Image via Complex Original
Intro
[Written by Nina Pola]
One of the most famous millionaires around and the boss of today's most prolific rap camp, Birdman, aka "Baby," is synonymous with everything expensive. And what better high-priced item than a foreign whip. This is a complete guide to every one of Birdman's video rides. While the Bugatti might steal the show, there are a few super-sexy surprises. So forget the video chicks. Let's see the whips.
Bugatti Veyron EB 16.4
56. Bugatti Veyron EB 16.4
Seen In: Fire Flame
Years Of Production: 2005-2011
Complex Says: “Two V8s ain't no such thing as driving calm in this Bugatti.” Wayne was right about all that. This grounded spaceship is equipped with 16 cylinders, pushing more than 1,000 horses. It costs more than $1 million, and it's a favorite ride of the Young Money crew and big spenders alike.
Ferrari 612 Scaglietti
55. Ferrari 612 Scaglietti
Seen In: 100 Million
Years Of Production: 2004-2011
Complex Says: Another classic Ferrari (left) with a front-engine V8, produced from 2004 to 2010. The large side scallops and unique headlights pay homage to a famous 1954 Ferrari. It even serves as a police car in the UK. We would hate to be caught reckless and see one of these in the rearview mirror.
Chevy Van
54. Chevy Van
Seen In: 100 Million
Years Of Production: 1964-1996
Complex Says: The basic work van is as popular among plumbers as it is with criminals.
Aston Martin Vanquish
53. Aston Martin Vanquish
Seen In: 4 My Town
Years Of Production: 2001-2007
Complex Says: A classy stunner from across the pond, equipped with a V12 and a finely sculpted aluminum-bonded body. This smooth coupe maintains the perfect balance of refined British styling and brute performance.
Lamborghini Gallardo
52. Lamborghini Gallardo
Seen In: Money to Blow
Years Of Production: 2003-present
Complex Says: The Gallardo is one of the most popular Lambos ever made. A predecessor to the radical Jalpa, it was an instant classic in '03, gracing magazine covers and starring in music videos from the jump. It's still being mentioned in Billboard hits, from Akon to Young Money. And, of course, such an exotic is even better topless.
Maserati Coupé
51. Maserati Coupé
Seen In: I Run This
Years Of Production: 2001-2007
Complex Says: A quick little sports car with a fine Italian pedigree and a topless beauty is always a good time. Thankfully, it was replaced by the much cooler Gran Turismo.
Chrysler 300C
50. Chrysler 300C
Seen In: Get Your Shine On
Years Of Production: 2004-present
Complex Says: Yet another attempt by Chrysler to save itself a few years back, this is the poor man's Bentley--an American price tag with showy European styling. As the commercial says, “if you're driving one, then you know what it means to earn something.” We dig it.
Dodge Ram SRT-10
49. Dodge Ram SRT-10
Seen In: Get Your Shine On
Years Of Production: 2004-2006
Complex Says: This Ram was a limited production factory hot rod, built solely for the purpose of speed. It was given the heart of a Viper 8.3 liter V10 engine and a six-speed transmission. In 2004, it set the record for the world's fastest production truck. In its three-year life span, less than 10,000 were produced.
Dodge Magnum
48. Dodge Magnum
Seen In: Get Your Shine On
Years Of Production: 2005-2008
Complex Says: The Magnum was another throwback by Chrysler to the popular station wagons of the '50s and '60s. In late 2007, Chrysler announced that the Magnum would be one of four models discontinued because it was “not earning its keep.” Rather unfortunate for this beefy station wagon, which had some hot rod potential.
BMW 7-Series
47. BMW 7 Series
Seen In: Get Your Shine On
Years Of Production: 1977-present
Complex Says: The 7 Series has always been the flagship of BMW. It is the top-of-the-line luxury car, a popular driver among the elite.
Lamborghini Murcielago
46. Lamborghini Murcielago
Seen In: 100 Million
Years Of Production: 2005-2011
Complex Says: The Italian word for bat, the impressive power and aggressive styling of this car is pretty scary. The Murcie (right) is the big brother to the Gallardo and an expensive, foreign car fave among rappers. A special limited production supercar by Lamborghini.
