DeLorean (1981-82)

Overview: The **DeLorean DMC-12 (1981-82)** was the **first and only production car** from the **DeLorean Motor Company (DMC)**, making it a defining moment for the brand. It was meant to be a **luxury sports car** that combined **futuristic styling, innovative materials, and exclusivity**, but it ultimately became more famous for its **controversial history** than its performance.

Key Significance:

- **Company’s Flagship Model**: The DMC-12 was **John DeLorean’s vision** for a high-end, stainless-steel sports car with **gull-wing doors**, designed by **Giorgetto Giugiaro**.

- **Northern Ireland Production**: The car was built in **Dunmurry, Northern Ireland**, with financial backing from the **UK government**, making it a rare example of a **British-built American car**.

- **Financial Struggles**: Despite its striking design, the DMC-12 suffered from **underwhelming performance** and **quality control issues**, leading to **slow sales** and financial difficulties for the company.

- **Company Collapse**: By **1982**, DeLorean Motor Company was in **serious trouble**, and John DeLorean’s **legal issues** further accelerated its downfall. Production ended after **around 9,000 units** were built.

- **Pop Culture Icon**: Though the car was a commercial failure, it became **legendary** after starring as the **time machine** in the *Back to the Future* films, securing its place in automotive history.

Despite its **short-lived production**, the DeLorean DMC-12 remains one of the most **recognizable and iconic cars** ever made. 

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COMMON FAULTS

Please Note: Common Faults in Regularly Used Vehicles vs. Low-Mileage Stored Vehicles that have been used consistently over many years, accumulating approximately 10,000–12,000 miles annually, are more prone to common faults due to regular wear and tear. These issues typically arise from the natural aging of components subjected to frequent use, such as engine parts, suspension systems, brakes, and tires. In contrast, vehicles with low mileage that have been stored or preserved are likely to experience different types of issues. These vehicles are often better maintained to ensure their longevity and may avoid some of the typical wear-and-tear problems seen in regularly driven cars. However, they can still face unique challenges such as degradation of rubber seals, corrosion from prolonged inactivity, or fuel system issues caused by old or stagnant fuel.

The DeLorean DMC-12, while iconic, had its share of common faults. Here are some of the issues that owners often encountered:

1. **Electrical System**: The electrical system was prone to failures, leading to various issues such as dead batteries and malfunctioning components – Motor & Wheels](https://motorandwheels.com/problem-with-delorean-cars) ]

2. **Suspension Problems**: The suspension system was known to be problematic, affecting the car's handling and ride comfort – Motor & Wheels](https://motorandwheels.com/problem-with-delorean-cars)

3. **Leaky Doors and Cabin**: The gull-wing doors and cabin seals often leaked, leading to water ingress and potential damage to the interior – Motor & Wheels](https://motorandwheels.com/problem-with-delorean-cars).

4. **Sticking Throttles**: The throttle mechanism could stick, causing potential safety concerns – Motor & Wheels] (https://motorandwheels.com/problem-with-delorean-cars)

5. **Overheating**: The engine cooling system was not very efficient, leading to frequent overheating issues.

Despite these faults, the DeLorean DMC-12 remains a beloved classic, especially for its unique design and cultural significance.

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Generations/Trim Levels

Generations and trim levels of vehicles often vary between countries as manufacturers tailor models to meet the preferences and requirements of specific markets. For example, a trim level designated as “GL” in the UK might be labelled as “XS” in another country. Due to these regional differences, the information provided on this site pertains exclusively to UK-specific products.",

The DeLorean DMC-12 was produced in a single generation from **1981 to 1983**. However, there were some variations and updates during its production run. Here are the key details:",

**First Generation (1981-1983)**: The only generation of the DeLorean DMC-12, known for its iconic gull-wing doors and stainless steel body.

**Standard Trim**: The base model with all the essential features, including the 2.85-liter V6 engine, gull-wing doors, and stainless steel body panels.

**Special Editions**: There were a few special editions and customizations offered by dealers, but these were not official factory trim levels.

