1987 Vauxhall Nova Ski

[AlexW]

Jay its his brothers iirc. Just been sprayed (read was sprayed ages ago lol)

[Matt]

lol

Aye it's my brothers. Picked it up from the bodyshop last July and it's fook all since! Can't wait until he gets it built up and out the bloody way!

[peester]

im guessing there must be valid reasons why..
christ - that ski should be plenty enough inspiration.
a mint shell like that there just waitin..

[AlexW]

I know if that was my brothers and he left it like that id build it up myself and drive it insted lol

[nova lod.]

good to here its passed its mot bud its looking pritty mint also

[Matt]

Offered the TH's up today to give me an idea of how they'll look. Here's a couple for the doubters!

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/38cad36e.jpg

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/92259507.jpg

This pic doesn't really work :tard:...

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/92567f9b.jpg

Will look 10 times better than the MO's IMO, just much more old-skool!

:cool:

[AlexW]

I like. But im still not sold on them lol

[Matt]

I like. But im still not sold on them lol

lol

Maybe when they're painted with the old-skool decals on them you'll be sold! ;)

[Graeme]

I prefer them mate, more unusual and everone wants or has mo's

[Jay]

How much you pay for them if you don't mind me asking Matt. What colour will they be getting painted and what tyres you going for :)

[Pistol Pete]

Get those TH's on. IMO, they will look fantastic!

[Matt]

How much you pay for them if you don't mind me asking Matt. What colour will they be getting painted and what tyres you going for :)

Paid £275 for them, considering they've been freshly shot-blasted, are spotless and hard to get hold of, I reckon it was good deal!

They'll be going Polar white again with some Compomotive Motorsports decals in grey and silver centre caps. Think I'll either nick the tyres that are on the MO's for them (Eagle F1's) or just buy a new set of F1's for them if I can afford it!

:thumb:

[Matt]

I prefer them mate, more unusual and everone wants or has mo's


Get those TH's on. IMO, they will look fantastic!

Cheers lads!

:thumb:

[vaughanmc]

I think they suit the car more than what's on it already - Nice wheels them! :)

[floydy13]

good tyre/wheel choice, looks good mate

[stupot89]

i think the TH's look much better imo get them on asap

[Benn]

Dude the wheels look great!

[Adam]

I dont like them and recon you should sell them to me

[Jay]

I dont like them and recon you should sell them to Jay

I agree

[Matt]

Finally got the Nova taxed and insured yesterday! Had it out for a proper drive today and have brought it back over to the North East with me and dumped it at missus' for a few days. Lot's of people leaning out their car windows checkin' it out yo! lol Had some Indian taxi driver pull up next to me aswell and wind his window down to say "really nice example mate, lovely".

Was nice to feel the Nova love again! Good times.

Took a snap at a place called Corbridge...

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/DSCN1523.jpg

Got a couple more goodies to go on it too, will have an update next week.

:thumb:

[Joe Richardson]

very nice Matt:thumb:

perfect weather for it aswell:)

[Steve]

Nice to hear its getting respected, and so it should, its a beauty.

[peester]

proper bo i tell thee-o

[Adam]

Awesome :cool:

[Dec16v]

Mate, done exactly the same with the Sport this weekend, happy days :-)

Dec

[Matt]

Joe, Steve, Peester, Adam, Dec... :)

[Graeme]

looking good, where are the th's mate?

[D11 OVA]

mega

[Matt]

looking good, where are the th's mate?

Cheers, TH's are still just sat in the garage atm. Looking to have them done in the next couple if weeks.


mega

:thumb:

[amggsi]

Love it, and should look great with the TH's, although they are a nightmare to clean and keep clean!! I've them on the Sport and at times I'd love to change them, but don't think anything would look as good!

[Matt]

Love it, and should look great with the TH's, although they are a nightmare to clean and keep clean!! I've them on the Sport and at times I'd love to change them, but don't think anything would look as good!

Cheers fella! I can imagine the TH's are gonna be a pain in the ass to keep clean - the MO's are bad enough already! Might just keep both sets and interchange them when I get sick them lol

[DAFTJOHN]

Spot on, well done with that - looks really nice.

How did you clean the arches before painting, did you just degrease and paint or did you wire brush it back to metal?

Cheers

[Matt]

Spot on, well done with that - looks really nice.

How did you clean the arches before painting, did you just degrease and paint or did you wire brush it back to metal?

Cheers

Cheers.

I cleaned any crap out with a bucket and sponge. Just cleaned it back to the original underseal and painted staraight on top of that. Left it a couple of days with a heater before paiting just get rid of any moisture that might of got trapped after cleaning.

[Nazza's Nova]

top job, just red the whole thread, carnt wait to get myself another nova project.

[Daz9124]

Spotted you in wigton - i nearly gave myself whiplash to looking at it, Stunning

Nice choice on the TH's

[Matt]

Spotted you in wigton - i nearly gave myself whiplash to looking at it, Stunning

Nice choice on the TH's

lol Cheers! Didn't realise you were so local. I mustn't of seen you, don't remember anyone looking anyway. You have a Nova yourself?

[skidmarkz]

just read the whole thread, what a nice example of a nova, makes me think my track orientated nova is miss treated lol

[Matt]

just read the whole thread, what a nice example of a nova, makes me think my track orientated nova is miss treated lol

Cheers mate!


Couple of bits...

Sparco strut brace (going down the polishers tomorrow)...

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/0c3ae1f0.jpg

Brand New Sparco suede steering wheel and Omp boss...

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/2c58c87d.jpg

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/3012de91.jpg

Was meant to pick up a Bailey header tank last weekend but decided to stick with the standard one as it's like new and keeps the bay looking original.

:thumb:

[trackdaynova]

you'll love the wheel Matt, especially if you drive it with aggression!

i had the same one mine, albeit mine was dished

[Matt]

you'll love the wheel Matt, especially if you drive it with aggression!

i had the same one mine, albeit mine was dished

Aye, it's definatley nice and grippy! Miles better than thin, crappy standard one.

[John]

Looks Good Matt! Get those wheels on!

[novaload1992]

class :D

[Matt]

Bling bling...

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/9e1877fc.jpg

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/6ab1022a.jpg

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/27ac9f4e.jpg

Can anyone reccommend me a polish to use for it?

Also got a sign makers working on some graphics for my new wheels.

:cool:

[vaughanmc]

Autosol I think its called mate...

[AlexW]

Vaughan is right :)

Clean up that engine, it lets the bay down imo. Do love this car though, Rep coming your way!

[vaughanmc]

I'd put some Wax on it after I used Autosol - I reckon T-Cut might work as well to bring a shine back...

[Matt]

Cool, cheers Vaughan.


Vaughan is right :)

Clean up that engine, it lets the bay down imo. Do love this car though, Rep coming your way!

It's not that bad is it? Looks pretty clean in the flesh!

