1970 Super Sport LT4 Nova Burns Down the House

Creating Controversy

It's pretty much impossible to do or say anything these days without causing a controversy, and that certainly applies to the world of cars. But we're guessing Super Chevy didn't expect the massive backlash that was coming after they printed their July 2019 issue. 

Photos: Super Chevy

Social Media Warriors

You see, that particular issue featured John Gentry's amazing Nova on the cover, along with a headline of "Restomods Rule!" Clearly, a lot of Super Chevy readers didn't like this, and they took to social media to let their feelings be known. 

Photos: Super Chevy

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Old Car, New Stuff

Now, the term restomod is a pretty loose one, meaning simply an old car that features some modern stuff. And you can make the case that this Nova fits the description based on what lies under the hood. 

Photos: Super Chevy

>>Join the conversation about this 1970 LT4 Nova right here in LS1 Tech Forum!

Modern Power

And that's a modern-day LT4 crate motor rated at 650 hp and 650 lb-ft of torque. It's also backed up by a newfangled six-speed TCI automatic based on a 4L80E case. 

Photos: Super Chevy

>>Join the conversation about this 1970 LT4 Nova right here in LS1 Tech Forum!

Mixing It Up

The interior features a host of upgrades as well, including comfy aftermarket seats, five-point harnesses, a new steering wheel, roll cage, and even some modern gauges that complement the originals. 

Photos: Super Chevy

>>Join the conversation about this 1970 LT4 Nova right here in LS1 Tech Forum!

Overhaulin'

Gentry's goal with the build was to create the ultimate streetcar. Thus, the entire suspension has also been overhauled. This includes a host of Detroit Speed parts including a QUADRALink setup, subframe, and spindles.

Photos: Super Chevy

>>Join the conversation about this 1970 LT4 Nova right here in LS1 Tech Forum!

Solid Base

The base of this Nova is also fortified with double-adjustable Detroit Speed/JRi coilovers, a splined antisway bar, and a Panhard bar. Mini tubs outback were installed to make room for 11-inch wide wheels and massive rubber, and that's apparently where the controversy comes from. 

Photos: Super Chevy

>>Join the conversation about this 1970 LT4 Nova right here in LS1 Tech Forum!

Pro Touring?

You see, the pitchfork carriers informed Super Chevy that this Nova isn't a restomod, but rather a pro-touring machine thanks to its big rear tires and roll cage. 

Photos: Super Chevy

>>Join the conversation about this 1970 LT4 Nova right here in LS1 Tech Forum!

Making a Case

Super Chevy's argument is that the car has been restored and modified, thus the restomod label. And honestly, it has enough modern bits to classify it as such. If the Nova had some carb'd big block under the hood, maybe things would be different. 

Photos: Super Chevy

>>Join the conversation about this 1970 LT4 Nova right here in LS1 Tech Forum!

Silly Argument

In the end, however, this whole debate is pretty silly. In a day and age where we call SUVs with sloped rear rooflines "coupes," you can make a case for anything. Now, can we just get back to talking about how cool this Nova is? 

Photos: Super Chevy

>>Join the conversation about this 1970 LT4 Nova right here in LS1 Tech Forum!

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