Jay Leno’s garage is filled with million-dollar vehicles, including the elusive Chrysler Turbine. Tom Cruise auctioned off his Porsche 928 but still owns his Chevy Chevelle SS.
, Vanilla Ice still owns the Ford Mustang 5.0 that was featured in his "Ice, Ice, Baby" video. Even more amazing, this model has the iconic Fox Body style that has been increasing in value.
What's so impressive about the Mustang 5.0, and why did Vanilla Ice hang on to his?
The Fox Body Mustang 5.0
The first Fox Body Mustang was released in 1979, a more aerodynamic version of the existing Mustang at the time.
It's a hatchback with a sloped front end and reduced body weight, allowing it to be more agile on the road. According to
, many regard this Mustang as the one that saved the model from being discontinued.
This Mustang could have a few different engines throughout its lifetime, but it worked best with a 5.0-liter V8. It produces 225 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque, paired with a five-speed manual transmission.
, the Mustang 5.0 could reach 60 mph in six seconds, with a top speed of 140 mph.
The Fox Body Mustang GT models featured a re-tuned quadra-shock rear suspension and a standard body kit. These components, along with the ease of adding performance upgrades, made it a favorite amongst muscle car enthusiasts.
Even today, there is no shortage of aftermarket parts for the Mustangs of this era. In fact, the community even produces several helpful YouTube videos to guide newcomers through the process.
While it handled gracefully on the road, the rear drum brakes didn't always operate smoothly.
Still, the Fox Body Mustang 5.0 also proved itself to be a worthy daily driver. Despite its impressive racing specs, it gets surprisingly decent gas mileage. The interior also features a functional second row, more cargo storage, air conditioning, and supportive front seats.
MORE: Here's What We Know About the 'Ice White' Mustang
InsideHook says it's possible to get a Mustang 5.0 from the ‘90s for $8,000 or less, or $16,000 for GT models. However, since the models from 1987-1993 have the best V8, these are the most popular ones among collectors.
Additionally, it can be difficult to locate a Mustang 5.0 that hasn't been raced or modified (legally or illegally).
Interested drivers might want to buy one now before prices trend upward. Fortunately, with 2.6 million units produced throughout its lifetime, the Mustang 5.0 isn't the rarest of its kind.
While they are prone to rust, it's not hard to locate replacement body panels. A modified Mustang also isn't necessarily something to avoid, as long as it's still street-legal and kept in good condition.
Why did Vanilla Ice keep his Mustang 5.0?
Vanilla Ice says his Ford Mustang 5.0 reminds him of the ‘90s, which he remembers as the greatest era of all time.
He cherishes it from his youth as a simple time, where all you needed was a good cruiser to have fun. Vanilla Ice says he never thought the car would be a 90s icon for other people.
The rapper's Ford Mustang 5.0 is also his favorite car, even personalized with a "GO ICE" vanity plate. Given the Fox Body Mustang's legacy and exciting driving dynamics, we can understand why.
If you can ever buy a Mustang 5.0 of your own, rest assured that classic car insurance is relatively cheap. Sign up with