1970 Chevrolet Nova SS Clone 2-Door Coupe
2021.0033.0010, Savoy Collection, Generously donated by an anonymous donor
Engine: 396 cu. in. (6.49L) Cast-iron block, OHV, V-8
Output: 375 HP @ 5,600 RPM
Transmission: 4-Speed Manual Muncie M20, Wide Ratio
Wheelbase: 111 in.
Overall Length: 190 in.
Weight: 3,450 lbs.
Top Speed: 127 MPH
No. Produced: 3,765
Original Price: $4,280
Manufacturer: Chevrolet
Following the success of Chevrolet’s compact Corvair in October 1959, the company immediately developed, within 18 months, a fourth model called the Chevy II. The Nova nameplate was limited to the topline version until 1969. Styled with a long hood, short deck, Coke bottle shape, and a new grille for 1970, the unibody Nova had independent front A-arms and twin mono-leaf rear springs. In 1970, 139,243 V-8 Novas were produced, with 3,765 of them being the L78 model, which featured a 375 HP engine.
Joining the growing trend of compact cars equipped with a serious big-block engine, Chevrolet offered a pair of optional Turbo-Jet V-8s, producing 350 HP and 375 HP, respectively. The optional SS package included Nova SS emblems, unique bodyside moldings with silver inserts, and a bright insert added to the cove panel at the back. Rated at 375 HP, the L78 upped the L34’s output with a Holley carb, aluminum intake manifold, rectangle-port high-performance heads with larger 2.19-inch intake valves, an aggressive solid-lifter cam, and forged 11:1 pistons.