The 1964 Chevrolet Chevy II Nova SS stands as a high-water mark for mid-sixties compact muscle, offering a potent combination of lightweight engineering and small-block V8 power. This particular specimen is a highly decorated example, having earned Concours Gold honors at the Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals following an extensive 2013 refurbishment. Specified from the factory in striking Palomar Red, the vehicle retains its numbers-matching spirit while benefiting from a total overhaul of the powertrain and chassis, making it one of the finest survivors of the Nova Super Sport lineage currently available.
Palomar Red Aesthetics and Super Sport Trim
The exterior visual character of this 1964 Chevrolet Chevy II Nova SS is defined by its laser-straight silhouette and factory-correct Palomar Red finish. During the restoration, the body was meticulously prepared with a replacement right quarter panel and fresh floor pans before receiving its deep metallic coating. Bright headlight bezels and a chrome-heavy grille complement the signature SS badging, while 14-inch steel wheels wear high-polish SS-branded covers. The period-correct aesthetic is completed by Firestone Deluxe Champion redline tires, which emphasize the car’s athletic and purposeful stance.
Black Vinyl Appointments and Period Electronics
Inside the cabin, the 1964 Chevrolet Chevy II Nova SS features a retrimmed interior that faithfully replicates the original 1964 specifications. Black vinyl bucket seats provide a sharp contrast to the Palomar Red exterior, supported by color-coordinated carpets and a padded dashboard. The driver interfaces with a two-spoke steering wheel featuring a chrome horn ring, which frames a 120-mph speedometer and a factory 7k-rpm tachometer. Nostalgic touches include a Delco push-button AM radio and a classic heater system, ensuring the interior remains a time-capsule environment for any vintage enthusiast.
L77 V8 Power and Four-Speed Engagement
Performance is derived from a 283ci L77 V8 engine that was rebuilt to factory specifications, featuring a four-barrel carburetor and a replacement camshaft for optimized delivery. This legendary small-block produces a factory-rated 220 hp/223 PS and is paired with a floor-shifted four-speed manual transmission for maximum driver involvement. The mechanical setup is rounded out by a 3.55:1 Positraction rear end, ensuring efficient power transfer to the pavement. On the road, the Nova offers a raw and connected feel, supported by refreshed suspension and brake components that maintain the car’s authentic 1960s handling characteristics.
| Technical Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 283ci L77 V8 |
| Transmission | 4-Speed Manual |
| Rear End | 3.55:1 Positraction |
| Wheel Type | 14-Inch Steel w/ SS Covers |
| Exterior Color | Palomar Red (948) |
| Interior Trim | Black Vinyl Bucket Seats (713) |
Concours Heritage and Collector Value
As a Concours Gold recipient, the investment potential of this 1964 Chevrolet Chevy II Nova SS is bolstered by its proven authenticity and high-tier restoration quality. The Fisher body tag confirms its rare factory configuration, including the M20 manual transmission and tinted glass options. Having spent time in private collections and appearing on prominent auction platforms, the car comes with a well-documented history of care and maintenance. Its duplicate Maryland title and extensive service records provide the transparency required for serious collectors looking to add a benchmark-quality Nova to their stable.
A Masterpiece of Chevrolet History
In summary, the 1964 Chevrolet Chevy II Nova SS is a stunning realization of the compact muscle car formula. It successfully captures the transition from basic transportation to high-performance enthusiast machine, represented here in its most desirable format. From the rumble of the rebuilt 283 V8 to the precision of the four-speed shifter, every element has been tuned to provide a world-class experience. For the owner who demands perfection in both aesthetics and mechanical performance, this Palomar Red Nova SS remains an undisputed icon of the Chevrolet Golden Age.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
