The Nova SS was a performance focused variant of the 2nd Gen Chevrolet Nova that debuted for 1966. The 2nd Gen Nova SS had a new design and built off the success of the 1st Gen Nova SS. While only lasting 2 years, these cars had a similar sports roof design that mirrored the Chevelle and Impala. While the Chevelle and Impala were much larger cars, the small stature of the Nova remained the same. The performance crowd had recognized the potential of a light weight body, and now so did Chevrolet by offering more cubic inch small block V8 options. The 327 L79 V8, with its 350hp, was now a factory option from Chevrolet, but with the radical cam it was only offered with a manual transmission. For 1967 the Nova only had slight changes. Inline six engines were still the entry level power plants for the SS, but an upgrade got you V8 power, from the 195hp or 220hp 283 V8. The 327 L79 engine was produced in limited numbers, making it a highly desirable and much sought after powerplant. The 2nd Gen Nova SS was built until 1967, but the SS would return with even more muscle as part of the 3rd Gen Nova.