My Nova is a 1969 Yenko Clone, originally a clean base model with a 4-cylinder engine that I bought from the original owner’s son. My son Aaron found the car and encouraged me to buy it, but at the time, I was focused on my ’70 SS Chevelle and wasn’t looking for another project.

A friend of mine was searching for a Nova, so I told him about this one, but when we went to see it, he made a low offer that offended the owner. Before leaving, I apologized, and a year later, the owner called me back, offering the car for $1,200. I told him I’d take it. It took 11 years to complete the restoration. Initially, I wanted to put her back together quickly so I would have a hotrod to drive while I worked on my Chevelle.

My problem is, I get picky on my cars and start replacing parts that are rusty or a little rusty. She got new full quarter panels, floor pans, trunk pans, wheel wells, tail pans, and upper dash panels. I was able to use the original GM front fenders, doors, and the deck lid. Inspired by a local Rally Green 1969 Yenko Nova, I decided to recreate it. I sourced parts, including a 427 engine, M-22 Rock Crusher 4-speed transmission, and a 12-bolt rear end, with the engine built by Dave “Red” Worrall, delivering 525 hp.

The bodywork, completed by Robert Hartley and Roger Gettlefinger, was flawless, and I added a vinyl top to contrast with the Rally Green and white stripes. I also included custom elements like Nova bucket seats, a factory tach dash, and a tilt column, making it how I would have ordered it in 1969. The body was assembled and disassembled multiple times to perfect the gaps, and all the Yenko badge holes were precisely pre-drilled before painting. Melissa’s Signs in Corydon, Indiana, completed the vinyl stripes after the paint.

Since its completion, the car has earned numerous trophies and sparked many conversations. Much of the sheet metal, weather stripping, interior, and technical advice came from Junior at GM Classics. I couldn’t have built the car without them.