DeLorean DMC-12: what was the name of the car from the movie “Back to the Future” and why it became a legend

The 1985 film Back to the Future not only became a cult classic of cinema, but also forever inscribed one unusual car in the history of the automotive industry. We're talking about DeLorean DMC-12 - a futuristic car with wings and doors, which in the film turned into a time machine. But what was this car actually called, and what made it so special?

Many people mistakenly think that the model name is simply "DeLorean", but in fact the full name of the car is DMC-12, where DMC stands for DeLorean Motor Company, and 12 indicates a target price of $12,000 (which was quite ambitious at the time). In this article we will analyze not only the history of creation DeLorean DMC-12, but also its technical features, why it was chosen for the film, and what the market for these legendary cars looks like today.

If you're a Back to the Future fan or just into rare cars, this article will help you understand why. DMC-12 became more than just a car - it turned into a symbol of pop culture, the technological optimism of the 80s and the eternal dream of time travel.

What was the name of the car from “Back to the Future”: let’s spell out the name

Let's start with the main thing: the car from the film is called DeLorean DMC-12. But what is hidden behind this name?

The decoding is simple:

• 🔹 DeLorean - surname of the company founder, John DeLorean, former vice president General Motors, who decided to create his own supercar.
• 🔹 DMC - abbreviation for DeLorean Motor Company, the official name of the manufacturer.
• 🔹 12 — the price was initially planned at $12,000, although in reality the car cost almost twice as much.

Interestingly, in the film the car is simply called “DeLorean” or “time machine”, but its full name is DMC-12 - is never mentioned. This has become part of a myth: many viewers still think that the model is simply called “DeLorean”, unaware of the digital index.

By the way, in the original drawings and documents of the company the machine was sometimes designated as DMC12 (without a hyphen), but in mass production the version with a hyphen was used - DMC-12.

Technical characteristics of the DeLorean DMC-12: why the car was imperfect

Despite the futuristic design, DeLorean DMC-12 was far from perfect from a technical point of view. Let's look at its key parameters:

Characteristics	Meaning	Note
Engine	PRV V6 2.8 l	Joint development Peugeot, Renault and Volvo, power 130 hp — rather weak for a supercar.
Gearbox	5-speed manual or 3-speed automatic	The machine was extremely unreliable and was rarely installed.
Maximum speed	177 km/h	For comparison: Ferrari 308 those years accelerated to 230 km/h.
Acceleration 0–100 km/h	8.8 sec	Modern hot hatchbacks do this faster.
Body	Stainless steel + fiberglass	A unique material that does not require painting, but is heavy.

The main feature DMC-12 - body from stainless steel, which does not rust and does not require painting. However, this also became a problem: the car weighed almost 1.2 tons, which was too much for its power. Engine PRV V6 was considered unreliable, and the suspension was too soft for a sports car.

Moreover, due to the rush in production, many machines left the factory with assembly defects: crookedly installed doors, leaking hydraulics, electrical problems. This was one of the reasons for the company's bankruptcy in 1982 - a year after the start of sales.

⚠️ Attention: If you are planning to buy DeLorean DMC-12 today, be prepared for the fact that original spare parts are extremely rare. Many owners upgrade engines (for example, install LS V8 from Chevrolet) or switch to electric transmissions.

Why was the DeLorean chosen for the movie Back to the Future?

Screenwriter Bob Gale and director Robert Zemeckis We were looking for a car that would look futuristic, but at the same time be recognizable to viewers of the 80s. Initially considered:

• 🚗 Ferrari 308 GTS (like Magnum) - too common for a time machine.
• 🚙 Prototype Ford Mustang with a fiberglass body - did not suit the style.
• 🚀 Concept car BMW M1 - too aggressive design.

As a result, the choice fell on DeLorean DMC-12 for several reasons:

1. Unique design: wings-doors (gull-wing doors) and a stainless steel body made it look like a spaceship.
2. Low popularity: by 1985 the car had already been discontinued, and it could be bought cheaply (about $15 000 for a used copy).
3. Easy modification: the wide body made it possible to place a “time machine” inside the scenery without major modifications.

