Michael Satterfield
Demonstrating the evolution of high-performance and the latest in crate-engine technology, Chevrolet’s turbocharged 1967 Nova 2.0 is a contemporary hot rod with timeless style.
Chevrolet Performance engineers built the car to showcase the “LTG” direct-injected 2.0L turbo crate engine as an alternative to conventional V-8 conversions. Rated at 272 horsepower, it offers comparable power to the 275-hp 327 (5.3L) V-8 originally offered in the ’67 Nova SS – and more than the 195-hp 283 (4.6L) V-8 also offered in the Chevy II Nova lineup.
With a curb weight of approximately 3,100 pounds, the 327-powered Nova SS was widely praised in its day for a strong power-to-weight ratio, which helped make it one of the industry’s quicker muscle cars. That performance advantage is amplified in the Chevrolet Performance concept, as the all-iron V-8 has been replaced with an all-aluminum turbo-four, for a more enviable 50/50 front-to-rear weight distribution. And in place of the original four-speed transmission is a modern six-speed manual.
The modern, lightweight powertrain helps the Nova 2.0 sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds.
The LTG crate engine, the electronic control unit, the engine accessory-drive system and even the six-speed manual transmission – and requisite installation kit – are all available from Chevrolet Performance.
In addition to its modern powertrain, the Black Gold-painted Nova 2.0 is home to a host of contemporary hot-rodding touches, including a billet aluminum grille, narrowed and tucked bumpers, shaved door handles with electronic latch releases, custom 17-inch Z/28-style wheels – in a satin bronze finish – and four-wheel disc brakes. The suspension has been updated with height-adjustable air bags, front and rear, and a triangulated 4-link design in the rear.
After debuting earlier this year on the HOT ROD Power Tour, the turbocharged Nova 2.0 will be shown along with more than 20 Chevrolet concepts and production vehicles this week at the SEMA Show, in Las Vegas.
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