Ultra-clean Nova with smart upgrades. Potent 350 cubic inch V8 with 4-speed manual transmission. Upgraded front suspension with rack-and-pinion steering and disc brakes. Nice original-style interior. A very cool Nova that delivers big performance in a right-sized package.
Automakers finally realized in the 1960s that taking weight out was the same as putting horsepower in. That meant that the compact Nova (or Chevy II) could run with some pretty serious hardware without the need for big block engines that fouled up the handling. Instead, the Nova became a bit of a sleeper, and a well-driven V8 Nova was probably the kind of car that had Corvette drivers nervously looking over their shoulders. This handsome 1967 Chevrolet Nova is just such a car-a great performer that uses a reasonably-sized package to deliver big fun. The beautiful paint isnt quite root beer and isnt quite copper, but theres enough metallic in it to make it glow and look sophisticated. That works with the cars low-key styling to make this one subtle but eye-catching. The sheetmetal is fantastic with laser-straight panels and great gaps that suggest a lot of time and effort were invested to get it looking its best. Theres no extra chrome or flashy trim, just a simple, purposeful car that reminds us why these have been so popular for decades. The bright grille, chrome bumpers, and stainless window surrounds are in excellent condition, and the glass is clear all around. This is a really nice car.
The interior doesnt stray too far from the original recipe, either. Theres a wide bench seat upholstered in factory-style pleated black vinyl and fresh carpets on the floor. It also includes OEM-style door panels and handles, as well as a new dash pad. The 4-speed is topped by a Hurst cue ball shifter that just looks industrial with the bench seat, a look we like a lot. The factory gauges have been replaced by a full set of Auto Meter dials that cover all the vitals (dont worry, the tach works-thats just how it parks when you shut off the ignition). Theres also a tilt steering column to which the original wheel was fitted, so it has a factory stock look that really helps with the sleeper attitude. The radio is a modern digital AM/FM unit that slots into the original AM radios spot and looks almost like it was born there, a nice touch. Theres also a good-sized back seat thatll handle real-sized passengers, making this a bit of a practical toy. And, of course, the trunk is giant and has been finished with correct spatter pant and a vinyl mat.
The engine says 327 because thats all that was available in 1967, but its actually a 350 cubic inch small block thats a bit more muscular than the original. Its a CRE-coded 1970 block from a 350/300, so its no slouch, and its topped by a 4-barrel carburetor, theres a street-friendly cam inside, and "double hump" cylinder heads are Chevy-speak for "performance." Its properly dressed in Chevy Orange with a few dress-up items to make it look its best. Theres also an HEI ignition system, a big aluminum radiator, and a set of headers that help with breathing. You may also notice that theres a surprising amount of room around the engine-thats because the car has been fitted with a custom crossmember that eliminates the shock towers and provides a modern A-arm type suspension. That crossmember also includes rack-and-pinion steering thats just effortless even without power assist, and there are disc brakes for safety. The 4-speed manual gearbox snaps through the gears with authority and we believe there are 3.55 gears in the heavy-duty 12-bolt rear end. A rumbling dual exhaust system features Flowmaster-style mufflers for a great soundtrack and terminates in polished tips under the rear bumper. Finally, theres a new gas tank hanging out back, along with a set of monoleaf rear springs and fresh shocks all around. Floors and rockers are super solid with no issues, and it sits on a proper set of Torque Thrust style wheels and 215/70/15 radials that look almost new.
The Nova is probably more fun than many of its bigger siblings simply because its so tossable. When the road starts to twist, the Nova stays with you and delivers more than just straight-line acceleration. This car, with its smart modifications, is a great balance of old-school fun and modern performance and it certainly looks beautiful going down the road. If youve been looking for a great Nova, this one deserves a closer look. Call today!
Harwood Motors always recommends and welcomes personal or professional inspections of any vehicle in our inventory prior to purchase.