[vaughanmc]

A lot cleaner than mine, I reckon some Yellow Samco's would look right at home in there :)

[AlexW]

Its not that bad, but meh im picky lol

Just looks a bit grubby, meh

[xe Dan]

really like this car its so clean have some rep

[Nazza's Nova]

lookin well, get the wiper motor mounting plate polished that will look well, polished brake resovior cover will look well too, but its up to you.

[Nick J]

Autosol I think its called mate...


Im afraid Id have to disagree here!! Autosol is too abrasive on a soft alloy brace! Trust me Ive tried it before on one of them very braces. The best thing to use is brasso wadding, available at asda/tesco etc cheap and very effective and non abrasive. Not got the other wheels on yet fella?

[Matt]

Cheers for the comments and rep!


lookin well, get the wiper motor mounting plate polished that will look well, polished brake resovior cover will look well too, but its up to you.

Gonna leave the bay as it is for now until I decide which engine I want to put in there. I'll probs get a few other bits polished when I do as it looks cool as. I can see why the likes of Benn etc get hooked on polished stuff!


Im afraid Id have to disagree here!! Autosol is too abrasive on a soft alloy brace! Trust me Ive tried it before on one of them very braces. The best thing to use is brasso wadding, available at asda/tesco etc cheap and very effective and non abrasive. Not got the other wheels on yet fella?

Ah fairdoos, I'll have to get some of that and get it nice and bufty!

Nah, still haven't done anything with the TH's yet although I aim to have them on for Billing. The sign makers has one of them for reference/ measurements atm so can't get them painted just yet - not long though hopefully!

:thumb:

[Jay]

Nick is right, Brasso ftw.

[Matt]

The car has been a bit minging this week and taking it into the wilderness (almost) and camping on Thurs didn't help lol Can't remember when I last polished it and I drove it through the pissing rain yesterday too so it was due a bit of attention.

Anyway with the company of Annie Mac last night and some AG Ultra Deep Shine I tarted it up again. Tried to get some reflection shots...

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/32d6f501.jpg

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/495b0918.jpg

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/10d176fa.jpg

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/5427e8c3.jpg

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/0fbfb8ff.jpg

Wheels got the treatment too...

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/45f5c0a4.jpg

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/a4da71ff.jpg

Some not so reflective...

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/d8dd8050.jpg

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/578abbd0.jpg

Bay (need to do this properly at some point)...

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/339e6a1e.jpg

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/5e91fafd.jpg

:(

[Dec16v]

mmmmm...... ultra nice :)

[peester]

tis innit..
awesome

[AlexW]

Shiny! Did you do the strut brace yourself?

I needs to get mine done i think!

[Jay]

Took it to a polishers iirc Alex.

[Matt]

Dec, peester, AW cheers! Need to get some decent wax on it now I think.

AW, as Jay says I had it polished at a local place.

:)

[Dec16v]

Mate, I found AG polish (either Super Resin or UDS) followed by a couple of coats of Extra Gloss Protection + AG HD Wax leaves an unreal shine :)

Dec

[Matt]

Mate, I found AG polish (either Super Resin or UDS) followed by a couple of coats of Extra Gloss Protection + AG HD Wax leaves an unreal shine :)

Dec

Cool, nice one mate. Will have to get it looking properly shiney before Billing.

I'm not going to lie, the polishing it up and reflection shots were inspired by your thread (http://www.pngclub.com/forum/showthread.php?t=106019) lol

[Dec16v]

Nice one mate ;)

I think you'll find the Super Resin polish is slightly more abrasive and will help you cut back the solid white paintwork, leaving you with a nice base to start building up the glaze / wax. Although saying that I use UDS and love it (but more so on my Black Vectra.)

The AG HD Wax is available from Halfords, but I've been ultra tempted to try some Dodo Diamond White (it gets good reviews)

http://www.dodojuicewax.co.uk/dodojuice_diamondwhite.asp

Alternatively, if you want the best 'glaze' finish I would recommend Zaino products, this kit ticks all the boxes...

http://www.cleanyourcar.co.uk/zaino/zaino-39-finishing-39-kit-with-z-2-pro/prod_498.html


Love the fact you've kept the original decals... dont get rid of them!!!!

Dec

[Matt]

Cheers for the info - rep coming your way!

[Matt]

Fitted the wheel...

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/7c1a6adf.jpg

Need to get it perfectly straight tomorrow.

[Southie]

Don't hate me matt but I think the steering wheel looks out of place :(

I love your car though :)

[Matt]

Don't hate me matt but I think the steering wheel looks out of place :(

I love your car though :)

Looks better in the flesh tbh, suede photographs funny.

Cheers anyway!

[Southie]

A bit of hand sweat will soon get rid of the suede brightness.

[peester]

suits whats planned... :cool:

[Matt]

Another small update...

Been a bit of a polishing geek yesterday and dismorning. Gave the Nova a polish with some AG Super Resin followed by two layers of AG Extra Gloss Protection and then a layer of Meguiars Carnauba Wax! Looks awesomely shiney :cool:

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/71c3d9d4.jpg

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/5110dd38.jpg

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/d0bc10d5.jpg

Also went and collected these from the sign makers today...

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/efc77434.jpg

Here's the rough spare set to show what they should look like. They're done in a light grey and should look smart and suit the car once the wheels are painted white...

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/a4601493.jpg

Not sure what to do with the MO's atm. I'm probably going to leave them until after Billing now as I don't have the coin to get the TH's done right now really. So thought I'd try and get the MO's looking spot on instead. Never been happy with the blue centre caps as they don't go with the car and not sure about the stickers now either. So I took and spare centre cap, prep'd a sprayed it Polar White and stuck it on to see what it looks like...

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/45ad03fa.jpg

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/7b193ef1.jpg

And without the decal...

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/c3d896a1.jpg

Vs. how they are atm...

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/3a9830b5.jpg

I think they look loads better plain without the decals and with white centres and suit the car miles more. So probs gonna do the rest now and whip the stickers off!

Also stuck these on today as I've got sick of crap going up the side of the car lately...

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/95984e51.jpg

Stick out a bit rally styleee but need to run them higher due to the car being so low. Need some back ones now.

That's my feeble update anyway!

[Jay]

Me likes :) Any budge on Mo price yet Matt?

[Matt]

Me likes :) Any budge on Mo price yet Matt?

Cheers! Not yet but after Billing they'll be back up for sale at a lower price I'd say.

[Jay]

Cheers! Not yet but after Billing they'll be back up for sale at a lower price I'd say.

Pm me a price please :)

[Matt]

Pm me a price please :)

Will do nearer the time :thumb:

[Plug]

jay give others a chance lol you cant own every wheel that fits on a nova.

Tbh i prefer the Mo's with the sticker and the blue middles but its your car so do it how you like

[peester]

i wouldnt mess with the mo's dude imo.
Mudguards are a good idea.
looks great, as always. Cant wait to see it at billing.

[Matt]

i wouldnt mess with the mo's dude imo.
Mudguards are a good idea.
looks great, as always. Cant wait to see it at billing.

Cheers man!

