Supernova

When it comes to high-dollar muscle cars, the list is generally populated by the ultra-lustworthy ponycars (Mustangs, Camaros, �Cudas and Challengers), followed by the most potent coupes available, like big block Chevelles and Hemi Roadrunners. Chevy�s Nova is neither.

The smallest of the GM muscle car breed, the Nova began life as GM�s answer to the Rambler, Falcon, and Dart, all grocery-getters of the highest degree. Emphasizing excellent fuel economy and ease-of-use, these early economy cars were the polar opposite of the fire-breathing boulevard bruisers that prowled America�s back roads. But in a nation addicted to horsepower, these small cars� potential would soon be uncovered.

By virtue of their small size and light weight, the Nova was quickly recognized as a viable performance platform on which Chevy could continue their SS line. Stuffing the tiny body with mammoth (by comparison) V8s, the Nova SS would never overshadow its bigger brethren�s ability to stomp the quarter-mile, but did offer more than a few heart palpitations at a far lower cost.

For the owner of this �66 Nova though, more than a few wasn�t enough. Beginning its modified life as an unfinished pro-street car devoid of paint and interior, it was dragged over to Killer Customs for modernization. In keeping with the Nova�s smaller, lighter image, Killer drew up a concept that saw the Nova hunkered down over big wheels at all four corners, and stuffed with enough power and suspension wizardry to see it around any road course.

So, out went the old drivetrain, replaced by a very modern LS2 from Turn-Key Engine Supply. The same powerplant found in the C6 Corvette, the Nova�s LS2 cranks out 500 horsepower courtesy of some minor modifications. Backed by a tasty Tremec T-56 6-speed, the all-aluminum V8 has no trouble making the most of its broad powerband, and thanks to the Art Morrison triangulated four-link rear suspension hanging 29x18x20 Mickey Thompson Sportsman SR tires, it has little trouble hooking up.

Out front, a transplanted C5 Corvette suspension setup replaces the tired old Nova�s front clip, adding vastly better directional stability and agility. To make sure the suddenly-powerful Nova didn�t put that delectable Corvette-powered front end through the trunk of the guy in front of him, Killer also went ahead and installed a complete Wilwood braking system, featuring six-piston calipers and 14-inch rotors up front, complemented by four-piston, 12.9-inch brakes out rear. Actuated via Wilwood�s triple master cylinder pedal set and brake balance bar, throwing out the anchor in this car creates some very serious G-forces.

Of course, when we�re talking about a car of this calibre, the ability to go fast is only half of the equation; you�ve got to be comfortable doing it. So, Killer took the Nova down to Audiolines to outfit the Nova�s race-ready (and caged) interior with an Alpine touch-screen DVD head unit, and a total of 2,000 watts-worth of Audison amplification for the 11-inch Focal subs. Providing the high tones and mid range are a set of 6-inch door speakers and 6-inch 2-way rear speakers. With the audio taken care of, Killer next fabricated up a custom centre console, gauge cluster, and A/C vents to thoroughly update the Nova�s tired design. Capping it all off with a pair of Recaro seats, to say they succeeded in making this Nova one comfortable car would be an understatement.

Finally, Killer knew they had to make this Nova look as good as it went, sounded, and felt. Beginning by cutting a �-inch section out of the A-pillars, they then flush-mounted the front and rear windows, and removed the door vent windows, providing the handsome Nova with a slightly more aggressive, but thoroughly updated look. Shaved door handles pay homage to a long-standing hot rod tradition, but custom air extractors in the all-steel hood pay their respects to today�s race cars. Finished off in shade-shifting Mitsubishi Oslo Green, the Nova�s new lowered stance, big wheels, and wide tires lend the car the same European style that�s oh-so-popular now, but with a seriously performance-infused twist: this car has the componentry to back it up. With that nasty LS2 and its superbly engineered suspension, it can run with almost anything, and thanks to the extensive work completed inside, it�ll run all day long without punishing its occupants. Just don�t even think about getting groceries with it.