"70 What?" Years in the works, Suzy's Nova begins to take shape.

We've all started a project with good intentions, hopes and dreaming of the finished product. Then life happens and things go sideways. Years ago, and I'm sure it's more years than she'd like to remember, Suzy Dollins began restoring a 1973 Nova. It was going to be a street car and her everyday driver. She had a vision of what the car would be and was going to make it happen. Doing much of the work herself, she chipped away at the project over months that eventually turned into years. Then, as things often do, circumstances prevented her from completing the project and the Nova had to be put on hold.

We met Suzy years ago through the Monrovia Chamber of Commerce and would help her with little things along the way when she was working on her car. Towards the end of 2010 Suzy came to us and said that she wanted to get the project back underway with the help of her "special friend", Bobby Ross, owner of Gem City Grill in Monrovia. After meeting with Suzy and Bobby it was decided that it was time for this Nova to be brought back to life and the build resumed with the help of Pete Baleno and Buster Baglierie. Below are just a few pictures of some of the action that's taken place over the past several weeks. The Nova, per Suzy's vision and design, has taken on an identity all it's own. It's a combination of parts from 1972 through 1974 to make this Nova a "70 What?" Can't wait to see this "bad girl" on the street!

After pulling off the front end, Buster does a little

touch up work to the firewall after welding up

all the unnecessary holes and openings.

After the front end was completely rebuilt by

Pete, the engine was sent in place to start mocking

up all the pulleys, belts and lines.

Pete fabbed up some cool brackets for the alternator

and power steering units.

It's starting to look like an engine...

The core support and radiator were put in place

so that the engine could be started and checked.

Suzy arrives for the start up. I think she was

a little excited. Ya' think?

A push of the button and the 350 Chevy comes

to life.

I don't think Suzy believes it's actually running!

Bobby Ross and Pete look on as Suzy enjoys

the moment.

Wiring Guru Buster starts working his magic.

Do you REALLY know where all those wires go?

Buster finishes wiring the carbon fiber gauge

panel that Suzy assembled some time ago.

It's starting to look like a car again.

Stay tuned for more build action in the weeks

to come. It won't be long now, Suzy!