The DeLorean DMC-12 remained largely consistent in its design and features throughout its production run, with only minor updates and improvements.The DeLorean DMC-12 was fitted with a **2.85-liter PRV V6 engine**. This engine produced **130 bhp (97 kW)** and **153 lb-ft (207 Nm)** of torque.

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Designer/Dimensions

The DeLorean DMC-12 was designed by the renowned Italian designer **Giorgetto Giugiaro** at Italdesign.

Dimensions

**Length**: 4,267 mm (168.0 inches)

**Width**: 1,988 mm (78.3 inches)

**Height**: 1,140 mm (44.9 inches) with doors closed

**Wheelbase**: 2,413 mm (95.0 inches)

**Curb Weight**: 1,233 kg (2,718 lbs)

These dimensions contributed to the car's distinctive and futuristic design.

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Where Manufactured

The DeLorean DMC-12 was manufactured in **Dunmurry, Northern Ireland**, just outside **Belfast**. The factory—officially known as **DeLorean Motor Cars Ltd. (DMCL)**—was a purpose-built, 550,000-square-foot facility constructed with significant financial support from the British government in the late 1970s.

Production began in **early 1981**, and despite the car’s short-lived run, the Dunmurry plant produced nearly **9,000 units** before shutting down in **late 1982** due to financial collapse. The factory was a bold attempt to bring jobs to a region struggling with high unemployment during the Troubles, and it remains one of the most fascinating chapters in automotive history.

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Production Total: The DeLorean DMC-12 had a total production run of approximately **8,987 to 9,080 units**. The exact number remains somewhat uncertain due to incomplete factory records. 

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Price New: In 1981, the DeLorean DMC-12 was priced at around **£18,500** in the UK. This made it a relatively expensive car for its time, but its unique design and features justified the price for many enthusiasts offered for £63,340! 

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Sales: While the DeLorean DMC-12 became an icon, especially thanks to *Back to the Future*, it was **not a commercial success** during its production run.

📉 Sales Reality

- **Production began** in early 1981 at the Dunmurry plant in Northern Ireland.

- Despite early hype and a waiting list, **sales quickly faltered** due to:

  - **High price**: Around $25,000—more than a Corvette or Porsche 911 at the time.

  - **Underwhelming performance**: 130 bhp from the PRV V6 didn’t match its exotic looks.

  - **Build quality issues**: Early cars suffered from inconsistent assembly and reliability concerns.

- By the end of 1981, **7,500 cars had been built**, but only **3,000 had sold**.

- In 1982, sales plummeted further—**only 350 units sold in January**, and the company entered receivership by February.

 ⚠️ The Fallout

- John DeLorean doubled production despite falling demand, leading to **massive unsold inventory**.

- Attempts to revive sales with discounts and extended warranties failed.

- The company collapsed in late 1982, with total production estimated at **8,975 units**.

🕰️ Legacy vs. Reality

While it flopped commercially, the DeLorean’s **cultural afterlife**—thanks to Hollywood and its unique design—has made it a beloved collector’s item. But in its own time, it was a financial disaster.

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Highest Sales Figures by Country

The **United States** was by far the largest market for the DeLorean DMC-12, accounting for the vast majority of its global sales during its brief production run from 1981 to 1982.

🌍 DeLorean Sales by Country (Estimated)

- **🇺🇸 United States**  

  - **Sales**: Approximately **6,681 units**  

  - **Share**: Over **75%** of total production  

  - The U.S. was the primary target market, with most cars shipped directly from the Dunmurry factory to American dealerships.

- **🇬🇧 United Kingdom**  

  - **Sales**: Estimated **300–500 units**  

  - Despite being built in Northern Ireland, the UK market was secondary and saw limited distribution.

- **🇨🇦 Canada**  

  - **Sales**: Estimated **100–200 units**  

  - A modest number were sold through U.S.-linked dealerships.

- **🇩🇪 Germany**, **🇦🇺 Australia**, and **🇯🇵 Japan**  

  - Very limited numbers—mostly grey imports or dealer experiments.

🧠 Why the U.S. Dominated

- The car was designed with **U.S. regulations and tastes** in mind.

- John DeLorean’s marketing strategy focused on **California and coastal affluence**.

