1967 Chevy II Nova “Deuces High” | PRI Show 2024

At PRI 2024, “Deuces High” stood out as one of the most impressive builds of the show. This 1967 Chevy II Nova Gasser merges classic muscle with modern engineering. It embodies the raw spirit of vintage drag racing while featuring cutting-edge performance enhancements.

Once an NHRA Stock Class record holder, this Nova has been transformed into a nostalgia Gasser. It now features a Scott Shafiroff 427 small block, a straight-axle front end, and custom ACP headers. Whether roaring down the strip or cruising through town, “Deuces High” captures old-school racing with a modern twist.

Watch the video above for an exclusive look at Don Fardie’s legendary Nova and the journey that led to its showcase at PRI 2024.

From the Factory to the Track

This 1967 Chevy II Nova began as a factory-built lease car in Boston. It came equipped with a 327 cubic-inch V8, a four-speed manual transmission, a bench seat, tinted glass, and a 12-bolt Positraction limited-slip differential. Designed as a compact powerhouse, it delivered both performance and practicality.

After its lease ended, the car was purchased and used extensively for street and drag racing. The original engine eventually gave out, leaving the car in storage for 19 years.

In 1989, Don Fardie rescued the Nova and brought it back to the racing world. He initially ran it as a drag car before transitioning it into NHRA Stock Class competition. Over 16 years, “Deuces High” became a record-setting machine, claiming a national record in 2007 and 2008. When NHRA rule changes altered the Stock Class landscape, Don saw an opportunity to take the car in a new direction—one he had envisioned for years.

A Gasser Reborn

By 2017, Don had decided to transform his Nova into a Gasser-style drag car. Inspired by the golden era of drag racing, he built a machine that honored the past while incorporating modern performance technology.

The car now packs a Scott Shafiroff 427 small block Chevy, an engine built for aggressive launches and high-revving speed. A straight-axle front end from Bez Rods gives it the signature nose-high stance of a classic Gasser. To maintain an authentic 1960s racing feel, the Nova features custom ACP headers based on original Jerry Stahl designs, delivering both performance and a distinct exhaust note. With its lightweight body, retro styling, and raw power, “Deuces High” pays tribute to classic Gasser builds while maintaining modern reliability.

Power, Speed, and the Racing Experience

Built for nostalgia drag racing, “Deuces High” offers an exhilarating driving experience. Unlike modern high-tech racers, this Gasser demands skill, precision, and a strong feel for the road.

On its first track runs, the Nova’s power was undeniable. The car launched with such force that it pulled dramatic wheelies, leading Don to add wheelie bars for stability. Later, he swapped the Jericho DR4 transmission for an M22 Rock Crusher to make street driving more manageable while keeping its racing pedigree intact.

Every pass down the strip showcases raw power, strong acceleration, and precise control. Whether tearing down the quarter-mile or turning heads at PRI 2024, “Deuces High” stands as a tribute to the golden age of drag racing and the lasting legacy of the 1967 Chevrolet II Nova.

The Legacy of the 1967 Chevy II Nova

The 1967 Chevy II Nova proved that muscle cars didn’t have to be big to deliver serious performance. With a lightweight body and a range of powerful engine options, it became a favorite among racers and street enthusiasts. Its blend of speed, agility, and raw power helped solidify its status as one of Chevrolet’s most celebrated models.

Design and Performance

For 1967, Chevrolet refined the Nova’s design with a revised grille, updated trim, and subtle exterior enhancements, marking the final year of the second-generation model before a major redesign in 1968. Though compact, the Nova packed impressive power under the hood, offering several engine choices to suit different driving styles:

• 194 cubic-inch inline-six: 120 horsepower
• 230 cubic-inch inline-six: 140 horsepower
• 283 cubic inch V8: 195 horsepower
• 327 cubic inch V8 (L30): 275 horsepower

While the L79 327 V8 with 325 horsepower was officially discontinued, a limited number of Novas were still fitted with it, making them rare and highly sought after by collectors. Chevrolet also provided three transmission options: a three-speed manual, four-speed manual, or two-speed Powerglide automatic, allowing drivers to tailor performance to their needs.

The Nova’s lightweight construction and powerful V8 options made it an excellent performer on the street and drag strip. It was a well-balanced machine, capable of quick acceleration and sharp handling, setting it apart from larger, bulkier muscle cars of the era.

Super Sport (SS) Model

The Nova SS package further enhanced its appeal with sportier aesthetics and performance-oriented features. Available exclusively as a two-door hardtop coupe, the SS model came with:

• Unique black-accented grille with “Nova SS” badging
• Bucket seats and an upgraded all-vinyl interior
• Simulated hood scoops hinting at its performance potential
• Rocker panel moldings and a distinct rear panel trim
• Floor-mounted shifter for manual and automatic transmissions

While the SS didn’t come standard with the most powerful engine, it signaled the Nova’s muscle car potential. When equipped with the 327 V8, it became a true high-performance machine, giving bigger muscle cars tough competition.

Lasting Impact

In 1967, Chevrolet produced about 106,500 Novas, including roughly 10,100 Super Sport models, making the SS versions particularly desirable among collectors. Its combination of a lightweight frame, powerful V8 options, and striking design ensured its place in muscle car history.

Today, the 1967 Nova remains a legend, beloved by classic car enthusiasts, racers, and builders. Whether restored to its original glory or modified for even greater performance, its legacy lives on. The Nova proved that power isn’t just about size—it’s about speed, precision, and attitude.

From Lease Car to Legend: “Deuces High” Keeps the Nova Spirit Burning at PRI 2024

“Deuces High” is a great example of how classic cars can be reimagined while still honoring their roots. What started as a factory lease car became a competitive NHRA racer and now stands as a well-built Gasser with a nod to vintage drag racing.

Its presence at PRI 2024 highlights the continued enthusiasm for nostalgia racing and the craftsmanship behind these builds. With its unique history and thoughtful modifications, “Deuces High” keeps the legacy of the 1967 Chevy II Nova alive for both longtime fans and a new generation of car enthusiasts.

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