The Denver Police Museum’s Fleet Expands!

The Denver Police Museum would like to thank Marie Dabis of the Denver Police Department and members of Denver City Council who voted to transfer the ownership of this 1978 Nova to the Museum for preservation. This car was listed on the DPD fleet from 1978 through July 2025. This makes this car the longest serving Denver Police car in history. 

Interestingly, this model did not last very long in the DPD fleet. When they were purchased they were underpowered and not large enough to transport prisoners and allow for officers to get in and out of easily with their equipment.

Denver and Los Angeles purchased these patrol cars in response to the energy crisis of the era. This particular vehicle survived primarily because it was used to haul the bomb container and was displayed for several years at the police academy.

In recent years the car has been used for community outreach. We bring current police cars next to the Nova so that students can see how technology has changed throughout the years. Historic automobiles can serve as an ice breaker since folks are sometimes hesitant to talk to officers.

The Nova joins the Museum car collection composed currently of a 1930 Ford Model A, a 1964 Ford Galaxy, and a 1998 crown Victoria. The Museum’s long-term plans include having a police car from every decade.