This 1972 Chevy Nova is the epitome of a sleeper muscle car, sporting a simple and straightforward appearance with a powerful big block engine hidden under the hood. Designed for weekend fun rather than show-stopping displays, this car is a true joy to drive.
The transformation of this Chevy Nova began with a low-mileage, six-cylinder original that had been well-maintained over the years. The build took four years and required three sets of tires, but the end result was worth it. The car was eventually sold for $32,500 on Bring a Trailer.
Let’s delve into the build and take it for a spin to see what this plain Jane Chevy Nova is really made of.
Despite some body and paint imperfections, this 1972 Chevy Nova still proudly boasts its original sheet metal. The sleeper appearance is reinforced by the 15-inch steelies, but when you hear the roar of the 496 Big Block engine, you know it’s no ordinary car.
This Chevy Nova wasn’t built for winning awards at car shows; it was built to perform, to turn heads, and to leave others in the dust. The interior is simple, with a green factory-style bench seat, but the B&M shifter gives a subtle hint of the car’s true power. Out back, the Calvert Racing traction bars and dual exhaust with Magnaflow mufflers hint at the sleeper’s serious intent.
The heart of the ’72 Nova is a 454 Big Block Chevy dressed with aluminum heads and punched to 496 cubes. The go fast goodies include SCAT crankshaft, Wiseco pistons, COMP Cams cam, roller rockers and Holley 4-barrel carb resulting in over 500hp. The power is controlled by a built 700R4 tranny and Moser 9-inch rear end.
With a deeper understanding of the build process, it’s time to witness the raw power of the 496 Big Block Chevy Nova. Jonathan from Bullet Motorsports has created a thrilling test drive video for the BAT auction. So crank up the volume, hit play, and hold on tight for an unforgettable experience!
