What is the difference between a Chevy II and a Nova?
Quick Answer
They are the same car line. Chevrolet launched the compact as the Chevy II in 1962, with Nova as the top trim. Over time the Nova name took over, becoming the standalone name from 1969. So early cars are "Chevy II Nova" and later ones are just "Nova".
The naming evolved across the same model.
The timeline
1962-1968: the line was the Chevy II, with Nova as the top series. 1969 onward: the Chevy II name was dropped and the car was simply the Nova.
Why it matters
For collectors the distinction is mostly badging and year; the desirable performance cars (L79 327, SS 396, COPO 427) are identified by engine and trim, not the Chevy II vs Nova name.
Browse current listings
Dealer
United States
1964 Chevrolet Nova
$30,995
Dealer
United States
1965 Chevrolet Nova
$33,995
Dealer
United States
1962 Chevrolet Nova
$39,995
Dealer
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1969 Chevrolet Nova
$35,995
Dealer
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1977 Chevrolet Nova
$7,895
Dealer
United States
1966 Chevrolet Nova
$7,695