G8 Special Edition

Hip-hop artist and passionate car enthusiast 50 Cent took the opportunity to pimp his ride when he teamed up with New York-based tuner Unique Autosports and created a one-of-a-kind Pontiac G8 performance sedan. This aggressively modified G8 made waves when it debuted at the 2007 SEMA Show in Las Vegas.

The “50 Cent G8” is completely customized with unique accessories, as well as a ferocious powertrain. The LSX 427 engine uses GM Performance Parts’ affordable, durable LSX cylinder block as its foundation. The 427 engine dyno-tested to more than 500 hp and is assembled only with components available from GM Performance Parts. This is a vast increase in power over the stock G8 GT’s 6.0-liter V8 rated at 361hp.

The engine assembly uses a variety of production-based components used on the Corvette Z06’s 7.0L LS7 engine, including a forged steel crankshaft, lightweight titanium connecting rods, racing-derived aluminum cylinder heads and a complete LS7 intake/throttle body/fuel-injection system. Engine operation is handled with GM Performance Parts’ new stand-alone LS7 crate engine controller.

Inside, the standard leather seats were re-trimmed with perforated red leather inserts and adorned with the 50 Cent/Unique Autosports logo embroidered into the headrests and custom floor mats. The finishing touch for the G8 is an 800-watt JBL audio system, with complementing amps and a subwoofer.

As polarizing as the styling of the “50 Cent G8” is, it’s essentially identical to that of the production vehicle. Will Castro from Unique Autosports explains, “The most interesting aspect of the project is what we didn’t do to the exterior. We didn’t add a body kit, spoilers or lower the car. The G8 has the right stance and appearance, so we only accented the original form with details that made it unique to 50 Cent.” Those details include a special Spies Hecker Torch Red paint job; 22-inch chrome wheels with low-profile Pirelli tires; custom “50 Cent Unique Autosports Edition” exterior badging; and Borla stainless steel exhaust system.

Of course, to truly rock it, the sound system had to be exceptional. “A first-class audio system was a must for 50 Cent, and this one rocks the spot,” said Castro. “In fact, the G8 itself just-plain rocks and makes a great platform to build a custom, high-performance street car.”