What year did Chevy Nova have a 396 engine?
The Chevy Nova is a classic American car that has captured the hearts of many automotive enthusiasts. Among its various engine options, the 396 engine stands out as a powerful choice that was available in specific model years. In this article, we will explore when the Chevy Nova featured the 396 engine and what made it a remarkable option for drivers.
Chevy Nova and the 396 Engine
The 396 engine, known for its impressive performance, was part of Chevrolet's big-block engine family. This engine was primarily used in the Chevrolet Chevelle and other models, but it also made its way into the Nova during certain years.
Years of Availability
The Chevy Nova had the 396 engine option available in the following years:
- 1968: The 396 engine was introduced in the Nova, providing a significant boost in horsepower and torque.
- 1969: The popularity of the 396 continued, with many enthusiasts opting for this powerful engine.
- 1970: The 396 engine remained a popular choice, solidifying its status in the Nova lineup.
Why the 396 Engine Was Special
The 396 engine was celebrated for several reasons:
- Performance: With its robust design, the 396 engine offered exceptional horsepower, making the Nova a thrilling ride.
- Racing Heritage: The engine was often associated with muscle car culture and was a favorite among racers.
- Customization: Many owners enjoyed modifying their Novas with the 396 engine for enhanced performance and style.
Conclusion
The Chevy Nova's availability of the 396 engine in the late 1960s and early 1970s marked a significant chapter in its history. This powerful engine not only enhanced the car's performance but also contributed to its legacy as a beloved muscle car. Whether you're a collector or simply an admirer of classic cars, the Nova with a 396 engine remains a symbol of American automotive excellence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What year is the rarest Nova?
The 1978 Chevy Nova 9C1 Coupe may be the rarest Nova ever produced. Almost all other Police Novas were built as four-doors.
How much horsepower does a 1970 Nova 396 have?
375 horsepower
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.
What year did Nova have a 396?
1970
The big change for 1970 was Chevrolet still referred to the engine as the '396' or the 'Turbo Jet 400' to take advantage of its name recognition. The 1970 Chevrolet Nova represents the last glory days of the Nova. This was the final year for big block power and many of the high performance options.
What is the best year of the Chevy Nova?
What is the best year Chevy Nova? We think the best Novas are the two-doors made between 1968 and 1971. That generation of Nova was arguably the best-looking compact on the market, and the SS version offered big V-8 engines that had real bite.
Did the Nova ever come with a 427?
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! Backed by a Doug Nash 4-speed transmission, and 12 bolt 3.73 rear, this Nova means serious business.
What year did Chevy make the 396?
1965
396 and 402. The 396 cu in (6.5 L) V8 was introduced in the 1965 Corvette as the L78 option and in the Z-16 Chevelle as the L37 option.
Is a Chevy 396 really a 402?
Beginning in 1970, all of the 396 badge engines were actually 402 inches as Chevy decided not to mess with the wildly popular "396" moniker that was now as popular as the 409 that The Beach Boys made famous.
What is the difference between a 1969 and 1970 Nova?
For the next few years, the changes would be primarily limited to engines. The end of the 327 and (brief) availability of the big-block 396 cid (6.5-liter) in 350- and 375-horsepower versions came in 1969. In 1970, Chevrolet added a 300-horsepower 350 for the Nova SS and a 255-horsepower version for lesser Novas.
How many horsepower does a 396 have?
This Chevelle SS396/375 was a near duplicate of the 1965 Corvette 396 that produced 425 horsepower. The differences between the engines were the Chevelle's hydraulic cam, two-bolt main block and milder cam.
What year is the most desirable Nova?
1968-1974 Chevrolet Nova Today
The 1968-1974 Chevrolet Nova has become a highly-desirable car among collectors and muscle car enthusiasts. For example, Hagerty estimates the value of a 1972 Nova SS350 in Good condition at around $25,000.
