BUYERS GUIDE Camaro Vs Nova - They Are NOT THE SAME CAR!

After all the Camaro "fitment" controversy I decided to do a video of the Camaro and Nova side by side. Well you will see it here first! All the difference between the 2 cars. There is some cross over but they are much more different than ya think!
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[@RGP-70]

That Nova is going to look so good with the black vinyl top on it… and cage painted black.

[@jamesf4405]

Dan, stop explaining! The Danmaro is for sale. Period! It's your money, they're your cars! You saved that Camaro, which was a hunk of rusted junk. No one was more heartbroken than me and I've accepted it. 💔 I'm still watching. You're still the best!

[@mrhubada]

I agree! I said it before and I’ll say it again, you like what you like! That’s all there is to it.

[@VintageTinGarage]

You don’t have to explain yourself to anyone. You want the Nova so drive it and keep it.

[@jamesf4405]

I knew what was coming when I saw those bucket seats. Those seats belong in a motor home, not a sports car. No way was that ever gonna work. 😳

[@bobsch-gd6ze]

@@jamesf4405 pfffft

[@jamesf4405]

@bobsch-gd6ze better check your drawers Bob, that one sounded wet! 💩

[@RandyH-qf3dc]

Dan, are you trying to convince yourself or us. You want to move forward with the Nova and some of us "like" a Camaro better. Honestly that is 100% your call. I say I love this channel and I am totally fine with you making that call. It is your call with your cars. You have no obligation to explain or even worse to justify your decision. For the first time ever I didn't "like" a video from DD. Just move on. Just remember, "you can please some of the people some the time, but never can you please all the people all the time". Now go on with your bad self. Life's to short to worry about this stuff. Peace!

[@kb9oak749]

Chevy Nova" Sasquatch rated, Sasquatch approved.

[@ThomasThomas-wn3km]

Speaking as a large human, 6'3" 270, the windows sloping in creates a space shortage for my shoulders. I can't even get the door closed in a Corvette. Large people definitely have problems with interior dimensions. Most headrests are shoulder height. Grrrrrrr!

[@KeithM-kv9tt]

Yeah folks! This channel is about Hot Rodding, not making good decisions.

[@NoWr2Run]

I remember back when I had 3 first Gen. Camaro's & a 69 Chevelle. I lived in a rented mobile home then but I finally wised up, sold all the cars. That gave a a good down payment on my property & house. I was no longer throwing money out the window & I am much better off for sure. Got married, had 2 kids & never owned a Hot Rod since, LMAO.

[@MikeAnderson-uj3oo]

I like that statement Keith. As hot rodders we are not known for our good decision making. New carburetor or pay the water bill ? I know what I would do in that example.

[@wrongwayroger2519]

Dan that's a motor , you put motor oil in it !!! And their motor mounts not engine mounts !!!

[@justingould7348]

The Nova definitely needs the Black vinyl top. One of these days I’d like to see you do a 50’s truck one of these days. It be neat to see a ‘55 pickup next to your Nomads and your grey 2 door.

[@1STLAR2147]

End of the day, Yes it’s your money and your hotrod. I’ve been daily driving a 70 GTO the past 40+ years. I get compliments all the time, and I occasionally catch crap that it needs a proper restoration. No it doesn’t! I care about the car yes, but I’m not concerned about door dings, or driving it in the weather. It’s got a 455 Pontiac with Fast Fuel Injection, 71 455 HO heads, Ram Air 4 cam, hooker headers with 40 series flowmasters. T 56 six speed, 373 gears, 2004 GTO disk brakes, that took a little butchery to make work. Classic Air AC, Car is pretty much what I want it. Doesn’t matter what anyone else thinks is cool, or right!

[@trentdawg2832]

Sounds like my kinda car…….drive it, enjoy it

[@billywird]

Yes sir as long as a vehicle is fundamentally safe, the appearance is what matters to the owner. Your car is a driver and if it has a few battle scars, so what.

[@MastaT_150]

I feel the vinyl top is a must for the Nova. IMO with that color it needs the black top to break things up. I’m assuming you’re going to attempt that install yourself and I’m actually really looking forward to seeing that process diy. Just don’t let Dani put any glitter or pink accents on it if you can help it. (Unless that’s your thing 🙃)

[@bufords]

the only reason ya need to sell any car is cause " ya said so!" nuff said!