Bentley Continental Flying Spur
45. Bentley Continental Flying Spur
Seen In: Get Your Shine On
Years Of Production: 2005-present
Complex Says: The Flying Spur is a prestigious name that has been in the Bentley family for more than 50 years. It's a hefty sedan with a V12 and 552 horsepower twin turbo to power this Titanic on wheels. This piece of ultimate luxury comes with tons of cool options, like a solar-powered sunroof and heated steering wheel, along with endless color schemes and trims to please the buyer to a tee.
Chevrolet Impala
44. Chevrolet Impala
Seen In: Get Your Shine On, 100 Million
Years Of Production: 1957-1985
Complex Says: The '60s Impala is the epitome of "classic old school." The 64 has been a rapper's main lady since Snoop was talking about his favorite mixed drink. She's also loved among the low rider culture, and can often be found doing hydraulic tricks while blinding you with flashy candy paint and pin-striping.
Ford Crown Victoria
43. Ford Crown Victoria
Seen In: Neck of the Woods
Years Of Production: 1991-2011
Complex Says: The Crown Vic has been the silhouette of law enforcement for years. However, this year its reign of patrolling the streets will come to an end. We think it looked better with rims than badges.
Infiniti QX56
42. Infiniti QX56
Seen In: Neck of the Woods
Years Of Production: 2004-present
Complex Says: This mammoth SUV was designed to be a luxurious 4×4 by the high-end division of the Japanese automaker Nissan. A random choice of whip for this classic New Orleans track, but okay, we guess it was an impressive behemoth to be whipping through your neck of the woods.
Roll Royce Phantom
41. Roll Royce Phantom
Seen In: Neck of the Wood, We Got That, Stuntin' Like My Daddy
Years Of Production: 1925-present
Complex Says: The Phantom is the flagship of Rolls Royce. It is the ultimate taste of the good life. The immortal name has been satisfying the biggest spenders since 1925. Equipped with “theater seating” in the rear, with dual DVDs and tray tables, this is one regal ride. A rich man's best friend, whether royalty or rapper.
BMW 6-Series
40. BMW 6-series
Seen In: Neck of the Woods
Years Of Production: 2003-2010
Complex Says: The 6 Series is BMW's entry into the Grand Touring division. A coupe or topless--either way, it is one of sexiest BMWs ever created. We would love to burn one in this executive coupe.
Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon
39. Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon
Seen In: Still Fly
Years Of Production: 1979-present
Complex Says: First developed in 1979 as a military vehicle, the G-Wagon stands out with its ridiculously boxy styling and body-on-frame construction. It comes equipped with three fully locking differentials, one of the few vehicles to ever have such a feature. The outrageous styling of the G-class has made it a top pick among show-offs and those with more money than brains. We think the G-Wagon should have stayed dodging bullets instead of flashing '24s.
Ford F350 Harley Davidson Edition
38. Ford F350 Harley Davidson Edition
Seen In: Still Fly
Years Of Production: 2004-2005
Complex Says: In 2004, the famous motorcycle company teamed up with Ford to create a special edition of Ford's most successful workhorse, the F350 Super Duty.
Ford F650
37. Ford F650
Seen In: Always Strapped, 100 Million
Years Of Production: 2000-present
Complex Says: A true behemoth on the road, the F650 is the ultimate flex of some serious muscle. Whether getting down and dirty on a construction site, or fully customized parading around a parking lot, this beast is definitely one hell of a pickup truck.
Oldsmobile
36. Oldsmobile
Seen In: Stuntin' Like My Daddy
Years Of Production: 1970s
Complex Says: Another disco era donk. Its an Olds, if you weren't sure, and that's about 10 coats of candy paint sittin on 24's.
Bentley Continental GT
35. Bentley Continental GT
Seen In: Always Strapped, 100 Million, I Run This
Years Of Production: 2003-present
Complex Says: Your A1 grand touring car, definitely one of the classiest blends of brute and beauty. Packed with a V12, this Bentley is popular among high-end customizers. The British car company recently had one painted “passion pink metallic” to support “for the cure” in San Fran.