Sure I can't convince you?

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/622789ff.jpg

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/ba6d850d.jpg

Looks loads better IMO. Think it needs to be done!

[Plug]

still liking the blue more imo

[Southie]

White caps look miiiiiiles better Matt. :D

The blue doesn't tie up with anything else on the car.

[Matt]

still liking the blue more imo

lol Fairplay.

[Matt]

White caps look miiiiiiles better Matt. :D

This man has taste :p

[vx kev]

White for the win :thumb:
Love this little project like, keep up the good work :D

[Daz9124]

Loving the white caps - id consider puttting small made up stickers of the little skier in the middle of the white cap 50p size :-)

My mate rang me today as he knows im a Nova man and he appreciates a nice Car (He drives a focus RS)

Conversation went

Jonny "Daz just seen the mintest white Nova ever, you'd cream your pants mate, On a D plate with some rare decals"

Me "Aye that'll be the Nova Ski"

He then ranted on about how clean and tidy it was - Just thought id let you know she's pulling heads pal

[BIGS]

I just bloody love your car! When i first seen the white caps i thought oh no thats going to be tacky. how wrong was i looks spot on fella top work :thumb:

[vaughanmc]

Looking really good Matt - Nice depth and shine you've got from the paint :)

[pickle]

this car is so sweet. the 1st few photos are so clean, where do people find cars as mint as this. and its looking really sweet n low. nice 1

[Dave.]

white, silver or black would look the nuts :D

love this car matt, real credit to you dude :thumb:

[Matt]

Cheers everyone!

Always nice to hear some good comments about the car. Centre caps are deffo going white.

Daz - LOL at your mate, good to hear even a Ford driver can appreciate the Nova!

:thumb:

[Plug]

yea i agree there silver or black maybe instead of the white.

but as i said you choose as you feel as its your machine :thumb:

and a cracking example of a nova at that.

Seen a post i think of yours on a local crusie site aswell while i was searchin for an engine the other day. was very weird lol

[Matt]

yea i agree there silver or black maybe instead of the white.

but as i said you choose as you feel as its your machine :thumb:

and a cracking example of a nova at that.

Seen a post i think of yours on a local crusie site aswell while i was searchin for an engine the other day. was very weird lol

Cheers dude, they can always be resprayed if I decide I don't like them I guess!

Someone posted my car up on a local forum? :tard: lol

[AlexW]

Thought about doing the caps red? I wonder what it would look like agaist the white and red strip in the bumpers and bump strips.

[Matt]

Thought about doing the caps red? I wonder what it would look like agaist the white and red strip in the bumpers and bump strips.

Aye, considered doing them red aswell but think they'll just stand out too much. I prefer the clean, minimal look to the plain white wheels. Just keeps the car looking nice and subtle. Well thats the plan anyway!

[Matt]

New look...

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/e76b0938.jpg

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/b6e99fbf.jpg

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/e0110bed.jpg

:cool:

[Southie]

mmmmm seeeeexxxxski :)

[shy witness]

i think that looks superb now to be honest with you.

very nice/tidy/understated.

great job with the wheels

[Matt]

Cheers fellas! Happy with how it looks now.

Just a couple of other minor bits to sort out to get it in top shape for Billing.

[dan16v]

Matt looks mint!, Center caps could do with going dark grey imo to break it up abit?

[Matt]

Matt looks mint!, Center caps could do with going dark grey imo to break it up abit?

Cheers Dan.

Grey centres would probably work too and break it up as you say. I've got a bit of a thing for white though so they'll be staying as they are for now.

Looking forward to seeing your beast at Billing - it's looking good!

[Benn]

Dude thats looks awesome. Love it.

[Joe Richardson]

stunning:thumb:

Rep coming your way Matt:cool:

[Dec16v]

Good work!!!!!!!!!!

[craig green]

Dude thats looks awesome. Love it.

What he said /\ :)

[Matt]

Well as most of you will know my car was broken into a couple of weeks back resulting in a bent door and steering column!

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/cbfa74cc.jpg

Have replaced the bent steering column so the car is sound to drive again now and the it's booked to go in the bodyshop first thing tomorrow to have the door repaired along with the roof resprayed. Therefore the car should be spot on again in time for Billing.

Next thing on the list after Billing is an alarm system. After a few people on here recommending the Toad AI606 system I decided to go with that however after speaking to a local alarm fitter today he has advised a SIGMA S30 system. Sigma are the pro-fit only brand of Toad apparently so looks like I'll be going for this...

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/b71b849f.jpg

It's a lot smaller and more modern than the AI606 and has a unique keygaurd system which means you have to type in a 4 digit pin into the alarms keypad before you can start the car so even if the keys get nicked the car wont start.

Also will be getting a steering brace/ lock thing for it!

:thumb:

[Plug]

alarm looks good mate its a shame it got broken into but atlest its all going to be repaired

[John]

Alarm looks good fella, cat1? How much if you don't mind me asking?

[Matt]

Alarm looks good fella, cat1? How much if you don't mind me asking?

Yeah it's a Thatcham Cat 1 and they're around the £150 mark.

[Steve]

Is that including the fitting? still a good price imo and the keypad thing sounds good, i'd probably advise against a steering wheel lock as most people use them to snap the steering lock, I went with an autolok which goes from the handbrake to the gear lever :thumb:

[Lee H]

I'd get a Disklok, had one of mine for about ten years now, fit them to all my cars.

[Lee H]

Is that including the fitting? still a good price imo and the keypad thing sounds good, i'd probably advise against a steering wheel lock as most people use them to snap the steering lock, I went with an autolok which goes from the handbrake to the gear lever :thumb:

But surely you can just pull the gearknob off and then lift the lock off the gear stick?

[Steve]

You can, but not if you do it up tight enough.

[vx kev]

Am gutted seeing this pic for you m8, a cracking old skool motor that some jeolous bugger couldnt keep their mits off.

Hope to see it fixed soon and all alarmed up :thumb:




http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/cbfa74cc.jpg

[peester]

feck! this not at billing then?!

[Matt]

feck! this not at billing then?!

Oh aye, she'll be there!

Dropped it off at the bodyshop dismorning, should be ready Wed at the latest.

:thumb:

[peester]

schweet nice one

[vaughanmc]

Looking forward to seeing it :thumb:

[auzzy-b]

Nice car bud:) shame about the door...what a pain!!:(

[shy witness]

absolutely disgusting stuffon the part of the would bee..car thieves.

hope you get it looking perfect once more mate.

very sweet we car

[Matt]

Cheers everyone!

Hopefully the car should be looking better than it did beforehand ready for Billing.

[Graeme]

Th's on now?

[Matt]

Not yet! Would of been by now if I didn't have to pay for this repair work! Will get a price off the fella when I pick the car up and get them dropped off for spraying as soon as funds allow. Would of liked them on for Billing but hey ho!