- The DMC-12’s price point and styling were aimed squarely at the American sports car market.

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Historical Pricing Comparisons

The DeLorean DMC-12’s pricing history is a fascinating case of posthumous appreciation. Here's how its value has evolved from launch to collector status:

💵 **Original MSRP (1981–1982)**

- **U.S. Launch Price**: ~$25,000  

- **UK Equivalent (adjusted)**: ~£18,000–£20,000  

- This was **more expensive than a Corvette or Porsche 911** at the time, which hurt early sales.

📉 **Immediate Depreciation (1983–1990s)**

- After the company collapsed in 1982, unsold inventory was heavily discounted.

- By the late 1980s, used DMC-12s could be found for **as little as $10,000 (£6,000–£8,000)**.

- The car was seen as a failed curiosity—quirky, underpowered, and hard to service.

🕰️ **Cultural Revival & Price Recovery (2000s–2010s)**

- Thanks to *Back to the Future* nostalgia and growing classic car interest:

  - Prices rose to **$20,000–$30,000 (£15,000–£25,000)** for clean examples.

  - Restored or low-mileage cars began commanding premiums.

📈 **Collector Market Surge (2020s–2025)**

- As of 2025:

  - **Average UK value**: £35,000–£50,000  

  - **Top-tier concours examples**: £60,000–£75,000+  

  - **Modified or time machine replicas**: Can exceed £80,000 depending on quality

🧠 Key Value Drivers

- **Condition & originality**: Factory-spec cars with grey interiors and low mileage are most desirable.

- **5-speed manual**: More sought after than the 3-speed automatic.

- **Provenance**: Cars with full history, early VINs, or celebrity ownership fetch more.

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Main Rivals (Price): In 1981, the DeLorean DMC-12 faced competition from several notable models. Here's a comparison of their new prices at that time: 

**Porsche 911 SC**: Approximately £18,000 

**Chevrolet Corvette**: Around £12,000 

**Ferrari 308 GTS**: Approximately £22,000 

**Lotus Esprit**: Around £15,000 

These prices made the DeLorean DMC-12 a competitive option in the market, especially considering its unique design and features. 

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Main Rivals (Performance)

In 1981, the DeLorean DMC-12 faced competition from several notable models. Here's a comparison of their performance:

**Porsche 911 SC**

**Engine**: 3.0-litre Flat-6

**Power Output**: 180 bhp

**0-60 mph**: Approximately 6.3 seconds

**Top Speed**: Around 140 mph (225 km/h)

**Chevrolet Corvette**

**Engine**: 5.7-litre V8

**Power Output**: 190 bhp

**0-60 mph**: Approximately 7.0 seconds

**Top Speed**: Around 125 mph (201 km/h)

**Ferrari 308 GTS**

**Engine**: 2.9-litre V8

**Power Output**: 240 bhp

**0-60 mph**: Approximately 6.5 seconds

**Top Speed**: Around 155 mph (249 km/h)

**Lotus Esprit**

**Engine**: 2.2-litre Inline-4

**Power Output**: 160 bhp

**0-60 mph**: Approximately 6.8 seconds

**Top Speed**: Around 138 mph (222 km/h)

These figures show that the DeLorean DMC-12 was competitive with its rivals, offering similar performance and distinctive design.

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Engine

The DeLorean DMC-12 offered respectable performance for its time. Here are some key performance figures:

**Engine**: 2.85-liter PRV V6",

**Power Output**: 130 bhp (97 kW)

**Torque**: 153 lb-ft (207 Nm)

**0-60 mph (0-97 km/h)**: Approximately 8.8 seconds

**Top Speed**: Around 110 mph (177 km/h)

**Fuel Efficiency**: 19-25 mpg US (23-30 mpg UK)

These figures made the DeLorean DMC-12 a competitive option in the market, especially considering its unique design and cultural significance.

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Performance

The DeLorean DMC-12 offered performance that was more about *style and presence* than outright speed—despite its futuristic looks, it was modest by sports car standards of the early 1980s.

