You gotta love when a build goes completely over the top, but there’s also something to be said about a car that’s understated and cool. This 1966 Chevy Nova definitely falls into the latter category, offering up a slick Pro Touring style that was made to cruise. Built by Jim McKay from Lakeside Speed and Shine out of Lake Havasu City, Arizona, this sweet little Nova is now on display in the following feature video.
Funny enough, this 1966 Chevy Nova was originally pulled out of a cornfield in Kansas. Now, with roughly 60 percent of the sheet metal replaced, it’s looking crisp and clean, without shouting about it.
The builders chopped up the front grille to reveal more of the white pieces underneath, then shaved and re-chromed where needed. The body shows perfect gaps all the way around, while a set of Budnik Gasser wheels roll in the corners, sized at 19 inches by 9 inches in front and 20 inches by 12 inches in the rear.
The clean theme continues under the hood, where all the wiring and plumbing are tucked and mostly out of sight. Motivation is provided by a built LS1 V8 from Turn Key engine supply. The engine originally made 400 horsepower, but as is often the case, the build escalated a bit, and now the setup is good for an estimated 550 horsepower courtesy of a new Magnuson supercharger. A Gearstar 4L65 automatic transmission sends it all to Curry 9-inch rear end and 3.73 gearing.
The suspension and inner fender sheet metal were done by TCI Engineering, with a complete IFS Pro Touring front suspension kit up front and TCI four-link in the rear. AccuAir E-Level air suspension with RideTech ShockWaves give it the right ride height, while manual Wilwood brakes slow it down with six-piston calipers.
Moving inside, we find a splash of color thanks to beautiful red upholstery. The seats look immaculate, and include power adjustability and diamond stitching.
All told, this is one clean little Chevy Nova. Check it out for yourself by hitting play:
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Comments
Very nice. The ’66-’67 Nova is beautiful. Keep the cowl induction hood, though. Totally over – used.
I’ve been questioning the use of cowl induction hoods now for years. It’s not hooked up to the air intake and it’s not there because it’s needed for clearance. Useless as a fake hood scoop.
Always liked the Nova from day one great car. Not quite a 66 but I had a 70 Nova for a first car. Great memories.
Very partial to ’60s GM vehicles.