Daily Driver Wagon? 1965 Chevrolet Nova

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Chevrolet’s new compact, the Chevy II/Nova, was on a sales roll in 1962-63, landing in first or second place in sales for that market segment. But things cooled off in 1964 when Chevy rolled out the mid-size Chevelle, taking more sales off the smaller Chevy than the suits had no doubt figured on. By 1965, Nova sales were down by two-thirds from 1963. The seller has a solid 1965 wagon in 400 Series trim (aka Nova). It will need some interior work and perhaps more. Located near Seattle, Washington, this simple wagon is available here on craigslist for $14,000 OBO. Our thanks to “Curvette” for another Bow-Tie tip!

After receiving a styling update in 1964, the 1965 Chevy IIs were little changed. There were just enough differences that you can tell a ’65 from a ’64 when put side by side. While a V8 engine was available, most ‘65s were fitted with a 230 cubic inch inline-6. We’re told the seller’s car has a 250 I-6, but since they didn’t come along until 1967, a swap has no doubt been made along the way. And it wears some bling in the form of the valve cover and air cleaner.

We’re told this wagon runs well, so it could be a daily driver if you so choose. The 6-banger is paired with Chevy’s 2-speed Powerglide automatic transmission. The seller says the odometer has turned over, so the little 6-passenger wagon has at least 101,000 miles. Nothing important seems to be in-op, so perhaps this is a reliable means of transport as you see it here. And the wagon appears to be wearing a set of Super Sport wheel covers.

The two-tone paint could stand being redone, but the seat covers would take priority. We’re told the seller is in no hurry to sell but will consider a trade for another classic automobile. If you have a spare vintage car, send him/her some pics and details, and perhaps maybe you can cook up a swap. The seller is also searching for a bunk house camper and may consider cash as part of the trade.

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Comments

  1. CCFisher

    It appears to have a 1963 or 1964 front end. 1965 Novas had a different grille and headlight bezels, and turn signals in the bumper.

    Like 12
    • 59poncho

      Exactly. The signals in the bumper are my favorite thing and the bug eye headlights. Look up the 1979 Street machine of the year…….Dobbertins’s 65

      Like 3
  2. Terrry

    “Not in a hurry to sell”. Apparently at that price. Doesn’t hurt to go fishing for suckers though.

    Like 8
  3. Will Fox

    This has been wrecked/rebuilt, having a `64 front clip on a `65 body. It may not have happened with the current seller, but it happened. Now it’s just a mish-mash to any Chevy fan that knows the difference.

    Like 12
    • Wayne

      The left 1/4 panel has seen better days also.

      Like 2
  4. Lee Arfman

    About two too many zeros in the price !

    Like 3
  5. Jim C

    Correct everyone, that is a 64 front clip. 65 was more rounded. Perhaps that explains the engine swap to the 250 cu in. If your planning a engine change the time to do it is with the front clip off.

    Like 4
  6. Jim Helmer

    It’s a shame that they did that I always liked the 65 grille over the 63 and 64.
    This could be a fun car but not at that price.

    Like 4
  7. JWK

    Looks like someone tried to straighten out the left rear quarter panel with a ball-peen hammer.

    Like 4
  8. chrlsful

    292 would be nice, some cheb slush box 4 (ie auto OD).
    Nice square lines, plenty utility. May B mig in some rear
    panels (sedan delivery style). I’d daily, even ‘camp’ a lill.

    Like 2
  9. dogwater

    G lets just burn it to the ground nit pick nit pick you are bunch of arm chair quarterbacks its a 62 year old car it will be fun little driver for someone

    Like 4
  10. Ben

    Memories, my Grandfather had a blue, 63 with the 6 in it. I think it was a 2 speed auto.
    My dad and I would load up his Vizula hunting dog and all 3 of us would go out to the hunt club in north Jersey to hunt Pheasant.
    Back in the early 70’s no need for a fancy 4 wheel drive 70k truck!
    Good times and memories!

    Like 2
  11. Paul X

    Has 1965 dash trim also.

    Like 1
  12. hairyolds68

    looks to be a clean solid wagon. i have not seen 1 of these on the road in at least 15yrs. i would put a round of springs in it 65 front trim some tlc and drive it. if it’s as clean as it seems the will get close to the ask

    Like 2
    • Dave in PA

      This wagon takes me back to the Anderson Valley in N CA, year 1971 when I arrived. It was a ranch for what were then referred to as “disturbed” children. I came to work then and there were two Chevy II’s, one in this same color wagon and a green sedan. Both had well over 200,000 miles. We drove the kids all around down the dirt roads and paved ones thru the redwoods.

      Like 1
  13. Mark

    It is pretty clean but price is a little high.

    Like 2
  14. Troy

    is it just me or has this thing been lowered? it just doesn’t look right.

    Like 3
    • hairyolds68

      no, it’s not you. its laying on the ground. springs are played out

      Like 3

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