🏁 Performance Specs (1981–1983)

- **Engine**: 2.85L PRV V6 (Peugeot-Renault-Volvo collaboration)  

- **Power**: 130 bhp @ 5,500 rpm  

- **Torque**: 153 lb-ft (207 Nm) @ 2,750 rpm  

- **0–60 mph**: ~8.8 to 9.6 seconds (manual); ~10.5 seconds (automatic)  

- **Top Speed**: 130 mph (209 km/h)  

- **Transmission**:  

  - 5-speed manual (preferred for performance)  

  - 3-speed automatic (slower, less engaging)  

- **Curb Weight**: ~1,244 kg (2,743 lbs)  

- **Drive**: Rear-wheel drive  

- **Fuel Economy**: ~21 mpg (U.S. combined)  

🧠 Performance in Context

- The DMC-12’s **stainless steel body** and **gullwing doors** gave it exotic flair, but its **PRV V6** was underwhelming compared to rivals like the Corvette or Porsche 911.

- Handling was decent thanks to Lotus-influenced suspension, but **acceleration lagged** behind expectations for a car that looked like it could time-travel.

- Still, it offered a **comfortable ride**, decent cruising ability, and a unique driving experience that’s aged into cult status.

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Historical Advertisements & Marketing Strategy

The DeLorean DMC-12’s marketing strategy was as bold and unconventional as the car itself—built around **John DeLorean’s celebrity persona**, futuristic design, and a rebellious spirit that challenged the automotive establishment.

📢 Marketing Strategy Highlights

- **Celebrity-Driven Branding**: John DeLorean’s image—sharp suits, sideburns, and Hollywood connections—was central to the brand. He positioned the DMC-12 as a car for the stylish, independent thinker, not just another sports car buyer.

- **Futuristic Appeal**: Ads leaned heavily on the car’s **stainless steel body**, **gullwing doors**, and sci-fi silhouette. The DMC-12 was marketed as *“the ethical sports car”*—a nod to its safety features, emissions compliance, and unique materials.

- **Premium Pricing, Premium Image**: At ~$25,000, it was priced above a Corvette or Porsche 911. The strategy was to create exclusivity and align the car with luxury lifestyle aspirations.

- **Unconventional Partnerships**:  

  - **American Express** featured a **24-karat gold-plated DeLorean** in its 1980 Christmas catalog—priced at $85,000. Only two were sold, but the stunt generated massive publicity.  

  - Ads appeared alongside brands like **Cutty Sark whiskey**, blending automotive cool with lifestyle indulgence.

- **Supplier Co-Branding**: Companies like **Craig Electronics** (stereos), **Sylvania** (headlights), and **Goodyear** (tyres) used the DeLorean in their own ads to boost credibility and cachet.

🖼️ Notable Historical Ads

- **“Live the Dream”**: A print campaign showing the DMC-12 parked in front of modernist architecture or cruising coastal roads—emphasizing aspiration and escape.

- **Goodyear Ad**: Shot on John DeLorean’s estate, it featured the DMC-12 as a symbol of innovation and performance.

- **Cutty Sark Whiskey Tie-In**: Controversial but visually striking, it paired the car with a bottle of Scotch—suggesting a lifestyle of refined rebellion.

🧠 Strategic Missteps

- **Overpromising**: The marketing promised Ferrari-like performance, but the PRV V6’s modest output couldn’t deliver.

- **Limited Dealer Network**: Despite strong U.S. focus, the infrastructure to support sales and service was underdeveloped.

- **Mismatch Between Image and Execution**: The car’s exotic looks and premium price clashed with early build quality issues, undermining the brand’s credibility.

Despite its commercial failure, the DeLorean’s marketing legacy is enduring—its **mythology outlived its market performance**. 

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Rarity & Collector Appeal

The **DeLorean DMC-12** is a textbook case of a car whose **rarity and cultural cachet** have grown dramatically over time—transforming it from a commercial flop into a collector’s darling.

🔍 Rarity Snapshot

- **Total production**: ~9,000 units (1981–1982)

- **UK survivors (2025)**:  

  - **303 registered for road use**  

  - **114 on SORN (off-road)**  

  - That’s fewer than **420 total** in the UK—making it rarer on British roads than many Ferraris.

