I have mad love for Novas from the Malaise Era, as my father’s first car and the only one he ever bought new was a red 1973 Nova base model. I also remember going to the dealership a few years later to look at the new model, like this one. The seller inherited this car when his parents passed away after 45 years of ownership and is selling it only for health reasons. You can find this one-family-owned specimen on Craigslist for $9,970, and it is located in Aberdeen, Washington. Thanks to Curvette for another great tip!
When my father went to the dealership to pick out his new car, he didn’t want to have to wait, so he planned to take one that was available, and he had two choices that day: the base model he picked or an orange hatchback with a 350 V8. He always regretted not taking the orange hatchback and talked about it for years afterward. The seller’s father obviously didn’t have the same regret as he ordered this black beauty with the V8 and hatchback, as well as some other options such as the full gauge package and a manual 4-speed transmission that make it unique. It appears the seller tried to determine the production numbers for Novas built with these options and could only estimate 100-150 units.
The exterior appears to need the most work, as the paint has a great deal of oxidation, but the seller states he has all the trim and it’s mostly rust-free. The odometer shows just over 34,500 miles, and based on the condition of the front seats, I think it might be original miles. The seller does list a lot of the work done over the past couple of years, including an engine rebuild, new carburetor, tires, brake system, exhaust system, hoses, and belts.
I think this car is an excellent candidate for a full restoration. I know that replacing the front bench seat with bucket seats would be the first thing most people would suggest, but I think leaving it as is keeps it unique. If my father were still around and this was closer to me, then I might have bought it instead of writing about it. Is there anything you would change or add to it?
Spot on, David.
The only things I’d do are remove the Bowtie sticker from the rear window and repaint it. Then, assuming the mechanicals are decent, I’d drive it.
Yup, picked up a ex-patrol 9C1 Nova years back with a roached 305. Dumped a warmed over 350 4bbl in it and that little Nova made quick work of a lot of pony cars. Wish I still had it,…
Yeah, The sticker needs to go!