Street Rod

Street Rod is more than just a game—it’s a time machine back to 1963, when hot rods ruled the roads, gas was cheap, and proving yourself meant burning rubber at the local drag strip. Released in 1989, this iconic DOS title drops you into a sun-soaked American summer with just $750, a garage, and a newspaper full of used cars. Your mission? Mod your rod, win races, earn cash, and rise through the street racing ranks to challenge and dethrone The King at Bob’s Drive-In.

How to play Street Rod

Starting Out

You begin with limited cash and a dream. Use the newspaper to browse used cars and parts. Once you’ve bought your starter car, head to the garage to begin customization. Buy, swap, and install parts like engines, manifolds, carburetors, transmissions, tires, and more—every change counts. You’ll also need to tune and maintain your vehicle as parts wear down over time.

Controls & Interface

Street Rod can be played with a keyboard, mouse, or joystick. On PEXY.IO, mouse is the optimal option for navigating menus and interacting with your garage. During races, different control schemes apply:

• Mouse: Right-click to accelerate, drag to decelerate
• Keyboard: Arrow keys for speed and direction, Space to shift gears
• Selector key (e.g. mouse click or spacebar) to make selections in menus

Garage Life

The garage is your base. Here, you can:

• Inspect and maintain your car
• Install and remove parts
• Buy and sell cars or parts
• Paint, sticker, and modify car visuals
• Monitor fuel levels and part wear
• Pop the hood to install or tune internal parts

Be sure to check your calendar—you only have until September 15 to take the crown.

Racing Types

Head to Bob’s Drive-In to challenge racers in one of two formats:

• Drag Races: Quarter-mile sprints testing reaction and acceleration
• Road Races: Two-and-a-half-mile winding races testing handling and timing

Drag races emphasize low-gear tuning and timing shifts perfectly at the green light. Road races demand advanced handling and optimal high-gear tuning.

Risk & Reward

Race “just for kicks” to practice, or bet cash to fund upgrades. Feeling bold? Race for pink slips—winner takes the opponent’s car. Just make sure your ride (and your skills) are up for the challenge.

Customizing & Upgrades

Key modifications you can make:

• Engines: Swap out for higher horsepower
• Transmissions: Choose between automatic and various manual options
• Tires: Upgrade for better grip (not resellable)
• Bumpers & Roof: Remove or chop for weight and speed gain (at risk of more damage)
• Stickers & Paint: Boost your car’s “cool” factor to impress rivals

Every part wears out, so monitor their status in the CAR INFO clipboard and replace as needed.

Advanced Driving

Shifting: Automatic is beginner-friendly; manual allows more performance if used well. Avoid “speed shifting” (shifting without letting off the gas) to prevent dropping the transmission.

Engine Care: Avoid red-lining your RPM or you’ll blow the engine. Fixing it costs time and money.

Police: Speed during normal driving and you may get pulled over. Pay the fine or risk jail (and game over!).

Crashes: Bumping rivals or veering off the road causes crashes. Damage varies—repair or junk your car depending on severity and cost.

FAQ

What is the goal of Street Rod?

Buy and build your ultimate hot rod, win races, and challenge The King to become the best street racer before summer ends.

How do I earn money in Street Rod?

Win drag or road races for cash. You can also race for pink slips to gain more valuable cars.

Can I customize my car?

Absolutely. Swap engines, transmissions, tires, and more. Tune performance or repaint your ride for style points.

What’s the difference between drag and road racing?

Drag racing focuses on short bursts and quick shifts, while road racing tests cornering, braking, and sustained speed control.

How do I challenge The King?

First, beat enough racers to prove yourself. Once you’ve gained respect and the right car, The King will accept your challenge.

What happens if I crash or get caught by the cops?

Crashes require expensive repairs or may force you to junk your car. Cops issue tickets or arrest you if you can’t pay—ending the game.

Is manual transmission harder?

Yes, but it offers better speed and control. Start with automatic and move up to manual as you gain confidence.

What if my parts wear out?

All parts degrade with use. Replace them before they fail to avoid breakdowns or race losses.

Can I lose the game?

Yes—if you’re arrested, run out of time, or can’t afford a car to race, the game ends. Budget and race wisely!

Is there a time limit?

Yes. You must defeat The King before school resumes on September 15, so manage your weeks carefully.

Game Fodder

Manuals

• Street Rod original manual