When Dillon LaDuke first laid eyes on his 1978 Chevrolet Nova, he was only 13 years old. Now, at 21, Dillon has transformed this classic muscle car into a head-turning masterpiece, earning recognition from some of the most prestigious auto shows in the country. Named “Radical” as a tribute to his late grandfather, Reginald Arther Davies, this Nova is more than just a car—it’s a testament to family, craftsmanship, and passion for automotive excellence.
From Solid Foundations to Radical Transformation
The journey began in Clinton Township, Michigan, where Dillon and his father, Dave, discovered the Nova. Despite its age, the car had “good bones” and a Chevrolet Performance ZZ502/502 crate engine that made it a promising project. Together, they set out to reimagine the Nova, transforming it from a stock vehicle into a show-stopping custom build.
While the ZZ502 engine retains its original short block, it has been significantly modified. With aluminum oval-port cylinder heads, an Edelbrock intake manifold, and a Rollin’ Thunder camshaft, the engine now roars with over 508 horsepower and 580 lb.-ft. of torque. Paired with a TREMEC TKO-600 five-speed manual transmission and a McLeod twin-disc clutch, the Nova delivers power to the ground through a Dutchman Axles nine-inch Ford rear end and a SpeedTech Performance suspension system.
Crafting Perfection from the Ground Up
The build was a family affair, involving countless hours of hard work. The Nova was stripped down to its shell, placed on a rotisserie, and meticulously restored. Custom modifications include a fabricated front splitter, a rear spoiler, and taillights borrowed from a 1969 Camaro. Painted in Granite Crystal, the car rides on black Forgeline GA3 wheels wrapped in BFGoodrich G-Force Rival tires, with Wilwood four-piston brakes ensuring precise stopping power.
The interior is equally impressive. The LaDuke family handcrafted the panels, which were upholstered by Rob Seabolt. A roll cage, a Classic Industries dash, and Speedhut gauges complete the cockpit, blending safety with style.
Show-Stopping Achievements
Dillon’s vision and skill have earned the Nova accolades across the auto show circuit. From winning his class at the 2023 Detroit Autorama to being a runner-up at the Goodguys Summit Racing Nationals, the Nova has consistently impressed judges. Dillon’s crowning achievement came with his participation in the 2023 SEMA Young Guns program, where he secured a coveted “Golden Ticket” and placed in the top 10 of his category.
A Future of Possibilities
For Dillon, the Nova represents more than just a project car; it’s a family legacy. Although he dreams of building a 1970s Chevelle or a square-body truck, he has no plans to part with the Nova. Its deep family ties and unmistakable growl—thanks to a custom-fabricated exhaust system—make it a permanent fixture in his collection.
“I really don’t want to get rid of this one with it being such a family project,” Dillon shared. “I plan on keeping it.”
Specifications Summary
- Engine: Chevrolet Performance ZZ502/502 crate engine
- Power: 508 hp, 580 lb.-ft. torque
- Transmission: TREMEC TKO-600 5-speed manual
- Suspension: SpeedTech Performance Street Fighter bolt-on kit
- Brakes: Wilwood four-piston disc brakes
- Wheels & Tires: Forgeline GA3 wheels, BFGoodrich G-Force Rival tires
- Paint: Granite Crystal
Source: Chevrolet/The-Block
This article was crafted with assistance from Gemini
