25 Iconic Cars That Have Taken Centre Stage In Hip-Hop Culture

Cars and hip-hop have been intertwined since 1979 when the Sugar Hill Gang's Rapper's Delight mentioned luxury vehicles in its lyrics. Many rappers now have signature cars tied to their persona, creating iconic connections in the culture.

Lexus GS

Notorious B.I.G. rapped about this car in Young G's, while Tupac mentioned it in Picture Me Rolling. These references made Lexus a symbol of wealth and the 'hustler' lifestyle.

Aston Martin

Associated with James Bond, the Aston Martin holds iconic status in pop culture. Rick Ross elevated its allure by showcasing a fleet in his Aston Martin Music video.

Mustang 5.0

This car offered great value, leading many rappers to fondly recall owning one in their youth. The 5.0 also featured in iconic films like Menace II Society and Boyz N The Hood.

Hummer Limousine

This flashy status symbol offers ample space for music videos and parties. B.G.’s Bling Bling video famously showcased a stunning Hummer limo.

50 Cent's Bulletproof Chevrolet Suburban

50 Cent bought this $200,000 vehicle for protection after being shot nine times. He referenced it in his songs High All the Time and Many Men.

Dodge Challenger

The Dodge Challenger’s comeback as a modern muscle car made it popular with many, including rappers. Wiz Khalifa featured a black and yellow model in his Black and Yellow video.

Chingo Bling's Taco Truck

Bling created the taco truck to promote his albumThey Can't Deport Us All, making it a unique symbol in hip-hop. Chingo also sold mixtapes from the truck during the early stages of his career.

Oldsmobile Cutlass

E-40 and Nelly mentioned the Cutlass in their songs, and it has appeared in numerous music videos. The Cutlass was a successful release and remains popular among rappers and classic car collectors.

1974 Dodge Dart

A Tribe Called Quest raps about growing up with this dependable vehicle, ideal for long trips like the one in "Left My Wallet in El Segundo." Its spacious interior adds to its appeal.

Saab 900

This vehicle became a favorite among hustlers, with Jay-Z, Lil' Kim, and the song "Shook Ones Pt. 2" referencing it. Its association with the streets solidified its status.

Bugatti Veyron

The Veyron is the fastest production car, costing $1.7 million and $300,000 annually to maintain, making it a massive status symbol for rappers. Its exclusivity and upkeep highlight its luxury.

Lamborghini Murcielago

When the Murcielago was released in 2001, rappers Ja Rule, Jermaine Dupri, and Young Jeezy were seen cruising in this high-end performance vehicle. The car also appeared in the music video for I Get Money by 50 Cent.

Chrysler 300C

The 300C, known for its stylish looks and customization potential, has been favored by artists like Lil Flip, Dr. Dre, and 50 Cent. It's often dubbed the 'poor man's Bentley' for its luxury-inspired design.

No Limit Record's Gold Tank

The gold tank symbolized the No Limit Army, representing the unity of artists, promoters, and management. It was mentioned in nearly every song during No Limit's peak in the late 1990s.

Bentley Azure

Puff Daddy bought the first Bentley Azure in America, linking the car to wealth and success. Jay-Z also featured it on the cover of his album Volume 2... Hard Knock Life.

Cadillac Escalade

The Escalade's size, customization options, and flashy look made it a staple in hip-hop culture. Some rappers go as far as adding Lamborghini doors to their modified versions.

Range Rover 4.6

The 4.6’s powerful V8 engine made it a hip-hop status symbol in the 1990s. Jay-Z even praised it over the 4.0 version in his song Imaginary Player.

BMW 745

The fifth-generation 7 Series is a hip-hop favorite, embraced by rappers like Fat Joe, Malice, Remy Ma, and Jay-Z. Its luxury and solid feel make it a desirable ride in hip-hop culture.

Mercedes-Benz SL

The SL Mercedes was a favorite of Biggie Smalls and Tupac, both of whom owned one. Big L also rapped about it, mentioning, “we can jump in the SL, rent a room at the best 'tel.”

Rolls-Royce Phantom

The Phantom is a luxury car known for its custom features and high price tag. In hip-hop culture, it gained fame after appearing in Fat Joe's music video for "Lean Back."

Jeep Wrangler

The Jeep Wrangler is often featured in hip-hop music videos set in sunny locations, like the beach. Its rugged, fun design appeals to many rappers, evoking a sense of adventure.

Cam'ron's Pink Range Rover

Cam'ron, known for his signature pink style, had his car painted to match his iconic look. He later sold the vehicle to a car detailing shop for $50,000 USD in 2013.

Mazda MPV

While not glamorous, the MPV holds a special place in hip-hop culture. Raekwon from Wu-Tang Clan referenced it in his lyrics, highlighting its utility for transporting the crew and making money.

Maybach 62

The luxury Maybach, reintroduced in 2002, was quickly embraced by wealthy rappers. It notably appeared in Jay-Z's music video for "Dirt Off Your Shoulder."

1964 Chevrolet Impala

The 64 Impala has been immortalized by West Coast artists like E-40, Dr. Dre, and Snoop Dogg. It was made most famous by Eazy-E's song "Boyz in the Hood," where he raps, “cruising' down the street in my '64.”