Rapper 50 Cent (also known as Curtis Jackson) often uses edgy themes and confrontational lyrics in his songs to describe a hard life. It's little wonder that he chose Pontiac's G8 to add bite to the image he portrays in his songs. He's been an avid car enthusiast for years with a passion for performance vehicles. In fact, he released a video for his song "Amusement Park" that showcased two Pontiac concept cars (at the time): the G6 GXP and the G8. But, we don't think anyone was prepared to see how far 50 Cent was willing to take the G8.

He showed up at the SEMA Auto Show late last year with a completely customized G8 that stunned the audience. Sporting a hard-charging 7.0-liter LSX 427 V8, his G8 is capable of hitting over 500 horsepower. The engine in 50 Cent's souped-up G8 is basically the same engine used in the Corvette Z06: the LS7. It has many of the same components as the LS7 including aluminum cylinder heads, the same fuel injection system and connecting rods built from lightweight titanium. To have his ride upgraded, 50 Cent relied on Will Castro, the owner of the acclaimed shop Unique Autosports.

"The G8 is like none other and it pushes the boundaries of what people think a car has to be," says Jackson.

Well said, Fiddy. We couldn't agree more.