- **Special variants**:  

  - *Gold-plated American Express editions* (only 2 sold)  

  - *Time machine replicas* (non-factory, but highly prized by fans)

💎 Collector Appeal

- **Pop culture immortality**: Thanks to *Back to the Future*, the DMC-12 is arguably the most famous movie car ever—instantly recognizable and emotionally resonant.

- **Design uniqueness**: Gullwing doors, brushed stainless steel bodywork, and Lotus-tuned chassis make it unlike anything else on the road.

- **Cult following**: A global network of clubs, specialists, and parts suppliers keeps the community vibrant.

- **Rising values**:  

  - **2025 UK market**: £35,000–£50,000 for good examples  

  - **Concours or film replicas**: £60,000–£80,000+

📈 Investment Outlook

- **Steady appreciation**: Values have climbed from sub-£10k in the 1990s to five figures today.

- **Condition is king**: Low-mileage, manual-transmission, and well-documented cars command the highest premiums.

- **Cultural relevance**: As long as *Back to the Future* remains iconic, demand is unlikely to fade.

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Recorded in UK 2025 

As of 2025, there are approximately **6,500 DeLorean DMC-12** cars registered in the UK EuroTec Forum • Index page • De Lorean technical ...](http://www.deloreaneurotec.uk/). This makes it a rare and cherished classic among car enthusiasts. 

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Target Age Group: The **DeLorean DMC-12 (1981-82)** was primarily targeted at **affluent professionals and car enthusiasts** who wanted a **futuristic, exclusive sports car**. It was positioned as a **luxury performance vehicle**, appealing to buyers who valued **style and innovation** over outright speed.

Target Audience:

- **Affluent professionals** – Those looking for a **high-end, unique car** that stood out from conventional sports cars.

- **Car enthusiasts** – Fans of **cutting-edge design**, drawn to its **stainless-steel body and gull-wing doors**.

- **Hollywood & pop culture fans** – Though not originally intended, the car gained a cult following after its role in *Back to the Future*.

Despite its **bold styling**, the DMC-12 struggled to compete with traditional sports cars due to its **underwhelming performance**. However, it remains an **iconic collector’s car**, cherished by enthusiasts worldwide. 

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Influence of Target Age Group: 

The DeLorean DMC-12’s target age group—primarily **aspirational, style-conscious buyers in their 30s to 50s** during the early 1980s—had a profound influence on its design, marketing, and long-term cultural impact.

🧠 Design & Engineering Influence

- **Futuristic styling**: The gullwing doors, stainless steel body, and wedge profile were tailored to buyers who wanted to stand out—tech-savvy professionals and trendsetters rather than traditional sports car purists.

- **Comfort over performance**: While it looked exotic, the DMC-12 was engineered more as a *GT cruiser* than a track weapon—reflecting the lifestyle of buyers who valued image and comfort over raw speed.

- **Automatic transmission option**: The inclusion of a 3-speed automatic (alongside the 5-speed manual) catered to urban, image-driven buyers who prioritized ease of use.

💼 Marketing & Lifestyle Alignment

- **Lifestyle branding**: Ads positioned the DeLorean as a car for *individualists*—those who rejected conformity and embraced modernity. It wasn’t just a car; it was a statement.

- **Celebrity appeal**: John DeLorean’s own persona—charismatic, rebellious, fashion-forward—mirrored the aspirations of the target demographic.

- **Premium pricing**: At ~$25,000, it was priced above a Corvette or Porsche 911, appealing to buyers who wanted exclusivity and were willing to pay for it.

📈 Collector Legacy

- **Nostalgia-driven demand**: Many of today’s collectors are Gen Xers who grew up idolizing the car through *Back to the Future*—a film that perfectly aligned with the original target group’s cultural moment.

- **Preservation bias**: Because many original buyers treated the car as a status symbol, a surprising number of low-mileage, well-preserved examples survive today.

