Hot Rod Bio: 1963 Chevy Nova LS3 Restomod at SEMA 2024

A Lifetime Car with a Lifetime Story
Some builds stand out for their fabrication. Others stand out for their story. This 1963 Chevy Nova owned by Troy does both. Dane Bremer from CVF Racing caught up with Troy at SEMA 2024 to talk about a car he has owned since the mid 1980s, making this build as personal as it is impressive.

Purchased as a Teen and Never Let Go
Troy first acquired the Nova as a teenager just out of high school. Originally powered by a 283 with an automatic transmission, it quickly became his pride and joy. The car followed him through car shows, college, marriage, and early adulthood, becoming part of a close knit car show family that included lifelong friends and memories.

A True Barn Find, in His Own Barn
After years of enjoyment, the Nova was parked in Troy’s dairy barn in Wisconsin, where it sat untouched for more than thirty years. While many people dream of finding a barn find, Troy already had one. It just took time, life experience, and encouragement from his wife to finally bring it back to life.

Choosing the Right Builders
After losing both of his parents in the same year, Troy decided life was too short to keep waiting. He partnered with EJ and Amy Fitzgerald of Cooland Customs in Middleton, Wisconsin. What began as a simple refresh quickly evolved once the idea of SEMA entered the picture.

A Collaborative Build Process
Troy was deeply involved throughout the build, offering input on details and design choices. EJ handled fabrication, paint, and mechanical work, while Amy took care of wiring, interior integration, and finishing touches. Their ability to collaborate seamlessly elevated the entire project.

Subtle Exterior Modifications with Meaning
One standout detail is the grille, sourced from a 1962 Acadian, the Canadian Pontiac version of the Nova. Additional touches include revised rear lighting, subtle spoiler details, and carefully refined body lines that enhance the Nova without overpowering its classic look.

A Personal Tribute on the Firewall
One of the most meaningful elements of the build is the pinstriped quote on the firewall. The phrase is a tribute to Troy’s longtime friend’s mother, affectionately known as his car show mom, who famously told the group to enjoy life but pace yourselves.

Modern LS3 Drivetrain
Power comes from a GM Performance LS3 Connect and Cruise package rated at 525 horsepower, paired with a six speed manual transmission. Supply issues led to the manual swap, a decision Troy says only made the car more enjoyable to drive.

Fully Modernized Chassis and Suspension
Underneath, the Nova rides on a complete Detroit Speed setup from front to back. The car features a Detroit Speed front clip, four link rear suspension, mini tubs, extensive chassis reinforcement, and JRI coilovers. A nine inch rear end completes the drivetrain, making the car as capable as it is clean.

Custom Interior with Hidden Tech
The interior features TMI seats, dash pad, and materials throughout, with additional custom work by Cooland Customs. Eddie Motorsports supplied the steering wheel, Dakota Digital gauges bring a modern touch, and vintage style HVAC controls hide modern Vintage Air functionality.

A center console sourced from a 1969 Camaro houses hidden electronics, including a concealed touchscreen that deploys only when needed. Audio is fully integrated and hidden, controlled through Apple CarPlay without disrupting the interior’s smooth design.

Thoughtful Color and Finishing Details
The parchment interior is matched to the convertible top and accents throughout the car, creating a cohesive flow from front to back. American Racing wheels modernize the classic rally look, while all chrome work was handled by Advanced Plating in Tennessee, resulting in flawless fit and finish.

A Car Built to Be Driven and Remembered
This 1963 Nova represents decades of memories, friendships, and life milestones, brought together in a single build. It is a perfect blend of modern performance, timeless design, and deeply personal storytelling.

To see the full walk around and hear Troy share the story behind this Nova in his own words, watch the complete video on the CVF Racing YouTube channel.