difference between nova SS and nova. making a clone

[Guest topangatxdan]

lookin to get an explanation to the biggest difference between a regular 71 nova and a nova ss. i know that ss' are more rare and all, and most are clones in this day, but aside from the SS package having a a dual exhaust and TH400 auto or the 4 speed manual trans. how is the engine more and are there any obvious interior differences? im learnin!!

[joe_padavano]

lookin to get an explanation to the biggest difference between a regular 71 nova and a nova ss. i know that ss' are more rare and all, and most are clones in this day, but aside from the SS package having a a dual exhaust and TH400 auto or the 4 speed manual trans. how is the engine more and are there any obvious interior differences? im learnin!!

A 30 second search on Google will lead you to the 1971 Nova factory sales brochure, which has this page about the SS and it's standard and optional equipment. The base SS package included the 270 HP 350 V8, special suspension calibration, power disk/drum brakes, 14x7 wheels with E70-14 tires, SS emblems, "simulated air intakes" on the hood, and "higher capacity rear axle". The TH400 or 4 spd were mandatory options.

[whtbaron]

So when they refer to a "higher capacity rear axle" , would that be a 12 bolt as compared to the garden variety 10 bolt, or just a lower gear ratio?

[Restorer32]

"Mandatory option", gotta love that.

[joe_padavano]

"Mandatory option", gotta love that.

Not an uncommon practice, as it allows the SS package price by itself to be lower. Marketing at it's finest.