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Parts Bin Engineering

The DeLorean DMC-12 is a fascinating example of **parts-bin engineering**, blending bespoke design with components sourced from a wide array of manufacturers—primarily to reduce costs and accelerate development. Underneath its stainless steel skin and Lotus-tuned chassis lies a patchwork of parts from **Renault, Peugeot, Volvo, Citroën, GM, and even Ford**.

🧩 Key Parts-Bin Components

- **Engine**:  

  - *PRV 2.85L V6*, developed jointly by **Peugeot, Renault, and Volvo**. Originally designed for luxury sedans, not sports cars—hence the modest 130 bhp output.

- **Transmission**:  

  - *5-speed manual*: Renault 30 transaxle  

  - *3-speed automatic*: Also Renault-sourced, shared with other French executive cars

- **Suspension & Chassis**:  

  - Engineered by **Lotus**, borrowing heavily from the **Lotus Esprit** and **Elite** platforms  

  - Front suspension geometry adapted from the **Opel Ascona/Vauxhall Cavalier**

- **Brakes**:  

  - Components from **Girling**, used in various British and European cars  

  - Handbrake system shared similarities with **Jaguar XJ6** parts

- **Steering Column**:  

  - Sourced from the **Chevrolet Vega**, including the ignition switch and stalks

- **Electrical & Interior**:  

  - **Volvo 240**: Window switches  

  - **Citroën CX**: Side mirrors  

  - **GM**: A/C compressor, alternator, and some relays  

  - **Craig Electronics**: Factory stereo system  

  - **Sylvania**: Headlight units

- **Wheels & Tyres**:  

  - Unique turbine-style alloys, but tyre sizes were staggered and matched to **Goodyear NCTs**—a common high-performance tyre of the era

🧠 Why It Worked (and Didn’t)

- **Pros**:  

  - Reduced development costs  

  - Easier parts sourcing and servicing  

  - Allowed focus on chassis tuning and design

- **Cons**:  

  - Performance bottlenecked by the PRV engine  

  - Perceived as a “kit car” by some critics  

  - Inconsistent quality control due to supplier diversity

Despite its Frankenstein origins, the DMC-12’s parts-bin DNA is part of its charm—and a big reason why it’s still maintainable today.

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Spares/Specialists NI

For locating DeLorean DMC-12 spares in the UK and Ireland, you have several options:

Spare Parts Suppliers

**Longstone Tyres**: They offer a range of tyres suitable for the DeLorean DMC-12

**DeLorean Hire Ireland**: They provide various DeLorean and \"Back to the Future\ merchandise.

Garage Services in Northern Ireland

**DeLorean Hire Ireland**: Located in Aghalee, just outside Lisburn, they specialize in DeLorean services and hire.

**Wilsons Auctions**: They occasionally have DeLorean DMC-12s available for auction.

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Manufacturer Recommended

Engine Oil: The factory-recommended engine oil for the **DeLorean DMC-12** was **conventional 20W-50 mineral oil**, specifically **Castrol GTX 20W-50** in most climates. This choice was based on the needs of the **PRV 2.85L V6 engine**, which features a flat-tappet camshaft design that benefits from oils with higher **zinc (ZDDP)** content for wear protection.

🛢️ Factory Oil Specs

- **Viscosity**: SAE 20W-50  

- **Type**: Conventional (non-synthetic)  

- **Capacity**: ~6.75–7.5 quarts (6.4–7.1 litres), including filter  

- **Change Interval**: Every 3,000 miles or annually  

- **Filter**: Purflux LS410C (OEM), or modern equivalents like Wix 51307 or Purolator L14670

🔄 Modern Equivalents (2025)

For owners today, the best modern oils that match or exceed factory specs include:

- **Valvoline VR1 Racing 20W-50**  

  - High zinc content (ZDDP)  

  - Excellent for flat-tappet engines  

  - Widely available in the UK and US

- **Castrol GTX Classic 20W-50**  

  - Closest to the original factory fill  

  - Designed for classic cars with older engine designs

- **Millers Classic Sport 20W-50**  

  - UK-based brand with strong heritage support  

  - Mineral-based with ZDDP additives

- **Penrite HPR 30 20W-60**  

  - Slightly thicker when hot, ideal for high-mileage engines  

  - High zinc and detergent levels

⚠️ Important Notes

- **Avoid full synthetics** unless the engine has been rebuilt with modern seals—synthetics may cause leaks in older gaskets.

