By 1972, the third-generation Nova had solidified itself as a winner in the hearts of those seeking high-performance street cars. But, looming federal regulations and hassles by insurance agents di cause the downward fall in regards to performance offerings. Still available in two-door coupe or a four-door sedan models, pricing started at $2,375 and $2,400 respectively. There were only minor visual changes over the former 1971 model.

The 307ci engine was the smallest V8 available, and was not available in SS models.

It was back in 1971 when the factory-installed big-block was no longer available in the Nova. Regardless, even with a small-block as the only available V8 engine, the popularity of the Nova Super Sport continued this year. In fact, sales of the Super Sport Nova actually gained momentum. In 1972, a total of 12,309 Super Sports were built as compared to 7,015 in 1971.

Although the big-block had been removed from the line up in earlier years, there were even more mechanical changes to the 1972 Nova, when talking about engines. The base engine in any Nova – except SS versions, was the 250 cubic-inch six-cylinder that delivered 110 horsepower. With a curb weight of roughly 3,000 pounds, 110 horsepower was woefully inadequate. Stepping up to a 307 cubic-inch V8 was an option, and with a two-barrel carburetor, only delivered a marginal increase of power, at 130 horsepower. Finally, with no factory-installed big-block available, the venerable 350 cubic-inch V8 was top-of-the-line, and with the two-barrel carburetor, offered 165 horsepower. One thing to keep in mind, is that all numbers are now measured in net horsepower, which are more stringent than previous SAE numbers. Available transmissions in the non-SS cars consisted of the two-speed Powerglide, Turbo 350, and a three or four-speed manual.

The 200 horsepower 350ci engine with a four-barrel had an air cleaner with dual inlets.

The 1972 Super Sport Nova was only available with one engine, the L48 small-block 350ci engine. With a single four-barrel carburetor for induction, this engine delivered 200 horsepower. In Super Sport Novas, buyers could specify either a three-speed automatic or a four-speed manual transmission to back it up.