The DMC-12 was conceived by ex-GM executive John Delorean as an “ethical” sports car — affordable, safe, efficient, and reliable. When introduced, the car proved to be comfortable, and stylish… but also underpowered, and pricey. A recession decimated sales, and (in an attempt to save his company) Delorean became entangled in an FBI drug sting. He was eventually exonerated, but too late to save his company.
In the ‘80s, I didn’t fall in love with the car because of “Back to the Future”; it was Giugiaro’s daring design… the origami shapes, unconventional bare metal skin, and dramatic doors. When I was a kid, a guy up the street from me had a Delorean. Every time he drove by, the world stopped.
As an adult, I now have the pleasure of owning one, of these cars. It’s not fast, but it is reliable, comfortable, and a piece of history. This piece, part of my Car Deco collection, celebrates my infatuation with this still-futuristic piece of kinetic sculpture.