The 1965 Chevy II/Nova was getting dated, and a redesign was in the works for the 1966 models. Even with the impending design change, the 1965 versions did benefit from subtle upgrades like a cleaner front end, courtesy of a full-width grille as well as other small enhancements. The 1965 Chevy II came in various models, starting with the entry-level 100 series to the posher Nova 400. The Super Sport had a new brushed-chrome console when a floor-shifted transmission was ordered, but the column-shifted three-speed manual transmission remained the standard gear selector. The engine lineup grew, giving customers six power choices.

1965 Nova Engine Options

While the small, beleaguered four-cylinder was available only in the 100-series model. The 194 and 230 cubic-inch six-cylinder engines were still available and delivered 120 and 140 horsepower respectively. The entry-level V8 for a 1965 Nova was a 195 horsepower 283 cubic-inch engine with a two-barrel carburetor, or the 225 horsepower 283 cubic-inch engine that used a four-barrel carburetor. But for many buying enthusiasts, 1965 is considered the year the Chevy II became a true muscle car. With the introduction of the 327 cubic-inch V8 available in the lightweight car, its muscle car legacy was sealed. The 327 cubic-inch engine came in two options, one with a two-barrel carburetor delivering 250 horsepower, and one with a four-barrel carburetor that delivered 300 horsepower.

Available transmissions were the two-speed Powerglide, the three-speed Turbo 350, the Saginaw three-speed manual, and the Saginaw four-speed manual.

The 1965, Chevy II was the only car in GM’s lineup to suffer a sales decline. Some feel that not only did the slightly larger Chevelle grab some of the Nova’s sales, but with the all-new 1965 Corvair, heralded as a great car by automotive publications, and featuring the new (Z-body) styling and a brand-new chassis, that may have also had an affect.