Lewis Hamilton may spend most of his weekends driving one of the fastest cars on the planet, but the seven-time Formula 1 world champion recently swapped cutting-edge Ferrari machinery for something completely different - a customised 1984 Buick Regal lowrider.
The Ferrari driver used a break in the Formula 1 calendar to immerse himself in Los Angeles' iconic lowrider culture, getting behind the wheel of a classic American car fitted with custom paintwork and hydraulic suspension.
Hamilton Explores a Different Side of Car Culture
Hamilton has long spoken about his love for automotive culture beyond Formula 1, and his latest experience offered a glimpse into one of America's most distinctive motoring communities.
Meeting the owner of the customised Buick Regal, Hamilton admitted that while he had
seen lowriders online and on television, he had never experienced one up close.
The owner introduced him to the car's signature features, including its vibrant two-tone candy paint scheme and the hydraulic suspension system that allows the vehicle to dramatically raise, lower and tilt itself at the touch of a button.
When Hamilton asked whether the scene was focused more on competition or aesthetics, he was told it was a mix of both.
"It's a combination. It'll be a whole thing. It's like the best car, the best paint job," the owner explained, adding that the vehicles are as much about lifestyle and community as they are about competition.
"That's Nuts"
The highlight of the experience came when Hamilton was shown how the hydraulic controls worked.
After receiving a quick lesson on the switchbox, he pressed a button that immediately dropped one side of the car to the ground.
"That's nuts," Hamilton laughed.
"I've seen it on TV, but I've never. This is crazy. "
For a driver who has experienced everything from Formula 1 cars to hypercars and superbikes, the reaction showed just how unique lowrider culture remains.
Taking the Buick for a Spin
Hamilton then took the 1984 Buick Regal onto the streets of Los Angeles, getting a first-hand feel for a car that prioritises style, craftsmanship and community over outright speed.
After returning from the drive, the Ferrari star was clearly impressed.
"It was crazy, dude. Yeah, so much fun," Hamilton said.
"Well, thank you so much for showing us and introducing me to the culture. We appreciate it. "
Hamilton's Growing Interest in Global Car Communities
The visit is the latest example of Hamilton's passion for exploring different automotive scenes around the world.
Away from Formula 1, the Briton has frequently showcased his interest in motorcycles, classic cars, custom builds and sustainable vehicle technology.
Reflecting on the experience on social media, Hamilton explained why learning about lowrider culture had been on his bucket list.
"I always want to learn more about different car cultures around the world and this one's been on my list for a long time," he wrote on Instagram.
"Getting to drive a lowrider and spend time with the people that honour them and work to keep the culture alive was a sick experience. "
"Shout out to the team on this. "
A Different Kind of Driving Before Monaco
The outing came just days before Hamilton returned to Formula 1 duties with Ferrari as the championship heads into another crucial phase of the 2026 season.
While the speeds may have been considerably lower than what he experiences on a Grand Prix weekend, the visit offered a reminder that for Hamilton, cars have always been about more than racing.
Whether it's a Formula 1 machine capable of 350 km/h or a classic Buick Regal bouncing through the streets of Los Angeles, the Ferrari driver continues to embrace every corner of automotive culture.
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