restoring an old Nova
What makes an old car more valuable. leaving it the old way or making it more modern?
Any suggestions on what to do?
2007-06-13 09:14:53 · 14 answers · asked by Buff Me 6 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Car Makes ➔ Other - Car Makes
If you're talking 1977 Nova, nothing. If it has special factory options that weren't on many vehicles, then it might be worth restoring it to original factory condition. Generally, you'll have way more invested than what its worth. Make it a dependable daily driver and drive blissfully down the road knowing YOU own it.
2007-06-13 09:27:16 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Someone suggested stereo modifications.
DO NOT do that. You can use this as a guideline: Don't do anything that isn't revertable easily. If you've got a car with valuable original rims (if that's the case), don't mess with them or atleast keep them in perfect condition if you decide to change them.
If something in your car has been changed by you or a previous owner, try to find an original part to replace it. In some cases, even very high price original parts are worth to get before you sell the car, so don't necessarily get scared of high priced original/reproduction parts, however try to be sure that it'll pay off before you invest lots of money on a part.
The more original, the more valuable. The more modern, obviously the easier/nicer to use, but less valuable.
2007-06-13 17:33:04 · answer #2 · answered by difiCa 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I assume that since you are considering restoring it that it must be a 2-door,perhaps a hardtop? If so then factory perfect restoration is the more preferred way forward,reguardless of how it was originally built. '77 is a rare year and the last year as I remember. Build it back to the original build sheet #1 condition with owner documentation and you will attract those buyers with money to burn! If J. Leno shows an interest ,I would not be surprised! Without knowing all the details,I suspect that a '77 Nova 2-door,hardtop in # 1 condition is worth upwards of 30 grand!
2007-06-13 16:38:54 · answer #3 · answered by racer123 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It will always be more valuable if you restore it to the way it came from the factory. You need to use genuine restoration parts or refurbish the ones you have, it also really helps if the engine in it is the same one that was installed in the factory, if you don't have that one, try to find the same one. Matching chassis and engine numbers are a big thing with collectors and people who appraise these cars. Good luck with it.
2007-06-13 16:22:40 · answer #4 · answered by colorguy 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
the 1975 thru 1979 nova's are just now becoming popular. the estimated value for a v8 model 2 dr in mint condition is around 7500.00 based on real value appraisel methods.
I would suggest a mild cam in a 350 small block, shift kit in tranny with a good flor shifter, tachometer, nice interior buckets or stock bench will work nicely too. a nice set of wheels and tires, some road leveler rear shocks that have the coil springs wrapped around them( will give you about an inch and a half of rake.) nice dual exhuast with turbos or glass packs for a nice low rumble( no headers unless you spring for the double ceramic coated shorties) a nice paint job in a good color. resale red, black, medium to dark blue, possibly yellow. stay away from off the wall colors as what looks good to you may look hideous to a potential buyer.
2007-06-13 16:56:55 · answer #5 · answered by hunting4junk 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Restoring it to the older look, I would also recommend installing a V8 engine for more power if your Nova comes with a 250 straight 6 motor.
2007-06-13 18:30:17 · answer #6 · answered by Fell In Love 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Let me tell you a story (true). I have been cross country in my 61 international pick-up several times now. I carry a water pump/belts/hoses/fuel pump/wheel bearings and a set of points with me along with a small tool box. The most I've needed out of my box was a screwdriver. Have you noticed all the $100,000 tow trucks around? The people who can't fix their cars on the side of the road are hiring these vehicles and helping make the payments on these beautiful trucks. Get it as close to stock and you can always get back your money if you sell it, as there are tons of people who's want an older/clean simple car with no headaches. Also, people are missing the "good old days" and these cars remind them of them.
2007-06-13 17:52:38 · answer #7 · answered by obsolete professor 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
from a restoration stand point they usually tend to be worth more original but the nova was not a really popular car unless it was made into a hot rod so i would have to say custom would probably be the best way to go
2007-06-13 16:20:29 · answer #8 · answered by boatdoctor40468 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
In my opnion, I think that if you restore it to its original look, it would be worth a lot more. It would then be classified as a classic. Maybe you could do some modern modifications, like a nice car stereo or upgraded rims and tires. Just keep the original feel.
2007-06-13 16:19:18 · answer #9 · answered by Miss. American Nightmare 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
depends on the buyer. for me a a 1977 nova all orginal isnt worth a whole lot. now if it was a 68 nova yeah.. is this your car? and what are you building it for? have fun with it. do what you want too. turn off the tv and forget about the all mighty dollar... build it how you want it. this hobby is about having fun not who has the most $$$$$$$ the dollar value is what kills this hobby
2007-06-13 21:21:53 · answer #10 · answered by turkey 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