Simon Cowell Cruises Beverly Hills in Classic Ford Model B
Simon Cowell was seen driving a vintage Ford Model B through Beverly Hills, drawing attention to both the car’s heritage and his taste for classic motoring.
Simon Cowell has been spotted behind the wheel of a classic Ford Model B in Beverly Hills, making a rare public appearance in the American pre-war icon. The British television producer and music executive is known for his collection of high-end cars, but the sight of him cruising in the Model B brought a different kind of attention on the streets of Los Angeles.
The Ford Model B, produced between 1932 and 1934, marked an important point in Ford’s history. It replaced the Model A and was sold alongside the Model 18, which introduced the famous flathead V8 engine to a mass market. Cowell’s example, finished in a period-correct colour, appeared to be in excellent condition as he navigated the Beverly Hills roads.
The Model B was available in a range of body styles, including two-door and four-door saloons, roadsters, phaetons and pickups. Its mechanical simplicity and robust engineering contributed to its popularity in the early 1930s, and the V8-powered Model 18 helped cement Ford’s reputation for affordable performance. The Model B’s wheelbase was increased for the 1933 and 1934 model years, improving ride comfort and space.
Classic cars and celebrity appeal
Cowell’s appearance in the Model B highlights the ongoing appeal of classic American cars among celebrities in Los Angeles. While many opt for modern supercars or luxury SUVs, Cowell’s choice of a 1930s Ford stands out for its historical significance and understated presence. The Model B’s styling, with its upright grille and sweeping fenders, contrasts sharply with contemporary automotive design, making it a talking point wherever it appears.
Cowell is not the only celebrity to favour classic cars in California. Other high-profile figures have also been seen in vintage vehicles, but the Model B’s connection to the early days of affordable motoring in America sets it apart from the more common European classics. For bystanders, the sight of a well-preserved pre-war Ford offers a glimpse into the past and a reminder of the brand’s enduring influence.
Ford Model B: Specifications and legacy
| Production years | 1932–1934 |
|---|---|
| Engine options | 3.3-litre four-cylinder (Model B), 3.6-litre V8 (Model 18) |
| Body styles | Roadster, Phaeton, Coupe, Tudor, Fordor, Pickup |
| Wheelbase | 2,692 mm (1932), 2,845 mm (1933–34) |
| Assembly | Detroit, Michigan |
The Model B’s legacy is most closely tied to its role in making V8 power accessible to ordinary drivers. The flathead V8, launched alongside the Model B as the Model 18, became a favourite among hot rodders and collectors, cementing the car’s place in American motoring history. Today, well-preserved examples are sought after at auctions and classic car events, with values reflecting their status as pre-war icons.
Cowell’s choice adds to the Model B’s reputation, proving that nearly a century after its launch, the car still commands attention, whether at a concours or simply on a sunny day in Beverly Hills.
