A legend reborn for the street and strip, this 1969 Chevrolet Chevy II Nova two-door coupe has undergone a radical transformation. Refurbished and modified with a no-holds-barred approach, it now houses a monstrous 496ci big-block V8, a testament to raw American muscle. This isn’t just a classic; it’s a meticulously crafted performance machine ready to dominate.
Engineered for Domination: 496ci Big-Block Powerhouse Under the hood lies the heart of this beast: a 496ci big-block V8 meticulously assembled with AFR aluminum cylinder heads, a Scat forged crankshaft, Lunati solid roller camshaft, and an Edelbrock Victor Jr. intake manifold. This potent combination, fueled by an AED Performance four-barrel carburetor and ignited by an MSD 6AL ignition, delivers a staggering 544 horsepower and 472 lb-ft of torque, as evidenced by dynamometer testing. Power is transferred through a TCI TH400 three-speed automatic transmission with a manual valve body, ensuring lightning-fast shifts, and a Ford 9″ rear end with a Strange Engineering third member and 4.11:1 differential assembly puts that power to the pavement.
Restyled and Reinforced: A Silver Streak with Menacing Intent Originally finished in Le Mans Blue, the body has been resprayed in a sleek silver, complemented by a black cowl hood and chrome accents. The widened rear wheel tubs, courtesy of a Detroit Speed mini-tub kit, accommodate massive 295/55 Hoosier slicks, hinting at the car’s drag-strip prowess. Competition Engineering subframe connectors and Caltracs adjustable traction bars ensure optimal traction, while QA1 adjustable rear shocks and Koni front shocks provide a balanced ride.
Blacked-Out Interior: Driver-Focused and Purpose-Built The cabin, reupholstered in black vinyl, maintains a classic aesthetic while incorporating modern performance features. An Art Morrison roll bar with provisions for removable door bars provides added safety, and a B&M Pro Ratchet shifter allows for precise gear changes. AutoMeter auxiliary gauges, including water temperature, oil pressure, and voltage, keep the driver informed, while a Crow Enterprises driver’s harness secures them during spirited driving.
Performance and Heritage: A Legacy Reimagined This 1969 Chevy II Nova, with its potent 496ci engine and extensive modifications, represents a fusion of classic styling and modern performance. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of the Nova, a car originally intended for economy but transformed into a street and strip legend. While the five-digit odometer shows 69k miles, approximately 2k of which were added under current ownership, the true value lies in the car’s meticulously crafted modifications and its ability to deliver exhilarating performance.
Summary:
- 1969 Chevrolet Chevy II Nova two-door coupe modified for street and strip use.
- 496ci big-block V8 engine producing 544 horsepower and 472 lb-ft of torque.
- TCI TH400 three-speed automatic transmission with manual valve body.
- Ford 9″ rear end with Strange Engineering third member and 4.11:1 differential.
- Widened rear wheel tubs and 295/55 Hoosier slicks.
- Art Morrison roll bar and B&M Pro Ratchet shifter.
- Refinished in silver with black vinyl interior.
Disclaimer: Vehicle modifications may not be street legal in all jurisdictions. Consult local regulations before operating on public roads.
Source: mecum.com
This article was crafted with assistance from Gemini