Maserati Quattroporte
34. Maserati Quattroporte
Seen In: Always Strapped
Years Of Production: 1963-present
Complex Says: Literally meaning “four doors” in Italian, the Quattroporte has been around since the '60s. There have been five generations of this “saloon” car since 1963. Pininfarina, Italy's most legendary automobile designer, is responsible for the refined look of the most recent generation. Specifically designed to cruise the high-speed European roadways with comfort and grace, this sedan has been pleasing expensive tastes since it was first created to the liking of a Muslim Prince in the early '60s.
Maybach 62S Landaulet
33. Maybach 62S Landaulet
Seen In: Y U Mad
Years Of Production: 2008-2010
Complex Says: This is the dopest Maybach there ever was. Based on the 62S, it is a classic revival of the landaulet car body style that was popular in the '20s and '30s. “Riding in style” is an understatement if you're talking about this rolling palace, with accommodations such as a sliding soft roof that allows the back seat passengers to soak up the sun and get a breath of fresh air. The front seats are separated by a glass partition with an opacity that can even be electronically controlled. The chauffeur's area is finished in black leather, while the rear is done in all-white, with piano black and gold-flecked black granite inserts. Now that's classy. The Landaulet was unveiled at the Middle East International Auto Show in late November 2007 as a concept car. It is the highest-priced of the fleet, setting you back just more than $1 million. Maybach confirmed its limited production in 2008. Too bad the company will be ceasing all production by next year.
Chevrolet Silverado
32. Chevrolet Silverado
Seen In: Get Your Roll On
Years Of Production: 1975-present
Complex Says: Many people love the self-proclaimed “most dependable, long-lasting truck on the road.” The all-American company has been making quality pick-up trucks since 1930, and it is still the ride of choice among tough guys and country boys alike. Whether it's jacked up or slammed to the ground, this Chevy is always badass and “like a rock!”
Bentley Arnage
31. Bentley Arnage
Seen In: Get Your Roll On, Baby You Can Do It
Years Of Production: 1998-2009
Complex Says: First produced in '98, the Arnage was the latest design from Bentley since 1980. For decades, the cars had the same 6.75 litre V8 engine that dates back to the 1950s. The Arnage was given a more modern BMW twin turbo V8. With handcrafted coachwork and an outrageous base price of $265,000, it is yet another common cruiser among the high class.
Chevrolet Monte Carlo
30. Chevrolet Monte Carlo
Seen In: Get Your Roll On
Years Of Production: 1970-1988, 1995-2007
Complex Says: Since the beginning of production, the Monte Carlo has been kicking ass in NASCAR all the way until the end of production, when it was replaced by the Impala in 2007. No doubt it will remain a legend both on the track and the streets, as it is a favorite of both rednecks and gangsters.
Ferrari 360 Modena
29. Ferrari 360 Modena
Seen In: Always Strapped, 100 Million, Get Your Roll On
Years Of Production: 1999-2005
Complex Says: The Modena was a predecessor of the F355, as seen in an older Big Tymers vid. It's a V8 mid-engine Ferrari with classic Pininfarina styling with soft flowing curves that ooze Italian sex appeal. This foreign stunner has been featured in rap videos since it came on the scene in '99.
Hummer H2
28. Hummer H2
Seen In: Get Your Roll On, Baby You Can Do It
Years Of Production: 2003-2009
Complex Says: The H2 (far left) is the citizen's version of the original military vehicle, the Alpha H1. This vehicle is just another ridiculously huge SUV that some people buy to compensate for other, much smaller things. Although it is marketed as both a general purpose and off-road vehicle, it is often found with more chrome on it than dirt. Believe it or not, you actually have to keep your eyes peeled to notice this beast roaming around just a few of the videos.
