Now this is an unusual street rod. It’s not all too often that you see a Studebaker in any form, let alone one that packs so much power. Originally a Kentucky car, this ’55 Studebaker President Roadster belongs to Jerry Johnson from Port Townsend, Washington.

It is powered by a monster of an engine: a four-bolt main, Chevrolet big block 454 cubic-incher that had an unusual start. “The engine came out of a Winnebago motorhome,” Johnson described. Although this engine basically went from one recreational vehicle to another, it is being used for an entirely different form of recreation.

Originally a full-roll cage race car, it has been trimmed down to just the front supports under the hood and what goes into the dash area of the car. The engine has been upgraded with a Comp thumper cam, aluminum heads, MSD ignition, and a Holley 750cfm carburetor.

The drivetrain is followed up with a turbo 350 transmission, B&M shifter, Ford 9-inch rearend with 3.55:1 positraction gearing, and Strange Engineering axles. The exhaust has been upgraded with 2-½ inch pipe and Flowmaster 50 series mufflers. Making use of Wilwood front disc brakes and a Mustang II front end with rack and pinion steering, it handles as well as it drives.

The bodywork was all done by Vavra Autobody from Nooksack, Washington. Johnson is happy with the look and we agree that it is an unusual paint job that really attracts attention at a show. In addition to the impressive bodywork, the exterior also features Billet Specialties wheels and Hoosier tires.

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.