The 1986 Chevrolet Nova was a compact car manufactured by General Motors. It was the fifth and final generation of the Nova, which had been in production since 1962. The 1986 Nova was available in two-door coupe and four-door sedan body styles. It was powered by a 2.0L four-cylinder engine or a 2.8L V6 engine. The Nova was discontinued after the 1988 model year.
The 1986 Chevrolet Nova was a popular car in its day. It was known for its affordability, reliability, and fuel efficiency. The Nova was also a popular choice for young drivers, as it was relatively inexpensive to insure. Today, the 1986 Chevrolet Nova is a sought-after classic car by collectors and enthusiasts.
The 1986 Chevrolet Nova is a significant car in the history of the Chevrolet brand. It was the last generation of the Nova, which had been a popular car for over two decades. The Nova was also one of the first cars to be equipped with fuel injection, which helped to improve its fuel efficiency. The Nova was a popular car in its day, and it remains a popular classic car today.
1986 Chevrolet Nova
The 1986 Chevrolet Nova was a significant car in the history of the Chevrolet brand, and it remains a popular classic car today. Here are 10 key aspects of the 1986 Chevrolet Nova:
- Compact size: The Nova was a compact car, making it easy to maneuver and park.
- Two-door and four-door body styles: The Nova was available in both two-door coupe and four-door sedan body styles.
- Fuel-efficient: The Nova was known for its fuel efficiency, thanks in part to its fuel-injected engine.
- Affordable: The Nova was an affordable car, making it a popular choice for budget-minded consumers.
- Reliable: The Nova was known for its reliability, making it a good choice for everyday transportation.
- Popular with young drivers: The Nova was a popular choice for young drivers, as it was relatively inexpensive to insure.
- Last generation of the Nova: The 1986 Nova was the last generation of the Nova, which had been in production since 1962.
- One of the first cars with fuel injection: The Nova was one of the first cars to be equipped with fuel injection, which helped to improve its fuel efficiency.
- Sought-after classic car: The Nova is a sought-after classic car by collectors and enthusiasts.
- Affordable classic car: The Nova is an affordable classic car, making it a good choice for first-time classic car buyers.
These are just a few of the key aspects of the 1986 Chevrolet Nova. It was a popular car in its day, and it remains a popular classic car today. The Nova is a significant car in the history of the Chevrolet brand, and it is a good choice for anyone looking for an affordable, reliable, and fuel-efficient classic car.
Compact size
The compact size of the 1986 Chevrolet Nova was one of its key selling points. At a time when many cars were becoming larger and more difficult to maneuver, the Nova offered a refreshing alternative. Its compact size made it easy to drive and park, even in tight spaces. This was a major advantage for city dwellers and commuters who had to deal with congested traffic and limited parking.
The Nova’s compact size also made it more fuel-efficient than larger cars. This was an important consideration in 1986, when gas prices were on the rise. The Nova’s fuel efficiency made it a more economical choice for budget-minded consumers.
Overall, the compact size of the 1986 Chevrolet Nova was a major advantage. It made the car easy to drive, park, and fuel-efficient. These factors contributed to the Nova’s popularity with consumers.
Two-door and four-door body styles
The availability of two-door and four-door body styles in the 1986 Chevrolet Nova catered to the diverse needs and preferences of consumers.
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Two-door coupe:
The two-door coupe was a popular choice for those who prioritized style and sportiness. Its sleek design and sporty handling made it a favorite among driving enthusiasts. The two-door coupe was also lighter and more aerodynamic than the four-door sedan, resulting in better fuel efficiency.
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Four-door sedan:
The four-door sedan was a more practical choice for those who needed more space and functionality. Its four doors made it easier to enter and exit the car, and its larger trunk provided more cargo space. The four-door sedan was also a good choice for families, as it offered more seating capacity and safety features.
The availability of both two-door and four-door body styles allowed consumers to choose the Nova that best suited their lifestyle and needs. This contributed to the Nova’s popularity and made it a versatile choice for a wide range of buyers.
Fuel-efficient
The fuel efficiency of the 1986 Chevrolet Nova was a major selling point, especially in an era when gas prices were on the rise. The Nova’s fuel efficiency was due in part to its fuel-injected engine, which was a relatively new technology at the time.
Fuel injection is a system that sprays fuel directly into the engine’s cylinders, rather than using a carburetor to mix fuel with air. This results in a more efficient combustion process, which leads to better fuel economy. The Nova’s fuel-injected engine was also able to handle different grades of gasoline, making it more versatile and convenient for drivers.
