DeLorean DMC-12
Overview
The DeLorean DMC-12 is a sports car manufactured by the DeLorean Motor Company (DMC) for the American market from 1981 to 1983. Known for its distinctive gull-wing doors and stainless steel body, the DMC-12 gained iconic status after being featured in the "Back to the Future" film trilogy. Despite its short production run, the DMC-12 remains a subject of interest due to its unique design, engineering challenges, and the tumultuous history of its manufacturer.
Design and Features
The DeLorean DMC-12 was designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro, a renowned Italian automobile designer, and engineered by Colin Chapman, founder of Lotus Cars. The car's most striking feature is its unpainted stainless steel body, which gives it a futuristic appearance. The body panels are made from brushed SS304 stainless steel, which was chosen for its corrosion resistance and aesthetic appeal.
The DMC-12's gull-wing doors are another standout feature. These doors are hinged at the roof rather than the side, allowing them to open upwards. This design choice, while visually impressive, required innovative engineering solutions to ensure structural integrity and ease of use. The doors are supported by a torsion bar and gas strut system, which helps counterbalance their weight.
The vehicle's chassis is a double-Y frame design, similar to that of the Lotus Esprit. This design provides a strong yet lightweight structure, essential for the car's performance. The suspension system is fully independent, with coil springs and telescopic shock absorbers, contributing to the DMC-12's handling characteristics.
Powertrain and Performance
The DMC-12 is powered by a PRV (Peugeot-Renault-Volvo) 2.85-liter V6 engine, mounted in a rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout. The engine produces approximately 130 horsepower, which was considered modest for a sports car of its era. The choice of engine was influenced by cost considerations and the need for a reliable powerplant.
The transmission options included a 5-speed manual and a 3-speed automatic, both sourced from Renault. The manual transmission was favored by enthusiasts for its engagement and control, while the automatic offered convenience for daily driving.
Despite its sports car aspirations, the DMC-12's performance was often criticized. The car's weight, combined with the relatively low power output of the engine, resulted in a 0-60 mph time of around 10.5 seconds, which was slower than many of its contemporaries. However, the DMC-12's handling was praised for its balance and agility, thanks to its well-tuned suspension and low center of gravity.
Production Challenges
The production of the DeLorean DMC-12 was fraught with challenges. The DeLorean Motor Company was founded by John DeLorean, a former executive at General Motors. The company established its manufacturing plant in Dunmurry, Northern Ireland, with significant financial support from the British government.
The production process faced numerous difficulties, including labor disputes, supply chain issues, and quality control problems. The stainless steel body panels were particularly challenging to manufacture, as any imperfections were highly visible. Additionally, the complex door mechanism required precise assembly to function correctly.
These challenges, combined with financial mismanagement and an economic recession, led to the company's bankruptcy in 1982. Despite these setbacks, approximately 9,000 DMC-12s were produced during its brief production run.
Cultural Impact
The DeLorean DMC-12 achieved lasting fame through its prominent role in the "Back to the Future" film series, where it was depicted as a time machine. This association with popular culture has contributed to the car's enduring legacy and desirability among collectors and enthusiasts.
The DMC-12's design has also influenced automotive styling, with its clean lines and unique features serving as inspiration for future vehicles. The car's story, marked by ambition, innovation, and controversy, continues to captivate audiences and fuel interest in the DeLorean brand.
Legacy and Revival Efforts
In the years following the DeLorean Motor Company's closure, the DMC-12 has maintained a devoted fan base. Numerous clubs and organizations exist to support owners and enthusiasts, providing resources for maintenance, restoration, and community events.
Efforts to revive the DeLorean brand have been made, with various companies acquiring the rights to the name and intellectual property. These efforts have included plans to produce new vehicles inspired by the original DMC-12, incorporating modern technology and engineering advancements.
The DeLorean DMC-12 remains a symbol of 1980s automotive culture, embodying both the aspirations and challenges of its era. Its distinctive design and storied history continue to capture the imagination of car enthusiasts and the general public alike.