Interesting fact: for filming it was purchased three cars:

• 🔧 One for the “hero” (main scenes).
• 💥 The second one is for tricks (it was disassembled and reassembled 20 times).
• 🔥 The third one was for spare parts (later it was sold to a collector).

What did the time machine look like without decorations?

Under the lining of flashing lights and buttons was the usual DMC-12 interior with leather seats and a steering wheel from a Porsche 928. Even the “time control panel” was removable and attached with magnets.

How much does the DeLorean DMC-12 cost today and where can you buy it?

If you dream of becoming the owner of a legendary car, be prepared to shell out a lot of money. Prices for DeLorean DMC-12 over the past 10 years have grown several times:

Condition	Price (2026)	Where to look
Restoration project (without engine)	$30 000 – $50 000	eBay Motors, Bring a Trailer
Running, original engine	$60 000 – $90 000	Specialized auctions (Barrett-Jackson)
Restored, with modernized engine	$100 000 – $150 000	Private collectors, DeLorean Motor Company (Texas)
"Time Machine" (cue from the film)	$200 000+	Only through specialized studios (for example, DeLorean Time Machine)

It is important to understand that original "movie" cars only left 3 pieces (one in the museum Universal Studios, two - from private collectors). All other "time machines" are replicas created by fans. For example, a company DeLorean Motor Company in Texas (not to be confused with the original company!) is engaged in restoration and modernization DMC-12, installing modern engines and electric transmissions.

If you want to buy DeLorean, check:

• 🔍 Availability of original VIN (identification number).
• 🔧 The condition of the door hydraulics (their repair costs $5 000–$10 000).
• 📄 Availability of documents on modernization (if the engine is replaced).

⚠️ Attention: There are many scammers on the market selling “replicas” under the guise of original cars from the film. This “time machine” has unique details, for example, a steering wheel from Porsche 928 and a special frame for attaching decorations. Always ask for a certificate of authenticity!

Is it possible to turn a DeLorean DMC-12 into a real time machine? (Spoiler: no, but almost)

Of course, it is impossible to create a working time machine (at least according to modern laws of physics). However, fans of the film have long learned to turn DMC-12 into exact replicas of movie cars. Here's what you need for this:

Basic modifications (level 1 - “suit”):

• 🔦 Installation of LED strips instead of original headlights.
• 🎛️ Installation of a panel with flashing buttons (can be ordered from DeLorean Time Machine).
• 🔊 Sound effects (recording of the “hum” of a time machine from the film).

Advanced modifications (level 2 - “cinematic accuracy”):

• 🔥 Installing a smoke generator for a “trace of time” effect.
• 🛠️ Replacing the engine with an electric one (to simulate “silent” flight).
• 🎥 Installation of a projector for a “disappearing” effect (like in the scene from 1985).

The most famous studio for creating replicas is DeLorean Time Machine in California. They offer a complete conversion kit DMC-12 into a time machine, including:

• 🔧 Body panels with “temporary” parts.
• 🕰️ Clock Citizen (like Dr. Brown).
• 📼 Audio system with original sounds from the film.

The cost of a complete transformation is from $100 000 (excluding the cost of the machine itself).

DeLorean DMC-12 in pop culture: not only “Back to the Future”

Although DeLorean DMC-12 Made famous by the Back to the Future trilogy, she has appeared in other films, games and even music. Here are the most notable mentions:

Films and TV series:

• 🎬 “Back to the Future 2” and “Back to the Future 3” (1989, 1990) - the car receives new modifications, including a flying mode.
• 🎥 “DeLorean: Look Under the Hood” (2021) is a documentary about the history of the car.
• 📺 “The Simpsons” (episode “Treehouse of Horror V”) - a parody of a time machine.

Video games:

• 🎮 Back to the Future: The Game (2010–2011) - a prequel to the film, where the car plays a key role.
• 🏁 Forza Horizon 4 and Gran Turismo Sport — DMC-12 available as a play car.

