Classic looks, modern handling, and a whole lot of horsepower — that's a wonderful combination. Pro-touring builds like this '66 Nova preserve the timeless style of a classic car while adding track-ready handling, braking, and acceleration. Tony, the owner and builder of this car, originally built his Nova with a 430hp V8, but learned that he still wanted more power. So, he swapped in an LS3 engine with a TVS 2650 supercharger that produces approximately 1,000 horsepower.
In an interview with AutotopiaLA, Tony explained that he has owned this Nova for 17 years and done almost all of the work himself. It sits on a TCI front clip and four-link rear with Ridetech ShockWave adjustable air suspension. "It rides like a coilover, but you have that adjustability."
A set of custom Schott two-piece wheels frame drilled and slotted Wilwood big brakes at all four corners. Tony opted for a manual brake setup without hydroboost due to the improved pedal feel and precision while driving aggressively.
The engine is a LS3 on stock internals with a stage three cam, supercharger, headers, and an E85 ethanol tune. It's paired with a Tremec five-speed manual transmission that's cleverly disguised beneath the stock center console and shift boot.
The interior features original-style black upholstery, new carpet, Dakota Digital RTX gauges, and an upgraded stereo with Bluetooth. The car previously had a gold interior, so this was a complete conversion.
As for the exterior, Tony chose to paint the body panels in an original GM color that's correct to this car's time period: Willow Green. All the original trim and emblems have been restored as well.
This Nova turned out awesome, with a nice balance between modern muscle car performance and classic curb appeal. To see and hear it in action, check out the video below from AutotopiaLA:
Classic Industries has just about everything you can imagine for your Chevy II or Nova, from body panels and trim to suspension and brake kits. Browse our Chevy Nova parts online, or click the button below to get a free full-color Nova parts catalog.