New DeLorean DMC-12 revival targets over double the power
The revived DeLorean DMC-12 will keep its iconic design but swap the original V6 for a modern engine with more than twice the power, plus chassis and electrical upgrades.
The DeLorean DMC-12, a car that became iconic despite its initial commercial failure, is set for a dramatic return to production. The Texas-based DeLorean Motor Company, which has no connection to the original manufacturer, is preparing to launch low-volume production of the DMC-12. The first cars are expected to be delivered within months, and the company is aiming to attract the car’s loyal following by keeping the classic Giugiaro-designed stainless steel bodywork.
DeLorean DMC-12 Returns with Modern Power
A New Engine for a New Era
One of the most significant changes for the revived DMC-12 is the complete overhaul of its powertrain. The original car’s 2.85-litre V6 engine, which produced just 130hp, was widely criticised for being underpowered given the car’s futuristic looks. For the 2017 version, the new DeLorean Motor Company is planning to fit an engine from one of two modern suppliers. Both options promise well over 260hp, more than double the output of the original. The final engine choice has yet to be confirmed, as prototypes will undergo testing with both suppliers before a decision is made.
The new engine will be paired with a five-speed manual transaxle gearbox, which is an updated version of the original Renault-sourced transmission. This combination is intended to provide a driving experience that finally matches the DMC-12’s striking appearance, addressing one of the main criticisms levelled at the 1980s model.
Chassis and Reliability Improvements
Beyond the engine, the revived DMC-12 will benefit from a series of upgrades aimed at solving the structural and reliability issues that affected the original. The chassis will use a new old stock (NOS) frame, which will be electro-coated and powder-coated to provide improved resistance to corrosion. This is a significant improvement over the original’s combination of mild steel and epoxy resin, which was prone to twisting, flexing, and rust due to moisture infiltration.
The electrical system, another weak point in the original DMC-12, will be completely replaced with a modern setup. This should address many of the reliability concerns that owners of the original car experienced. Buyers will also be able to choose larger 17- or 18-inch wheels, as well as upgraded brakes designed to cope with the increased power output.
What to Expect from the 2017 DMC-12
With a power output exceeding 260hp, the new DMC-12 will offer performance that far surpasses the original. The combination of a modern engine, improved transmission, and significant upgrades to the chassis and electrical system should make the car more reliable and better suited to modern driving expectations. By maintaining the classic exterior styling, the company hopes to appeal to both enthusiasts of the original and new customers drawn by the car’s unique heritage.
The company’s approach of testing engines from two suppliers before finalising the production specification indicates a commitment to delivering a well-rounded product. The upgrades to the chassis and electrical systems show that lessons have been learned from the past, and the new DMC-12 is being engineered to address the shortcomings of the 1980s model while preserving its distinctive character.