[@BlooMule]

You gotta have a core fleet that you really love. Cars you know you'll regret selling. Everything else can be a flip. When I moved to the country, I had to sell off some stuff, but the core fleet were all vehicles I had owned for 20+ years. The test for everything else was "have I driven it much in the last year?" That made selling much easier. Almost five years since the move and no regrets.

[@TheJstewart2010]

I never gave any thought to differences in wheelbases until you showed just how vital it can be. Very cool to learn something new.

[@larrydixon-vi7ld]

Back in the early 80s everyone wanted or had a Camaro, I just wanted to be different, bought a 73 Oldsmobile Omega, put a W30 455 out of a 1970 Cutlass with a built 400 turbo, nova 12 bolt posi , 373 gears and RULED the streets in FtWorth, Texas . They brought trailered cars from 50 miles away to race and I never got beat , unless I broke something, gotta love the Nova platform .

[@Jdwescott]

The most important thing you said was they are your cars and you can do what you want.I may like ribeye steaks and you T bone,it's your choice.Please let us win one though,if it does go to storage put it in the can with the Cobra so it don't deteriate.

[@bradleymckay365]

My dream car has always been a 69 camaro and when I bought one and drove it around, I realized that I didn't want to drive it for any distance at all and I'm only 5ft 10in I can't believe how much I better i feel in our 1977 trans am which you would never think would be more room but it's a big difference.

[@user-eh6og9lo9t]

Yep, Camaros are a tighter squeeze than a Nova. Measure seat back to foot board and you`ll see. Maybe try the Big Block/turbo 350 as a final convincer !!! But the 350/4speed in the Nova will probably bring more smiles per mile for you Dan !!! Maybe try painting the Nova top and hood the same semi-black as the Camaro first? Rave-On Danni and Dan !!!

[@bradywilliams2666]

This is what I was thinking. As a old Jeep guy. The pre 75 CJ's have a different floor at the firewall. They are tight to fit in. The after 75 have way more room with the different floor.

[@user-eh6og9lo9t]

Yes, thats a nice explanation for the differece in interior space !!!

[@erichuff2538]

I had a 67 camaro and it's still my favorite. But I totally support ya on this .. exactly it's what Dan wants..

[@user-KrackerJack]

Screw what anyone has to say . It's yours and you can do whatever the hell you want. You don't owe anyone an explanation.

[@sleepervega71hill28]

OH! The Camaro had new floors,re-upholstered seats and rally sport Gold with Black stripes and all the spoilers. FOR 350$. IT was the only "given". I've ever had privilege of owning... Something of value!

[@daniela.jimerson3486]

Ignore those who love to tell others what to do. It’s just another Camaro, not exactly anything out of the ordinary. Seems about every other car show there’s at least a half dozen.

[@tt600pch]

I bought a 69 Camaro in 1981. My girlfriend and soon to be wife and I fit it very well in it as many ways as possible back then. She was 5'4" at 98 lbs. I was 6' and 180 lbs. She drove it a lot comfortably as well as I did. I built a 72 Cutlass 442 clone in 2015. She was then 5'3" at 125 Lbs. I was 5'11" and 200 lbs. She couldn't drive the Cutlass as she couldn't see over the dash. I still daily drive it after she passed away and it still feels like driving a couch. Most comfortable car I have. Do whatever you want with your cars.

[@fred7854]

Hey Dan and Danielle, Like you said, " it's my car and what I feel better in " I agree 💯. It's what makes you happy. Love your channel and all your videos along with all your cars. Take care and be safe.

[@boatnut64]

Bottom line: They're Both yours... Keep the one you like, and shut out the Noise, of all the Negative Nancy's.... 👍👍👍

[@c.d.england8217]

I want Dani to video the Nova coming by shifting gears, maybe some tire smoke after you get the drivetrain changed. Its gonna be a badass car, enjoy it Dan 👍👍

[@gregallen4272]

Dani did try to learn how to drive stick and it's the most interesting learning to drive video . For a couple of very very good reasons. Double D speed shop .

[@DoitWithAlana]

All engines are motors, but not all motors are engines. A cars drivetrain is from the flywheel to the hub and everything between.

