Buzz
©2007 Publications International, Ltd. The 1969 Chevrolet Nova SS 396, with its understated and clean design, appeared to be the ultimate sleeper car. In reality, it was a formidable muscle car. Check out more images of muscle cars.Not all street racers craved the spotlight. Some found joy in outrunning flashy, expensive muscle cars, catching them off guard with sheer speed and stealth. The 1969 Chevrolet Nova SS 396 was perfectly suited for such missions, proving that appearances can be misleading.
Muscle Car Image Gallery
Chevrolet revamped its compact model in '68, yet the design remained relatively modest. However, the chassis was shared with the Camaro, allowing room for big-block engines. The 396-cid V-8 became available as a Super Sport option mid-'68. By '69, the 396 returned in a 350-bhp version and, for those savvy with order forms, as the 375-bhp L78.
©2007 Publications International, Ltd. Out of the 7,209 SS 396 Novas produced in 1969, 5,262 were equipped with the L78 engine.This was the ultimate performance Nova. Starting with the SS package, it added $280 to the $2,405 base price of a Nova pillared coupe, featuring a 300-bhp 350-cid V-8, upgraded suspension, red-stripe F70xl4 tires, and front disc brakes. Opting for the L78 engine added $500, but even with the $184 close-ratio four-speed transmission, $43 limited-slip differential, and $84 fast-ratio power steering, the total price remained an attractive $3,500.
The exterior featured SS badges, a black-accented grille and tail, and faux hood air intakes, but nothing screamed supercar. However, the L78 engine shattered any illusion of subtlety. The "396" fender badges hinted at its power, while the clatter of solid lifters and the deep growl of dual exhausts left no doubt.
©2007 Publications International, Ltd. In its 375-bhp L78 configuration, the SS Nova was anything but a sleeper. The noisy solid lifters and thunderous dual exhausts drew attention straight to the "396" emblems."The junior Chevy with the senior engine... is an instantly recognized and feared street dominator," noted Car and Driver. "The 396 Chevy II wasn't the undercover sleeper we anticipated, but it delivered every ounce of excitement we desired."
The SS 396 not only packed immense power into a 3400-pound frame but also distributed just 55 percent of its weight on the front axle, achieving a weight balance that few muscle cars could rival. Despite this, torque and tire slip often hindered its launch. Cheater slicks were the solution, though they revealed the Nova SS 396's true purpose. However, its disguise was already shattered the moment the L78 engine roared to life.
Head back to the Classic Muscle Cars Library.
For more cool information on muscle cars, check out:
- Chevy muscle cars embody the essence of high-performance, big-engine vehicles. Explore profiles, photos, and specifications of Chevy muscle cars.
- Muscle cars came in a variety of styles and sizes. Discover features on over 100 muscle cars, complete with photos and specifications for each model.
- Muscle cars developed a unique culture. Dive into the details by reading How Muscle Cars Work.
These profiles of muscle cars feature photos and detailed specifications for each model:
- The 1961 Pontiac Ventura 389 stood out as one of the most elegant early muscle cars.
- While fastbacks were already popular, the 1966 Dodge Charger 426 Hemi set a new standard for speed.
- The 1963 Plymouth 426 Wedge was so wild that it included warnings against driving it on public roads.
- Although any '71 Chevelle could sport a Super Sport badge, only the 1971 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454 had the honor of showcasing its engine size.
For additional car-related details, check out these articles:
- The engine is the heart of a muscle car, defining its bold character. To dive deeper into how engines function, explore How Car Engines Work.
- Horsepower is the lifeblood of muscle cars, but what does it really mean? Discover the answer in How Horsepower Works.
- NASCAR race cars epitomize the muscle car ethos of raw power. Learn more about these high-performance machines in How NASCAR Race Cars Work.
- Considering purchasing a 2007 muscle car or another vehicle? Visit Consumer Guide Automotive's New-Car Reviews, Prices, and Information for insights.
Specifications
Wheelbase, inches: 111.0
Weight, lbs: 3,400
Number built: 7,209
Base price: $3,185
Top Available Engine
Type: ohv V-8
Displacement, cid: 396
Fuel system: 1 x 4bbl.
Compression ratio: 11.0:1
Horsepower @ rpm: 375 @ 5600
Torque @ rpm: 415 @ 3600
Representative Performance
0-60 mph, sec: 5.9
1/4 mile, sec. @ mph: 14.5 @ 101
