A vehicle of special interest that is a street rod is exempt from vehicle equipment requirements under ORS § 815.075, 815.105, 815.120, 815.135, 815.175, 815.190, 815.210, 815.215, 815.230, 815.250, 815.255 and 816.340 if all of the following apply:

(1) The vehicle is equipped with original manufacturer’s equipment and accessories, or their equivalent, except that:

(a) The drive train, suspension system or brake system on the original vehicle may be replaced with a drive train, suspension system or brake system that:

(A) Conforms to the requirements of ORS § 815.125, if applicable;

(B) Conforms to applicable standards established by the Department of Transportation by rule under ORS § 815.030; and

(C) Bears any required proof of certification that the equipment complies with the applicable standards;

(b) The dimensions of the original body of the vehicle may be altered if the altered body conforms to the standards established by the department by rule under ORS § 815.030;

(c) The hood, bumpers and fenders of the vehicle may be removed from the vehicle; and

(d) The exhaust system may be modified to discharge exhaust along the side of the vehicle if the exhaust is discharged away from the vehicle and from a location to the rear of the rear edge of the front door of the vehicle.

(2) The vehicle is maintained in safe operating condition. [1997 c.402 § 5; 1999 c.59 § 243]