[@user-xz1zj2ff9z]

Little black Camaro is whispering," I want to be on a drag strip,looking cool and going really really quick !

[@johnchambers12]

I had a less cool 77 nova and my buddy had a 1969 Camaro we both liked what we liked back in the day. I can only speak for me but i like both of your cars that are currently up for discussion. You have the ability to choose which cars you keep or sell and we are supposed to be “Along for the ride” I personally enjoy watching you repair the issues with the cars you buy! Saving and sharing old cars is your lot in life. Keep it up!!

[@franklongacre1008]

Dan when you do the Nova consider chrome window frames on the side.

[@motorcyclemark2889]

I love your Nova !

[@jgwilliams5951]

"Its my car " says it all in my book.

[@paulschmidtman5554]

Hey Dan. Paul here. I watch all your videos. I like what you do. Not gonna lie. Some of the stuff you do make me squint a little. I wish you lived near me so I could help uncomplicate your life. But I do see the genius in your butchery. I used to be a collision repair and paint tech. And I restored classic cars at home. I have had both 67 camero and a 72 nova. Loved them both. Along with several other cars. I currently have a 4th gen Z28. I barely fit in. 6 foot 3 275.

[@sleepervega71hill28]

I agree Dan. With the design of the Camaro. BUT the Nova is equally designed. I like it Too. IT is unique

[@CarlMerenda-lx5ss]

All I can say is do what makes you happy, just be safe doing it!!

[@subforry]

I'm looking forward to learning about installing the vinyl top

[@kevinwright1551]

Dan. You know your stuff about your cars. No matter what it is that you do. Explaining the theory of Hot rods to the people. Keep up the great work.

[@sneakysgarage2412]

Yes , nice Nova sir

[@douce3623]

I remember nice cars from 60's and up and a bunch of them were Nova's and Acadian's. One was a beautiful light green with a black vinyl top with Cragar S S wheels.

[@lawncuttingplusdelta]

Trees in the back ground look great … spring has sprung !

[@jimboc7606]

That Camaro will make someone a good car and you have give it a second life is likely would have never known. Thanks for sharing your journey!

[@TheTW13]

Would rather have that Nova too!

[@robertbeam1809]

the nova roof is a little longer which allows the rear seat to sit farther back and gives a little more room in the interior plus the 3 inches long wheel base adds to the interior space too.

[@mattbyrne6283]

I miss my childhood cars especially the first two I bought. The first one was a running driving 68 firebird 421cu turbo automatic 12 bolt 411 gear = $500 140k miles and a 68 Camaro rebuilt 350cu 10over with 194 vette heads and i swapped the engine out from a 76 P/U with the bell housing and 11” clutch and had a borg Warner 4sp taken from out of the smashed corvette from a guy up the street and a 10 bolt posi frame extensions widened tubs with 12” Mickey Thomson tires mounted on SST’s on the back and 5” skinny’s American racing. What fun cars then I bought a 70 1/2 Camaro with a Pontiac 455ci done 30over radical comp cam I don’t remember the lift specs 6-71 blower M22 Muncie hurst linkage 12bolt 383’s that I’d swap out with I think it was 488’s or something like that for showing off pulling wheelie scrapped up my exhaust tailpipes and the exhaust wasn’t welded and the one time the pipes slipped out of the U- style clamps when I gunned it Lol ! I miss all my cars and trucks my purple 74’ AMC gremlin V8 mom gave me and her smashed 57 hardtop 57’ 2dr black and white Chevy her younger brother side swiped 9 cars when he stole her keys, 74 Cadillac 472ci I was going to swap drivetrain into my 79’ Monte Carlo but life got away from me had 2 children and a wife, 78’ Cordoba, 71’ Custom LTD esquire sta. wagon and 76 P/u truck, 80’ Chevy G30 Van , 67’ Catalina all at the same time and as much as I wanted to keep them all my family grew and all my projects went bye bye’s and most of these vehicles were just given to me I bought about 4-5 of them by the time I was 22 I only had the 70 Camaro left and some asshole put diesel fuel in my gas tank and I literally gave up on it and bought a 84 olds delta 88 and moved far away from the shit town I lived in Bloomfield New Jersey which I think the cops could of done it as they were as bad as the mobsters that lived in that town back in the mid to late 80’s and nowadays I had someone smash their heavy machinery into my machine and it injured me (long story) 20 years later deterioration caught up to me and now I’m disabled unable to work. anyway you or no one who reads this would need to know the crazy details about the bad luck Ive gone through. Anyway to much information. I just wanted to express the things I miss and I love that 67’ Camaro regardless it’s not manufactured correct I don’t care about that hey if it runs , stops, drivable and can pass inspections and no rust that’s what hot roddin is all about. I wish I had the money to buy it and I’d drive it everyday and the only thing that I’d change on the body is I prefer the L88 hood 👍 good luck and keep up with your passion i like that you are saving basket cases and making them roadworthy again 🇺🇸 right on DD speed shop ! (Dude and Doll)😁bringing the nomad back from a pile of nothing was awesome that suits you I hope you never get rid of it. The end!☀️t