Music:

• 🎵 Song «DeLorean» groups Angels & Airwaves (2010).
• 🎶 Mention in the track «1985» groups Bowling for Soup.

Interestingly, in 2022 the company DeLorean Motor Company (already new, Texas) announced the release electrical DeLorean Alpha5 — a modern interpretation of the legendary car. The new car was supposed to go on sale in 2026, but the project has been delayed several times.

💡

The DeLorean DMC-12 is the only car in history that became a cult car NOT because of speed or reliability, but because of the movies. Its value today is determined not by its technical characteristics, but by its pop cultural status.

How to care for DeLorean DMC-12: tips for owners

If you are lucky enough to own DMC-12, get ready for the fact that this is not just a car - it is a project for life. Here are the key care points:

1. Stainless steel body

• 🧼 Wash only by special means for stainless steel (for example, Metal Polish from 3M).
• 🚫 Do not use abrasive sponges - they scratch the surface.
• 🔧 Once a year, check welds for corrosion (they are not made of stainless steel!).

2. Gullwing doors (gull-wing doors)

• 🔩 Door hydraulics require fluid replacement every 2 years.
• 🚪 Do not open the doors in frosty weather - the hydraulics may freeze.
• 🔧 Only produces spare parts for doors DeLorean Motor Company (Texas).

3. Engine PRV V6

• ⚠️ This engine is known for problems with timing chain - it needs to be checked every 50,000 km.
• 🛢️ Use only high octane gasoline (98+).
• 🔥 Many owners replace it with LS V8 from Chevrolet or electric motor.

If you're not willing to commit to constant repairs, consider buying an already upgraded car with an electric or modern gasoline engine. For example, a company DeLorean Motor Company offers complete restoration with guarantee, including engine replacement Tesla Powerwall (electric version).

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the DeLorean DMC-12

🔹 How many DeLorean DMC-12 were produced?

In total, from 1981 to 1982 it was produced about 9,000 cars. The exact number is unknown, since some of the cars were dismantled for parts, and company documents were lost after bankruptcy. According to experts, today there are about 6,500 copies, of which only 1 500–2 000 are in working order.

🔹 Is it possible to legally drive a DeLorean DMC-12 in Russia?

Yes, but with reservations:

• 📄 The car must be officially imported and cleared through customs (which costs 50–100% from its cost).
• 🚦 Required vehicle type approval (OTTS), since DMC-12 not certified for Russia.
• 🔧 It is necessary to adapt optics and other elements to local traffic regulations.

Most DeLorean in Russia, these are either museum exhibits or cars with fake documents (which is fraught with fines).

🔹 Why did the DeLorean DMC-12 fail commercially?

Main reasons:

• 💰 Overpriced: instead of promised $12 000 the car cost $25 000+.
• 🔧 Poor build quality: many cars left the factory with defects.
• 📉 Economic crisis the early 80s in the United States reduced the demand for luxury cars.
• 🚔 Drug scandal: John DeLorean was arrested on charges of cocaine smuggling (later acquitted, but the company's reputation was ruined).

🔹Where can you see the original time machine from the film today?

The three original cars from the trilogy are:

• 🎬 Universal Studios (Hollywood) - exhibited in the Back to the Future pavilion.
• 🏛️ Petersen Museum (Los Angeles) - replica with original parts.
• 🕵️ Private collection — one car belongs to the Zemeckis family (director of the film).

The rest of the “time machines” in museums and exhibitions are replicas.

🔹 Is it possible to make the DeLorean DMC-12 fully electric?

Yes! Several companies offer such services:

• 🔋 DeLorean Motor Company (Texas) installs electric motors Tesla power up to 300 hp
• ⚡ Electric GT (UK) offers do-it-yourself kits.
• 🔌 Cost of refurbishment - from $50 000 (excluding batteries).

Pros: silent (like in the movie!), cons - reduced mileage to 200–250 km on one charge.