Regular readers will probably recognize this 1972 Chevrolet Nova, as we previously featured it in an auction in August 2023. The seller didn’t taste success on that occasion but has decided to try a different approach to find it a new home. It is a promising project candidate that some may find appealing, courtesy of its lack of significant rust and the small-block V8 under the hood. They have listed the Nova here on eBay in Castle Rock, Colorado. The seller has received no bids on an auction that opened at $9,999, but with a healthy viewing history and their decision to list it with No Reserve, that situation could change at any time.

There’s a bit to unpack with this Nova, not the least of which is its Black graphics. These received mixed reviews when we previously featured this classic, but eliminating them would be easy if the buyer plans a cosmetic refresh. They will probably choose that path because the Antique White paint has accumulated an array of small chips and scratches. The car is presentable, although it could be stunning with a bit of effort. There are no significant panel imperfections, but the best news is the lack of major rust problems. The worst appears confined to the passenger-side rear quarter panel, with the seller suggesting that a new quarter would be the best approach to elimination. The remaining exterior sheetmetal is clean, and the underside is solid. The headlamp surrounds and “350” badges are included, although it appears the grille may have started life attached to a 1971 Nova. The glass is in good order, and the winning bidder will undoubtedly address this classic’s mismatched wheels. One reassuring fact is that the seller encourages in-person inspections, confirming that they have nothing to hide from potential buyers.

Powering this Nova is a 350ci V8, with the seller confirming that it also features a three-speed Turbo Hydramatic transmission, power steering, and power front disc brakes. The small-block should generate 165hp and 280 ft/lbs of torque. Those figures aren’t huge but would provide competent performance, reasonable acceleration, and an effortless open-road cruising experience. This is where the possibilities expand for those unconcerned by originality. Bolting on a few readily available upgrades like a better intake and carburetor would unleash extra power, but some might view this Nova as the perfect candidate for an SS or Yenko tribute. The seller claims that this gem has a genuine 47,000 miles on its odometer, and if verifiable, it may be the catalyst for a faithful restoration. The Nova hasn’t seen much active service during the past five years, but it runs and drives. Those focused on instant gratification could perform a thorough inspection and enjoy this classic in its current form.

The first thing that I noticed when inspecting this Nova’s interior was the later wheel. This isn’t a problem for those preferring a “factory” look, because the seller will include the original wheel in the deal. The winning bidder also receives additional gauges mounted below the dash, and an aftermarket radio/cassette player. Once I looked beyond the wheel, I was surprised by how generally tidy it is. The seat has a seam separation on the driver’s side that might respond to attention from a competent upholsterer. Pale vinyl trim is prone to stains and marks, but this car’s looks remarkably clean. The dash and pad are excellent, and the winning bidder will undoubtedly welcome the air conditioning.

What would your plans be if you became the new owner of this 1972 Chevrolet Nova? Would you perform a cosmetic restoration and enjoy it largely untouched, or would it serve as a solid foundation for a custom or restomod build? The lack of bidding action makes it tempting, because, with No Reserve in play, it is possible that someone could take it home with a single bid. That makes monitoring this auction worthwhile.