Introduction

The 1966 Chevrolet Nova, part of Chevy’s compact car lineup, marked a significant step forward in the evolution of the model. Designed as a small, affordable, and efficient vehicle, the Nova quickly became a popular choice for American drivers in the mid-1960s. Its simplicity and performance, paired with a stylish design, helped it carve out a strong reputation in the automotive world.

History & Origins

Introduced in 1962 as the Chevrolet Chevy II, the Nova was initially a response to the growing demand for smaller, more economical cars. By 1966, the Chevrolet Nova had undergone several changes, including a sleeker, more modern design. It offered improved performance options and was available in several body styles, including a two-door sedan, four-door sedan, and a convertible. The 1966 Nova is often regarded as one of the best iterations in the model’s history, combining style, performance, and practicality.

Engine & Performance Options

The 1966 Chevrolet Nova was offered with a variety of engine options, making it adaptable to a range of driving needs. Performance enthusiasts could choose from:

• Inline-6 engines: The base engine was a 153 cubic inch (2.5L) six-cylinder, producing 90 horsepower.
• V8 engines: The Nova also offered a 283 cubic inch (4.6L) V8 engine, which produced 195 horsepower. For those looking for more power, a 327 cubic inch (5.4L) V8, producing 275 horsepower, was available as an option.
• Transmission options: Buyers could opt for a 3-speed manual, a 4-speed manual, or a 2-speed Powerglide automatic transmission.

The 1966 Nova also featured improved suspension, offering a smooth and stable ride. Performance-oriented versions, like the Nova SS, became extremely popular among muscle car enthusiasts.

Design & Features

The 1966 Nova displayed a more modern, clean, and stylish design compared to previous years. The vehicle featured a squared-off front end, a longer wheelbase, and more angular lines. Chrome accents, especially on the grille, highlighted its muscular yet elegant design.

Key design features of the 1966 Nova include:

• A new grille and front fascia for a more aggressive look.
• New body contours and a reworked rear end, with smooth lines and squared-off tail lights.
• Available vinyl roofs and bright chrome detailing to add to the upscale aesthetic.
• A comfortable and spacious interior, with options for bucket seats, and a variety of upholstery choices.

The 1966 Nova’s design was simple but stylish, offering both practicality and charm.

Trim Levels & Variants

The 1966 Chevrolet Nova came in several different trim levels and variants, catering to a wide range of customers. These included:

• Nova 100: The base model, which was equipped with simple yet reliable features and the smaller engine options.
• Nova 300: A mid-level trim offering a slightly more refined interior and more options.
• Nova SS (Super Sport): The performance-oriented variant, featuring sportier styling, upgraded V8 engine options, and performance-oriented suspension systems. The SS was by far the most sought-after version, thanks to its enhanced performance and distinctive styling cues like dual exhaust, chrome detailing, and sporty badges.

Safety & Technology

While the 1966 Chevrolet Nova was not equipped with the modern safety and tech features we expect today, it did include the safety standards of the time:

• Safety features: The Nova was equipped with lap belts as standard. However, it did not have advanced features such as airbags or anti-lock brakes.
• Technology: The tech features were basic by today’s standards, with the most notable being the AM radio and optional power steering, power brakes, and air conditioning.
• Suspension & Handling: With a reworked suspension system, the Nova was designed to provide a comfortable ride, though it didn’t feature advanced technologies like electronic stability control.

Fuel Economy & Efficiency

The 1966 Chevrolet Nova’s fuel economy depended largely on the engine choice. The smaller inline-6 engines provided the best fuel efficiency, while the V8 engines offered more power but slightly lower efficiency.

• Inline-6 engine: Around 20-25 MPG (miles per gallon), depending on driving conditions.
• V8 engines: Typically around 15-20 MPG.

For its time, the Nova offered solid fuel economy, especially for a vehicle with such a diverse engine lineup.

Market Comparison

In 1966, the Nova competed with several other compact and muscle cars of the era, including:

• Ford Mustang: Known for its sporty appeal and powerful engines, the Mustang was a direct competitor to the Nova SS, though the Nova often offered a more affordable price tag.
• Plymouth Barracuda: A muscle car that, like the Nova, offered powerful engine options and aggressive styling.
• Dodge Dart: Another compact car from Chrysler, which offered a similar range of engine choices and performance features.

While these vehicles competed in similar segments, the Nova stood out for its combination of affordability, practicality, and performance.

Pricing

The price of the 1966 Chevrolet Nova varied based on trim level and options, but it remained one of the most affordable vehicles in its class:

• Base model: The 1966 Nova started at around $2,000, making it an attractive option for those seeking a budget-friendly car.
• Nova SS: The performance-oriented Nova SS could push closer to $2,500, depending on the options selected.

Given its price point, the Nova was considered an excellent value for money, offering both practicality and muscle car performance.

Notable Awards & Accolades

While the 1966 Chevrolet Nova didn’t necessarily rack up a plethora of prestigious awards, it did gain significant acclaim in automotive circles for its design and performance:

• The Nova SS was especially praised for its performance capabilities at a competitive price point, and it became an instant favorite among car enthusiasts and performance lovers.
• In the years following its release, the Nova became a notable vehicle for car collectors and restorers due to its simple, robust design and relatively affordable price on the used market.

The 1966 Chevrolet Nova remains a beloved classic and a standout example of mid-1960s American automotive engineering.