Embracing Patriotism: The 1974 Chevrolet Nova Hatchback Spirit of America
This 1974 Chevrolet Nova hatchback is a part of the limited production run of approximately 14,463 vehicles that came equipped with the Spirit of America package in celebration of the upcoming US bicentennial in 1976. The car boasts a striking white exterior adorned with red and blue stripes, complementing its white upholstery. Powering this Nova is a robust 350ci V8 engine paired with a three-speed automatic transmission. Notable equipment includes a black vinyl roof covering, 14″ Rally-style wheels, power steering, power-assisted front disc brakes, a dual exhaust system, air conditioning, a center console, and an AM/FM radio.
This particular Nova was initially delivered to Holstine Motors Inc. of Newton, Kansas, and it was recently acquired by the selling dealer in April 2023. Recent maintenance work, dating back to 2022, includes reupholstering the front seats, resealing the valve covers, and replacing both the shocks and various brake components. The sale includes valuable items such as a partial build sheet, a window sticker, manufacturer’s literature, and a clean Idaho title.
Originally leaving the factory in Antique White (11), the car showcases patriotic red and blue stripes and Spirit of America decals. It also features a black vinyl partial roof covering, chrome bumpers, dual Sport side mirrors, and dual chrome exhaust outlets positioned behind each rear wheel. However, there are noticeable signs of fading on the stripes and corrosion present behind each rear wheel on the quarter panels. Detailed close-up images illustrating these imperfections are available in the gallery below, along with paint meter readings for reference.
The car features white 14″ Rally-style wheels with shiny trim rings and center caps. These wheels are equipped with 205/70 Sigma Shadow narrow-whitewall tires that were installed in 2003. It comes with power steering, and braking is managed by power-assisted front disc brakes and rear drums. In 2022, the brake wear components were replaced, and shock absorbers were also renewed. It’s worth mentioning that there are visible abrasions and indentations on the wheel trim rings.
The front bucket seats were reupholstered in white vinyl in preparation for the sale and are accompanied by a matching fold-down rear bench, a color-coordinated headliner and interior panels, and contrasting red carpeting. Appointments include air conditioning, GM-branded rubber floor mats, a center console, and a period AM/FM radio.
A two-spoke steering wheel frames a 120-mph speedometer and a fuel level gauge. The five-digit odometer shows 78k miles, fewer than 100 of which have been added by the selling dealer.
The 350ci L65 V8 was factory equipped with a two-barrel carburetor and was rated to make 145 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque when new. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a three-speed automatic transmission. The valve covers are said to have been resealed in 2022.
An aftermarket exhaust system has been added, and additional images showing the condition of the underside are included in the gallery below.
Documentation accompanying the car includes the remains of a build sheet as well as manufacturer’s literature and a window sticker detailing colors, equipment, and initial delivery to Holstine Motors with a $4,527 total price.
The Idaho title lists an “exempt” note in the odometer reading field.