The 1985 film Back to the Future not only became a cult classic of cinema, but also forever inscribed the model in the history of the automotive industry. DeLorean DMC-12. With its distinctive gullwing doors and stainless steel body, this car has become a symbol of science fiction and retro-futurism. However, behind the scenes lies a much more prosaic - and at the same time dramatic - story of a real car that almost bankrupted its creator.

In this article we will look at technical specifications DeLorean DMC-12, let's talk about her unique design solutions (including those that caused problems), and we will also answer the questions: why this particular car was chosen for the film, how much the original copy costs today and where it can be seen. If you've ever dreamed of a time machine, welcome to a world where reality is no less fascinating than fiction.

1. The history of the DeLorean DMC-12: from ambition to failure

Car DeLorean DMC-12 was born thanks to John DeLorean - former vice president General Motors, who dreamed of creating the “ideal sports car.” The project started in 1975, and just 6 years later, in 1981, the first cars rolled off the assembly line in Northern Ireland. However, behind the grandiose plans were hidden fatal errors:

  • 💰 Underfunding: DeLorean attracted investment (including from the British government), but there was never enough money. The price of the car increased from the planned $12,000 to $25,000.
  • ⚙️ Raw design: Engine PRV V6 (joint development Peugeot-Renault-Volvo) was weak for a sports car - only 130 hp.
  • 🚗 Quality problems: The stainless steel body looked futuristic, but did not hold its shape well, and the gullwing doors often stuck.

By 1982 the company went bankrupt, having produced only about 9,000 cars. John DeLorean was charged with drug trafficking (later acquitted) and the plant closed. The irony of fate: if it weren't for the movie "Back to the Future", DMC-12 would have been forgotten long ago as a failed project. Today it is one of the most recognizable cars in the world.

📊 What do you think of the design of the DeLorean DMC-12?
Enchanted - this is a masterpiece!
Mixed feelings: beautiful, but impractical
I don’t like it - it looks like a “tin can”
Never heard of this car

On paper DeLorean DMC-12 looked revolutionary: stainless steel body, gullwing doors, rear-wheel drive and independent suspension. But in practice the car suffered from compromises, which DeLorean went to in order to reduce costs. Let's look at the key parameters:

Characteristics Meaning Notes
Engine PRV V6, 2.8 l, 130 hp Weak for a machine of weight 1,230 kg. Acceleration to 100 km/h in 8.8 sec.
Gearbox 5-speed manual or 3-speed automatic Automatic Renault was unreliable and "dumb".
Max. speed 190 km/h For comparison: Porsche 911 at that time accelerated to 230 km/h.
Body Stainless steel AISI 304, without painting Does not rust, but is easily scratched and deformed.
Suspension Front - MacPherson, rear - multi-link The suspension tuning was too soft for a sports car.

The most paradoxical fact: the gullwing doors, which became the hallmark of the car, were added at the request of DeLorean already at the prototype stage - ordinary doors were originally planned. This decision complicated the design and added weight, but made DMC-12 recognizable.

⚠️ Attention: If you are planning to buy an original DeLorean DMC-12, please note that most instances require overhaul of suspension and electrical systems. The parts are extremely rare and expensive—for example, a new bumper can cost up to $5,000.

3. Why was the DeLorean chosen for Back to the Future?

The film's writers were looking for a car that would look futuristic in 1985, but would also be realistic for 1955 (where Marty McFly goes). DeLorean DMC-12 fit perfectly:

  • 🚀 Futuristic design: The stainless steel body and gullwing doors were associated with spaceships.
  • 💡 Neutral brand: In 1955 stamps DeLorean did not yet exist, so the machine was not “tied” to the era.
  • 🎬 Convenience of filming: The low roof made it easy for cameramen to film the actors inside.

Interesting fact: it was made for the film three modifications machines:

  1. Hero car — the “main” car with a full-fledged interior for close-ups.
  2. Stunt car — a lighter version for tricks (for example, flying on wires in the finale).
  3. Fiberglass replica - a fiberglass replica for scenes where the car is destroyed.
How many DeLoreans are left after filming?

Of the seven vehicles used in the trilogy, five are known today. One was cut into pieces for the museum, the other was destroyed in the train collision scene in the third part. The remaining copies are estimated at $1–3 million.

4. Where can you see the original DeLoreans from the movie today?

If you want to touch the legend, here's where they are stored verified originals:

  • 🏛️ Petersen Museum (Los Angeles, USA): The car from the first part of the film is on display here (VIN 5180).
  • 🎥 Universal Studios (Hollywood): The cue used in the show can be seen at the theme park.
  • 🚗 Private collections: One of the copies (VIN 4381) was sold at auction in 2021 for $1.2 million.

By the way, if you come across DeLorean with the sign "OUTATIME" (like in the movie), this is 100% replica — the original cars did not have license plates, as they were not registered for the roads.

