
How much is a 1972 Nova worth today?
Typically, you can expect to pay around $18,567 for a 1972 Chevrolet Nova in good condition with average spec. The highest selling price of a 1972 Chevrolet Nova at auction over the last three years was $106,700.
Did the Nova ever come with a 427?
The Ultimate Phantom COPO - Nova SS 427 ZL1
A very special car indeed. This special Nova is powered by one of GM's limited edition, all aluminum 427 ZL1 crate engines. With only a limited number produced, this engine is almost as rare as the original ZL1s!
