The 1968 Chevrolet Chevy II Nova SS marks a pivotal year for the nameplate, introducing a more muscular and refined body style that quickly became a favorite for high-displacement builds. This specific example transcends the standard muscle car formula, having been reimagined as a pro-street masterpiece following a comprehensive build completed in 2017. Finished in a deep red and powered by a massive 572ci V-8, this Nova balances classic aesthetics with modern engine management. With only 1,200 miles shown on the digital odometer, it represents a fresh and meticulously engineered take on one of Chevrolet’s most enduring performance icons.
Modified Fenders and Polished Velocity Stacks
The exterior of this 1968 Chevrolet Chevy II Nova SS is a masterclass in aggressive street presence, highlighted by a custom cowl hood that allows polished Hilborn velocity stacks to pierce the silhouette. To accommodate a massive wheel and tire package, the rear fenders have been tastefully modified, housing staggered-diameter Cragar S/S wheels. These 15 inch front and 17 inch rear alloys are wrapped in Cooper Trendsetter and M&H Racemaster rubber, respectively, providing a classic raked stance. Details such as billet hood hinges, chrome bumpers, and red brake calipers visible through the spokes ensure that the car commands attention from every angle.
Vintage Air Comfort and Carbon-Look Instrumentation
Inside the cabin, the 1968 Chevrolet Chevy II Nova SS offers a sophisticated gray vinyl environment that blends period-correct style with contemporary upgrades. The front bucket seats feature adjustable headrests, providing far more support than the original 1960s units, while a horseshoe-style shifter sits prominently on the center console. Modern driver amenities include a Vintage Air climate control system and a tilting Budnik steering wheel. Facing the driver is a carbon-look instrument cluster featuring AutoMeter NV gauges, while a dedicated cabin switch allows for instantaneous control over the electric exhaust cutouts to shift the car’s auditory character on demand.
A 572ci Big-Block Managed by Haltech EFI
Performance is dictated by a monstrous 572ci big-block V-8, an engine choice that places this Nova in the elite tier of street machines. This powerplant utilizes a Hilborn fuel injection setup managed by a sophisticated Haltech Elite 2500 ECU, ensuring precise tuning and reliability that far exceeds traditional carbureted setups. The engine produces significant output, though factory benchmarks for the 572 crate series typically range around 621 hp/630 PS and 645 lb-ft/875 Nm. This power is sent through a three-speed automatic transmission to a 12-bolt limited-slip differential. The chassis is equally reinforced, featuring tubular front control arms and adjustable rear coilovers.
| Technical Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 572ci Big-Block V-8 |
| Fuel Management | Hilborn Injection / Haltech Elite 2500 ECU |
| Transmission | 3-Speed Automatic |
| Rear End | 12-Bolt Limited-Slip Differential |
| Front Suspension | Tubular Upper and Lower Control Arms |
| Rear Suspension | Adjustable Coilovers |
| Braking | 4-Wheel Disc Brakes (Red Calipers) |
| Exhaust | Custom Headers / Electric Cutouts / Flowmaster |
Restomod Superiority and Pro-Street Engineering
In the competitive market for 1968 Chevrolet Chevy II Nova SS models, builds that integrate high-end electronics like the Haltech Elite 2500 often command a significant premium over traditional restorations. While primary rivals like the Dodge Dart GTS or Ford Falcon offered similar footprints, few could accommodate the sheer scale of a 572ci big-block as effortlessly as the Nova chassis. The addition of subframe supports and a Weldon fuel system indicates that this build was designed for durability under high-stress loads. For the collector seeking a vehicle that bridges the gap between a show-quality restomod and a legitimate drag-strip contender, this Nova offers a unique and highly engineered value proposition.
The Definitive Statement in Big-Block Performance
This 1968 Chevrolet Chevy II Nova SS is a visceral reminder of why the big-block era remains the high-water mark for American muscle. By pairing a legendary displacement with modern fuel injection and a fortified chassis, the builders have created a machine that is as technically impressive as it is visually arresting. It remains a standout example for those who require an uncompromising blend of historical style and modern, fuel-injected reliability.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
