A dusty 1970 Chevrolet Nova SS has emerged from a garage in Arkansas after sitting for four decades, and there’s a fascinating mystery surrounding its engine. The Tuxedo Black muscle car currently packs a massive 454-cubic-inch V8, although nobody knows for certain what Chevrolet originally installed under its hood.
The discovery was featured on the Backyard Barn Finds YouTube channel, where classic car hunter Parker traveled to Yellville, Arkansas, to inspect the long-forgotten Nova. He was particularly interested in finding out whether it had originally been equipped with Chevrolet’s desirable 396 big-block.
The car belonged to a man named Vladimir, better known as Val, who purchased it when he was just 18 years old. According to his widow, Christine, he saved up $3,000 while working at a grocery store in Chicago to buy the Chevy.
Val was also an enthusiastic drag racer, regularly taking the Nova to Indiana’s famous US30 Dragstrip. He even won two trophies there, which Christine kept as reminders of her late husband’s racing days.
A 454 V8 With A Racing Past
Christine explained that the Nova’s original engine had been destroyed before Val bought it. She believed it was originally a 396, but Val eventually installed a larger 454-cubic-inch (7.4-liter) V8.
Parker examined the engine’s identification markings and determined that the 454 was a service-replacement block. It also features a large tunnel-ram intake setup, reflecting the car’s drag racing history.
The original hood had also been partially cut to accommodate the engine, although the modification was never finished. Unfortunately, the car’s mechanical condition is still unknown, as Parker didn’t attempt to start the engine during his inspection.
Was It Originally A Big-Block Nova?
The Nova’s original Tuxedo Black paint, black interior, and surviving factory broadcast sheets offered valuable clues about its history. Parker also found evidence supporting its Super Sport identity, including factory-style dual-exhaust mounting provisions.
A big-block radiator support and transmission crossmember initially looked promising. However, the small-block-style heater box and other details suggested the car might originally have been equipped with a 350 V8.
The existing Muncie transmission isn’t original either, leaving Parker unable to confirm the factory engine configuration. His best guess was that someone converted the Nova from small-block to big-block power years ago.
A New Chapter For The Forgotten Chevy
Despite its dusty appearance, the Nova impressed Parker with its largely solid body, original-looking panels, and relatively limited visible rust. Christine also said the car had always been kept indoors.
Parker ultimately agreed to buy it for Christine’s asking price, although the amount wasn’t disclosed. He plans to take the Nova back to Pennsylvania, where it could eventually receive a restoration alongside his 1968 Camaro.
Whether it started life with a 350 or a 396, this old Chevy has a compelling history. Hopefully, its next chapter includes a return to the road, or perhaps even the drag strip.