A remarkable piece of automotive and Hollywood history has surfaced in the collector car market as Paul Walker’s personally modified 1967 Chevrolet Nova Sport Coupe makes its way to the prestigious Bring a Trailer auction platform. This unique muscle car, presented to the late Fast and Furious star in 2004, represents a fascinating intersection of classic American automotive design and modern performance engineering.
The vehicle’s provenance is particularly significant, emerging from the aftermath of “2 Fast 2 Furious” in 2003. Muscle car specialist Year One, fresh from their work on the film’s Chevrolet Camaro and Dodge Challenger, crafted this Nova as a special project for Walker, demonstrating their expertise in melding classic styling with contemporary performance upgrades.
This Nova’s history is particularly interesting when considering its evolution from its factory origins. Originally rolling off the production line with an inline-six engine, the car now sports a powerful 6.0-liter V-8 engine, reportedly sourced from a General Motors pickup truck. This significant powertrain upgrade, completed in 2010, transformed the vehicle from its humble beginnings as part of Chevrolet’s conservative answer to the Corvair into a genuine performance machine.
The exterior of Walker’s Nova showcases thoughtful modifications that enhance its aesthetic appeal while maintaining the classic silhouette. The car wears a sophisticated Slate Gray finish, borrowing its color scheme from Porsche’s 2002 palette. Its stance has been dramatically improved through a carefully considered wheel and tire package, featuring a staggered setup with 17-inch front wheels wrapped in 225/45 tires and 18-inch rear wheels sporting larger 295/35 BFGoodrich G-Force T/A rubber. The rear wheel wells have been mini-tubbed to accommodate this more aggressive fitment.
The mechanical upgrades extend well beyond the engine bay. The Nova features a sophisticated suspension setup, including a Ford Mustang II-style power steering rack and a four-link rear suspension system. Adjustable coilovers provide enhanced handling characteristics, while disc brakes ensure modern stopping power. These modifications transform what was originally designed as a practical family car into a capable performance vehicle that bridges the gap between classic style and modern dynamics.
Since its acquisition by the current owner in 2020, the Nova has received careful attention to maintain its condition and functionality. Recent work includes new carpeting installation, battery replacement, and necessary repairs to the gauges, ensuring the car remains both presentable and functional. These maintenance efforts reflect a commitment to preserving the vehicle’s significance while keeping it ready for regular use.
The car represents a fascinating chapter in Walker’s personal automotive story. While the actor was primarily associated with the import performance cars he drove on screen as Brian O’Conner, his personal collection revealed a much broader appreciation for automotive excellence. From rare European classics like the Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 and BMW M1 to this American muscle car, Walker’s garage demonstrated a sophisticated understanding of automotive history and performance that transcended any single genre or nationality.
Walker’s tragic passing in 2013 has only enhanced the significance of the vehicles associated with him, particularly those that were part of his personal collection. This Nova serves as a tangible connection to the actor’s genuine passion for automobiles, representing a different facet of his automotive interests than what was typically portrayed on screen.
The appearance of this Nova on the market provides collectors with a rare opportunity to acquire a vehicle that combines significant Hollywood provenance with genuine muscle car credentials. Its thoughtful modifications, documented history, and connection to one of modern car culture’s most beloved figures make it a uniquely appealing prospect for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
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