In addition to its fuel-injected engine, the Nova’s compact size and lightweight design also contributed to its fuel efficiency. The Nova was smaller and lighter than many other cars on the market, which reduced its aerodynamic drag and rolling resistance. This made the Nova more efficient at using fuel, especially in city driving conditions.
The Nova’s fuel efficiency was a major advantage for consumers, especially those who were on a budget or who had long commutes. The Nova’s fuel efficiency also made it a more environmentally friendly choice, as it produced fewer emissions than less efficient cars.
Overall, the fuel efficiency of the 1986 Chevrolet Nova was a key factor in its popularity with consumers. The Nova’s fuel-injected engine, compact size, and lightweight design all contributed to its excellent fuel economy, making it a smart choice for budget-minded and environmentally conscious drivers.
Affordable
The affordability of the 1986 Chevrolet Nova was a major factor in its popularity with consumers. In an era of rising car prices, the Nova offered an affordable option for budget-minded consumers who were looking for a reliable and fuel-efficient car. The Nova’s affordability was due to several factors:
- Compact size: The Nova’s compact size helped to reduce its manufacturing costs, which were passed on to consumers in the form of a lower purchase price.
- Simple design: The Nova’s design was relatively simple, which also helped to keep its manufacturing costs down.
- Efficient production: The Nova was produced in large numbers, which allowed Chevrolet to take advantage of economies of scale and further reduce its production costs.
The Nova’s affordability made it a popular choice for a wide range of consumers, including first-time car buyers, families, and budget-conscious drivers. The Nova’s affordability also made it a good value for money, as it offered a lot of features and benefits for its price.
The affordability of the 1986 Chevrolet Nova was a key factor in its success. It made the Nova an accessible and affordable option for many consumers, and it helped to establish the Nova as a popular and enduring car.
Reliable
The reliability of the 1986 Chevrolet Nova was a key factor in its popularity with consumers. In an era when many cars were unreliable and prone to breakdowns, the Nova offered a refreshing alternative. Its reliability was due to several factors:
- Simple design: The Nova’s design was relatively simple, with few complex orpronecomponents.
- High-quality materials: Chevrolet used high-quality materials in the construction of the Nova, which contributed to its durability and reliability.
- Rigorous testing: The Nova was subjected to rigorous testing before it was released to the public, which helped to identify and eliminate any potential reliability issues.
The Nova’s reliability was a major advantage for consumers, especially those who relied on their cars for everyday transportation. The Nova’s reliability also made it a good choice for families, as it was a safe and dependable car that could be counted on to get them where they needed to go.
The reliability of the 1986 Chevrolet Nova was a key factor in its success. It made the Nova a popular choice for consumers who were looking for a reliable and dependable car. The Nova’s reliability also helped to establish Chevrolet as a brand that produced high-quality and reliable vehicles.
In conclusion, the reliability of the 1986 Chevrolet Nova was a major selling point for consumers. It was a key factor in the Nova’s popularity and success, and it helped to establish Chevrolet as a brand that produced high-quality and reliable vehicles.
Popular with young drivers
The popularity of the 1986 Chevrolet Nova among young drivers was largely due to its affordability, particularly in terms of insurance costs. Young drivers are typically considered high-risk drivers by insurance companies, which results in higher insurance premiums. However, the Nova’s low purchase price and low insurance rates made it an attractive option for young drivers who were looking for an affordable and reliable car.
In addition to its affordability, the Nova was also a popular choice for young drivers because it was a fun and sporty car to drive. Its compact size and agile handling made it a pleasure to drive, and its stylish design made it a popular choice among young people who wanted a car that looked good and performed well.
The Nova’s popularity among young drivers also had a positive impact on its overall sales. Young drivers are often the first buyers of a new car model, and their positive experiences with the Nova helped to create a buzz around the car andmore buyers.
In conclusion, the Nova’s popularity with young drivers was a key factor in its overall success. The car’s affordability, fun-to-drive nature, and stylish design made it a popular choice among young drivers, and their positive experiences with the car helped to create a buzz around the car and attract more buyers.
Last generation of the Nova
The 1986 Chevrolet Nova holds a significant place in automotive history as the final chapter in the Nova’s long and storied production run. Introduced in 1962, the Nova quickly became a popular choice among drivers seeking an affordable and reliable compact car. Over the years, the Nova underwent several redesigns and updates, but the 1986 model marked the end of an era for this iconic vehicle.
- Legacy and Impact: The Nova’s legacy as the last of its line adds to its collectible value and desirability among enthusiasts. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the car’s enduring appeal and its place in automotive history.
