What a gay car!!
lol/jk
I don't know what a nova is, the only nova I know is the Chevy Nova, but it doesn't seem like that's what you have. Anyway, Auto-x is all about skill, go sign up at an autox school and you are all set up. Basic techniques are:
Trail braking
Left foot braking
Maybe more, i don't know at this time... Somebody add more.
You gotta remember that auto x has more turns than straight aways, the most fast you go would probably be 70-80 KPH.
The great thing about having a POS car is that, if you beat a person that has a better car, you will know how good you really are. Plus you get to laugh in their faces.