In 1966 Chevrolet introduced the 2nd generation of the Nova. The 2nd generation Chevy Nova was restyled more towards the Super Sports appeal.

The Super Sport was still only available as a sports coupe and was offered by Chevrolet as the top-of-the-line model. The 194 cubic inch engine was standard in the base models, but any engine could be added in as an extra option. Visually the 1966 Nova sported wide rocker panels and a bright aluminum deck lid cover.

Two new versions of the 327 cubic inch engine were also offered and provided increased power between 275 horsepower and 350 horsepower. The new Nova Super Sport was available with the “eco-friendly” six cylinders, but clearly, the hot dealer option was the L79 version of the 327. Rated at 350 horsepower the motor featured, forged high-compression pistons, a performance-profile camshaft, big-valve heads, and an aluminum intake mounting four-barrel Holley carburetor.

Chrome engine accents finished off the L79 package, including the valve covers, oil filler and cap, and the unique dual opposing-snorkel air cleaner. From the factory, the L79 was rated for a 15-second quarter at about 95 mph, but with the right tune set up could turn 13-seconds with ease.

Out of the 172,485 Chevy II’s sold during 1966, the Nova Super Sport accounted for 20,986 units, and out of the 20,986 Nova Super Sports, only 3,547 Super Sport Novas were equipped with the L79 option from the factory.

1966 Chevy 2 Nova OEM Brochure

1966 Nova Model Options:

Body Style & Model Options:

• 4-Door Wagon
• Hardtop Coupe
• 4-Door Sedan
• Super Sport

Engine Options:

• Super-Thrift 153 | 153ci | 90hp I4
• Hi-Thrift 194 | 194ci | 120hp L6
• L26 – Turbo-Thrift 230 | 230ci | 140hp L6
• L32 – Turbo-Thrift 283 | 283ci | 195hp V8
• L77 – Turbo-Thrift 283 | 283ci | 220hp V8
• L30 – Turbo-Thrift 327 | 327ci | 275hp V8
• L79 – Turbo-Thrift 327 | 327ci | 350hp V8

Available Transmissions:

• Powerglide
• 4-Speed Manual
• 3-Speed Manual

Production Numbers:

• Chevy II/ Nova: 172,485
  • 2-Door Coupe: N/A
  • 2-Door Convertible: N/A
  • 2-Door Sedan: N/A
  • 4-Door Sedan: N/A
  • 4-Door Wagon: 51,585
  • Super Sport’s: 20,986

Dimensions & Capacities:

• Length:
  • 2 & 4-Door Sedan: 183.0 in / 15.25 ft
  • 2-Door Coupe & Super Sport: 183.0 in / 15.25 ft
  • Wagon: 187.4 in / 15.61 ft
• Width: 71.3 in / 5.91 ft
• Height:
  • 2 & 4-Door Sedan: 55 in / 4.58 ft
  • 2-Door Coupe: 52.8 in / 4.4 ft
  • 2-Door Super Sport: 53.8 in / 4.48 ft
  • Wagon: 55 in / 4.58 ft
• Wheelbase: 110 in / 9.16 ft

1966 Chevy 2 Nova Accessories