USA vs USA — 1968 vs 1966
| GT500KR King of the Road | Chevy II Nova SS 396 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 335 hp | 375 hp |
| Torque | 440 lb-ft | 420 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 7,014 cc | 6,489 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.5 sec | 5.9 sec |
| Top Speed | 130 mph | 130 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.0 sec | 13.9 sec |
| Weight | 3,500 lbs | 3,300 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,743 mm | 2,794 mm |
| Length | 4,699 mm | 4,686 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,570 | — |
| Original MSRP | $4,473 | $2,990 |
| Value (Excellent) | $350,000 | $150,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 8/10 |
The 1966 Chevrolet Chevy II Nova SS 396 emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, lighter weight. The 1968 Shelby GT500KR King of the Road counters with its unique character, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
The 1968 Shelby GT500KR King of the Road and 1966 Chevrolet Chevy II Nova SS 396 stand as two of the most notable Muscle Car cars from Muscle era. Both emerged during a period of intense competition, and choosing between them remains a passionate debate among collectors. The 1966 Chevrolet Chevy II Nova SS 396 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 375 hp compared to 335 hp, a 40-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Shelby GT500KR uses a V8 OHV 16V displacing 7,014 cc, while the Chevrolet Chevy II Nova SS relies on a V8 OHV with 6,489 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1966 Chevrolet Chevy II Nova SS 396 edges ahead at 5.9 seconds versus 6.5 seconds. On the collector market, the 1968 Shelby GT500KR King of the Road commands a significant premium over the 1966 Chevrolet Chevy II Nova SS 396, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.