[Matt]

Well rang the bodyshop disafternoon to see what the score was with the car. It should be ready to roll straight from the bodyshop first thing in the morning, despite the fella saying it'd be ready by Wed at the latest :roll: Talk about cutting it fine!

Furthermore, today was a sad day as I've been evicted from my humble garage due to the old girls gash plans to extend the house!

It's gone from it's prime...

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/IMG_1028-1.jpg

To this...

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/DSC00752.jpg

And this is what I've been left with...

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/DSC00750.jpg

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/DSC00751.jpg

Hard times :(

Time to invade the old boys garage soon me thinks!

[peester]

shed looks cosy dude, harsh bout the garage tho..

so this will still be there @ weekend??

[Jay]

XE Your brothers?

[Matt]

so this will still be there @ weekend??

Yeah, will be down there tomorrow late afternoon/ early evening if all goes to plan!

[Matt]

XE Your brothers?

Aye, it's getting thrown in the dump if he doesn't shift it soon lol

[mikey14sr]

Aye, it's getting thrown in the ski if he doesn't shift it soon lol

Thought I'd fix that before anyone else does.....lol

[stupot89]

i would have got a bigger shed to put the nova in

[Matt]

Thought I'd fix that before anyone else does.....lol

lol


i would have got a bigger shed to put the nova in

I would of aswell but there's no space for one. Will find somewhere to keep it.

[Matt]

Just got back tonight from Billing. Was the first show ever for me and the car and what a top show it was! Was great to meet everyone and the PNG stand was top notch. Thanks to Dan, Ade, Lee and everyone else who chose to put my car forward for the best in show award! Was a real honour. Didn't really stand much chance against most the cars in the line-up but I wonder how many of them are drove everyday through all weather - not many I would think lol

Also got the door sorted and had a few dints smoothed out the roof and the roof resprayed before the weekend. The fella's done a spot on job even though the colour match isn't quite perfect.

Couple of pics of it a Billing anyway...

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/VBOA%20Billing%202009/DSC00886.jpg

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/VBOA%20Billing%202009/DSC00887.jpg

Cheers to Ade for lending me the show plates!

:thumb:

[peester]

i voted 2..
as said, its was the only everyday, un-restored one so.. true, genuine like.
Didnt see you about tho chap..?

[Matt]

i voted 2..
as said, its was the only everyday, un-restored one so.. true, genuine like.
Didnt see you about tho chap..?

Cheers dude!

I didn't hang around the car much tbh, far too many other cars to be oggling at! Was with the missus a lot of the time too as she can be hard work when she starts getting bored lol

[Matt]

Just found these pics taken by Olly Hewitt. Nice crisp, clean shots, cheers mate!

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/0216.jpg

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/0220.jpg

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/0232.jpg

[Mark]

The Champion next to you in the chairmans cup was my friends, I was in the passenger seat..I must say just how stunning your car is. Well done, Have some 'rep'

[Matt]

The Champion next to you in the chairmans cup was my friends, I was in the passenger seat..I must say just how stunning your car is. Well done, Have some 'rep'

Cheers fella!

Loved the Champion, properly nice car. Too nice for me to compete against anyway!

[Mark]

lol nonsense..

Mind you, you should have seen the rust bucket he re-built it from.

Anyway...back to the Ski....damn it's clean!

[novasportc550]

had a wee chat with you at billing chum, it was nice to meet you. you were busy cleanig the nova at the time tho.. what a great wee nova .:thumb::thumb::thumb:

[Matt]

had a wee chat with you at billing chum, it was nice to meet you. you were busy cleanig the nova at the time tho.. what a great wee nova .:thumb::thumb::thumb:

Ahhh, wondered exactly who you were! Remember you saying your username was Nova sport something or other. Nice to meet you aswell fella, glad you like the Nova. Think I had to keep saying pardon as I'm crap with accents lol Had a good look round your SR too and have to say it was jaw-dropping! Top notch restoration job you've done there - very impressive!

:thumb:

[John]

Looks even better in the flesh Matt! Stunning car you have sir :)

[Matt]

Looks even better in the flesh Matt! Stunning car you have sir :)

Cheers John! Don't think I got to speak to you? Loved the more door anyway! Bit more open-minded about them now :p

[John]

Cheers John! Don't think I got to speak to you? Loved the more door anyway! Bit more open-minded about them now :p


Ta mate, i did have a mooch round, you were elbow deep in polish lol .
Well deserved of your nomination for the chairmans too.

[Matt]

Ta mate, i did have a mooch round, you were elbow deep in polish lol .
Well deserved of your nomination for the chairmans too.

lol Only polished it that once all weekend! Was ordered to get it looking spanking by Dan etc so thought I best do it properly!

[GTE TURBZ]

New look...

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/e76b0938.jpg

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/b6e99fbf.jpg

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/e0110bed.jpg

:cool:

imo, i think the back looks too low, i'd consider raising it and give it the nose dive look.

[Matt]

My exhaust would agree with you but I'm not convinced. I like it nice and low. Have even considered bringing the front down further.

[vaughanmc]

Seeing it in the pics I thought 'Looks well too low' but when you see it in person it's spot on

Well done Matt! Looked good at Billing mate

[Cormac]

Love this car, Fair Play boss!!

[Matt]

Cheers Vaughan! Your car looked spot on aswell, pics don't do it justice tbh.

Cormac, nice to chat to you at the weekend fella, your swing is incredible!

:thumb:

[vaughanmc]

Cheers mate :thumb:

[Matt]

Well the car has started running like bag o' crap. Diagnosed last night that cylinder 1 isn't firing causing misfire, stutter, loss of power etc. Tested the HT leads and the lead for cylinder 1 is funked so a new set of leads and spark plugs have been purchased...

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/DSC00918.jpg

Had a bit of a Halfords trade card bargin - the leads retail at £24.99 and the plugs £9.99 - got the lot for £11.99 :) Should sort it out hopefully...

[Matt]

Just swopped the bits over and it now runs like some sort of dream :thumb:

[Novaboi_1991]

nice one, looks mint!

[peester]

yay for halfords trade..

[Nick J]

Just swopped the bits over and it now runs like some sort of dream :thumb:

Great news Matt! :)

[Joe Richardson]

Nice one Matt,glad to hear it's running ok now:thumb:

[Matt]

Cheers dudes!

De-badged the front and fitted a fresh set of plates after I a cracked the other one...

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/DSC00919.jpg

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/DSC00920.jpg

Need to find a new badge (although I'm quite a fan of it without) and I'm gonna get a pair of the original dealership stickers made up for the plates like the old ones had.

:cool:

[Benn]

Looks awesome.

[Bobminda]

Agree with the above...Looks stunning

[vaughanmc]

Looks mean without the badge - Nice placement of the front number plate as well

On every Mk1 Nova (early and late) I reckon the number plate should sit just over the bumper stripe like yours, looks so much better than having it below the bumper stripe

Top work fella :thumb:

[GTE TURBZ]

I would have gone to VX and got an original plate with the blue BG badge on side and border for extra detailing. :)

[Matt]

Cheers Benn and Bobminda.

