The Craziest Car Makeovers from Pimp My Ride, Ranked

John's 1968 Mercury Cougar

Season 5 Episode 11 saw the makeover of John's 1968 Mercury Cougar. Finished with a striking black base with canary yellow racing stripes, it really caught the eye. Powered by a formidable 450 hp Roush racing motor, the car was truly a powerhouse.

Its standout feature was a massive 32-foot inflatable projector screen. The final result, even by Pimp My Ride standards, was arguably the best the show had ever produced, and still wows fans of the show to this day.

Tyler's 1965 Chevrolet El Camino

Tyler's 1965 Chevrolet El Camino transformed into the ultimate tailgating machine for this football enthusiast in Episode 13 of Season 5. The car was equipped with a powerful 350 cubic-inch, 350 hp engine featuring bird catcher blowers.

Inside, it boasted satellite TV with five plasma monitors, a 5000 Watt audio amplifier, and PlayStation 2. Unique additions included a propane grill and a Wunder Bar condiment dispenser, so Tyler can grill while he grinds.

Tanita's 1965 Thunderbird

Season 6 Episode 2 saw Tanita put her 1965 Thunderbird in the hands of the Pimp team. The transformation took the beat-up classic and saw it transformed with a brand-new Ford Racing Engine and specialized Kumho racing tires that emit pink smoke during burnouts.

The iconic vehicle also was treated to instant snap-up windows, and a trunk equipped with a camera activated upon opening because... well, why not? Tanita's Thunderbird remains one of Pimp My Ride's most magnificent transformations.

Jonathan's Honda CRX

To celebrate Jonathan's passion for comic books, especially The Fantastic Four, his 1991 Honda CRX underwent a remarkable transformation in Episode 9 of Season 6. Adorned in striking "Silver Surfer" chrome, the exterior echoed his love for the comic character.

Inside, Fantastic Four-themed accents included a comic keeper in place of the glove box, housing a valuable copy of Fantastic Four #48. This Honda was a dream for any Marvel fan.

Amber's 2022 Chevy Cavalier

In Episode 16 of Season 6, Amber bought one of the most worn-out vehicles the show had encountered to the team: a 2002 Chevy Cavalier barely held together with duct tape and requiring Amber's belts to keep the trunk closed.

The team transformed her car into a vibrant root beer red, her favorite color, and added a rear TV along with a miniscule 2 1/2 inch TV on the dashboard. The transformation was jaw-dropping.

David's 1972 Ford Econoline Dog Grooming van

To support his dog grooming business, the back of David's 1972 Ford Econoline van was transformed into the ultimate pet grooming station in Episode 11 of Season 6.

It featured a new bathtub equipped with a 32-inch monitor, allowing dogs to enjoy TV while being washed off. Additionally, a slide-out 42-inch monitor, a black and blue paint job with cage graphics and a built-in hot dog maker completed the remodel.

Teresa's 1984 Ford LTD Crown Victoria Station Wagon

Teresa, aspiring to be a traveling nurse, received an unconventional upgrade from the Pimp team for episode 15 of season 6: a fully equipped mobile CAT Scan machine in her 1984 Ford LTD Crown Victoria Station Wagon.

The vehicle sported heartbeat-inspired paintwork and flashing emergency lights. Are emergency lights even legal on a non-emergency vehicle? Who cares when it looks so funky.

Spechelle's 1981 Mercedes-Benz 300SD

Season 6, Episode 5 saw the Pimp team transform Spechelle's 1981 Mercedes-Benz 300SD into a vibrant spectacle. The car was painted pink with a reddish-pink emblem on the front.

They replaced the Mercedes symbol with a large 'S' crafted from 400 supposedly real diamonds (in reality, they were rhinestones). Monitors were installed in all headrests, oddly facing forward, requiring front seat occupants to turn around.

Robert's Vegas inspired Chevrolet van

In 1984, Robert's grandparents won a Chevrolet van in Las Vegas, adorned with graphics of iconic resorts of that era. Seeking an upgrade, in Episode 6 of Season 5, Robert approached MTV's Pimp My Ride.

The crew added a unique touch by installing a functioning slot machine; the sliding door opened only upon hitting the jackpot. They further transformed the van's interior with a baby grand piano and a roulette table - two things everyone surely needs in their vehicle.

Esmerelda's 1991 Pontiac Sunbird

Esmerelda's 1991 Pontiac Sunbird received a tropical makeover for Episode 13 of Season 6, inspired by her love for the beach. A Hawaiian Tiki god adorned the hood, with matching gods stitched into the leather seats.

