Many car enthusiasts and moviegoers still wonder: what kind of car was in the movie Back to the Future? This car has become one of the most recognizable images in the history of cinema. Cult DeLorean DMC-12 With its gull wing doors and chrome body, it instantly became a pop culture icon. The time machine, assembled by Dr. Brown, has captured the hearts of millions of viewers around the world.
The appearance of the car in the film differed little from the production model, with the exception of many futuristic improvements. Exactly. stainless-steel It was a key element of the design that the audience loved so much. The filmmakers were looking for a car that looked strange enough to believe in its ability to travel through time. The choice fell on the American-British hybrid, which was produced for a short time.
The history of the appearance of this machine on the screen is full of interesting facts and technical nuances. Other candidates were initially considered, but DeLorean It fits perfectly into the concept of a mad inventor. In this article, we will examine in detail the history of the creation, technical characteristics and fate of real prototypes, which were shot in the trilogy.
History of choosing a car for filming
Writer Bob Gale and director Robert Zemeckis have long been looking for the right car for their project about time travel. They wanted a vehicle that looked futuristic in 1985, but was recognizable. Initially, even the plasma-powered as an engine, which required a specific appearance of the body.
In early versions of the script, the time machine was supposed to be a common appliance, such as a refrigerator. However, the idea was quickly abandoned due to fears that children might start locking themselves in refrigerators. Then the focus shifted to cars. DeLorean The creators were attracted by its unusual design and doors that open upwards.
⚠️ Warning: The original script featured a refrigerator, but the idea was abandoned for child safety reasons to avoid provoking copycats.
The availability of the car at the time of filming was an important factor. By the mid-80s, production DMC-12 It was already stopped and the cars could be bought at a reduced price. This allowed the studio to purchase several copies for various stunts and scenes without a huge budget.
The design of the body was developed by the famous Giorgetto GiugiaroThis added to the car’s status. Smooth lines and lack of welds made it look like a spaceship. It was this combination of style and engineering thought that made the choice final and irrevocable.
Technical characteristics of the DeLorean DMC-12
The time machine was based on a serial sports car with a rear engine. Under the hood DeLorean The V-shaped six-cylinder engine with a volume of 2.85 liters was hidden. This engine was developed by the company. Peugeot-Renault-Volvo (PRV) And it gave out about 130 horsepower in the runoff state.
The body of the car was made of stainless steel, which was a revolutionary solution for the time. The panels were attached to a fiberglass frame, which, in turn, rested on a steel frame. This design made the machine resistant to corrosion, but created difficulties with painting.
| Parameter | Meaning | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Engine. | V6 PRV 2.85 l | French-Swedish development |
| Power | 130-145 hp | Depends on the modification. |
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h | 8.8 - 10.5 seconds | For the stock version |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h | Theoretical |
The transmission of the car could be both mechanical and automatic. The film used both versions, but for tricks more often took gearbox. This simplified the work of stuntmen during difficult scenes with acceleration to 88 miles per hour.
To reach a speed of 88 mph (about 141 km / h), the DeLorean drainage would have taken much longer than shown in the film, due to the aerodynamics of the body.
Particular attention should be paid to the car suspension. It was completely independent and provided good handling for its time. However, the weight of the car, which was more than 1200 kilograms, made it not the most agile on the road. Stainless steel It played a notable role in the weighting of the structure.
Modernization of the time machine for the film
Six vehicles were used for the filming. DeLoreanEach of which has undergone a unique modification. Some machines were designed for static scenes, others for stunts, and still others were equipped with sophisticated electronics. The main visual element was stream-storageIt is installed in the center of the salon.
External changes included the installation of "jet" nozzles at the rear, additional fans and a variety of wires. Production designer Ron Cobb designed the dashboard that became legendary. Digital watches, controls and screens created the feeling of a high-tech device.
- 🚀 Installed plutonium reactor in the back of the car to power the temporary circuit.
- ⚡ Four large fans around the rear wheels are added to simulate the operation of the flight engine.
- 🕰️ Integrated complex control panel with a display of departure and arrival time.
