1966 Chevrolet Nova – A Classic Muscle Car with 4-Speed Thrill
In the golden age of the muscle car, Chevrolet’s Nova—particularly the 1966 iteration—stood out as a compact powerhouse. Combining style, agility, and pure driving excitement, the Nova became a favorite for enthusiasts seeking a small car with big performance. This 1966 Chevrolet Nova embodies that spirit, equipped with a potent 350 V8, a Muncie 4-speed manual transmission, and a host of performance upgrades. While not a factory SS, it boasts the SS emblems and trim, giving it the aesthetic of its high-performance counterpart.
Powertrain and Performance
Under the hood sits a strong-running 350 cubic inch V8 (non-original), enhanced with an Edelbrock Performer intake and Edelbrock carburetor for improved performance. The exhaust system features headers and dual aftermarket mufflers, delivering a deep, throaty growl that muscle car aficionados crave.
A Muncie 4-speed manual transmission puts you in direct control, offering an exhilarating driving experience. The 10-bolt rear end with 4:10 gears gives this Nova serious off-the-line punch, making it perfect for spirited acceleration. For added stability and control, rear air shocks allow for fine-tuning the rear suspension.
Braking and Steering
Stopping power is provided by power front disc brakes and rear drums, controlled via a Corvette-style master cylinder. While it maintains manual steering, the nimble size and lightweight construction of this Nova ensure responsive handling, staying true to the tactile feel of classic muscle cars.
Exterior Elegance
This Nova is dressed in sleek black paint, accented by SS emblems and trim for that aggressive, high-performance look. The paint shows well overall, with some minor touch-ups and signs of age adding to its authenticity. The body features factory wheel lip moldings and body-side molding, preserving its period-correct appearance.
It rides on 15-inch Vision Legend Series wheels, wrapped in 205/65 tires up front and 225/60 tires in the rear (manufactured in 2021). These wheels give it a classic yet slightly modern edge, improving grip and stance.
Interior Charm
Inside, this Nova maintains a factory-style black bucket seat interior. The seats are in great condition, with only slight wear on the driver’s seat foam—typical for a car of this vintage. The 4-speed floor shifter is complemented by a Hurst shifter, providing precise, satisfying gear changes.
Additional interior highlights include:
Three-gauge pod under the dash (oil, volt, and temp) for essential performance monitoring.
Retro Sound AM/FM radio for a blend of classic looks and modern audio capabilities.
A custom steering wheel for added style and control.
Newer dash pad, headliner, and carpet, all contributing to the clean, well-kept interior.
Solid Foundations
The undercarriage reflects the care this Nova has received. Key components such as the floor pans, inner rockers, and trunk pans are solid and well-maintained. Factory undercoating helps preserve the metal, and newer components like the gas tank, emergency brake cables, and fuel lines add peace of mind.
Driving Experience
This Nova is a thrilling ride, built for those who appreciate classic muscle car performance. The current 4:10 gears make it a punchy, around-town driver, perfect for enjoying bursts of acceleration. A gear change would make it more suitable for higher-speed cruising, but as it stands, it delivers a raw and authentic muscle car experience.
A Tribute to Muscle Car Heritage
This 1966 Chevrolet Nova encapsulates everything that made this era special: a compact, stylish body paired with big V8 power and the joy of rowing through gears. It's a car that exudes character, ready for weekend drives, car shows, or simply admiring in the garage.
At PC Classic Cars in Sherman, Texas, we celebrate classic vehicles like this Nova, ensuring they continue to capture the hearts of enthusiasts. Each car in our care is a testament to a bygone era, ready for a new chapter with those who cherish automotive history.