The trunk was transformed with a snow cone maker and powerful 2x150w Genesis waterproof subwoofers. The car also featured a unique mood control gadget allowing Esmerelda to express her feelings through her car - like expelling smoke when she was angry.

Laila's Plymouth Grand Voyager Expresso

Season 6, Episode 7 saw Laila's 1998 Plymouth Grand Voyager Expresso fitted with a unique 'Vroom Box,' mimicking the sounds of various supercars such as the Ford GT and Aston-Martin Vanquish.

However, due to safety concerns, this feature was removed before returning the van to Laila. Years later, automotive YouTuber Freddy 'Tavarish' Hernandez acquired the van for $850 in late 2019, in a deteriorated state.

Vanessa's 1991 Ford Festiva L

In the Season 6, Episode 10 transformation of Vanessa's 1991 Ford Festiva L, affectionately named 'Zippy,' the team installed a nitrous tank, as well as a powerful 3000-watt speaker system.

The aesthetics matched Vanessa's spunky attitude, with tattoo-inspired leather seats, and lifelike flame paintwork. The vehicle was also equipped with a sleek body kit from Festiva Motorsports - quite the effort for a little Fiesta.

Will's 1987 Jeep Grand Wagoneer

Will's 1987 Jeep Grand Wagoneer was tailor-made for his handyman lifestyle during Season 6, Episode 12 of the show. The vehicle featured practical additions like a turntable and tool slots inside the windows for efficient tool storage.

Inside, it boasted nine monitors, a fridge, and a microwave, enabling Will to dine on the go. A groundbreaking modification included 'airbagging,' allowing the car to bounce side to side with a button push.

Mike's 1978 Grumman Kurbmaster Wonder Bread Truck

In Season 6, Episode 3, Mike's 1978 Grumman Kurbmaster Wonder Bread Truck had already been transformed into a cozy haven. Inside, a chandelier, surfboard, TV, and Super NES set the scene, marking the first car on the show with a gaming system pre-pimping.

Mad Mike added two MTX Audio JackHammers and a padded seat resembling a loaf of bread, paying homage to its Wonder Bread legacy, making a ride in Mike's truck to dough for.

Kristoffer's 1965 Chevrolet Impala SS

In the third episode of Season 6 (which also featured then-California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger) Kristoffer's 1965 Chevrolet Impala SS underwent a green transformation. It was powered by GM's 6.6-liter Duramax turbodiesel with an Allison Transmission, designed to run on biodiesel.

In an attempt to be even more environmentally friendly, the car featured hemp-covered seats, although Schwarzenegger noted that hemp was at the time illegal in California.

Seth's 1989 Nissan Maxima

Seth's 1989 Nissan Maxima underwent a unique transformation for Season 6, Episode 8, inspired by his passion for Transformers and his sweet tooth. The back seat was designed to transform, revealing the sound system and monitors.

Finished in a striking lightning blue paint job, the standout feature was a cotton candy machine installed in the trunk, adding a quirky touch to his customized ride - plus providing him with a sugar boost whenever he needed one.

Danielle's 1981 Pontiac Trans Am

The eighth episode of the first season saw Danielle's 1981 Pontiac Trans Am customization reach new heights. A center console coffee maker and a chandelier in place of the traditional dome light were intriguing additions.

The car proudly sported a large bird decal on the hood, although it was later replaced with a smaller version due to size constraints. But a chandelier was seemingly no problem?

Joe's 1988 Cadillac Sedan DeVille Limousine

For Season 5, Episode 6, we met Joe and his 1988 Cadillac Sedan DeVille Limousine, where remarkable modifications took place, even though Joe was warned at the end not to let anyone ride in the rumble seat.

The divider was swapped for a 50-inch plasma monitor, and a TubeRunners custom Pneumatic Tube system was added, enabling communication between passengers and the driver. A unique rumble seat was installed in the trunk, featuring a 27-inch LCD TV that flipped down from the roof.

Dante's 1976 Ford Econoline Ice Cream Truck

Dante's 1976 Ford Econoline Ice Cream Truck marked a unique milestone as the first operational business vehicle to be pimped in Episode 1 of the sixth series. Its sapphire blue exterior adorned with icicles housed advanced ice cream-themed features.

These included a a touchscreen order system, a kid-level robotic arm for dispensing treats, and a fully stocked inventory. Hilariously, the crew discovered an unexpected family of eight mice while working on the van, who must have been after their own summer snack.

