Mike Ryan of Port Ludlow, Washington, is the owner of this impressive and well-built 1970 Pontiac Trans Am clone. It has come a long way in the eight years that Ryan has owned the car, and he described the condition it was in when he bought it as “a $300 wreck.” Not only was it in rough shape, but this Trans Am started life as a Pontiac Firebird Esprit.
This clone features a 455 cubic-inch engine with a four bolt main, SRP pistons, an Edelbrock high performance intake manifold, a Crane high-lift cam, and 770cfm Holley street avenger carburetor. The drivetrain is followed up with a turbo-400 automatic transmission with a shift kit, B&M ratchet shifter, and a 12-bolt Yukon positraction rearend with 3.08:1 gearing.
With all of that, it is capable of 500 horsepower and nearly 500 lb-ft of torque. When considering the lightweight nature of this car, that is a lot of power. “I haven’t had a problem with it yet,” Ryan told us in regards to the durability and power of the build. “And I let it loose on occasion.”
The appearance of the car features an almost stock Trans Am look, with the addition of upgraded wheels that support slightly larger tires while retaining the stock look. The interior also presents a nearly stock look with only the addition of an aftermarket Equus tachometer and fuel gauge. Overall, it’s a great looking car and it was done right. What do you think?
If you want your car or truck to be a part of our Street Feature series, all you have to do is shoot us an email and tell us about your ride and we will make it happen.