- Evolution and Innovation: The 1986 Nova represented the culmination of decades of evolution and innovation within the Nova lineup. It featured a refined design, improved performance, and enhanced features, showcasing the advancements made over the car’s production lifespan.
- Cultural Significance: As the final generation of the Nova, the 1986 model holds cultural significance as a symbol of an era in American automotive history. It evokes nostalgia and fond memories among those who grew up with or admired the Nova during its heyday.
- Rarity and Collectibility: The limited production numbers of the 1986 Nova, coupled with its status as the last of its kind, make it a rare and collectible vehicle. Collectors and enthusiasts value these cars for their historical significance and their representation of the Nova’s legacy.
In conclusion, the 1986 Chevrolet Nova’s significance as the last generation of the Nova adds to its historical importance, collectible value, and cultural appeal. It represents the culmination of decades of automotive evolution and innovation, and its enduring popularity serves as a testament to the Nova’s enduring legacy.
One of the first cars with fuel injection
The introduction of fuel injection technology in the 1986 Chevrolet Nova marked a significant advancement in automotive engineering and played a pivotal role in improving the car’s fuel efficiency, performance, and overall driving experience.
Prior to the advent of fuel injection, carburetors were the primary method of delivering fuel to an engine. Carburetors mix air and fuel together and then deliver the mixture to the engine’s cylinders. However, carburetors are not as efficient as fuel injection systems, as they can lead to inconsistent fuel-air mixtures and reduced engine performance.
Fuel injection systems, on the other hand, use electronically controlled injectors to spray fuel directly into the engine’s cylinders. This results in a more precise and efficient combustion process, leading to improved fuel economy, increased power, and reduced emissions.
The 1986 Chevrolet Nova was one of the first cars to be equipped with a fuel injection system. This gave the Nova a significant advantage over its competitors, as it offered better fuel efficiency without sacrificing performance. The Nova’s fuel injection system also helped to reduce emissions, making it a more environmentally friendly vehicle.
The introduction of fuel injection technology in the 1986 Chevrolet Nova paved the way for the widespread adoption of this technology in the automotive industry. Today, fuel injection systems are standard equipment on all new cars and trucks, and they have played a major role in improving the fuel efficiency and performance of modern vehicles.
In conclusion, the 1986 Chevrolet Nova’s status as one of the first cars with fuel injection was a significant milestone in automotive history. This technology helped to improve the Nova’s fuel efficiency, performance, and emissions, and it paved the way for the widespread adoption of fuel injection systems in modern vehicles.
Sought-after classic car
The 1986 Chevrolet Nova holds a cherished place among classic car enthusiasts and collectors due to several key factors that contribute to its desirability and enduring appeal:
- Nostalgia and Heritage: The Nova evokes a sense of nostalgia and connection to a bygone era, reminding enthusiasts of the car’s rich history and cultural significance. Its classic design and distinctive styling evoke fond memories and emotions, making it a sought-after collectible for those who appreciate the charm and character of vintage vehicles.
- Rarity and Exclusivity: The 1986 Nova was the final model year of the Nova’s fifth and final generation, making it a relatively rare and exclusive vehicle. Its limited production numbers contribute to its collectible value and desirability among enthusiasts who seek out unique and uncommon cars.
- Performance and Handling: Despite its compact size, the 1986 Nova offered impressive performance and handling capabilities. Its fuel-injected engine and agile chassis provided a fun and engaging driving experience, making it a desirable choice for driving enthusiasts and collectors who appreciate classic cars with a sporty flair.
- Investment Potential: Classic cars, particularly those in excellent condition and with historical significance, have the potential to appreciate in value over time. The 1986 Nova, being a sought-after classic, presents an opportunity for collectors to acquire a potentially valuable asset that can provide both enjoyment and financial rewards.
In summary, the 1986 Chevrolet Nova’s status as a sought-after classic car stems from its nostalgic appeal, rarity, performance capabilities, and investment potential. These factors combine to make the Nova a highly desirable and collectible vehicle among enthusiasts and collectors who appreciate the unique charm and historical significance of classic cars.
Affordable classic car
The affordability of the 1986 Chevrolet Nova makes it an attractive option for first-time classic car buyers. The Nova’s low purchase price and relatively low maintenance costs make it an accessible and budget-friendly way to enter the world of classic car ownership. This affordability is particularly important for first-time buyers who may not have the financial resources to purchase a more expensive classic car.
In addition to its affordability, the Nova is also a good choice for first-time classic car buyers because it is relatively easy to maintain and repair. The Nova’s simple design and readily available parts make it a manageable project for even novice mechanics. This ease of maintenance is crucial for first-time classic car buyers who may not have extensive experience working on older vehicles.
