February 25 State your ride

Tyler Dietzen, 1962 Chevy Nova

By Jen Houghton
COPY EDITOR

If you think surfing the internet during class will only get you into trouble, you’re wrong — it can also get you a classic muscle car. Such was the case for 21-year-old fire science major Tyler Dietzen when he discovered his 1962 Chevy Nova online while in the middle of math class.

Since that day, Dietzen has installed a custom stereo, rebuilt the 327ci engine, installed rally rims and tires, restored the upholstery and has also gotten a custom paint job concocted by Dietzen himself. The car is two-toned, white from the sides but silver on the roof and hood.

Many modifications to the car have been done under the guidance of “Nova Joe,” who Dietzen met at a car show. “He took me under his wing, teaching me a lot and getting me parts,” Dietzen said.

You won’t see the Nova in the reservoir too often. “It used to be my daily driver in high school,” Dietzen said, but now he drives it less frequently.
“I want to hold onto it my whole life,” he said.