It’s probably one of the baddest “box” Nova’s ever built to date. It’s got everything a Muscle Machine should have: The looks, stance, and overall engineering. It’s seriously one of a kind. Let’s quit with all the yammering…this year’s Goodguy’s 2011 Detroit Muscle Machine of the Year award has gone to Gerry Kerna’s “Runt” ’62 Chevy II.

So, what’s all the fuss? The Muscle Machine of the Year award is designed to honor a Muscle Car that has been modified to perform at a high level. It not only includes the stance, but also involves handling, body & paint and overall engineering — this car’s got tons!

The “Runt” illustrates all and above. When Kerna first envisioned the car, she wanted something she could “participate” in instead of merely a being a show queen. Curt Ukasik at RPM Hot Rods, Pennsylvania, built “Runt.” It began life as a traditional 6-cylinder with Government-issue hubcaps.

However, at PRM that quickly changed. RPM designed it to run hard on a custom-boxed Roadster Shop chassis featuring a modified Heidt’s Pro-G front suspension, Currie 9-inch rear end on a parallel four-link with Ridetech single-adjustable coilovers. Not done there, RPM also added Nextel Cup-style swaybars, and Setrab coolers were used for the differential, power steering and transmission; all circulated by Weldon pumps.

Power comes from a potent 650hp 427ci LS7 from Thompson Racing. It’s backed by a Bowler-prepped Tremec 6-speed with McLeod road racing clutch and a lightened aluminum flywheel. Twelve and thirteen inch Wilwood brakes are used to stop the Billet Specialties “Throttle” wheels wrapped in BFG’s G-Force KDW tires.

Runt’s body features stretched front wheel openings, tucked and smoothed bumpers, a sheet metal spoiler, new floors and firewall with a custom lower front valence. The interior pulls from high end luxury cars with diamond-stitched brown leather upholstery by Smith’s Custom Seats. There’s also a full roll cage, 5-point harnesses and a “Throttle” steering wheel from Billet Specialties to match the wheels.

If you happen to be at the Goodguys 14^th Southwest Nationals, November 18-20 in Scottsdale, Arizona, be sure to check out the “Runt.” It’ll be on display, there inside the “Champion’s Arena” presented by Street Rod Headquarters. For more info on upcoming Goodguys shows in your area, be sure to visit the Goodguys website. They’ve got a ton of shows in your area, guaranteed!