One of the most challenging tasks was the integration of light effects. Lamps, flashing lights and sparks had to work in sync with the actions of the actors. Special services were used for this purpose. circuitrySometimes they have short circuits on the set.
Secret improvements
One of the machines had a special mechanism that allowed the doors to be opened remotely, as actors often forgot about it during take-offs.
For the flight scenes in the second and third parts of the film, the cars were further lightened. They removed heavy elements and installed special fasteners for hanging on cables. It required an increase. frame-bearingSo that the structure can withstand the load.
The fate of cars after filming
After the filming of the trilogy, the fate of prototype machines developed differently. Most of them were disassembled for spare parts or used for promotional tours at Universal Studios. Some specimens were stolen or lost, which has given rise to many myths about their whereabouts.
One of the main cars, the so-called “Hero Car”, was in the studio’s collection for a long time. It was later sold at auction for a huge sum. Customers are willing to pay millions of dollars for anything. prop from this iconic franchise.
⚠️ There are many replicas and fakes on the market, so you should carefully check the documents and history of car ownership when buying.
In 2011, one of the cars was accidentally destroyed in a warehouse in California because of a falling beam. This event came as a shock to fans and collectors. The remaining cars are now in museums or private collections around the world, including the Petersen Museum Los Angeles.
☑️ DeLorean authentication
Today, the surviving prototypes are considered a national treasure of the film industry. Their restoration requires huge costs and the involvement of narrow-profile specialists. Find original details for DeLorean From the 80s it becomes more difficult every year.
DeLorean in Contemporary Culture and Games
The image of the time machine is firmly entrenched in the mass consciousness. She appears in countless video games, cartoons and other films as Easter. Developers often add DeLorean DMC-12 In their projects as a tribute to the classics.
In the game. Grand Theft Auto: Back to the Future (modification) and other driving simulators can be found exact copies of this car. Gamers appreciate it not only for its appearance, but also for its unique physics, if the developers implement the function of flight.
- 🎮 In the game. Rocket League The car was a (limited) item.
- 📺 Rick and Morty has many references to the time machine from the film.
- 🏎️ V Forza Horizon You can find this car on the roads of fictional Britain.
The popularity of the car is so high that the company DeLorean Motor Company (New) is planning a limited series of modern versions. However, it will be more of a retro stylization than a full-fledged revival of the original.
DeLorean’s cultural influence extends far beyond cinema, becoming a symbol of the technological optimism of the 80s.
Fans around the world create their own clubs and organize meetings, where they come in restored copies. For many owners. DeLorean It is not just a hobby, but a way of life and a way to express your love for cinema.
Can I buy a DeLorean today?
Buy the original DeLorean DMC-12 It is quite possible today, but it will require a significant financial investment. The prices of well-preserved specimens are constantly rising. The classic car market appreciates this rare car. sportsman.
When buying, you should pay attention to the condition of the body and engine. Stainless steel may not rust, but other metal parts are susceptible to corrosion. It is also important to check the original details, as spare parts They're very expensive.
There are companies offering services to restore these cars to factory condition. They use modern technology and materials to extend the legend's life. However, the cost of such a restoration may exceed the price of the car itself.
⚠️ Note: DeLorean operation in everyday conditions is difficult due to the complexity of maintenance and high cost of consumables.
If you dream of such a machine, prepare yourself for a long search and thorough vetting of each candidate. It is an investment that will likely retain its value but will require a constant care.
How many DeLorean cars were used in the filming?
For the filming of the trilogy "Back to the Future" was involved 6 main cars DeLorean DMC-12. Some were fully functional, others were static layouts for close-ups or tricks.
Why do the doors open up?
Gull-wing doors were chosen by designer Giorgetto Giugiaro to give the car a futuristic look. In addition, this design made it easier to get into a car with a low landing.
What is the actual speed required to activate the time machine?
The film indicates a value of 88 miles per hour, which in terms of the metric system is approximately 141.6 kilometers per hour. This value has become one of the most famous numbers in the history of cinema.
Is DeLorean being made these days?
The original production was discontinued in 1983. However, the new DeLorean Motor Company is renovating old models and plans to launch a limited series of new cars with a modern design.