1968 Chevrolet Nova: A Compact Car Reimagined
The 1968 Chevrolet Nova marked a significant turning point for GM's compact offering. It was the debut year of the second generation, a complete redesign that shed the somewhat meek styling of its predecessor and embraced a more aggressive, muscle-car-inspired aesthetic. This generation would go on to be highly influential, particularly in the burgeoning performance compact market.
Design and Styling:
The most striking departure from the first generation was the Nova's exterior. Chevrolet designers adopted a longer, wider, and lower profile, giving the car a much more planted and sporty stance.
- Body Styles: The Nova was offered in a variety of popular body styles:
- 2-Door Coupe: This was the quintessential Nova, often the basis for performance models.
- 4-Door Sedan: A more practical option for families.
- 2-Door Hardtop Coupe: Offering a sleek, pillarless side profile for a more open-air feel.
- Station Wagon: Providing increased cargo capacity.
- Front End: The front featured a prominent, horizontally split grille, often with a chrome surround. Rectangular headlights were set into sculpted bezels. The hood was longer and flatter, contributing to the car's assertive appearance.
- Side Profile: The bodylines were cleaner and more flowing, with a distinct character line running from the front fenders to the rear. Wheelbase was increased, giving it a more substantial presence.
- Rear End: The rear boasted a clean design, often with horizontal taillights that could be integrated into a full-width panel. The overall look was less fussy and more modern.
Performance and Powertrain Options:
While the Nova was still positioned as a compact car, 1968 saw a significant expansion of its performance capabilities, largely driven by the introduction of more potent engine options.
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Engine Range:
- 153 cu in (2.5L) Inline-4: The base engine, providing economical transportation.
- 230 cu in (3.8L) Inline-6: A step up in power and refinement.
- 250 cu in (4.1L) Inline-6: Offering even more torque and responsiveness.
- 302 cu in (4.9L) V8 (SS 302): A potent, high-revving V8, specifically designed for the Nova SS and often referred to as the "Z/28 engine for the little guy." This engine was a significant contributor to the Nova's burgeoning performance image.
- 327 cu in (5.4L) V8: Available in various configurations, including the potent L30 (275 hp) and the L79 (325 hp), which offered serious acceleration.
- 350 cu in (5.7L) V8: Later in the model year, the 350 V8 became available, offering a strong balance of power and everyday drivability.
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Transmissions: Buyers could choose from:
- 3-Speed Manual: Standard on many models.
- 4-Speed Manual: Particularly desirable with the V8 engines for maximum performance.
- 2-Speed Powerglide Automatic: A common automatic transmission.
- 3-Speed Turbo-Hydramatic Automatic: Available with the larger V8s for smoother power delivery.
The Nova SS (Super Sport):
The 1968 Nova SS cemented the car's reputation as a performance machine. The SS package typically included:
- V8 Engine: Often equipped with the 327 or the 350 cubic inch V8s.
- Performance Suspension: Upgraded springs and shocks for improved handling.
- Styling Cues: Special badging, SS emblems, unique wheel covers or rally wheels, and often blacked-out accents.
- Bucket Seats: Providing a sportier interior environment.
Interior and Features:
The Nova's interior reflected the car's overall redesign, offering a more modern and comfortable experience.
- Dashboard: A clean and functional dashboard with clear instrumentation.
- Seating: Options included bench seats or bucket seats, especially in performance models.
- Optional Features: Air conditioning, power steering, power brakes, an AM/FM radio, and tinted glass were among the available options.
Legacy and Impact:
The 1968 Chevrolet Nova was a critical success. It successfully bridged the gap between economical compact cars and entry-level muscle cars. Its attractive styling and the availability of powerful V8 engines made it a favorite among younger buyers and performance enthusiasts. The second-generation Nova laid the groundwork for a highly successful lineage, influencing automotive design and the muscle car market for years to come. It remains a highly collectible and sought-after classic today, especially in its SS guise.