Mercedes-Benz E320 Station Wagon
27. Mercedes-Benz E320 Station Wagon
Seen In: Get Your Roll On
Years Of Production: 1984-1996
Complex Says: Don't knock this seemingly humdrum people mover. We've always had a soft spot for a nice station wagon. It's just something about that low profile that is low-key super cool, especially if it's a Mercedes-Benz. While they almost disappeared for a minute due to the overrated SUV craze, they seem to finally be making a comeback. #teamstationwagons
Ford Excursion
26. Ford Excursion
Seen In: #1 Stunna
Years Of Production: 2000-2005
Complex Says: The Excursion is the biggest SUV ever to hog the road. Built on an F350 platform, it was in production for only five years. High gas prices and straight-up impracticality led to its demise. But Birdman still liked this giant to lead his convoy to the fortress.
Chrysler PT Cruiser
25. Chrysler PT Cruiser
Seen In: #1 Stunna
Years Of Production: 2000-2010
Complex Says: A retro-styled compact that was designed by the same guy who designed the HHR, another retro-styled dud. The initials PT stand for “Personal Transport,” an interesting choice to be seen next to Birdman with some candy paint and chrome rims.
Plymouth Prowler
24. Plymouth Prowler
Seen In: #1 Stunna
Years Of Production: 1997-2002
Complex Says: The Plymouth Prowler (far left) is a retro-styled coupe, based on the '97 concept car of the same name. The Prowler looked pretty outrageous, but it only came with a lame V6 and automatic transmission. The outlandish hot rod look was some unfortunate, false advertising.
Jaguar S-Type
23. Jaguar S-Type
Seen In: #1 Stunna
Years Of Production: 1963-1968 1999-2008
Complex Says: The S-type is a throwback to the classic of the 1960s, the 3.8S. This 1960s S-Type was well-received, and it also had much success on the racetrack, competing in the popular European sedan class.
Pontiac Trans Am
22. Pontiac Trans Am
Seen In: #1 Stunna
Years Of Production: 1969-2002
Complex Says: Another American hot rod (far right), built on the same platform as the Camaro. The latest models carried on the legacy of the famous “Smokey and the Bandit” car of 1977. The “chicken” on the hood was optional. It is a good choice to do relentless donuts in.
Dodge Viper
21. Dodge Viper
Seen In: #1 Stunna, Always Strapped
Years Of Production: 1991-2010
Complex Says: This was one of the first V10-powered cars in the world. The creation of the Viper came from the inspiration of the iconic AC Cobra, and it was conceived as an historical take on the classic American sports car. Carroll Shelby himself had a lot to do with this Dodge perfectly paying homage to the legends that came before, with its powerful engine, minimalist design, aggressive styling, and high performance. In 2010, Chrysler almost considered ending production. But it has been announced that there will be a completely redesigned Viper in 2012.
Lexus LX470
20. Lexus LX470
Seen In: Big Ballin'
Years Of Production: 1996-present
Complex Says: The LX is Lexus' luxurious SUV, almost entirely based on the Toyota Land Cruiser. A Lexus and an SUV--of course it's popular among those with money.
Jaguar XK
19. Jaguar XK
Seen In: Big Ballin', Still Fly
Years Of Production: 1996-present
Complex Says: This Jag first came on the scene in '96, with sexy looks that take after Jag's original style icon of the '60s--the E-type.
Lincoln LS
18. Lincoln LS
Seen In: #1 Stunna
Years Of Production: 1999-2006
Complex Says: The LS was the first Lincoln (center) to offer a manual transmission in decades. It was a legitimate alterative to other pricey European sports sedans. Lincoln has always made quality luxury cars with some impressive performance, and the LS is no exception. Although it doesn't do much in this Big Tymers video, it does look cool sitting in the haze of the Louisiana bayou out front of some spooky trap house.
Chevrolet Impala SS
17. Chevrolet Impala SS
Seen In: Big Ballin', 100 Million
Years Of Production: 1995-1996
Complex Says: A very special Impala that Chevy made for only two years in the mid-'90s. It was an attempt to be a throwback to the beloved Impalas from back in the day. It came with an LT1 Corvette engine and components powering a beastly 359 V8. Unfortunately, they came only in automatic, but still had four on the floor. You could only get this rare hot rod in three colors: “dark cherry metallic,” “dark grey metallic,” or black. The dopest part is this Impala's special talent to lay down a textbook burnout every time, thanks to the Detroit rear locker that goes posse automatically, making you look like a bad ass without fail.
