The DeLorean, with its iconic gull-wing doors and stainless-steel body panels, remains a symbol of 1980s automotive design. One of the distinguishing features of the DeLorean is its outlandish design, which was unlike anything else at the time. Despite its futuristic appearance, the DeLorean's performance was modest, with the DeLorean 0-60 times reported at around 10.5 seconds. This was largely due to its PRV V6 engine which produced 130 horsepower, built through a collaboration between Peugeot, Renault, and Volvo. While this output was considered underwhelming, especially when compared to contemporary sports cars.
The design of the DeLorean was the brainchild of legendary designer Giorgetto Giugiaro, whose use of brushed stainless steel made it a rust-resistant option that stood out but also resulted in higher weight. The gull-wing doors, while striking, demanded ample lateral space to open fully and came with practical challenges, such as weakening support over time. Technologically, the DeLorean included features typical for its era, such as a radio, cassette deck, and power windows. Its unique exterior, however, spoke to technological aspirations beyond its existing capabilities.
From a safety perspective, the DeLorean offered standard safety features of its time, though the stainless steel structure and minimal crumple zones were points of concern. Despite these concerns, its build quality and safety can be considered in line with other early 80s vehicles. Its uniqueness lies more in style rather than advanced safety innovations.
Consumers often felt ambivalent about the DeLorean. While it garnered admiration for its movie-star status promoted by the "Back to the Future" series, it often faced criticism for its unimpressive performance and build quality. This dichotomy made it both a beloved classic and a subject of scrutiny among car enthusiasts. Despite mixed reviews, the DeLorean has achieved cult status largely due to its distinct design and cultural significance, ensuring its place in automotive history.
