The Enduring Mystery of the DeLorean's Ownership
The DeLorean DMC-12. Just the name conjures images of stainless steel, gull-wing doors, and a certain time-traveling flux capacitor. For many Americans, the DeLorean is more than just a car; it's a pop culture icon, forever etched in our minds by the Back to the Future film trilogy. But when you hear "the real DeLorean," what does that actually mean? And who, in this day and age, can claim ownership of the genuine article? This article aims to demystify the ownership of this legendary vehicle, separating fact from fiction.
The Original DeLorean Motor Company: A Brief, Turbulent History
To understand the ownership of the "real" DeLorean, we first need to look back at its origins. The original DeLorean Motor Company (DMC) was founded by John DeLearo, a former General Motors executive, in 1975. His vision was to create a sports car that was both innovative and stylish. The DMC-12, with its striking stainless steel body and unique gull-wing doors, was the embodiment of that vision.
Production of the DMC-12 began in Northern Ireland in 1981. Despite the initial excitement and the car's distinctive aesthetic, the company faced significant financial struggles. John DeLorean himself was embroiled in legal troubles, and the original company ultimately went bankrupt in 1982.
So, What Happened to the "Real" Cars?
With the original company's demise, the fate of the existing DeLorean DMC-12s became uncertain. Thousands of cars had already been produced and sold. These are the "real" DeLoreans in the sense that they are the original production models from the defunct company.
Ownership of these vehicles has, over the years, passed through various hands. They are now privately owned by collectors, enthusiasts, and individuals who appreciate their unique place in automotive and cinematic history. There isn't a single entity that "owns" all the original DeLoreans; rather, they are dispersed among thousands of private owners across the globe.
The "New" DeLorean: A Modern Renaissance
The story doesn't end with the original company's collapse. In 1995, a British businessman named Stephen Wynne acquired the remaining spare parts and inventory of the original DeLorean Motor Company. He then established a new entity, also called the DeLorean Motor Company (DMC), based in Humble, Texas. This new DMC is dedicated to servicing, restoring, and rebuilding the original DMC-12s. They possess a vast collection of original parts, allowing them to keep these iconic vehicles on the road.
Do They Own the "Real" DeLoreans?
It's crucial to understand that while the DeLorean Motor Company in Texas plays a vital role in the preservation and continued existence of the DMC-12, they do not "own" the original production cars in the way one might think of a manufacturer owning its entire output. Instead, they are the custodians of the legacy and the facilitators of ownership for those who seek to acquire and maintain these classic vehicles.
The cars produced and sold by the original DeLorean Motor Company are the "real" DeLoreans. The DeLorean Motor Company in Texas is the primary source for parts, service, and, in some cases, restored or rebuilt vehicles. They are essentially the guardians of the DeLorean's future, ensuring that the cars we see today are as close to their original glory as possible.
Ownership Today: A Collector's Dream
If you're wondering about owning a "real" DeLorean today, it's a matter of finding one on the collector's market. These cars occasionally come up for sale through dealerships specializing in classic cars, auction houses, or private sales. The condition, mileage, and provenance of a particular DeLorean will significantly influence its price.
The DeLorean Motor Company in Texas also offers a service where they can build a DeLorean from existing chassis and components, essentially creating a "new" old DeLorean. These are also considered highly desirable and are built to original specifications.
Key Takeaways on Ownership:
- The "real" DeLoreans are the original DMC-12 vehicles produced by the defunct DeLorean Motor Company (DMC) founded by John DeLorean.
- These original cars are now owned by private collectors and enthusiasts worldwide.
- The DeLorean Motor Company (DMC) in Texas, founded by Stephen Wynne, holds the remaining parts inventory and specializes in servicing, restoring, and rebuilding original DeLoreans.
- The Texas-based DMC can also build "new" old DeLoreans using original components and chassis.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How can I buy a "real" DeLorean?
You can acquire a "real" DeLorean by searching the classic car market. Look for reputable classic car dealers, auction sites, or private sellers. The DeLorean Motor Company in Texas also occasionally offers restored or rebuilt vehicles for sale.
Why is the DeLorean so iconic?
The DeLorean's iconic status is largely due to its unforgettable appearance – the stainless steel body and gull-wing doors – and its prominent role as the time machine in the beloved Back to the Future film trilogy. This cemented its place in popular culture.
Does the DeLorean Motor Company in Texas build new cars?
The DeLorean Motor Company in Texas doesn't build entirely new models from scratch. Instead, they meticulously restore and rebuild existing DeLorean DMC-12 chassis and components, often creating vehicles that are essentially "new" in their operational state and adherence to original specifications.
Are all DeLoreans from the Back to the Future movies still around?
The specific movie cars used in Back to the Future are a separate matter. Some of these iconic screen-used vehicles are in museums, private collections, or have been meticulously restored and are sometimes displayed by their owners. They are distinct from the general production models.
What is the value of a "real" DeLorean today?
The value of a "real" DeLorean can vary significantly based on its condition, mileage, originality, and historical significance (such as being a movie car). Generally, well-maintained examples can range from $30,000 to over $100,000, with movie-specific cars commanding much higher prices.
