Vehicle Description
1979 Chevrolet Nova Sedan
The Fourth...and Almost Final Generation...1975-1979. Due to
additional regulations, the 1975 Nova now came standard with
mechanical changes to the brakes, suspension, and tires. Because of
emissions concerns, the 1975 Novas were equipped with catalytic
converters to reduce emissions, disc brakes were a required safety
feature, as were steel-belted radial tires. In 1976, the Nova's 262
cubic-inch engine was replaced by a new 305 cubic-inch
eight-cylinder engine, as part of the Gold Medalist package,
designed in honor of the 1976 Olympic Games. By 1977, production
ended on the Nova SS, and sales plummeted, especially in the shadow
of other new Chevy releases. The fourth generation lasted until
1979, but the Nova made an unexpected return in 1985. More than a
few collectors gladly ignore models from the 1980s and insist the
Nova met its demise in the 70s.
For consignment, a 1979 Chevrolet Nova sedan in true grocery
getting style. This one with a fresh replacement 250ci inline
6-cylinder inserted, a 3-speed automatic, and factory air
conditioning. By this time the muscle car look was gone from the
exterior and with a mild-mannered powertrain keeping operating and
insurance costs lower. However, for the beginner collector this car
is a perfect way to wet one's feet without emptying the savings and
401K accounts.
Exterior
For 1979, a now chromed egg crate grille with a shiny bumper
framing it below leads the way. Turning the corner to the front
quarter and highlighting the beltline is a snazzy chrome rub strip
that starts with the Nova script emblem then continues on as a thin
spear and runs to the back of the rear quarter panels. All the
while the entire body is bathed in the factory hue of Beige. A few
inclusions and inconsistencies are seen in the paint, but no
invasive rust is noted. All remaining trimmings are shiny including
both the driver and passenger's door mirrors. A slightly raked rear
roofline is within this 1979 design and rolls down from the sloping
trunk lid and gently to the rear taillight panel with the shiny and
pristine rear bumper below. A single exhaust pipe peeks out behind
the driver's rear tire and deep-dish body color painted wheels with
poverty caps adorn the 4 corners.
Interior
In true mid 1970's form, a Camel Tan vinyl interior and square and
rectangle design abounds inside. The door panels use molded Camel
vinyl with inset embossments along with chrome for the cranks and
actuators. These panels all present as nearly new. A smooth Camel
and lighter ribbed tan vinyl bench seat is in front in and a bench
in the back, the driver's lower cushion shows some cracking of the
vinyl with slight tearing noted. The square and rectangle design
dash of the era remains but the original cluster has been replaced
with a bevy of Autometer gauges for some pizazz. A radio delete
panel is noted and under the passenger's side of the dash we see an
added AM/FM/CD player. A perforated Camel headliner is above and is
slightly wavy. Below, faded saddle carping covers the floors and a
black center console is on the hump.
Drivetrain
Under the hood is a consignor-stated Jasper 250ci inline 6-cylinder
with low miles. This is topped with a single 1-barrel carburetor
and has a TH350 3-speed automatic transmission on the back. A
10-bolt 2.56 geared rear axle is on the tail end. Overall condition
of the engine bay presents as unrestored but with a freshly painted
blue engine and newer radiator.
Undercarriage
A smattering of surface rust can be seen throughout, but mainly on
the suspension and other untreated components. The floor pans
remain strong and solid with a light coating of black paint over
the factory steel. Power disc brakes are on front, and power drums
for the rear. Providing the ride to the store is an independent
coil spring front suspension and a leaf spring rear arrangement. A
single exhaust system is noted, complete with its catalytic
converter.
Drive-Ability
Not a lap record setter or quarter mile hero by far but it performs
its duties and performs them well. This sedan provided a good ride,
adequate acceleration, and bias free braking on our test track. The
interior while spartan is very comfortable and roomy. All functions
were working at the time of our drive and the Autometer gauges keep
you aware of all aspects of the car's performance.
A 1979 version of the grocery getter version of the Nova. A
splendid entry level car without breaking the bank, a turnkey car
that runs and drives well.
VIN DECODE
1X69D9W113500
1-Chevrolet
X-Nova
69-4 Door Sedan
D-250ci I6 1bbl 115hp
9-1979
W-Willow Run, MI Assy Plant
113500-Sequential Unit Number
TRIM TAG
ST 79 1XX69-1979 Nova 4 Door Sedan
BDY W048094-Willow Run Body #
TR 62R A52-Camel Tan Vinyl Bench
PNT 61-Beige
10A-1st Week October
Classic Auto Mall is a 336,000-square foot classic and special
interest automobile showroom, featuring over 650 vehicles for sale
with showroom space for up to 1,000 vehicles. Also, a 400 vehicle
barn find collection is on display.
This vehicle is located in our showroom in Morgantown,
Pennsylvania, conveniently located just 1-hour west of Philadelphia
on the I-76 Pennsylvania Turnpike. The website is
www.classicautomall.com and our phone number is (888) 227-0914.
Please contact us anytime for more information or to come see the
vehicle in person.
