So i picked up this '78 Nova for $800 and it runs.

the problem is, that's about all i can tell about it. I'm not TOO mechanically inclined, so i can't tell heads or tails on what kind of engine is in it or anything.

is there any way to cross reference the VIN number or something to figure out what it actually has, parts wise? the owner said that it's all stock from the ground up.

I've been reading multiple articles, but they all say the engine is different (some say a 305, some say a 350, etc.) stock. any help would be great, thank you :)

P.S. i'm gonna start posting pics and take you guys along on my restoration journey. it's gonna be sweet!

Welcome to Team Nova Steven :waving:
There should be asticker on the top radiator bracket that states engine size.

well that was actually the first place i looked, but the guy before me replaced the front top brackets and custom put in a new radiator and fans. it looks really crappy so i'm going to replace it back to original, but i have no documentation anymore (as you would usually see). All he put back was an Edelbrock sticker lol

the 6th digit in your vin should tell you. It will be a "U" or "L". "L"= 350, "U"= 305 :thumbsup:

thank you!

the 5th (not the 6th) digit was a U, i guess it doesn't matter?

well, heck I cant count anyways :noway:. At least you know what came in the car. So if it is the origional engine, you gots a 305 :yes:

how much power does the 305 put out?

i read they range from 140-250 horses

unless it's a later H.O. engine... figure on the lower end on that estimate :(

oh well,

she's powerful enough to give me those shivers :)

the engine runs extremely well. I took the car for a test run on a straight-away (i live out in the boonies) but i can't tell how fast i went because the speedometer is broke (it only goes up to 60 anyways and i was doing well over that lol)

I would think 145HP @ 3800 rpms and 245 ft lbs torque @ 2400 rpms and compression at 8.5:1

that's not bad at all. she's still a beast :)

Heres the thing, if you are happy with it, who cares how much horsepower it makes or what size the engine it. If you think she is a beast, than she is. :thumbsup:

i'm trying to get pictures up for you guys, to show what i'm starting with...it's gonna take time, but she's gonna be pretty

Post away, we all want to enjoy your ride with you :thumbsup: