• The Chevrolet Nova was introduced on September 29, 1961. Originally code-named the H-35, it was a mid-sized vehicle. During its lifespan, the Nova adapted to the times as it transformed from a compact car, to a performance-oriented vehicle, to an everyday vehicle.
  
  

1972 Nova Specs

• The base engine for the 1972 Nova was an inline, six-cylinder engine. It generated 110 horsepower at 3,800 rpm and 185 ft-lbs. of torque at 1,600 rpm. The overhead cam had two valves per cylinder for a total of 12 valves and a compression ratio of 8.50:1. A three-speed manual transmission was standard on this vehicle. Several variations of the V8 engine were also available. These included 5-, 5.7- and 6-liter engines. Each had four valves per cylinder and generated a range of 165 to 210 horsepower, as well as 280 to 320 ft-lbs. of torque.
  
  

1970 Nova Specs

• The 1970 Nova used a V8, 5-liter engine. It generated 200 horsepower and 300 ft-lbs. of torque at 2,400 rpm. The overhead cam had two valves per cylinder for a total of 16 valves. It had a compression ratio of 9:1, and a bore of 3.88 inches and a stroke of 3.25 inches. A three-speed manual transmission was a standard feature for this vehicle. The 1970 Nova could reach a top speed of 110 miles per hour.
  
  

1977 Nova Specs

• The 1977 Nova utilized a 5-liter V8 engine in a 90-degree V configuration. It generated 135 horsepower at 3,800 rpm and 240 ft-lbs. of torque at 2,000 rpm. The overhead cam had two valves per cylinder for a total of 16 valves. It had a compression ratio of 8.5:1, along with a bore of 3.74 inches and a 3.48-inch stroke.