In the wake of the early 1970s, the once-beloved Chevy Nova showed signs of wear and tear. This sentiment echoed across the American automotive, attributed to disruptions in oil supply dynamics. The result? A mid-size Chevy with bulk and mass akin to full-sized counterparts is hardly the candidate for a Tokyo Drift experience akin to the RB26-Swapped Mustang seen on the silver screen.
Drawing a parallel to Sean Boswel’s Mustang would be unfair, but in 1979, a Nova sedan emerged with a JDM-American fusion motif, reminiscent of the third installment of the Fast and Furious franchise. This unique restomod hailed from 8Garage in Iran, one of the few shops boasting expertise in pre-1979 American vehicles.
Thus, the stage was set for a Malaise-era Nova overhaul. Initially, the Nova’s engine options left much to be desired, stifled by stringent emissions regulations. Even the option of a four-cylinder Iron Duke underscored a stark departure from the performance pedigree of yore.
Ironically, the Nova’s production under license in Tehran, Iran, persisted until geopolitical shifts halted operations. Yet, 8Garage breathed new life into the aging platform, transplanting a Nissan VQ30DE V6 engine yielding 190 to 227 horsepower into the Nova’s bay. Paired with a Toyota W57 manual gearbox and a rebuilt rear end, this Nova boasted modernized performance reminiscent of its glory days.
Sporting airbag suspension, disc brakes, and forged alloy wheels, this Nova underwent a glow-up akin to a supernova. Its retro scrambler aesthetics, coupled with multi-purpose functionality rendered it suitable for urban jaunts and trailblazing adventures alike.