Vaughan, cheers fella. Yeah I know what you mean about the plate, my last one was like that and didn't look right atall. I've just drilled the holes for this one central and mounted it as it should be and it looks 10 times better.

:thumb:

[wwmnw]

Just noticed this thread, Car looks pure mint bodywork wise, Are you related to Benn?

[Matt]

I would have gone to VX and got an original plate with the blue BG badge on side and border for extra detailing. :)
Nah don't like the GB badges and borders etc, can look tacky IMO. I like them plain and simple. I'm just gonna get the original dealership stickers made up to go on them like my old ones had...

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/DSC00921.jpg

Should keep it looking original(ish) and match the window sticker...

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/DSC00557.jpg

Gonna try and get some steel to start making one of these today too...

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/RolloverJig-1.jpg

[Matt]

Just noticed this thread, Car looks pure mint bodywork wise, Are you related to Benn?

Cheers! lol No I'm not related to Benn. What made you think that? lol

[wwmnw]

Cheers! lol No I'm not related to Benn. What made you think that? lol

Perfect body work, And the car is clean as a whistle lol

[Benn]

I would have gone to VX and got an original plate with the blue BG badge on side and border for extra detailing. :)

Sorry i have to hugely disagree. A proper original plate wouldnt have the blue gb bit on it, as thats late ec sh*te.

And looks w**k.

[peester]

yay for a new badge.. think its better with.

[dj_wudgey]

looks wicked without the badge on the grille mate!!

[021-bennettt]

Well the car has started running like bag o' crap. Diagnosed last night that cylinder 1 isn't firing causing misfire, stutter, loss of power etc. Tested the HT leads and the lead for cylinder 1 is funked so a new set of leads and spark plugs have been purchased...

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/DSC00918.jpg

Had a bit of a Halfords trade card bargin - the leads retail at £24.99 and the plugs £9.99 - got the lot for £11.99 :) Should sort it out hopefully...

Man can you just buy me these and send them over to Ireland for me as i cant find simple stuff like that anywhere:cry: ha

[jpga]

twells of billinghay i live about 10 mins away :D

[Nick J]

I actually prefer it without the badge! Gives it more of an older/agressive look from the front etc. Just my opinion though ;)

Nick.

[Matt]

twells of billinghay i live about 10 mins away :D

Cool! I got the car from Metheringham, just down the road from Billinghay.

[Matt]

I actually prefer it without the badge! Gives it more of an older/agressive look from the front etc. Just my opinion though ;)

Nick.

Aye, I don't mind it with or without a badge tbh. If I find a new one I'll get one but I'm not fussed. Does look more aggressive though :cool:

[gary_126]

Just had a good look through most of this thread. Totally love it, so old skool

[jpga]

Cool! I got the car from Metheringham, just down the road from Billinghay.

wow thats a long drive to cumbria worth it i suppose is it your daily driver ate or is it garaged etc ??

[Matt]

Just had a good look through most of this thread. Totally love it, so old skool
Cheers fella, big fan of your car aswell! The Ski needs your engine ;)



wow thats a long drive to cumbria worth it i suppose is it your daily driver ate or is it garaged etc ??
Yeah, was a fair treck! It was exactly what I was after though so it had to be done!

[Matt]

Well some of you might have seen most of my bits from the car for sale recently. Reason being I've been putting the car back to standard and tidying it all up again ready to come off the road next week. The money raised is to go towards some new stuff I've got planned for the car in the future as I plan to completely rebuild the car into something a bit more interesting.

Was gonna put a couple of pics of it up tomorrow as I'm supposed to be going to Cumbria Classic Car Show in it but the weather is set to pour down all day so highly doubt I'll be going!

Anyway here's a couple of the last pics I have of the car as it was...

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Feature/DSC00966.jpg

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Feature/DSC00956.jpg

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Feature/DSC00944.jpg

...and here's a few of how it stands now with all the original stuff back on...

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/DSC00982.jpg

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/DSC00989.jpg

Grille badge painted again as I marked it...

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/DSC00997.jpg

All inner arches re-painted and wheel trims tidied up and resprayed...

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/DSC00985.jpg

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/DSC01000.jpg

Strut brace off...

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/DSC01004.jpg

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/DSC01006.jpg

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/DSC01008.jpg

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/DSC01010.jpg

Time to store it for a while now until I'm ready to let the rebuild commence!

:)

[Adam]

Looks like original dealer advert pics!!!! LOL @ the suspension height.

What do you use to get your bumpers so dark and shiny???

[Matt]

Looks like original dealer advert pics!!!! LOL @ the suspension height.

What do you use to get your bumpers so dark and shiny???

lol Yeh the suspension is rediculous! Got the old Delco brakes back on it aswell, it's awful!

For the bumpers I use Turtlewax 'Black in a Flash' gel stuff, it's awesome! Use it on tyres and the lot.

:thumb:

[peester]

matt... im confuzzled..?
so just wait n see, what next year??
big plans??

[Southie]

I got confused for a second thinking you had two ski's lol

Love this car either way you have it ;) Oh and paint the Vauxhall logo on the trims red.

[L33 LEG]

looks so clean! it doesnt look any worse now, still an absolute perfect nova.

will look forward to the new plans :)

[Matt]

matt... im confuzzled..?
so just wait n see, what next year??
big plans??

Yeah, it has turned out rather oddly lol I did have plans to do a bit more with the car this year but things didn't quite work out. I've got big plans for it yeah and it's going to turn into more of long term project hopefully. Decided the car isn't practical to use as a daily so I'm taking it off the road and I'm looking to get a newer car at some point. Just wanted to get everything tidied up on the Ski so I can put it away for a while and know it'll be ready when I want to start on it. I'm planning on stripping it down to a bare shell and totally re-building it. It's something I've wanted to do for a while and if I didn't completely re-build it I don't think it'd ever be happy with it and there'd always be something not quite right with it.

Don't expect anything to happen over night, it's going to be a full over-haul if all goes to plan :thumb:

[Matt]

I got confused for a second thinking you had two ski's lol

Love this car either way you have it ;) Oh and paint the Vauxhall logo on the trims red.

lol Thought it might confuse a few people. I wanted the griffins on the wheels done silver again as they were before but the bodyshop wanted loads to do them with coloured centres as it would involve loads of fiddly masking and tricky spraying apparently. Wasn't that bov'd, just wanted them freshend up tbh.


looks so clean! it doesnt look any worse now, still an absolute perfect nova.

will look forward to the new plans :)

Cheers dude! I know what you mean, I kinda like the standard look too but there's no way I can leave it alone lol

[peester]

well i guess it helps to start with a good shell already, so..
cool.

[LEWI007]

I loved it the way it was.

Might build mine into a rep of it but with slabs

[Damo]

looks absolutly perfect the matt which ever way you have it altough it did look nice lowered with the wheels on IMO:thumb: .

