Chevy II Nova 1967 Tapestry

The new-for-'62 Chevy II was based around a new series of small engines, but engineers included enough space to fit a small-block V-8 which of course, is what every hot rodder wants in a lightweight, compact car like the Nova. For $1,500 one could install a small-block V-8 in any 1962 or '63 Chevy II, from the cheapest two-door sedan to the top-of-the-line Nova 400 convertible. Seeing buyers upgrading to V8 power, Chevrolet eventually relented, offering special a 170-hp 283 and 250-hp 327 engines for the Chevy II. With more ponies under the hood, these lightweight cars were not only spirited drivers, but made for excellent street racers that could hold their own against the big boys and even dominate with some upgrades and tuning.