- **Zinc is critical**: The PRV engine’s flat-tappet valvetrain needs ZDDP to prevent premature wear.

- **Cold climates**: If you're driving in cooler conditions, a **15W-40** or **10W-40** mineral oil may be acceptable, but only if it meets the required additive profile.

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Transmission Oil: 

The factory-recommended transmission oil for the **DeLorean DMC-12**—which used a **Renault 369 5-speed manual transaxle**—was:

🛢️ **Factory Specification**

- **Type**: Gear oil  

- **Viscosity**: SAE **75** or **80** (depending on ambient temperature)  

- **Specification**: **API GL-5**  

- **Capacity**: ~3.5 US quarts (3.3 litres)

The original recommendation was for **straight-weight mineral gear oil**, but that spec is now largely obsolete.

🔄 **Modern Equivalents (2025)**

Today’s multi-viscosity synthetic gear oils offer better protection and cold-weather performance. Trusted modern substitutes include:

- **Red Line 75W-90 NS**  

  - GL-5 rated, non-slip formula ideal for synchronized gearboxes  

  - Excellent shear stability and cold-flow properties

- **Royal Purple Max Gear 75W-90**  

  - GL-5 rated, safe for yellow metals  

  - Offers high film strength and corrosion protection

- **Valvoline SynPower 75W-90**  

  - Widely available, GL-5 rated  

  - Compatible with limited-slip differentials (though not needed for the DeLorean)

- **Motul Gear 300 75W-90**  

  - Premium ester-based synthetic  

  - Excellent for classic performance applications

⚠️ Notes for DeLorean Owners

- **Avoid overly thick oils** like 80W-90 unless driving in consistently hot climates—they can dull shift feel.

- **GL-5 compatibility** is essential, but ensure the oil is safe for **synchronizers** (some GL-5 oils can be too aggressive).

- **Synthetic oils** are generally preferred today for smoother shifting and better longevity—especially in a gearbox originally designed in the 1970s.

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Tyres: The factory-recommended tyres for the **DeLorean DMC-12** were a staggered setup designed to balance the car’s rear-biased weight distribution and Lotus-influenced chassis:

🛞 **Original Factory Tyres (1981–1983)**

- **Front**: 195/60 R14  

- **Rear**: 235/60 R15  

- **OEM Fitment**: *Goodyear NCT Radials*  

- These tyres are long discontinued and often found today in unsafe, hardened condition if still fitted.

🔄 **Modern Equivalents (2025)**

Because of the unusual sizing, options are limited—but several high-quality replacements are available:

 ✅ **Best Matched Set (Front & Rear)**  

- **Front**: *Michelin MXV3-A 195/60 VR14*  

- **Rear**: *Pirelli P600 235/60 WR15*  

  - These are considered the best modern pairing for originality and performance.

🧩 **Alternative Rear Option (More Availability)**  

- **Rear**: *225/60 R15*  

  - Opens up choices like:

    - *Toyo Extensa*  

    - *Vredestein Giugiaro*  

    - *Ohtsu FP0612*  

    - *BFGoodrich Radial T/A* (for a period-correct look)

🛞 **Spare Tyre**  

- **Size**: T125/70D15  

- **Modern Options**: Kumho or Bridgestone mini-spares are available in this size.

📌 Tyre Pressure (Factory Spec)

- **Front**: 23 psi  

- **Rear**: 30 psi

If you’re aiming for originality, the Michelin/Pirelli combo is your best bet. 

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Petrol: The factory-recommended petrol grade for the **DeLorean DMC-12** was **regular unleaded**, typically **87 octane (U.S. rating)**, which corresponds to **91–92 RON** in European terms. This was suitable for the car’s **PRV 2.85L V6 engine**, which had a relatively modest **8.8:1 compression ratio**—meaning it didn’t require high-octane fuel to avoid knocking.

