NOVA

One Nova knows what a new model kit will be like until the box is opened and the kit inspected firsthand. Fortunately, model magazines review new kits so we can get an idea of what to expect, and with this information decide if we want to purchase the particular model.

The buzz surrounding the Nova models recently released by Revell is not surprising, given the popularity of the actual vehicle. The reviews have been many, and the kits are certainly welcome and desirable. Comparisons with the old AMT issued Nova SS kit are not surprising as they, the old AMT kit, and the new Revell kit, are the only two 1/25 scale models of the '68 through '72 Nova body style.

Reviewers and purchasers of the new Revell kit should keep in mind several factors before issuing a blanket statement of how superior the Revell kit is over the AMT kit. Among these factors are the following:

1. They represent different years of Chevrolet Novas. Throughout its existence, the AMT kit has been called various years. In an attempt to determine the correct and actual year it represents, several years ago I had compared original Chevrolet/GM issued Nova sales literature from the years 1968 through 1972. From this endeavor I concluded that the AMT kit most closely resembles a 1971. Kit # T365, the original issue of the AMT kit, has been listed as a 1972, and at other times, a 1970.
2. They represent different years of scale model production. We must realize that the AMT kit was released over thirty five years ago! Technology has leapt ahead in the ensuing years, so, absolutely yes, the Revell kit IS superior. Wouldn't we expect it to be, given the advances in technology? But this does not mean the AMT model is bad.
3. There was "method to (AMT's) madness". I keep hearing about the Revell kit's new one piece body, vs. AMT's separate front fenders, and their poor fit. Guess What! When the AMT kit first hit the market, the fenders lined up quite well. Is it a surprise that after 62 quadzillion reissues they don't fit quite as well? HOW 'BOUT THIS: Do you even know WHY the fenders were separate? Here's a clue: Where on the body of the AMT kit does the name "Nova" appear? NO PLACE> The ONLY place the Nova logo appears is on the fenders! Why? Because AMT had also offered the PONTIAC version of the Nova, The Ventura II. Most of the parts, including the interior and dashboard, were Nova parts, but the Pontiac nose/grilles, etc., and the FRONT FENDERS were Pontiac. Let's not bad mouth a good kit because it is showing its age.
4. With all due respect, despite technological advances, the new Revell kit is not flawless either. Somewhere between design and production the gas tank was misinterpreted. As in real life, nothing is perfect.

The tires in the new Nova kit are "generic no names", as I believe the esteemed Bill Coulter called them. As he noted, this makes it easier for modelers to put their choice of tire brand on them. Thankfully, they're not the same incorrect tires which had been included in the Revellogram '67 Corvette kits. Those tires, at first glance, appear to be no names, but on closer inspection they are seen to be Michelin TRX tires, which were a special "metric" tire and wheel option for '80s Mustangs; back in the day, the real TRX tires only fit TRX wheels.

There was a third scale model of the '68 - '72 era Nova, and an excellent model it was, but I'd gamble several modelers passed it by because of its size. Years ago Monogram offered a series, in 1/32 scale, which included a '70 Mustang Mach 1, '70-'71 Trans Am, and that wonderful '69-'70 Nova SS. The Trans Am and the Nova each had separate exhaust and rear suspension/differential, opening hood, detailed engines and engine bays, among other features. Great kits for their size!

Monogram 1/32 scale Nova model
	Monogram 1/32 scale Nova model
Monogram 1/32 scale Nova model