Cha-Cha Nova: A Tribute to Shirley Muldowney by Red River Customs

In a powerful nod to one of drag racing’s pioneering legends, Red River Customs has unveiled the “Cha-Cha Nova” at SEMA, a custom-built 1969 Nova that honors Shirley “Cha-Cha” Muldowney, the “First Lady of Drag Racing.” Built from the ground up with a Speedtech Performance chassis and QA1 Mod Shocks, this car is more than a tribute—it’s a fusion of history, artistry, and serious performance.

The Inspiration Behind the Build

The Cha-Cha Nova represents Muldowney’s legacy in a vehicle that feels both classic and cutting-edge. Rory, from Red River Customs, shared that the project started nearly four years ago, with initial concepts and designs forming just before the pandemic. The car was reshaped over time to include hand-fabricated components like the hood, deck lid, and bumpers, all finished in striking carbon fiber and overlayed with a sparkling berry candy color. The finish truly shines under the lights, giving the car a mesmerizing presence.

Unmatched Performance and Style

This Nova roars with a 1,000+ horsepower 632 engine paired with a Tremec TKX 6-speed transmission. The powertrain, combined with Speedtech’s extreme front end and independent rear suspension (IRS), along with QA1 Mod Shocks, makes the Cha-Cha Nova a beast on wheels, engineered to handle the dragstrip and beyond. The detail work is equally impressive, with every inch of the car reflecting the iconic pink that’s synonymous with Muldowney, from anodized and powder-coated suspension parts to the high-mount rear coil springs.

A Touch of Custom Elegance Inside

Stepping inside, the Cha-Cha Nova surprises with a modern and customized Holley Pro Dash. The infotainment setup features two screens that incorporate Muldowney’s logos and color scheme, enhancing the homage to her career. One of the most remarkable details is in the seats, which feature tuck-and-roll upholstery with laser-etched names of the drag strips where Muldowney made history—a personal touch that brings her legacy front and center.

What’s Next?

The Cha-Cha Nova is not just a one-off. After SEMA, it will head to Kissimmee, Florida, for the Mecum Auction on January 18th, where it will be available for purchase. As the prototype, this Nova is labeled as “0X1,” and Red River Customs plans to produce a total of 25 units. Fans of this tribute car can sign up for the waiting list on Red River’s website, giving more enthusiasts the chance to own a piece of drag racing history.

A Tribute for the Ages

The Cha-Cha Nova celebrates Muldowney’s achievements as a four-time world champion and a true trailblazer for women in motorsports. This project honors not only her victories but the perseverance that pushed her through, making her a revered figure in the racing world. With Red River Customs, Speedtech Performance, and QA1 Mod Shocks working together, this Nova is set to inspire and impress anyone who gets behind the wheel.