⛽ Modern Equivalents (2025 – UK Context)

- **E5 Premium Unleaded (97–99 RON)**  

  - *Safe and preferred* for older classics like the DeLorean  

  - Lower ethanol content (max 5%) reduces risk to rubber fuel lines and seals  

  - Brands: Shell V-Power, Esso Synergy Supreme+ (often ethanol-free in some UK regions)

- **E10 Unleaded (95 RON)**  

  - *Technically compatible* with the DeLorean’s fuel system  

  - However, **long-term use may degrade rubber components** and fuel tanks not designed for ethanol  

  - If used, it’s wise to add a **fuel stabilizer** (e.g. Redex, Sta-Bil) and avoid prolonged storage with E10 in the tank

🧠 Best Practice for Today’s Owners

- **Use E5 Super Unleaded** whenever possible—it’s gentler on classic fuel systems and offers better storage stability.

- **Avoid E10** for long-term storage or if your car still has original rubber fuel lines.

- **Additives** like Redex Petrol System Cleaner can help mitigate ethanol-related corrosion if E10 is your only option.

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Racing

The DeLorean DMC-12 did not have a significant presence in professional racing. Its design and performance were more suited to being a stylish and unique road car rather than a competitive race car. However, it has been used in various amateur racing events and car shows, where enthusiasts showcase its iconic design and modifications."

Valuation

The value of a DeLorean DMC-12 can vary based on its condition, mileage, and originality. As of 2025, here are some general price ranges:

**Lowest Price**: Around £6,558

**Median Price**: Approximately £42,861

**Highest Price**: Up to £175,221

These values reflect the car's status as a classic and its desirability among collectors. If you're considering buying or selling one, it's always a good idea to get a professional appraisal for the most accurate valuation.

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Valuation

The value of a DeLorean DMC-12 can vary based on its condition, mileage, and originality. As of 2025, here are some general price ranges:

**Lowest Price**: Around £6,558

**Median Price**: Approximately £42,861

**Highest Price**: Up to £175,221

These values reflect the car's status as a classic and its desirability among collectors. If you're considering buying or selling one, it's always a good idea to get a professional appraisal for the most accurate valuation.

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Investment Assessment

I’d rate the **DeLorean DMC-12 a 3 out of 5** as a financial investment—**with strong cultural upside but moderate financial returns**.

✅ Why It Scores a 3 (Moderate Investment Potential)

- **Cultural Icon Status**: Thanks to *Back to the Future*, the DeLorean has enduring global recognition—this keeps demand steady, especially among Gen X and millennial collectors.

- **Rarity in the UK**: Fewer than **420 examples** survive on or off the road, making it rarer than many Ferraris in Britain.

- **Stable Appreciation**: Values have climbed from sub-£10k in the 1990s to **£35k–£75k+** in 2025, depending on condition and provenance.

⚠️ Why It’s Not a 5

- **Limited performance appeal**: The PRV V6 and modest dynamics mean it’s not sought after for driving thrills.

- **Parts-bin perception**: Despite its charm, some collectors view it as a novelty rather than a serious classic.

- **Plateau risk**: Values have risen, but the market may be nearing saturation unless tied to exceptional provenance or condition.

💡 Investment Tips

- **Prioritize originality**: Factory-spec, grey interior, 5-speed manual cars with full documentation are most desirable.

- **Avoid neglected examples**: Restoration costs can quickly outstrip resale value.

- **Time machine replicas**: High-quality builds can command **£80k+**, but appeal is niche and condition-sensitive.

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Clubs

Here are some clubs for DeLorean enthusiasts in the UK and Ireland

1. **[DeLorean Club UK] http://www.deloreanclub.uk

This club offers access to DeLorean parts, technical assistance, and events. It's one of the largest DeLorean forums in Europe.

2. **[The DeLorean Owners Club UK](http://deloreans.co.uk)

**: The official DeLorean Owners Club of the UK, providing support, events, and a community for DeLorean enthusiasts.

3. **[DeLorean Revival](https://www.deloreanrevival.com)

An event-focused group organizing gatherings and activities for DeLorean owners, including access to the DeLorean test track in Belfast.",

These clubs provide a great way to connect with other DeLorean enthusiasts, find parts, and participate in events.

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