[discoinferno]

it is superb :)

[Plug]

XE/LET on the way then for the ski :)

lol

[Matt]

Cheers lads! :)

[scott.parker]

I take it your planing keeping it as a 1.2 etc, as the Ski is not exactly a common model, let alone mk1 novas these days! lol

Im going to try and restore the mk1 i have, keep as it rolled out the factory, i love the time warp feel to it, even got used to the **** brakes now! lol

Best of luck either way mate.

Scott

[novasportc550]

loving the standard look chum,,,, :):thumb::thumb::thumb:



http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/DSC01008.jpg

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/DSC01010.jpg

[LEWI007]

Standard FTW !!

[Leeboo]

Holy fook it looks even nicer standard! It did look lovely with comps and coils but there really is something about the std look.

I know its sometimes sickening when people say "keep it std, don't take away from originality", but I think tbhis Nova can't be messed with. That side on picture is retro and just describes a brand new Nova, if that makes sense :confused:

[Matt]

Cheers for the feedback fellas.

Scott, still not entirely sure what I want to with the car yet, just going to put it away for a while and have a think about it. I know it's a rare model that happens to be well preserved and that to restore it back to factory condition would be cool but I just don't think I'd get enough enjoyment out of the end product and it wouldn't be particually exciting. I know what you mean about the standard suspension and brakes etc though, they do make for an interesting ride!

My plans atm are to build it into a nicely spec'd small block track car (only to be used it good weather) with coilovers, cage, buckets, big brakes etc etc which is what I initially bought the car for in the first place as I wanted clean white Mk1 shell. However this one turned out to be a Ski aswell which has changed things slightly. I think if I were to do the above I'd retian a few of the touches that make it a Ski externally. I've done a couple of photoshops but we'll have to wait and see!

k reg, Leeboo, as said I know what you mean about keeping it standard and not messing with it but I think if I were to do that I'd only be pleasing those who'd prefer to see it that way and at the end of the day I wouldn't be getting what I wanted out of the car. Once again though, we'll have to wait and see, I'll be doing my best to keep some of it's retro looks though.

:thumb:

[Dec16v]

Loving the standard look mate, had a good look around this at Billing.... certianly a lovely straight example!!!

I'm amazed no one had built a true sleeper from a clean base model, i.e. standard looking from the outside, but with a 200Bhp valver engine. Just think of the benifits:

1) You'd retain the originality of the car, and could easily put it back to standard.
2) You could blow away 911's from the lights and cause some serious embarassment to some expensive machinery
3) it wouldn't cost huge ammounts as the bulk would be spent on the engine
4) You wouldn't look like a 'boy racer' as you wouldn't appear to be trying

You'd need to do some clever work with the tyres and suspension to get traction, and the brakes would need to factored in under the standard rims. A Stainless 2.5" exhaust with a downturned tailpipe.... no one would know!!

This would be my next project if I ever get the bug again!!

Standard restorations are great... but be careful not to build it to too high a level, or you'll end up not wanting to take it out (like I did!!)

Dec

[peester]

^^ dec, that indeed is the way forward..
its so been on my mind lately, this exact thing , thats all..
I wanted to do the above kind of modding, back in 2007 when i was on the look out for a new project, but when i saw john's slightly dissasembled ex feature track day car for the money it was way too good value, so i had it..
So ive always kinda wished i should have started with a genuine, original paint example , from scratch - and it have that more retro appeal.
Anyway we see maybe ill re-shell in the future, no going back now , for me lol.

Nice one matt - youll come up trumps either way, have a good ponder.

[Adam]

Loving the standard look mate, had a good look around this at Billing.... certianly a lovely straight example!!!

I'm amazed no one had built a true sleeper from a clean base model, i.e. standard looking from the outside, but with a 200Bhp valver engine. Just think of the benifits:

1) You'd retain the originality of the car, and could easily put it back to standard.
2) You could blow away 911's from the lights and cause some serious embarassment to some expensive machinery
3) it wouldn't cost huge ammounts as the bulk would be spent on the engine
4) You wouldn't look like a 'boy racer' as you wouldn't appear to be trying

You'd need to do some clever work with the tyres and suspension to get traction, and the brakes would need to factored in under the standard rims. A Stainless 2.5" exhaust with a downturned tailpipe.... no one would know!!

This would be my next project if I ever get the bug again!!

Standard restorations are great... but be careful not to build it to too high a level, or you'll end up not wanting to take it out (like I did!!)

Dec
To keep it standard looking you would need to keep the original wheels/suspension etc?
Meaning small tyres/brakes, terrible suspension.....
Certaininly not good with a 200hp engine.;)

If you could squeeze some tiny 4pots behind the steelies(and then hide them with the steelies) then it could work i guess.

Unless you mean standard exterior, bodywork wise....

[draper]

If you could squeeze some tiny 4pots behind the steelies(and then hide them with the steelies) then it could work i guess.



uber, uber expensive custom made one-offs are needed ;)


youd have to go slighty lower but 14/15steelies, the avergae (super)car owner isnt the sort of anorak that knows a nova ski came out the factory on 13" wheels lol

[jpga]

a bloke near me fozzy who owns power crazy in lincoln has a blue 1.2 merit tottaly standard on steels not mint but not really rusty just normal looking which is a 2.5 v6 monster. i would love a true sleeper he is selling a miami blue 1.0 nova with a 3.0 v6 would love to buy it but cant afford :(

matt i see what you mean by keeping it standard is just not exciting enough id try and go about standard looking sleeper but at the end of the day its your car do whatever makes you happy mate! :)

[AlexW]

Looks good with or without the mods imo.

Ive also started thinking about the 1.2 look mk1 nova, but with a nice engine, maybe a xe or v6, just to show off lol.

14inch steels wouldnt be a bad idea, would be nice to have it looking standard and also not very well cleaned lol

[Matt]

Dec, I'm liking the angle you're coming from... very interesting indeed!

Think it'd have to be some nice 15" steels wrapped in quality rubber and then some 4 pots hidden behind them. Also perhaps some nice Bilstein B8's with custom springs would keep a standardish ride height and provide decent handling. Also engine wise, you're bang on, needs to be >200bhp. Would love a LET but I really don't want to start chopping the bay and welding in strenthening plates. I want the bay to be standard and another engine simply 'bolted in'.

Still the idea of a fully caged out track orientated Nova does appeal to me. I know a 'wolf in sheeps clothing' would be highly fun, just dunno if it'd be as much fun as having a full on track toy? Hmmmmm.....

[Matt]

Cheers for everyones feedback btw!

[jpga]

Dec, I'm liking the angle you're coming from... very interesting indeed!

Think it'd have to be some nice 15" steels wrapped in quality rubber and then some 4 pots hidden behind them. Also perhaps some nice Bilstein B8's with custom springs would keep a standardish ride height and provide decent handling. Also engine wise, you're bang on, needs to be >200bhp. Would love a LET but I really don't want to start chopping the bay and welding in strenthening plates. I want the bay to be standard and another engine simply 'bolted in'.

