Chevrolet Nova 3rd Gen
The 3rd generation Nova combined clean 'coke bottle' styling with serious V8 performance in a compact package, sharing its platform with the Camaro. It remains a popular and relatively affordable entry into the classic muscle car market, with values driven by originality and high-performance options like the SS 396.
Find one with Spotter →Chevrolet Nova 3rd Gen sold for a median of $41,100 over the last 12 months, based on 126 auction sales; the middle 50% sold between $27,500 and $55,375. 1,671 currently for sale.
Redesigned for 1968 on the same X-body platform as the Camaro, the 3rd generation Nova shed its economy car roots for a muscular new look. The semi-fastback styling and 'coke bottle' profile were an instant hit, and the option sheet now included serious performance. Buyers could spec anything from a thrifty inline-six to a 350 V8, but the real news was the availability of the 396 big-block in the Super Sport models, turning the compact Nova into a potent street fighter.
Collectors appreciate the 3rd gen Nova for its classic muscle car proportions and its role as a more accessible alternative to a Chevelle or Camaro. Its versatility makes it a favorite for restoration, resto-modding, and drag racing. The most desirable models are the big-block SS cars, particularly the L78 396/375 hp variant. At the absolute peak of the market are the ultra-rare Yenko Supercars, like the 1970 Yenko Deuce, which packed a Corvette-derived LT-1 350 V8 into the lightweight Nova chassis.
The market for these cars is incredibly diverse. Six-cylinder sedans and coupes can still be found as affordable project cars, providing a great blank canvas. The bulk of sales fall in the $30,000 to $60,000 range for nicely restored small-block V8s and SS clones. Documented, matching-numbers SS 396 cars regularly trade for much more, while concours-quality Yenko Novas represent the pinnacle of the market, fetching prices well into six figures.
Buying Tips
- Rust is the biggest concern. Check the rear quarter panels, trunk floor, floor pans, and the areas where the front subframe bolts to the body. Cars with vinyl tops often hide rust in the roof and around the rear window.
- Authenticate SS models carefully. For 1968, the VIN for a V8 SS coupe is 11427. From 1969-1972, the SS was an option package, making documentation key. Look for correct engine codes, a 12-bolt rear axle (on big-block cars), and multi-leaf rear springs.
- Many Novas have been heavily modified. Closely inspect the quality of any engine swaps, transmission upgrades, and suspension work. Poorly executed modifications can hide underlying issues and be costly to fix.
- The front subframe is a known weak point, especially on cars subjected to hard launches. Inspect for cracks around the steering box mounts and upper control arm perches.
Prices for 3rd generation Novas span a vast range, from under $1,000 for non-running projects to over $850,000 for professionally-built resto-mods or exceptionally rare Yenko Supercars.
4,860 Chevrolet Nova 3rd Gen vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 1671 currently live.
Data sourced from Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, eBay Motors, PCarMarket, and Collecting Cars. Updated daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Chevrolet Nova 3rd Gen cost?
Over the last 12 months, Chevrolet Nova 3rd Gen sold for a median of $41,100 across 126 auction sales tracked on Hypercars; the middle 50% sold between $27,500 and $55,375. There are 1,671 currently for sale.
How many Chevrolet Nova 3rd Gen listings are for sale right now?
There are 1,671 Chevrolet Nova 3rd Gen listings currently live across auctions, dealers, and marketplaces tracked by Hypercars.