Chevrolet Corvette
16. Chevrolet Corvette
Seen In: Oh Yeah!, 100 Million, Get Your Roll On
Years Of Production: 1953-present
Complex Says: A ‘50s Corvette is a beloved classic car for sure, with the Art Deco side coves, often two-tone or in the “polo white.” Fun fact: This homegrown ride is the first and only mass-produced American sports car. The ’58 was the first year for quad headlamps, and it featured some trick exhaust pipes that exit via the bumper. It was also equipped with a fast and innovative engine that had an optional fuel injection system, along with an exclusive “wonder bar” radio that was always mounted vertically in the dash--a famous feature. A classy choice (right) to have in a collection, but it did look a little out of place among Escalades and modern Ferraris. The Vette is still the most popular American sports car. The more modern design is seen speeding around a parking in the "Get Your Roll On" video.
Cadillac EXT
15. Cadillac EXT
Seen In: Oh Yeah!, Still Fly, This is How We Do
Years Of Production: 2002-2006
Complex Says: This Caddy is what we like to call a “cat-dog.” Is it a pick up or an SUV? Either way, it's a sweet ride. Something like a truck that rides like a classic Caddy should be.
Hummer H1
14. Hummer H1
Seen In: Stun'n, Big Ballin', #1 Stunna
Years Of Production: 1992-2006
Complex Says: The H1 is a civilian off-road vehicle based on the military-style Humvee. It was the very beginning of the Hummer line. It was originally just called a “Hummer,” until 1999, when the H2 came into existence. The H1 Alpha is the most desirable among collectors. It had the most powerful engine and was produced only in 2006. The H1 was born thanks to the popularity of photos from Operation Desert Storm. It would be like having your very own tank, or, in Birdman's case, your very own Brinks truck.
Range Rover
13. Range Rover
Seen In: Stun'n, I Run This, Baby You Can Do It
Years Of Production: 1970-present
Complex Says: When it comes to tackling the toughest of terrains, there is no better vehicle for the job than a Range Rover. This rugged whip has a serious heritage of off-road excellence. Built to survive the wilderness of Africa, it is the ultimate safari ride. The “Range Dog” is now a popular stunner among the rich. But it is a true off-roader at heart, a unique mix of high-class elegance and extreme engineering. This pretty boy could still get down and dirty if you took the chrome '22s off.
Ferrari F355
12. Ferrari F355
Seen In: Stun'n
Years Of Production: 1994-1999
Complex Says: Categorically, the F355 (right) is the most important car in Ferrari's history. Its predecessor, the 348, was an utter fail. Even Ferrari chairman Luca di Montezemolo had to admit that it “was clearly the worst product Ferrari had developed for some time.” The F355 was Ferrari's redemption. The product was flawless, another beautiful, world-beating Ferrari that put the company back on track. It featured disappearing headlights. In '97, Ferrari added paddle shifters for quick gear changes.
Lexus GS400
11. Lexus GS400
Seen In: Stun'n, Big Ballin'
Years Of Production: 1991-present
Complex Says: The mid-size luxury sedan of the Lexus fleet, it once had an impressive 0-60 time that led Lexus to believe the GS was the fastest production sedan.
Chevrolet Camaro
10. Chevrolet Camaro
Seen In: This is How We Do
Years Of Production: 1966-2002, 2009-present
Complex Says: The '69 is most def the sexiest year of them all for this homegrown beast. It is the most valuable and highly desired Camaro there is. This was the pinnacle year for muscle cars. Horsepower was at its peak, before gas prices led to the tragic death of muscle cars in the early '70s. This Camaro was available with the option of a small block or big block, and the Hurst shifter came standard. At the time, an engine larger than 400 cubic inches was forbidden of Chevrolet, so dealers, like the legendary Yenko, were putting in 427s themselves. This caused Chevy to use a special ordering process, which became known as the COPO (central office production orders) Camaros. These 427s go for six figures at auction today. A fine piece of American muscle.