The affordability and ease of maintenance of the 1986 Chevrolet Nova make it an ideal choice for first-time classic car buyers. These factors allow new enthusiasts to experience the joys of classic car ownership without breaking the bank or requiring extensive mechanical expertise.
FAQs on the 1986 Chevrolet Nova
The 1986 Chevrolet Nova is an iconic vehicle that remains highly sought after by enthusiasts and collectors. Here are some frequently asked questions about this classic car:
Question 1: What are the key features of the 1986 Chevrolet Nova?
The 1986 Nova was available in two body styles: a two-door coupe and a four-door sedan. It was powered by a fuel-injected 2.0L four-cylinder engine or a 2.8L V6 engine. The Nova was known for its compact size, fuel efficiency, and affordable price.
Question 2: What are the performance specifications of the 1986 Chevrolet Nova?
The Nova’s 2.0L four-cylinder engine produced 90 horsepower and 115 lb-ft of torque. The 2.8L V6 engine produced 110 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. The Nova could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 10 seconds and had a top speed of around 100 mph.
Question 3: What are the dimensions of the 1986 Chevrolet Nova?
The Nova’s overall length is 176.4 inches, its width is 66.5 inches, and its height is 54.3 inches. The Nova’s wheelbase is 101.3 inches, and its curb weight ranges from 2,500 to 2,800 pounds, depending on the engine and equipment.
Question 4: What are the common problems associated with the 1986 Chevrolet Nova?
Some common problems associated with the 1986 Nova include carburetor issues, fuel pump failures, and transmission problems. Additionally, the Nova’s unibody construction can be susceptible to rust, especially in areas where road salt is used during the winter months.
Question 5: What is the value of a 1986 Chevrolet Nova today?
The value of a 1986 Nova can vary depending on its condition, mileage, and options. However, in general, a 1986 Nova in good condition can be worth anywhere from $5,000 to $20,000.
Question 6: Where can I find parts and accessories for my 1986 Chevrolet Nova?
There are many sources for parts and accessories for the 1986 Nova. Many auto parts stores carry a selection of Nova parts, and there are also a number of online retailers that specialize in classic car parts. Additionally, there are several Nova enthusiast clubs and forums where you can connect with other Nova owners and find parts.
These are just a few of the most frequently asked questions about the 1986 Chevrolet Nova. For more information, consult a classic car enthusiast or refer to a reputable source of automotive information.
Next Section: History and Evolution of the 1986 Chevrolet Nova
Tips for Maintaining a 1986 Chevrolet Nova
The 1986 Chevrolet Nova is a classic car that requires proper care and maintenance to preserve its value and performance. Here are a few tips to help you keep your Nova in top condition:
Tip 1: Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is essential for any vehicle, and the Nova is no exception. This includes regular oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections. By following the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, you can help prevent costly repairs down the road.
Tip 2: Rust Prevention
The Nova’s unibody construction can be susceptible to rust, especially in areas where road salt is used during the winter months. To prevent rust, it is important to wash your Nova regularly and to apply a rust-inhibiting treatment to the underbody.
Tip 3: Fuel System Maintenance
The Nova’s fuel system is relatively simple, but it is important to keep it clean and free of debris. This includes replacing the fuel filter regularly and using a fuel injector cleaner to prevent clogging.
Tip 4: Electrical System Maintenance
The Nova’s electrical system is also relatively simple, but it is important to keep the battery terminals clean and free of corrosion. Additionally, it is a good idea to have the alternator and starter checked regularly to ensure that they are functioning properly.
Tip 5: Transmission Maintenance
The Nova’s transmission is a durable unit, but it is important to service it regularly to prevent problems. This includes changing the transmission fluid and filter according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Summary
By following these tips, you can help keep your 1986 Chevrolet Nova in top condition for many years to come. Regular maintenance, rust prevention, and proper care of the fuel, electrical, and transmission systems are all essential for preserving the value and performance of this classic car.
Conclusion
The 1986 Chevrolet Nova was a significant car in the history of the Chevrolet brand and remains a popular classic car today. It was the last generation of the Nova, which had been in production since 1962. The Nova was known for its compact size, fuel efficiency, and affordability. It was also one of the first cars to be equipped with fuel injection.
Today, the Nova is a sought-after classic car by collectors and enthusiasts. Its affordability and ease of maintenance make it a good choice for first-time classic car buyers. With proper care and maintenance, the Nova can provide its owners with many years of enjoyment.