Although originally conceived as an affordable compact, the Chevrolet Nova had developed muscle credentials by the time this SS rolled off the line in 1969. Apart from the wheels, this classic is a genuine survivor featuring all of its original Chevrolet steel and paint. It isn’t perfect, but addressing its minor flaws would be straightforward while protecting its survivor credentials. The seller has listed the Nova here on eBay in Morrisville, Pennsylvania. The bidding currently sits at $26,100, which is below the reserve.

Chevrolet introduced its Third Generation Nova range for the 1968 model year, and it was all change when compared to its predecessor. The latest offering rode on a longer wheelbase, and the styling was revised to provide a greater sense of presence. However, the company managed to achieve this while retaining what I view as a crisp and elegant look. The first owner ordered this 1969 Nova in Butternut Yellow, a shade that many may consider quite subtle for an SS with performance credentials. Close inspection reveals minor flaws and imperfections, which is unsurprising considering the seller claims that the car retains its original paint and steel. There is penetrating rust visible in the lower rear quarter panels, but the areas are tiny and would be prime candidates for well-crafted patches. The underside shots expose surface corrosion, but thanks to the fact that this Nova has spent much of its life in California, I’m not shocked to find no gaping holes. The trim and glass are in good order for their age, and the 14″ Rally wheels add to the car’s visual appeal.

If potential buyers were compiling a Wish List for what they wanted to find lurking below the surface of a ’69 Nova SS, this car would tick most of the boxes. It features the L48 version of the iconic 350ci V8, a four-speed M20 manual transmission, a 12-bolt 3.31 Posi rear end, and power assistance for the steering and the front disc brakes. The small-block would have generated 300hp and 380 ft/lbs of torque when the car was shiny and new, and with a freshly rebuilt carburetor and a dual exhaust, I see no reason why it shouldn’t still go close to matching those numbers. The seller confirms that this classic runs and drives, although they don’t elaborate on how it achieves either feat. This might be a case where potential buyers reach out to the seller for more information before committing their funds to this purchase.

Assessing this Nova’s interior is a piece of cake, because it is new. Therefore, there are no wear or other issues, meaning that the winning bidder won’t need to spend a dime. It features bucket seats and a console, although the seller confirms that the factory air conditioning is inoperative. The radio looks like a factory AM unit, but has been upgraded to incorporate FM and Bluetooth for a more modern touch.

If you remove the Rally wheels from the equation, the first owner’s chosen paint shade makes this 1969 Chevrolet Nova SS a fairly subtle classic that doesn’t hint at the performance potential lurking below the surface. I’m not sure if it is accurate to describe it as a sleeper, but it could certainly spring a surprise at almost any “Traffic Light Grand Prix” if the existing wheels made way for a set of steelies and dog dish hubcaps. I guess the biggest question surrounds whether the next owner will preserve this classic, or whether they will find the lure of a restoration irresistible. What do you think?