Sentimental Star – Kindig-It Design Builds a One-Off Hardtop Nova as a Tribute to a Lost Brother
One of the things that frequently attracts enthusiasts to specific makes or models of vintage cars are the family memories they evoke. Whether it’s fond memories of family trips, recollections of helping dad in the garage, or the good times recalled cruising with a sibling, those experiences from our formative years can leave a long-lasting influence on the cars we seek out and enjoy later in life (such as a Nova).
Eric Storz and his older brother Johnny shared a common interest in Chevy Novas growing up, as well as ownership of a 1972 Nova SS. Johnny owned the car first and later sold it to Eric to drive through high school. Eric ended up selling the car in the late-’80s, but always planned to have another one someday. After the untimely passing of his brother, Eric vowed to build a tribute car – one that would be like no other third gen Nova out there.
In 2017, Eric was at a point in life where he could invest in putting his Nova plan into motion. He started with a solid 1971 model sourced out of Texas, and then got together with Dave Kindig of Kindig-It Design to discuss his vision for the car while incorporating Dave’s distinctive style and concepts. The biggest modification they both were excited to work into the project was to remove the door posts to create the world’s first hardtop third-gen Nova.
Go ahead, take another look at the pictures – the post and door frame are gone! It looks exactly how GM could have made the Nova back in the early-’70s. One reason the pillarless design looks so natural is the rest of the finish work on the car, which has been thoroughly smoothed and tucked for a fresh appearance. All the emblems and lock cylinders were removed, Kindig-It flush-mounted door handles were installed, gaps were tightened to razor-thin lines, and both bumpers were sliced and pulled in for a snug fitment. The final touch was an icy layer of Opalcetic Blue from AkzoNobel’s ModernClassikk paint line highlighted with custom brightwork by Ogden Chrome.
The goal of creating a truly one-off Nova was furthered under the hood, where the Kindig crew installed a potent Mercury Racing SB4 engine. The basis for this powertrain is an aluminum LS7 block that has been fitted with unique dual-overhead-cam heads from Mercury Racing. This combination creates 750-horsepower with plenty of rpm that is transferred through a stout 4L80E transmission. Everything is incredibly well detailed, with a custom intake cover and a smooth firewall and inner fenders making the exotic engine look right at home.
With an obscene amount of torque and power comes the need for a strong chassis. All Novas were based on a unibody structure, so they’ve never been known for their handling prowess. To solve this issue, Eric chose a Roadster Shop FastTrack chassis. The full-frame chassis delivers a strong foundation designed with modern geometry for a smooth-handling front suspension and a heavy-duty four-link rear setup locating a 9-inch rearend. Coil-over shocks are positioned at each corner along with six-piston Baer brake calipers capped with 18- and 20-inch Schott Wheels with Pirelli tread.
Another goal Eric had for the Nova was a one-of-a-kind interior design, which was entrusted to the team at JS Custom Interiors. The rear seat was removed altogether, making the Nova a sporty two-seater. The front bucket seats were custom formed before being stitched in caramel-colored Moore and Giles leather, while the rear of the cabin was upholstered to match. The dash, center console, and door panels were all custom fabricated and leather wrapped, as well. Dakota Digital instrumentation was added along with a Vintage Air HVAC system. The Kindig team machined the unique steering wheel, pedals, and door handles.
The Nova took several years to complete, but Eric could not be more pleased with the results. He has a truly unique hardtop third-gen Nova which is a fitting tribute to his one-of-a-kind older brother who is responsible for nurturing Eric’s interest in Novas many years ago. Now it’s time for Eric to enjoy the car as much as they did their original ’72 SS!
Photos by Damon Lee
