The Chevrolet Nova, a compact car introduced in the early 1960s, swiftly ascended to a cornerstone of Chevrolet’s lineup. Its blend of stylish design and practical utility resonated deeply with consumers, ensuring its enduring popularity. While the Nova’s production spanned five generations with a notable hiatus, it’s the earlier models that have captured the imagination of collectors and investors.
These classic cars, distinguished by their timeless aesthetics and impeccable craftsmanship, have attained an almost mythical status in the automotive world. A prime example of this phenomenon is the second-generation Nova, originally revealed in 1966. Meticulously restored examples of these cars have become highly coveted collectibles, commanding astronomical prices in today’s market.
It’s not uncommon to encounter restored 1966 Novas listed for sale between $100,000 and $150,000. These figures are staggering when compared to the average cost of new cars, underscoring the extraordinary value placed on these automotive treasures.
The Nova’s journey from a widely accessible family car to a coveted collector’s item is a testament to its enduring appeal and the unwavering passion of automotive enthusiasts. This transformation is a compelling narrative of a vehicle that has transcended its origins to become a symbol of automotive heritage and a lucrative investment for discerning collectors.
The Nova, despite its Goodguys award, is a testament to extensive modification rather than a revolutionary overhaul. Wrapped in a classic Root Beer hue and complemented by a brown and black interior accented with 2016 Camaro seats, the car’s core lies in its 4.0-liter LS2 engine.
Modernized with a Holley LS3 fuel injection system, a precise six-speed Tremec manual transmission, and distinctive Wegner valve covers, the engine breathes through a meticulously crafted 2.5-inch TIG welded exhaust system culminating in Borla mufflers.
The car’s stance is lowered and controlled by a Heidts Pro G suspension in the front and a Heidts four-link setup at the rear, all shod with performance-oriented Nitto tires wrapped around striking 19-inch American Racing three-piece wheels. While the Dakota Digital dashboard displays a mere 1,000 miles, the exact timeline of these modifications remains an intriguing unknown.
The car’s appearance, although undeniably stylish, doesn’t fully convey the level of mechanical refinement suggested by its components. The Root Beer exterior, while classic, lacks the visual drama one might expect from a car with such a potent engine and performance-oriented chassis.
The interior, though comfortable with the Camaro seats, feels more like a tasteful upgrade than a fully integrated design element. Ultimately, the Nova presents an interesting juxtaposition: a classic shell containing modern, high-performance components.
While the car undoubtedly performs well, its exterior and interior aesthetics don’t quite match the level of engineering and craftsmanship evident under the hood. It’s a car that begs for a more aggressive visual identity to match its mechanical prowess.
