The horsepower department consists of a mild-mannered LS1, topped with a Magnuson supercharger. Turn Key Engine Supply assembled the engine package, which is a potent combination that makes approximately 500 hp on pump gas. TCI headers lead into a custom stainless steel exhaust system built by Lakeside Speed and Shine. A Champion aluminum radiator keeps the blown LS1 cool, while a 4L60E automatic transmission transfers power to the 3.55:1 ring-and-pinion inside the Currie 9-inch rearend.

Body modifications are minimal, as Christian feels like the ’66 and ’67 Nova body style is nearly perfect as-is. The subtle modifications include a cowl induction hood, shaved emblems, and flush-fit Kindig-It Design door handles. The body needed repairs and the complete bodywork treatment inside, outside, and underneath. After several cycles of block-sanding and primer, Jim McKay laid down the PPG paint in Carrera White. The bumpers are smoothed and tucked in nicely, and all trim restoration was handled by The Polishing Shop for the perfect finishing touch.

The interior is where Christian’s build went to the next level. He sent the car to Elegance Auto Upholstery in Montclair, California, where Mark Lopez and crew brought many details to life. Maserati Rosso and Mercedes Black were the colors of choice, and the materials include Italian Nappa smooth grain leather and Alcantara suede. The custom seats are from a Lexus SC 300, and the retractable seatbelts came from Retro Belt. Custom door panels are scratch-built with hand-fabricated armrests, chrome-plated brass molding, and Billet Specialties door handles.

A custom console houses the power window switches, Eddie Motorsports billet cupholders, and an iPad Mini, which serves as the head unit for the custom stereo system. Carlos Rodriguez at The Art of Sound in Upland, California, is responsible for the audio install, which consists of dual Audison amplifiers (one for mids and highs and one for the subwoofers) and an array of speakers. Audison 6.5-inch and 6×9 speakers and dual Fosgate 10-inch subwoofers are tied together and placed tastefully throughout the car. Vibro Solutions insulated the interior and trunk to provide great sound quality.

After more than 2,500 hours of labor and a truckload of new parts, Christian’s Nova was ready for its first showing. Lopez helped him enter the car in the Grand National Roadster Show in Pomona, California, and he took home Best Interior in his class and Second Place in the full-custom class. Christian’s Nova garnered a lot of attention and continues to do so wherever he takes it. The car turns heads with its timeless look and sanitary details inside and out, and it exceeded the vision that Christian had from day one of this extensive project.