Alex's 1968 Chevrolet Chevelle Convertible

In Season 4, Episode 5, we were introduced to Alex's 1968 Chevrolet Chevelle Convertible, where a powerful small-block Chevy V8 engine was added. Due to the driver's love for magic, the car was painted in mystical green.

Additionally, the sound system was cleverly concealed, only revealed through a spell. Alex shared on the Where are They Now? episode that he unfortunately wrecked the car on the very first day he received it back.

Big Ron's 1984 Cadillac Eldorado

Big Ron's 1984 Cadillac Eldorado underwent a dramatic transformation in Series 6, Episode 1. Previously a mess with missing parts, it emerged with luxurious 24-carat gold-plated 18-inch Daytons rims, surpassing the car's original value.

The makeover included a stylish two-tone air horn, an Xbox, and an electronic drum kit. Additionally, the trunk featured two 16-inch screens, a suitably extravagant addition for Big Ron.

Ryan's 1958 Volkswagen Bus

Revisiting Ryan's 1958 Volkswagen Bus in the opening show of Season 6, the pimping included a range of cool features. An automated surf rack adorned the roof, complemented by stylish wooden floors.

Inside, a blender and PlayStation 2 added entertainment value. The back boasted a whopping 40-inch TV, the largest ever installed by the crew inside a car - because who needs to surf when you can watch TV at the beach?!

Lawanna's 1968 Volkswagen Bug

Lawanna's 1968 Volkswagen Bug underwent a radical transformation by the crew in Episode 16 of Season 5, integrating Porsche and Ferrari body kits.

Themed 'Hair Force One,' honoring Lawanna's career as a hairstylist and upcoming Air Force journey, the car featured a sink with shampoo and conditioner dispensers, waterproof speakers, and an iPod nano in the trunk.

Tin's 1988 Dodge Caravan

Tin's 1988 Dodge Caravan underwent a unique makeover in Episode 4 of Season 4, tailored to his needs as a full-time student who frequently used the van for sleeping.

The interior featured a custom fully reclining Maybach-style seat nestled between two calming waterfalls. The setup included a 17-inch LCD flip monitor, a built-in DVD player, and a badminton net with a shuttlecock launcher.

Heather's 1986 Chevrolet C10

Season 4, Episode 3 saw a 1986 Chevrolet C10 receive a unique makeover. The truck bed was designed to tilt, enhancing its functionality for Heather, a very petite driver.

Further special adjustments were made, including a seat that was able to be electronically lowered or raised. The electronic upgrades to the truck's bed amounted to more than a staggering $30,000.

Kira's 1991 Ford Escort

Kira's 1991 Ford Escort received a BMW M3-inspired makeover during the second episode of season 2. Sporting a sleek red coat, it featured 18-inch rims, a powerful woofer, and two seven-inch headrest monitors.

Inside, a new dashboard and visor TV screens enhanced the interior. Following a head gasket issue, most of the engine was replaced during filming. The Escort's transformation, although modest, was essential considering its poor initial condition.

Josh's 2003 Toyota Corolla

Josh's 2003 Toyota Corolla received extensive repairs and enhancements for Episode 2 of Season 3. Intriguingly, it was fitted with four liquid crystal displays in its bumpers.

However, after the pimping, Josh wrecks the car, returning without the hood during the Where are They Now? episode. Xzibit humorously clarified that they don't do Re-Pimps.

Jason's 1994 Toyota T100

Jason's 1994 Toyota T100 faced extensive theft, leaving only its frame and cabin intact. Episode 5 of season 5 saw new parts added, a rarity in the series, and the car was painted in a unique camouflage-style, dubbed 'glamoflage'.

Kevlar layers were also added to the seats. Additionally, Jason also received a pimped Yamaha Raptor 350 All Terrain Vehicle, featuring LCD monitors and a DVD player.

Nate's 1985 Ford Econoline

Nate's 1985 Ford Econoline, once a Municipal Van, was transformed into a band limousine for the first episode of the the third season. The addition of a rear hot tub posed a weight challenge, leading to the installation of an air suspension system on the rear axle for support.

The practicality of the hot tub's use remains a mystery. A hot tub in a car is certainly one of Pimp My Ride's more gimmicky ideas, and, frankly, is so 2000s it hurts.

Sara's 1988 Chevrolet S-10

Sara's 1988 Chevrolet S-10 underwent a unique transformation in episode 2 of season 3. An 8 Ball Pool table was mounted on the truck's back, with a limousine divider allowing play from all angles.

