Description
John Z Delorean’s superb track record as a General Motors Executive was beyond dispute, and it was in large part this reason which convinced the British Government to make huge investment in the plans for the DeLorean Motor Company’s Belfast factory, to build a spectacular new sports car. Contrary to popular opinion he very nearly succeeded; the factory got built, all in the remarkably short period of three years. The innovative stainless steel body and hulling doors were well integrated into a strikingly attractive design by legendary Italian stylist Giorgetto Giugiaro; even today a DMC-12 will stop traffic like few other cars. However, cash flow issues combined with a bleak economical climate eventually overwhelmed the company, forcing them into receivership in 1982.
Imported into the UK in 2015, this incredible example has enjoyed an exhaustive restoration to an extremely huge standard. A new Euro-spec Volvo high compression engine was rebuilt by Alex Canini it was totally stripped and vapour blasted, had all new seals and gaskets, ported and polished heads, all new valves and valve seals, new valve seats, new shell bearings, new rings and new liners. The liners were stainless shimmed and bonded. Flywheel lightened and balanced, inlet manifold port matched, at a cost of £6,000. The 5-speed manual gearbox was rebuilt by specialists GTO Racing, it has straight cut first and second gears, a one piece input shaft, bigger bearing and a Quaife LSD at a cost of a further £5,000. The engine breathes through a free-flow stainless steel sports exhaust system. Needless to say the fuel and ignition systems, cooling, suspension, steering, braking, clutch system, air conditioning, electrics, and ancillaries were all replaced or overhauled. Finally the exterior was re-brushed by specialist Chris Nicholson (PJ Grady UK) and is simply stunning. Further improvements include the fitting of a reverse camera with screen in rear view mirror, reversing sensors, a Pioneer sound system with new speakers and wiring, Bluetooth and USB connectivity. This extremely well sorted car is quick for a DeLorean and extremely well maintained. The interior is in very good condition and original other than the new seat covers, and the dash binnacle has been recovered by Lee Pattison.
This is by far one of the nicest DeLoreans in the UK, is held in high regard by the community and really does merit further inspection – a full specification is available upon request.