💡

Before you buy a "film" DeLorean, check it out VIN in the database DMC Talk — a record of all surviving copies is kept there.

5. How much does a DeLorean DMC-12 cost today?

Prices for DeLorean DMC-12 vary from $30 000 up to $1.5 million, depending on condition and history. Here are the main price categories:

Machine type Cost (2026) What's included
Project for restoration $30 000 – $60 000 Body with rust, engine/interior missing.
Running copy $80 000 – $120 000 The car is running, but requires cosmetic repairs.
Restored $150 000 – $300 000 Complete restyling, original parts.
Film replica $500,000 – $1.5 million A copy with exact reproduction of details from the film.
⚠️ Attention: There are many fakes on the market! Real DeLorean has:
  1. Body number (VIN) in the format SCEDT26T*BD000001 (where 000001 - serial number).
  2. A sign with the inscription DeLorean Motor Company on the front pillar.
  3. Original engine PRV V6 (unless replaced).

6. Can you legally drive a DeLorean today?

Yes, but with reservations. In most countries DeLorean DMC-12 has the status classic car, which imposes restrictions:

  • 📜 Registration: In the US and EU, the car must pass inspection as a “vintage car” (for example, in California - SB100 registration).
  • ⛽ Fuel: Engine PRV V6 designed for gasoline with octane number 91–93, but modern ethanol can damage the fuel system.
  • 🛠️ Spare parts: Almost no original parts are produced. Owners use analogues from Renault or 3D printing.

Legalize in Russia DeLorean more difficult: you will have to format it as rarity through the traffic police, providing documents of origin. An alternative is registration in classic car clubs (for example, FIVA).

Make sure that VIN matches the documents|

Check the body for corrosion (especially in welding areas)|

Assess the condition of the engine PRV V6 (typical problems: oil leak, timing chain wear)|

Check the availability of original gullwing doors (many are replaced with regular ones due to breakdowns) -->

7. Modern replicas and electric versions

Due to the rarity of the originals, a market for replicas has emerged. The most famous projects:

  • 🔧 DMC Houston: The company restores original DMC-12 and produces replicas with improved engines (up to 300 hp).
  • ⚡ DeLorean EV: Electric version with battery announced in 2022 100 kWh and power reserve 480 km. The start of sales is planned for 2026–2026.
  • 🎮 Kit-cars: DIY kits (e.g. from DeLorean Motor Company of Texas) cost from $50,000.

Electric DeLorean promises to retain the design of the original, but with modern “filling”: rear-wheel drive, acceleration to 100 km/h in 4.3 sec and a digital instrument panel. However, purists criticize the project for departing from the “spirit” of the classic car.

💡

The original DeLorean DMC-12 is not an investment, but a hobby. The car requires constant maintenance, and its cost depends on the fashion for retro-futurism. Replicas and electric versions may be more practical, but lose historical value.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the DeLorean from Back to the Future

🔍 How many DeLoreans were produced in total?

Officially produced 8 583 copies DeLorean DMC-12 (according to DMC Houston). Of these, about 6 500 have survived to this day, but only 1 000–1 500 are in running condition.

💰 Why is the DeLorean so expensive if it was a failure?

The price is formed due to:

  1. Cult status thanks to the movie.
  2. Limited quantity (fewer cars were produced than, for example, Ford Mustang same period).
  3. Difficulties of recovery - parts have to be made by hand.
🚗 Is it possible to make a time machine out of a DeLorean, like in the movie?

Theoretically, no. To do this you would need:

  • 🔋 Plutonium reactor (as in Dr. Brown) - prohibited by international agreements.
  • ⚡ Flux capacitor - a fictitious device that has no scientific basis.
  • 🕒 Moving accuracy: Even if a time machine existed, it would require GPS navigation, which did not exist in 1985.

However, enthusiasts collect salon replicas with a “flux capacitor” of LEDs - such machines can be seen at pop culture exhibitions.

🛠️ What are the most common breakdowns of the DeLorean?

Owners DMC-12 most often encountered:

  • 🔥 Engine overheating (due to poor ventilation of the engine compartment).
  • 🚪 Broken doors (gullwing hydraulics fail).
  • ⚡ Electrical problems (oxidation of contacts due to stainless body).
  • 🛞 Suspension wear (shock absorbers and silent blocks have to be changed every 20,000 km).
🎬 Where can you ride a DeLorean like in the movie?

Several options:

  • 🇺🇸 Universal Studios (Orlando/Hollywood): Attraction Back to the Future: The Ride (closed, but sometimes themed events are held).
  • 🇬🇧 DeLorean Owners Club UK: Organizes meetings with owners with the opportunity to ride.
  • 🎭 Themed weddings/parties: Some companies rent out replicas (e.g. Back to the Future DeLorean Hire in the USA).