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Iconic Design and Styling
The 1970 Chevy Nova SS was the smallest among GMs muscle car trio of the 1970s. Its compact yet all steel body proved to be a hit among its buyers, especially when paired with 396 V8.
“There was no time for experimentation or doodling around with new ideas from either the engineers or from us in design; And it had to be a basic-type car.”
Chevrolet designer Clare MacKichan
The Chevy Nova was put from design to production in just 18 months and carried a no frill or shout design language. The lines were simple, and the front and rear fascia were devoid of any gaping intakes or large chrome laden space age styling its predecessors had.
The V8 and SS models got special gauge cluster and badges. Other standout styling elements include-blacked out grille, light frame and tail end (Nova SS Rear Trim), simulated hood air intakes and chrome trimmed fender louvers.
Also, standard were E70X14 white stripe tires and 14-inch wheels.
Powerful 396 Cubic Inch V8 Engine
The standard engine that came with a Nova was an equally impressive L48 350 Cu Turbo-Fire V8 that made 300 hp and could be paired with 4-Speed CR Manual with heavy-duty clutch and 12 Bolt Positraction, Powerglide or a Turbo Hydramatic. It made 380 lb-ft @ 3200 RPM thanks to 4bbl setup.
The star of the show however was a formidable 396 cubic inch V8 engine, which just like in the Camaro SS displaced 402 Cu. 1970 was the last year you could pair an X-Body Nova with the factory installed Big Block 396.
The 396 option came with two power outputs. The one with 350 hp (L34) had all aluminum pistons with molybdenum rings, steel con rods, hydraulic camshaft and Quadrajet carburetor and made around 415 lb-ft.
The L78 had all aluminum intakes, solid cams, 2.19-inch intake valves and Holley carburetors and made around 375 hp and ditto torque.
How Fast Was 1970 Chevy Nova SS 396 ?
A Stock 1970 Chevy Nova SS with a L78 and TH400 ran 1/4 mile at 13.23 seconds while trapping 87.55 mph in an all stock drag race against a much more powerful but heavier Challenger.
The Nova’s were among the fastest back in the day thanks to a curb weight of around 3620 pounds.
Classic Interior and Comfort
The interior of the nova was basic but got the job done. It could be optioned with bucket seats with custom interior available in black or sandalwood.
Another popular option was Strato-Bucket seats that could be had in black, gold or sandalwood. Options like AC, Variable steering, and Center Console were rare and are worth a premium on their own.
All V8s came with special gauges, dual exhaust pipes and multi leaf rear springs. Most were equipped with front disc brakes and AM Radio with tinted glass.
How much is a 1970 Chevy Nova SS 396 Today?
Only 19,558 Chevy were converted to Super Sport package and only 1802 units had hi-po 396 V8. While the special hi-po 396 V8 was only optioned with 3765 cars as per ss396.
Today, a used 1970 Nova with a 350 V8 is about $50,000 while the ones with 396 are in the high $70,000 range. As per Classic cars.
Photo Source-GM/Brochure
