An Affordable Classic
The 1963 model year marked a pivotal moment in the Chevrolet Nova’s origins as a nimble and practical compact car for the masses. Introduced in 1962 as an all-new model line dubbed the Chevy II, Chevrolet positioned the car to appeal to buyers seeking an affordable, no-frills vehicle sized right for emerging postwar families.
When rebadged as the Nova for 1963, Chevy’s spunky compact embraced its role as a performance-minded economy car thanks to an expanded roster of engine choices. Thrifty inline six-cylinder motors carried over, providing sufficient motivation while prioritizing fuel efficiency. But newly available V8 options unlocked a surprisingly feisty personality beneath the Nova’s sensible skin.
Formalizing the car’s performance ambitions, Chevrolet also introduced the Super Sport package for 1963 Novas. The SS treatment brought sports car flair via unique badging, bucket seats and a floor-mounted gear shifter.
Available as a sedan, coupe, convertible and even a practical wagon variant, the 1963 Nova’s basic rear-drive platform proved immensely flexible. Robust construction and classic good looks stood the test of time allowing later Nova generations to carry the torch for another 19 years. In just its second year, the newly rechristened Nova illustrated how Chevrolet ingenuity could yield excitement, expandability and value in one trusty package.
Fun Facts:
- One 1963 Nova was powered by an experimental aluminum V8
- Rare dealer-installed Camper Package offered a pop-up roof
- Police variants were popular for deterring street racing culture
- SS package available with the practical wagon body style
- Retained its value well as Chevrolet badge carried cachet
Amazing Capabilities:
- Fuel economy up to 25 mpg from thrifty 6-cylinder engine
- 0-60 mph in 5.5 seconds with available 283 ci V8 upgrades
- Capable handling for an economy compact of its day
- Nova SS models competed in early Trans Am series racing
- Excellent reliability and ease of maintenance
The Nova brought balance, adaptability and a secret fun side into an affordable, well-rounded package prime for America’s evolving needs.
A five-year sales history can be seen at Classic.com. Valuation tables can be seen at Caaarguide.com. Current values can also be seen at Collectorcarmarket.com. Production data can be seen at Conceptcarz.com. In-depth production specifications and data can be viewed at Automobile-catalog.com. For some reading on the history of the Nova, check out these articles: Motortrend.com, HHclassic.com, and Novaresource.org.
Nadaguides.com – Average price: $7,625
Image credit – Wikipedia.org #classiccars #hotrods #oldschool #streetrod #Chevrolet #Nova #shifterslist
