* Motor Mounts: The engine mounts on the 1978 305 will likely not line up with the existing mounts in the 1965 Nova frame. You'll need to fabricate new motor mounts or use aftermarket mounts designed for a small-block Chevy in a first-generation Nova.
* Transmission: You'll need to consider the transmission. The 1978 305 likely came with a different transmission than what the 1965 Nova originally had. You might need an adapter plate, a new transmission crossmember, and potentially driveshaft modifications to mate the engine and transmission to the Nova's rear end.
* Exhaust: The exhaust system will need to be custom fabricated to fit the new engine.
* Wiring: The engine harness from the 1978 305 is different than the 1965 Nova's wiring harness. You will need to adapt the wiring or use a custom wiring harness. This is often the most challenging part of the swap.
* Cooling System: The cooling system might need adjustments to ensure proper fit and function with the new engine.
* Brakes: While not directly related to the engine swap, you might want to upgrade the braking system to handle the increased power, especially if you're planning performance modifications.
In short, while feasible, this engine swap is a significant project requiring mechanical skill, fabrication expertise, and a good understanding of automotive systems. It's not a simple weekend project. You'll likely need to source many parts, and the cost can add up quickly.