Still the idea of a fully caged out track orientated Nova does appeal to me. I know a 'wolf in sheeps clothing' would be highly fun, just dunno if it'd be as much fun as having a full on track toy? Hmmmmm.....

track toy :d be the coolest car on the track

[Matt]

track toy :d be the coolest car on the track

:) Yeah I think how a car looks counts just as much as how well it goes! It wouldn't be ragged about all the time, just cool to get out now and again during the summer for track days, general road fun, maybe 1/4's etc. As said, just a bit of toy really :thumb:

[jpga]

:) Yeah I think how a car looks counts just as much as how well it goes! It wouldn't be ragged about all the time, just cool to get out now and again during the summer for track days, general road fun, maybe 1/4's etc. As said, just a bit of toy really :thumb:

is it a daily driver ten atm ?

[Matt]

is it a daily driver ten atm ?

Has been since June, but then I haven't done a great deal of driving over the summer. Have tried to use it mainly when the weathers nice and kept it as clean as I can. But no, I haven't used it properly in a couple of weeks just since I've got it looking spanking again.

[jpga]

Has been since June, but then I haven't done a great deal of driving over the summer. Have tried to use it mainly when the weathers nice and kept it as clean as I can. But no, I haven't used it properly in a couple of weeks just since I've got it looking spanking again.

im like that with my gte mate problem is i cant afford to run/house two cars so going to make a massive point of stripping it down and sealing it all properly asap ! that would look the dogs on track mate and if it had an engine to match it would be stunnin :thumb:

[scott.parker]

Still the idea of a fully caged out track orientated Nova does appeal to me. I know a 'wolf in sheeps clothing' would be highly fun, just dunno if it'd be as much fun as having a full on track toy? Hmmmmm.....

Well look at this way, i have both in a way, im going to restore the 1.2L and have my other as a out and out tracker etc, but out of the two i prefer driving the 1.2L, it's easy to just jump in and drive, if feels relaxing and quite, and it's got better fuel economy! lol

Just a thought, might be worth having two novas??

Scott

[Matt]

Well look at this way, i have both in a way, im going to restore the 1.2L and have my other as a out and out tracker etc, but out of the two i prefer driving the 1.2L, it's easy to just jump in and drive, if feels relaxing and quite, and it's got better fuel economy! lol

Just a thought, might be worth having two novas??

Scott

lol I know what you mean, they are cool to drive as it's like jumping into a time-warp. Defo not having two Novas though! I want something new, comfy, reliable and pratical now. I think if I were to keep it standard I'd just end up selling it which would mean I'd have to find another mint shell for my project which I simply cba to do, especially with the prices they're starting to go for now!

:tard:

[scott.parker]

I see what your saying dude, don't get me wrong i would love another new'er car as well, but i have the passat for miles/everyday crap etc, so i have the the nova's for fun! lol

The missis had a go at me just, as i saw this local nova again and started going on about buying it..

The mk1 will be hers to drive once she's passed though, so she don't moan.

Scott

[Olly755]

Matt- It's a lovely car, and personally I would keep it that way, but my thoughts would be to wind back the clock and do a retro 1987 rebuild- no XE conversions around then!

Adding some "bolt on" Group A or Nova Challenge bits would greatly enhance the car, with the added bonus that when you get bored (which you will) then you can simply unbolt the tune-up bits and get all of your money back, and still retain a very original, tidy car to sell for decent money.

I would look for a decent 1400 motor on twin 40's with the usual head-cam-vernier-tubular manifold and start from there. They do crop up.I would then add:

F13 GTE 5 speed cluster
4.5 CWP
Quick rack
Height adjustable front coilovers with Bilstein inserts (wouldn't bother with anything else)
Rear Bilsteins and standard springs
Poly bushes
Dropped rose jointed front tie bar mounting
Astra 16v discs/calipers
Rear disc beam

Fair enough you won't worry Porsches in a straight line, but you might just in tighter stuff. With this you will end up with a car that if set up properly will really handle, and you really can't beat the sound and induction roar of twin 40's either. You don't have to be the fastest man on the track- what matters is if the car will put a smile on your face. It will :)

I've got both- the stock A reg 8000 miler, and the rally car, which is a similar, albeit more developed spec than the above. The rally car goes really well (and my everyday car has 350bhp so I know what's quick), but most of all it is FUN. But then the standard car has its own charms.

I would be happy to own your car in either spec :thumb:

[Matt]

Olly, cheers for the input fella! It's certainly another approach I need to think about. A period, retro rebuild would be pretty cool.

I know I want to strip the car down to a bare shell, tidy it up, have it completely reprayed inside, out and underneath and then have all the suspension bits etc blasted/ powdercoated so that everything's like new again. Then from there I'll essentially have a new shell which I can build to whichever spec I like, whether it be a standard retro sleeper or a something more track orientated. Either way I want it to look reto/ old skool so I'm just going to have to leave it for a while and have a proper think about what's the best spec to build the car to.

:thumb:

[Plug]

get on mate sounds like this is going to be a car to look out for in the future :)

high spec let i reckon :d

[Leeboo]

Olly, cheers for the input fella! It's certainly another approach I need to think about. A period, retro rebuild would be pretty cool.

I know I want to strip the car down to a bare shell, tidy it up, have it completely reprayed inside, out and underneath and then have all the suspension bits etc blasted/ powdercoated so that everything's like new again. Then from there I'll essentially have a new shell which I can build to whichever spec I like, whether it be a standard retro sleeper or a something more track orientated. Either way I want it to look reto/ old skool so I'm just going to have to leave it for a while and have a proper think about what's the best spec to build the car to.

:thumb:

If I was you I'd go with Olly's spec instead of a let!

And don't go too mad with detail as Dec says, you need to feel comfortable giving the car the odd thrashing.

[Olly755]

And don't go too mad with detail as Dec says, you need to feel comfortable giving the car the odd thrashing.

Totally agree. I restored my Capri 2.8i to concours a few years ago: it was nice to preserve it, but now its primary job is to keep dust off the garage floor.

In honesty I had the most fun with it pre-restoration, when it was a bit scruffy and I wasn't frightened of giving it a hiding- now as a polished garage ornament it's almost a burden to own.

[Matt]

Dug this beast out this afternoon (I haven't seen it for 2 months). Just went to check it hadn't turned into a huge pile of rust really.

Luckily it was exactly how I'd left it...

Tucked away under it's cover;

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/DSC01702-1.jpg

An Autum snap or two (or three);

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/DSC01692-1.jpg

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/DSC01687-1.jpg

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/DSC01690-1.jpg

Then tucked away back in the corner and the cover put back on;

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/DSC01697-1.jpg

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/DSC01699-1.jpg

Awesome update I know :roll: Will have some proper ones soon I hope! Just finding the time and also cash atm is difficult.

:thumb:

[scott.parker]

Nice, i love what you have done, might need to do the same to mine..

lol seriously though.

Scott

[Matt]

Nice, i love what you have done, might need to do the same to mine..

lol seriously though.

