Some enthusiasts avoid buying unfinished project cars because the existing work quality is unknown. However, this 1970 Chevrolet Nova SS shows promise. The seller hasn’t disguised any shortcomings, and their listing is quite candid. They include some original documentation, and its engine bay houses a healthy small-block V8. The Nova is listed here on eBay in Cornwall, New York. Bidding sits below the reserve at $2,081 following relatively subdued action.

The Third Generation Nova graced showroom floors from 1968 until 1974, with our feature car rolling off the lot in 1970. Its history is unclear, although the original Dealer Order confirms the first owner was happy to splash some cash on their new purchase. They teamed its Fathom Blue paint with a Black vinyl top, adding sports wheels for a more muscular look befitting any car wearing SS badges. The seller planned the car’s restoration but admits that with most tasks beyond their ability, they want it to head to a new home. Someone has commenced the rust repairs, and none of its issues are particularly bad. There are sections cut from the front floor near the driver’s feet that would respond to patches. The trunk pan has a large hole cut into one side, but replacement steel is readily available and affordable. Otherwise, the exterior looks sound, with no visible issues in the lower extremities or rear quarter panels. Most trim pieces are intact, but it appears a few pieces of glass will go onto the shopping list.

The Dealer Invoice confirms the first owner ordered this SS with a 350ci V8, a four-speed wide-ratio manual transmission, a Posi rear end, and power steering. The small-block produced 300hp and 380 ft/lbs of torque in its prime, and with the car capable of covering the ¼-mile in 14.7 seconds, its performance would have satisfied all but the most hardened enthusiast. The listing confirms that while this Nova retains its original transmission and 12-bolt 3.31 rear end, someone replaced the engine. Its suffix confirms it is a 350 of 1973 vintage that undoubtedly benefits from a carburetor upgrade and aftermarket headers. The seller says the engine is healthy, and this beauty runs and drives. However, the master cylinder is faulty, so it isn’t roadworthy.

The Nova is a “what you see is what you get” proposition, with the listing images showing the new owner will receive a rear seat, a replacement dash shell, and a few minor trim pieces. There is no front seat, dashpad, or other components. The shopping list will be long, and scouring the usual online auction sites might be the best way to score at least some missing pieces affordably. The new owner could consider it a blank canvas, and if a faithful approach isn’t chosen, changing the upholstery color or materials may prove irresistible.

This 1970 Chevrolet Nova SS is a promising project candidate, and the winning bidder is spoiled for choice when selecting what path to pursue. It would look stunning returned to its former glory, but changing the paint shade and other items would allow total personalization. None of its problems seem severe, with a competent person able to tackle many tasks in a home workshop. It shows promise, but is it enough for you to pursue it further?