This restored 1978 Chevy Nova 9C1 served as a patrol car for the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD). The Chevy Nova was only offered as a 9C1 police package from 1975-1978 and was actually created for the LASD. The LASD was wanting a patrol car that was more economical to operate than the big gas guzzling Plymouths. Chevy put together a 1973 Nova to demonstrate to the LASD, and the LASD purchased eleven of them to evaluate. Other agencies took an interest in the car and wanted to order them as well, so in 1975 Chevrolet offered the Nova with a 9C1 police package. 1978 would be the last year that the Nova would be offered with the 9C1, and the Malibu would eventually take over the Nova’s 9C1 role from 1978-1983.
The 1978 Chevy Nova 9C1 came with a LM1 350 CID V8 rated at 150 horsepower and a TH350 automatic transmission. The 3.73 gears and limited slip in the GM 10-bolt 8.5-inch rear axle helped get the car moving off the line.
On the outside the Nova is equipped with a push bumper, Federal Signal Twinsonic lightbar, side alley lights, dual spotlights, and antennas for the Sheriff radios.
On the inside the car is equipped with a pair of General Electric 2-way mobile radios, Unitrol siren and light control, map light, and shotgun mount.
This car was restored by a former LASD deputy. Although the Novas were no longer in use when he joined the Sheriff’s Department, he recognized their significance to the LASD and automotive history.
For more information on the Chevy Nova 9C1 history check out: 1975-1978 Chevy Nova 9C1 Police Cars
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