If you are born before 2000 and are interested in cars, it is very unlikely that you haven't heard about the DeLorean, especially when it is featured in the movie "Back To the Future". The DeLorean, also known as "Time Machine," in the movie, is familiar to most people for its unique design and futuristic look, but there is one thing that many people miss, the man behind it, John DeLorean. He was the man who created the DeLorean empire and failed within a short period of time, but its fame and desirability came later. How does that happen? And how does it become a cultural icon even after it failed?
The Rise Of DeLorean and DeLorean Motor Company
John Z. DeLorean was born on January 6, 1925, in Detroit, Michigan, United States. He studied electrical engineering and later switched to industrial engineering at Lawrence Technological University. While in college he worked part-time at Chrysler body shop. While he was on track to finish his study, world war-II came in and interrupted his career which was about to start. John was drafted into the conflict and was honorably discharged after 3 years.
After he returns home from the war, economic difficulty in the family molds his career to work for the public lighting commission as a draft person. John continues to maul the opportunities for his future and after a year and a half, he returned to Lawrence to finish his degree in industrial engineering. Instead of immediately entering the engineering field and turning this boastful moment to get a greater position in the field of engineering, John rather picked to sell life insurance. However, his decision turns out to be one of the best. The period of selling life insurance helped him immensely. While working for the insurance agency he not only learned communication and analytical skills but also developed an analytical system which according to the book "On a Clear Day You Can See General Motors: John Z. DeLorean 's Look Inside the Automotive Giant" leads to the sale of $850,000 worth of policies in just 10 months. However, for anyone who's really that good, it's inevitably less exciting to work in insurance for the long term. So he moved on to work for the factory equipment corporation. John applied to work for Chrysler on the recommendation of a foreman at a Chrysler garage who saw the immense potential in DeLorean. While working there, he joined the Chrysler Institute of Engineering in order to further his understanding of automobile engineering. After completing a master's degree in automobile engineering in 1952, he worked with Chrysler's engineering team for less than a year.
In 1953 he was offered to work with Packard Motor Company. He decided to take the offer and join the University of Michigan for the MBA program side by side. It was a promising start for DeLorean's Future. He was able to quickly make his presence felt by working on a project to improve the torque converter and dual-drive ranges for Ultramatic automatic transmission.
How DMC-12 Became a Legend in the Car World?
The DeLorean DMC-12, a striking sports car with its stainless steel body and distinctive gull-wing doors, has transcended the realm of mere transportation to become an enduring icon in the car world. From its unique design to its association with a famous movie franchise, the DMC-12 has captured the imaginations of enthusiasts and fans alike. Let's discuss the factors that propelled the DeLorean DMC-12 to legendary status, solidifying its place as an icon in the automotive industry.
Unforgettable Design
The DeLorean DMC-12's design, a collaboration between engineer William T. Collins and renowned designer Giorgetto Giugiaro, defied convention and established a visual identity that is instantly recognizable even decades later. The stainless steel body panels, which offered both durability and a futuristic aesthetic, set the car apart from its contemporaries. The gull-wing doors added a touch of theatricality and made the DMC-12 an attention-grabbing spectacle on the road.
Pop Culture Status
While the DeLorean DMC-12 possessed an inherent charm, its iconic status was further cemented by its prominent role in the 1985 film "Back to the Future." As the time machine in the movie franchise, the DMC-12 became forever linked to the adventures of Marty McFly and Doc Brown. This association with a beloved pop culture phenomenon propelled the car to an entirely new level of fame, capturing the hearts of moviegoers and car enthusiasts alike.
Innovative Features
Beyond its striking appearance, the DeLorean DMC-12 introduced several innovative features that added to its allure. The gull-wing doors, in addition to being visually captivating, made the car more accessible in cramped parking spaces. The use of a stainless steel body not only distinguished it from traditional car designs but also offered resistance against corrosion, ensuring that the car maintained its luster for years.
Engineering Excellence
The engineering prowess of the DeLorean DMC-12 played a significant role in its iconic status. The rear-mounted V6 engine, developed in collaboration with Peugeot-Renault-Volvo (PRV), provided a respectable power output and contributed to balanced weight distribution, enhancing handling and traction. The lightweight construction and advanced suspension system further optimized performance and driving dynamics, making the DMC-12 a joy to drive.
Enduring Legacy
Despite the production of the DeLorean DMC-12 ceasing after a relatively short period, its legacy lives on. The car's unique design and timeless appeal have ensured its continued popularity among collectors and enthusiasts. The enduring fascination with the DMC-12 has resulted in a dedicated community of owners and fans, who meticulously preserve and showcase these automotive gems, keeping the spirit of the car alive.
The DeLorean DMC-12's journey from an ambitious engineering project to an icon in the car world is a testament to its distinctive design, cultural significance, and engineering excellence. From its stainless steel body to its association with a beloved film franchise, the DMC-12 has captured the imagination of generations, etching its place in automotive history. As an enduring symbol of innovation and style, the DeLorean DMC-12 continues to inspire and captivate car enthusiasts around the globe.