Mercedes-Benz R-Class
9. Mercedes-Benz R-Class
Seen In: Stuntin' Like My Daddy
Years Of Production: 2005-present
Complex Says: A futuristic mini van (left)? And it's a Benz? Well, okay….
Cadillac Escalade ESV
8. Cadillac Escalade ESV
Seen In: Gangsta Girl, This is How We Do
Years Of Production: 2002-2006
Complex Says: An even bigger version of America's favorite luxury SUV. In the "This is How We Do" video, it was even jacked up several feet above Birdman's bald head.
Mercedes-Benz SL500
7. Mercedes-Benz SL500
Seen In: Gangsta Girl, 100 Million, Baby You Can Do It, This is How We Do
Years Of Production: 1954-present
Complex Says: This Benz is the perfect blend of foreign beauty and quality German engineering. The initials SL stand for "sport lightweight," and they were first used with the legendary 300SL Gullwing. While the four door also makes a few appearances, the SL is the convertible coupe of Mercedes' elite S-class--a perfect weekend ride for a CEO or self-made boss like Jeezy or Birdman.
Cadillac Escalade
6. Cadillac Escalade
Seen In: 10 Wayz, Get Your Roll On, We Got That
Years Of Production: 1999-present
Complex Says: First produced in 1999, in response to the Lincoln Navigator that came out a year before, the Escalade has gone through three generations to the present day. The name Escalade refers to a siege warfare tactic of scaling defensive walls with ladders or siege towers. The Escalade is a staple luxury SUV in the fleets of the affluent.
Lamborghini Diablo
5. Lamborghini Diablo
Seen In: 10 Wayz, #1 Stunna, Get Your Roll On
Years Of Production: 1990-2001
Complex Says: The dream car of '90s babies, this radical ride has been making us drool since the days of recess and "line leaders." A predecessor to the Countach, the Diablo had some big Pirellis to fill. Meaning “devil” in Spanish, the name carried on Lamborghini's tradition of naming its cars after fighting bulls. The Diablo was named after a famous bull that fought an epic battle with "El Chicorro" in Madrid during the late-19th century. It was the first Lambo to reach a top speed of over 200 miles per hour, and it was the fastest production car in the world in 1991, outrunning the previous title-holder, the Ferrari F40. In 2001, it was replaced by the Murcielago, a bittersweet time for us.
Cadillac de Ville
4. Cadillac de Ville
Seen In: No Love, Get Your Roll On
Years Of Production: 1958-2005
Complex Says: The first Cadillac ever to bear the name was the Coupe de Ville of 1949. The de Ville has stood for the prestige of Caddy's luxurious heritage since the days of huge tailfins and Elvis. It's an American classic, for sure, still making appearances in music videos. An older '73 made an appearance in the Big Tymers "No Love" video, while a later model was spotted stuntin' in the parking lot "gettin' its roll on" a short time after.
Chevrolet Chevelle SS
3. Chevrolet Chevelle SS
Seen In: No Love, Leather So Soft, Get Your Shine On
Years of Production: 1963-1977
Complex Says: The Chevelle is a favorite among gear heads, and it is often found on the drag strip, a timeless symbol of good old American muscle. The Chevelle was the one and only whip in the "Leather So Soft" video, providing a perfect backdrop to Wayne and and his guitar.
Porsche Cayenne
2. Porsche Cayenne
Seen In: No Love
Years Of Production: 2002-present
Complex Says: Who would of thought Porsche would ever create an SUV? Guess the company got caught up in the times, but it is a pretty sweet whip. With the high-performance perfection of a classic Porsche in a luxury SUV, it's the ultimate ride for ma dukes.
Maybach
1. Maybach
Seen In: No Love, Money to Blow
Years Of Production: 1997-2013
Complex Says: The ultimate machine for sitting in the backseat, rather than behind the wheel, it is a high performance sedan with a six-liter, twin turbo V12, pushing over 600 horsepower. Enough to make a chauffer excited to drive you around. This ride is certainly a lavish example of fine craftsmanship and European luxury. Mercedes-Benz did well when it decided to revive this timeless symbol of ridiculous wealth. But all production will cease in 2013, as announced this past year, to be replaced by the next-generation S-class.