Why this vehicle matters
The DeLorean is a monument to ambition over execution. John DeLorean — GM's rebellious golden boy — wanted to build an ethical sports car: safe, long-lasting, and stylish. Giorgetto Giugiaro designed the wedge shape. Colin Chapman's Lotus developed the chassis. The brushed stainless steel was meant to never rust, never need paint. The gullwing doors were pure theater. But the Renault/Peugeot/Volvo V6 was a wheezy disappointment, quality control was inconsistent, and the company collapsed amid John DeLorean's drug trafficking arrest (he was later acquitted in an entrapment ruling). Then 'Back to the Future' made it immortal. The DeLorean isn't great to drive, but that's not really the point anymore.
Patina notes
Stainless steel doesn't rust, but it does show every fingerprint, scratch, and water spot. Many owners obsess over the finish; others embrace the 'lived-in' look. The black rubber trim can deteriorate. The fiberglass underbody is the real rust concern — the frame underneath the shiny panels is conventional steel. Unmolested examples are increasingly valued over modified ones.
Ownership reality
Surprisingly practical as a collector car. The DeLorean community is passionate and well-organized. The DeLorean Motor Company (Texas) has been supporting these cars for decades with parts and service. Most mechanical components are off-the-shelf European parts. The V6 is reliable if underwhelming. Driving dynamics are acceptable, not exciting. The gullwing doors don't work in tight parking spaces. And yes, everyone will quote the movie at you. Everyone.
The verdict
Buy if
You want an iconic '80s design that's actually attainable. You're okay with 130 hp in a sports car body. You're ready for strangers to say '1.21 gigawatts' every time you park.
Skip if
You want performance to match the looks. You hate attention. You need to park in tight spaces regularly.
What to look for
- → Frame rust underneath the stainless panels
- → Electrical gremlins (grounding issues common)
- → Door mechanism wear and adjustment
- → Stainless panel condition (dents are expensive)
- → AC system functionality (weak from factory)
- → PRV engine maintenance history
Common problems
- ⚠ Electrical grounding issues throughout
- ⚠ Door struts wear out and need replacement
- ⚠ AC system struggles in hot climates
- ⚠ PRV engine fuel injection quirks
- ⚠ Speedometer cable failure
- ⚠ Window regulators
Parts & community
Parts sources
- DeLorean Motor Company (Texas) — primary source
- DMC Midwest
- PJ Grady
- DeLorean One
Forums & communities
- DMCTalk.org
- DeLorean Motor Company forums
- DeLoreanDirectory.com
Sources
- DeLorean Motor Company · 2026-02-04
- Hagerty Valuation · 2026-02-04
Specifications
| Engine | 2.85L PRV V6 |
| Power | 130 hp |
| Torque | 153 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual / 3-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | RWD |
| Weight | 2,712 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 94.8 inches |
| Production | Approximately 9,000 |
Notable Features
- • Brushed stainless steel body panels
- • Gullwing doors
- • Giugiaro design
- • Lotus-developed backbone chassis
- • Rear-mounted engine
About DeLorean
John DeLorean's stainless steel sports car. Built in Northern Ireland, immortalized in Hollywood, killed by cocaine.
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