Scott

lol Cheers pal!

[scott.parker]

Im serious though, the mk1 needs a clean, mot/tax and it's cover putting on soon...

[Pete]

you did say you where going to visit it soom time soon,
i have to admit i prefered it with the MO's on,
but its still nice :)

[cormac81]

Loved with it MO`s, hopefully mine will look something similar in the near distant future.

[Matt]

Cheers, I did like it with the MO's but I have bigger and better plans for it now!

Will look well running low with the TH's - will be a bit different aswell :thumb:

[Morton]

where did you get mirrors tryed to fi nd some there cant :( i love them :)

[Matt]

where did you get mirrors tryed to fi nd some there cant :( i love them :)

I got a mint drivers side one off a member on here and happend to stumble across a brand new passanger side one on ebay! Think it's quite rare to have them matching size (correct me if I'm wrong) as the passenger side was an optional extra for early models and was usually slightly larger than the drivers side for some reason :confused: As said, they came on early base model Novas so you just have to keep an eye out.

[Morton]

any idea what to call them when lookin ??or just search through all nova mirrors?

[Matt]

any idea what to call them when lookin ??or just search through all nova mirrors?

Yeah, just search for Nova mirrors on ebay. I'd say your best bet is to either keep looking on there or just look out for someone breaking and early Nova. A 'Wanted' thread on here might help, that's how I sourced a set :thumb:

[vaughanmc]

I got a mint drivers side one off a member on here and happend to stumble across a brand new passanger side one on ebay! Think it's quite rare to have them matching size (correct me if I'm wrong) as the passenger side was an optional extra for early models and was usually slightly larger than the drivers side for some reason :confused: As said, they came on early base model Novas so you just have to keep an eye out.

I noticed that on some Nova's that the passenger mirror was larger - Why is that ?

Looks really nice Matt, can't wait to see what you have planned for it :thumb:

[Matt]

I noticed that on some Nova's that the passenger mirror was larger - Why is that ?

Looks really nice Matt, can't wait to see what you have planned for it :thumb:

Not sure regarding the mirror mate!

Cheers, look forward to seeing the Sport come together too ;)

[craig green]

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/DSC01692-1.jpg



Stored on grass! Nutts. :confused:

[vaughanmc]

Not sure regarding the mirror mate!

Cheers, look forward to seeing the Sport come together too ;)

Hopefully get some welding started over the winter :)

[Matt]

Stored on grass! Nutts. :confused:

It's more like gravel with moss where I park it. Nothing grows underneath it and it's a fancy breathable cover so any moisture can escape. Will b'reet for the time being, it's moving into the garage soon.

[Matty Winslade]

Mate, this nova is mint ....Every mod is superb and i love it standard as well as low with the MO's ...love the TH's to m8 .....Glad you kept it as a ski.... top car mate:thumb: I have an original mk1 1.4 SR and its really tempting to go to town with it ( i dont mean kitting it or anything lol) But everything is so good already so im gna keep it that way really. Good job and good luck:thumb:

[Matt]

Cheers dude! Can't wait to get cracking on with the rebuild :cool:

Your SR sounds nice too, I know what you mean about not wanting change anything. That modding itch gets the best of us though lol

:thumb:

[Steve]

I noticed that on some Nova's that the passenger mirror was larger - Why is that ?

Not sure either, but my 1984 micra has a different passenger mirror, it makes everything seem alot closer than it is. Maybe the glass is different on the novas ones as well?

[novanova636]

did you ever get round to fitting the alarm? if so is it any good?

[Matt]

did you ever get round to fitting the alarm? if so is it any good?

Nah mate, decided not to as I knew I'd just have to rip it out again come the rebuild. It'll have a decent one installed once I've got the car how I want it.

:thumb:

[Matt]

Just been pottering around with the Nova today. Moved it into the garage a couple of weeks ago so it's nice and dry and can breathe a bit. This is where it lives now...

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/SNC00067.jpg

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/SNC00074.jpg

Managed to get hold of mint grille badge as I cracked/ marked my other one...

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/SNC00073.jpg

Nova SKI brochure I managed to get hold of lol...

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/SNC00083.jpg

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/SNC00069.jpg

Spare bumper I nicked the new badge from. Spent a while heat gunning it and and it's come up like new. Shame it has a couple of scuffs though...

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/SNC00081.jpg

Sorry about the poor photos, they were off my phone!

Should see some proper action over christmas when I'm actually home for a while and can get stuck into it :thumb:

[muzzy]

Love this car, it's a great advertisment for keeping a Nova subtle and near standard.

[Brettski]

looks awsome matt and al take it you are keeping this standard now or is that just while it is off the road

sorry to ask a dumb question but you gotta ask:thumb:

[Plug]

i think hes rebuilding it to his spec when hes got all the parts and leaving it standard for storage.

Correct me if im wrong matt

Stunning motor though :thumb:

[R1CH]

You stuck your bro's shell outside now ?? It'll have rotted away by the time he gets back from NZ !!

[Matt]

Brettski, Jimbos pretty much spot on with my plans. Gonna start collecting parts and then start stripping it down in the new year when I've less on my plate.


You stuck your bro's shell outside now ?? It'll have rotted away by the time he gets back from NZ !!

Aye, outside where it belongs! Suprised it hasn't rusted away already it's been sat there that long. It's under my car cover now though so sould be fine!

[vaughanmc]

Looks very very tidy in standard form Matt - Have you gave much away about how your doing it up ?

[Matt]

Looks very very tidy in standard form Matt - Have you gave much away about how your doing it up ?

Cheers pal! Looks wise I'm aiming to have it looking like that photoshop I posted in your other thread. I've decided which engine I want to put into it but I'm not saying anything just now. Also got some other trick bits in mind for the car but not giving away any spec atm. I want to have all the bits together, ready to be fitted and the car ready for paint before I go rattling off what spec the car is gonna be etc etc.

There's a couple of things locally that I'm picking up before christmas which will be very handy for the project and should get the ball rolling ;) I'm a bit tired of talking about what I want to do with the car and just want to get cracking with it tbh!

:thumb:

[vaughanmc]

Quite right fella, you have a really good base to start with

I'll keep an eye on this thread :)

[Pete]

Erm... Easiest way to say this...........


I WANT THIS BROCHURE !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/SNC00069.jpg

[Zeus]

Just read all of this, my opinion it looks better standard. Stunning car though.

[Matt]

Cheers Zeus. Not a lot happening with the car at the min, just slowly collecting bits for the rebuild.

Here's the scans of that brochure for anyone that's interesetd:

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/20-11-2009181820.jpg

http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff60/mattmdavies/Nova%20Ski%20Project/20-11-2009182051.jpg

:thumb:

[scott.parker]

Awesome love the fact of the trims being an extra, and the fact's more then a saloon otr! lol

[Rich]

Door pockets are an advertised extra lol

Cool as, love the price

[Rysee]

Nice bit of history Matt, i'd love to see a white Ski saloon