The exterior received a sleek black metallic paint job adorned with airbrushed graphics. Notably, and why not after installing a pool table on the bed, a fog machine was installed under the hood.

Andrew's 1970 Cadillac Fleetwood Hearse

In the final ever episode of Pimp My Ride, Andrew's 1970 Cadillac Fleetwood Hearse received a distinctive makeover. It was painted a deep purple and featured custom airbrushed skulls on the front.

The unique addition was a coffin equipped with a grill that automatically slides out the back for on-the-go cooking, making Andrew a tailgate party hero. That's one way to make a Hearse appealing!

Ellyn's 1996 Ford Contour

Ellyn's 1996 Ford Contour, bearing claw marks from a bear attack during camping, caught Xzibit's attention in the tenth episode of Season 5. Never known to turn down a theme, the team got to work on make a bear-mobile.

The crew adorned the car with green and orange tear graphics and installed a salmon cannon-like muffler as a deterrent against future bear encounters. It is unknown at this time the success rate of the salmon cannon.

Brooke's 1991 Chevrolet Cavalier Convertible

The third episode of Season 2 saw Brooke's 1991 Chevrolet Cavalier Convertible undergo a cinematic transformation. A digital projector, mounted on the trunk lid, could pivot to turn any wall into a drive-in theater.

Inside, a popcorn maker nestled in the center console and individual DVD players were added to the headrests, allowing rear passengers to enjoy their own movies during the ride.

Christine's 1992 Honda Civic

Christine's 1992 Honda Civic was underused and unloved as she only reserved it for weekend drives. So much so, it was usually kept on cinder blocks. Sporting bold black racing stripes and Lamborghini-style doors, it flaunted vibrant violet-purple paintwork.

Inside, the car was upgraded with indulgent massage seats, adding a touch of luxury to the unique ride for the fourth episode of Season 1. Hopefully, after its Pimping, the Honda got to see plenty more action throughout the week.

Justin's Toyota RAV4

Justin's Toyota RAV4 underwent a stunning transformation for episode 14 of season 6, boasting a sleek black and silver paintwork finish that accentuated its style. The car was adorned with new rims, red interiors, and gullwing doors, giving it a futuristic edge.

Inside, multiple TVs were installed, accompanied by massive subwoofers, creating an immersive entertainment experience, because the future means being distracted while driving, apparently.

Rashae's 1989 Ford Taurus

Episode 6 of Season 4 saw Rashae's Ford Taurus undergo a personalized transformation catering to her Hollywood dreams. Memory foam seats provided ultimate comfort, while a professional stunt cushion in the trunk catered to her stuntwoman aspirations.

The car's style was elevated with Lamborghini-style front door hinges and horizontally opening rear doors, giving it a unique, cinematic flair. Death Proof, eat your heart out!

Louis' 1996 Subaru Impreza

The penultimate episode of Season 6 saw Louis' 1996 Subaru Impreza receive a specialized upgrade tailored to his passion for paintballing. A hidden trunk compartment was designed to store his paintball gear discreetly.

Given its Subaru origin, the car underwent a Rally replica makeover, adorned with vibrant vinyl and race-inspired stickers. One of the show's best makeovers, and still remembered fondly to this day.

Ryan's 1967 Ford Mustang

Episode 6 of the first season introduced us to Ryan's 1967 Ford Mustang, where the front seats were ingeniously modified to recline fully flat, ensuring optimal viewing of the custom LCD monitor embedded in the headliner.

Initially, the car boasted unique exhaust pipes capable of shooting flames upon ignition. Yet, owner Ryan, apprehensive about legality, swiftly decided to remove these eye-catching but potentially troublesome features.

Gerald's 1978 Chevrolet Monte Carlo

In Gerald's 1978 Chevrolet Monte Carlo, the Southern "Box" treatment elevated the car substantially off the ground. Its striking black exterior featured leopard flames at the front.

With colossal 24-inch spinners, the car gained an impressive 8-inch lift, setting a show record for the largest rims ever installed. Despite the ambitious attempt, this Season 5, Episode 9 makeover marked a rare miss for the show.

Erin's 1973 Volkswagen Thing

When it came to Erin's 1973 Volkswagen Thing, in the second episode of the fourth season, the classic car received a unique touch with a faux alligator and snakeskin interior.

Adding to its distinctive features, a custom terrarium was installed inside. While the vehicle's performance was enhanced with a powerful 200-horsepower turbo engine, making Erin's ride high-performing, that shouldn't hide the fact that this was a truly shocking style choice.