[@markwalsh262]

They share a lot of the same components but the geometry is different

[@MichaelSmith-jv7zm]

Camaro 2746 mm --- 108.1" Nova 2,819 mmm --- 111" They are about 80% the same. all the suspension and stuff like that is the same, and the sub-frames are interchangeable, also. the main differences are that the Nova has a longer wheelbase-so the driveshaft is longer- and also has a frame around the windows in the doors, unlike the hardtop style used in the camaro without the frame. i think a dash out of a 68 or 69 camaro will fit in a Nova, as well as door panels.

[@gregorybarth930]

If you think 3 inches don't make a difference ask your wife/girlfriend

[@johnkranz4004]

Good choice Nova Dan

[@xofireman853]

I say you’re right. Do the Nova.

[@nascar427]

Rear axle in the Camaro doesn't look centered. In my 69 Camaro, and made my own seat base, and mounted a racing seat to it, then I mounted it back far, so I had great leg extension. Was really comfortable in it.

[@chrisroberts1784]

Having worked on both I believe a lot of your problem is the aftermarket seats. But no matter it's your ride do what you want

[@Wooley689]

I think if you compare the two roofs front to back and the inside dash to package tray, you will find there is more space in the Nova. You have more headroom as well in the nova especially at the rear because of the roof design.

[@hubiesgarage]

Dan, keep the tape measures away from the wives because if they find out how much 3"s really is, us guys will all be in big trouble! 😂😂😂 Keep up the great work and Nova for the win!

[@Atodaso-pg9kq]

Speak for yourself brother! 🙃

[@gregallen4272]

The top of the roof where the side window touches the roof on the camero is much more narrow than the nogo i think that is the biggest problem with taller people and the windshield leans back several inches closer. But at the same time this is what makes the camera look much more racing car . Great told you that you would miss the wagon. A favorite of mine a 65 2 door chevelle never been able to find one that is cheap enough. Like both cars equally dan not only do you have a fantastic girlfriend you have the tough time of deciding what hot rods to keep and what to keep for now . Can't really be jealous because you earned it by working long days and working full time. This shows what hard work can do for anyone. Thanks for the inspiration and taking us along for the fun.

[@davidvianu2353]

I followed you when you started doing the nova on the channel. Glad your keeping it

[@greggsvintageworkshop8974]

Your cars, so your decision! I LOVE all your cars and videos, there is no bad decisions when they are yours!

[@pb5778]

Thanks for sharing this video with us

[@johnjacobs4625]

Nova has a taller roof,and seat to headliner measurement,can make a huge difference

[@russellhemenway7467]

When you look at the 2 cars head on, the Camaro windows look to slant in where the Nova seems to be much more vertical. Probably makes it feel much smaller inside as well.

[@RussellJohnson-ut5fn]

That Camero is going to make someone an awesome car. Great job on that build!

[@smarternu]

I am 6 foot 6 inches tall. The #1 concern when buying cars, and I have owned a thousand, is ALWAYS do I fit? Current daily, the small Ford CMax.

[@user-lp4du4nm9c]

measure from the front of the door to the back of the rear fender that should show the diference

[@odahithedubious2017]

Ultimately, it's your money, your time, and your cars. Keep them both, sell them both, or sell only one, I'm just enjoying the videos. If it were MY money, I'd have a '69 Olds 442. I watch your videos because I like you, and you're fun. All the best to both of you.

