1969 Chevrolet Nova review from North America

Replaced starter during 2nd year of owning.

This was my first new car. I researched extensively prior to buying the Nova. The other cars I considered were the Rambler American, Ford Falcon, and Dodge Dart. I selected the Nova because it had the largest 6 cyl. available (250 cu. in. - 4.1 L). The reason behind wanting a 6 was insurance costs for a male under 25 with a V8 was astronomical compared to those for a 6 cyl.

I special ordered this car with an AM/FM radio, Rear Window defogger (blower that put trunk air on the rear window), Torque Drive (Clutchless manual transmission, i.e. Powerglide without the power assist) and black vinyl interior.

Except for the starter, I had no problems with the car. I was able to do tune-ups myself - once a friend helped set the timing - he put a glass of water on the air cleaner and turned the distributor until minimal vibration as reflected by the water was obtained.

I would easily attain 25 mpg on the highway, cruising at 70+ mph. More than once I buried the speedometer at over 115 mph.

Now, as to why it was a HOT car. I did not have tinted windows or air conditioning. I drove the car for two summers in San Antonio, TX, Austin, TX and Biloxi, MS. With a black vinyl interior and no air conditioning, this was one very HOT car.

Now, for the big question - Would I buy another as a collector car? The answer is a big YES. The Nova is a very dependable and affordable car to own and drive, even with $4 gas.