I kind of always had an understanding with my mom, where if I paid for something with my own money that I earned (or got it free on my own time without any help, etc.) that it was kind of an untouchable item in terms of being taken away as a punishment, although rarely if ever did the need arise for punishment of that sort.
So, for example, she could take away the internet, and the nice Power Mac 6500, since she paid for it, but not my Power Mac 6100, since I bought that myself. (technically she could have taken the old Performa 400 since she bought it back in the day, but it would have been pointless as I would have the 6100). In reality though the situation never really arose. I set up the Internet/network; to take it's benefit away from me would mean a decline in quality as I would have no motive to maintain it.
Similarly, the car is titled free and clear in my name, but I just never did anything bad enough to warrant it's removal even if it had been in her name. It's just all about understanding and maturity and being considered more of an equal; having my ideas considered and accepting her wisdom on life.
Nice score on the iPod though.