[@dankniseley9486]

Sometimes you just don't like the feel of comfort in a car. I had 3 1969 camaros at one time and one of them for some reason I wasn't comfortable in so I sold it, who knows why but like you said it is what it is

[@richc9503]

I like em both and I've never drove either, but I wouldn't drive it if I wasn't comfortable.

[@hellpig4309]

It is all a matter of MOTIVATION! I'm not a little feller, but 40 years ago, GF and I did all.sorts of creative things in my '67 Camaro...

[@richardchretien7412]

I understand what you’re saying. I street rodded a model A coupe. When I finished I couldn’t even get in never mind sit in it. I had to do some mods to ti fit in. I’m about 5” 10”. Dan would never fit in or be comfortable. People that don’t build cars just don’t understand. You don’t have to explain to me.

[@RandomPrecisionMotors]

Good choice keeping the Nova, personally I wouldn't add a Vinyl Roof to it, but that's just me, it's your car...

[@cdrb838]

Interesting thoughts. Not sure why the need to explain your thoughts or desires for others . Great job on your rides

[@williegibson2510]

Hey Dan what ever you want to sell or keep is fine with me as long as keep these videos rolling. I enjoy every last one.

[@dannymelyea]

Hey Dan it might help to get the original seats and the original seats are lower profile for sure I had a 67 the original seats fit 100% better then a high bucket seats

[@papawnanabubby5005]

If I was building a car to win a popularity contest or make more money selling it, give me a Camaro. If I were building the car I like better, gimme a Nova. That being said, we have an '87 Camaro convertible for our hot rod/cruiser. It's what we could afford. Nice paint, nice interior, good running V8 car for $1700. I'll probably have $3500 in it when Im done.

[@raylovins2188]

You do what you got to do you guys

[@soulshaker1962]

Your cars, your choice. No need to justify anything! I dig 67/68 Camaros but the Nova is way cooler and I think it will look awesome with a vinyl top.

[@dougr.6734]

With ya 100% until you mentioned the vinyl top. Sentimental value overcomes cash value any day. If my dad got me the Nova, and I could only have one to keep, it’s a no brainer!! Give ‘er Dan!

[@richardgeer1931]

Having own both cars. 1969 Rs Camaro and 1971 Nova Clone I loved the look of Camaro but drove the Nova the most it was just a all round fun car and comfortable

[@thebigpicture2032]

A nice Nova is a super cool car. A friend of mine built a nice black 70 with 396/4 speed with black interior. Looked killer just standing still.

[@scottbennett3119]

Thanks for acknowledging your Camaro fan followers!

[@mikecolemire3692]

Really who cares what people think? Have they got any time or money in it. Keep on keeping on, love all your videos.

[@harleykdognova4226]

Some valid points to me 👍👍

[@lawncuttingplusdelta]

Neat little video ….. I love both cars and had a few novas … nova is still my fave

[@daviddewitt7524]

You go Dan, love the nova. Can’t wait for the build.love your videos keep doing you,and I’ll definitely keep watching.

[@tyecampbell6631]

I’m glad you done this video. I have always been my comfortable in a Nova.

[@danpatterson8009]

In 1968 my grandmother was given a new Camaro by a relative who had won it in a contest and didn't need it. Grandmom didn't see herself tooling around in a Camaro, so she went to the dealer and traded it for a four-door Nova.

[@trillrifaxegrindor4411]

that was an incredibly stupid move but it was her car

[@NoWr2Run]

@@trillrifaxegrindor4411 Did you ever try too put kids in the backseat of a first Gen. Camaro ? I sold a Pontiac GT & bought a Station Wagon just for me 5 DAGS, stupid too some but not for me. It's all about what best suits your needs at the time.

[@danpatterson8009]

When I was a teen I thought it was an unfortunate choice also. In 1970 Dad was car shopping and I tried to get him to buy a GTO. He bought a Maverick.

[@shawnknight421]

Most people on the internet are idiots, they give advice about stuff they know nothing about. You Do You, and screw everyone else! Keep up the good work love the channel!!!

