Alfred wanted another 1969 Nova SS 396/375hp car so he tracked down this example back in 2016. He and his friend Horace performed a frame off restoration over the next two years, completing the job in 2018. The pair has been building cars together for more than 40 years.
Their theme for this 1969 Nova was based on “Day 2” modifications, which entails period correct race mods such as headers, traction bars, and L88/L89 aluminum heads. This Nova still retains the original Harrison radiator, as well as original alternator, distributor, dash pad, rear seat covers, and the original 12 bolt 3.55 posi rear end.
The original engine and transmission have been swapped with date code correct 1969 Nova donors. The 396 is bored .030 over with 10.5:1 compression ratio pistons, it is also a four bolt main block with a forged crank. A Lunati custom ground hydraulic roller cam is present to mimic the original solid lift cam that would have come from the factory. The icing on the cake so to speak are the Winter’s Foundry “Snowflake” aluminum heads, along with the Winter’s Foundry 163 intake and a Holley 780 carburetor.
This black on black Nova is equipped with bucket seats and the factory console, featuring a 4-speed M21 Muncie transmission. A rosewood steering wheel, tilt steering column, and factory dash tach can also be found in the interior.
Alfred is pleased with the work that he and Horace have put into this 1969 Nova, and he plans on cruising the streets, bringing it to shows, and just generally enjoying the drive.
This Nova has a painstaking attention to detail. Even though it is not restored to factory original specifications, that same attention to detail has been applied to what would be a period correct modified example. While it is equipped with aftermarket modifications, none are too modern to feel out of place for this time capsule build.
