1970 Chevrolet Nova with a 383 stroker and 700R4 overdrive, priced at $20,000

Why we picked it

Gateway Classic Cars in Houston has this 1970 Nova coupe, styled as a Yenko tribute, for $20,000. The seller says it has a 383 stroker small-block, a 700R4 four-speed overdrive automatic, power steering and power brakes, finished in white with a black hood and black interior. The VIN shows it began life as a six-cylinder car, so it has no factory V8 history to protect.

Recent sales of similar driver-grade modified Novas mostly landed between about $20,500 and $40,700, so this is one of the lowest asking prices we have seen for a V8 third-gen Nova that runs and drives. The overdrive gearbox is already in, which saves one of the first upgrades most owners make.

The value check

When we found it, the seller was asking $20,000. Comparable cars in the same condition have sold for $20,500–$35,200, so the middle of the market is about $27,850. That put this car 28% under.

Driver-grade modified 1969-71 Nova coupes with small-block swaps sold between $20,500 (BaT, Sept 2026) and $35,200 (Mecum, Sept 2026) in recent months, with several more at $29,700-$40,700. At $20,000 this car sits about 28% under the $27,850 midpoint.

Where the numbers come from:

• classic.com 1968-74 Nova sold results
• 1970 Nova 350 swap, BaT, $20,500
• 1971 Nova, Mecum, $35,200

What to check

• The listing gives almost no detail on rust, paint quality or rear axle; ask for underside photos or an inspection
• Check floor pans, trunk floor, lower quarters, rear frame rails and the cowl area, the usual Nova rust spots
• It is a tribute car: Yenko badging adds no value, and the original six-cylinder VIN means pricing should stay at driver level
• 383 stroker builds vary widely; ask who built it, the parts list and whether there are receipts
• Gateway is a consignment dealer; confirm title status, fees and the final out-the-door price

Making it drive like new

With an overdrive automatic already fitted, the next steps are brakes and handling: front disc brakes if it still has drums, a subframe connector kit, tubular upper arms with more caster, and a quick-ratio steering box. A 12-bolt or 9-inch rear would be a sensible upgrade before using all of the stroker's torque.

9 builders make a complete chassis for the 1968–74 Nova. Compare them side by side, along with what it takes to stiffen the factory frame.

How it ended

The listing ended on Oct 20, 2026 with the car at $20,000. We don't know yet whether it sold.