[@williamhulett4131]

Everyone has different thoughts and preferences on the vehicle that they like. If we all had the same thoughts and preferences we would ALL be driving a pink Geo Metro. 😂 Thank God for creating us with thoughts and preferences. 😁

[@jonathangehman4005]

I bought a '61 Studebaker Champ Pickup thinking it would make a great gasser, lightweight, straight axle, room for big V8, full frame, etc. I knew sheetmetal wouldn't be a problem since the Champ body is just the front half of a Studebaker Lark 4dr. So I bought one from a buddy and had him haul it to VA from Tx only to discover I don't fit. I can get in and operate the controls, but at 6'1" and 235lbs, I can do about 30 mins before I'm wrecked and barely able to get out and walk. But I fit in a '61 Lark, 2dr or 4dr with zero issues. The seat in the Champ can't go back past the back edge of the door. On the car, it still has like 4" to go. D'OH!

[@ChrisJEllis]

I had a 68 Cutlass that I was driving. Bought a 67 firebird in pieces. Put the firebird together and I didn't like it after the first test drive. Sold the firebird.

[@68-And-I-Owe-You-NONE]

You have a golden opportunity to turn the 67 and 68 Camaros into giveaway cars for people that buy shirts or whatever. Budget finish them obviously. Could turn this 67 into a pile-o-cash from the sales then another build series on the 68 for the same outcome = property paid for from 2 cars.

[@Chevyv8man1]

Hey Dan, I'm owned both a 67 Camero SS and a few 68 - 72 Novas and you're right the Camero does have less room in them. I'm 6'1" and was about 225 lbs ant that time.and found more room in the Nova. One thing to know is that a stock 67 Camero had stock bucket seats that are a lot smaller (base thickness wise was about 3" including frame) then the ones that you put in yours. I fit into my Camero a lot better then you looked in yours. I'm looking forward to watching your videos of you putting that drive train into the Nova It should be a real fun car with that in it. Good luck

[@epk2027]

I see you gave Dani the smart end of the tape measure

[@Baddog6873]

I'm 5 foot 8 inches and I fit in everything. I just like Novas better.

[@georgedavidson1221]

Cameras are for smaller people Nothing worse than not been able to fit

[@hammacks4]

You guys do whays good for you! You do what's best for you two ❤

[@motorcyclemark2889]

I drive a 78 2 door small block 327 in my nova r 4 trans stall converter 373 gears its just a little hotrod

[@NoWr2Run]

I bet it is, NICE. I had worked 327's in a first Gen. Camaro's, GREAT ENGINE.

[@kevinl.2291]

Both cars are awesome but I like the Nova. 👍😎✌️

[@MikeWolf-427]

Great Choice. :) I have been stuck on stupid for Novas since I got my first one almost 25 years ago. I have had 4 of them now and I'm finally on the Nova I'll drive to the grave and never get rid of it. '69 Base car with a 427bbc with fuel injection. Just a black restomod.

[@MikeWolf-427]

@@newtonfirefly3584 Yes. It's a '69 (512 block) 427 BBC. I have a Holley Terminator Stealth system with a Dominator ECU. I was tired of adjusting the Carb and Timing every time the wind changes direction or I went on a road trip. With the Regulated In tank pump and the Stealth, you'd never know it was Fuel injected.

[@jimfinlaw4537]

Dan. Do what makes you the happiest. If the Camaro is not a good fit for you, sell it and focus on the Nova. Camaros are not for everybody. I own a 1980 T-top Camaro myself, I'm 5 foot 9 and 224 pounds and it fits me just fine. If driving the Nova is more comfortable to you than you should follow your gut and work on the Nova. No need to justify your decisions. They are your cars so by all means do whatever makes you the happiest.

[@shanewright6958]

Here we go again 👍👍

[@marcbondi8462]

THE Nova was a 6 passenger intermediate. We had a 70 Nova with front bench and my parents traded it for a 73 chevelle wagon because there were 7 of us.

[@mikemadison2747]

Can't wait for more Nova stuff!

[@dougcroissant6360]

Had both, snd yes the nova feels bigger, never knew why, love them both, But,,,, the nova is a keeper, the yellow with black vinyl is yes, enjoy ,,,,,

[@thebigpicture2032]

Having owned both, well their cousins Firebird and 74 GTO, there is way more room in the Nova body style. I kept the Firebird since I’m only 6’ and fit well.