The Texas-based DeLorean Motor Company (DMC) has announced plans to resume production of the iconic DMC-12 next year.
DMC didn’t design the DMC-12, but it bought all of the spare parts and the tooling needed to build it from the original DeLorean Motor Company that was founded by former General Motors executive John Z. DeLorean in the 1970s. The company has been selling new, fully restored DMC-12s since 1997, and a new law that allows low-volume car makers to sell complete, turn-key cars opens the door for DMC to move into the manufacturing sector.
The replica will look just like the original DeLorean (pictured), but it will be upgraded with improved electronics, beefier brakes, bigger wheels, and a more modern interior. More changes will be found in the engine compartment, where DMC is tossing out the DMC-12′s mid-mounted 2.8-liter PRV V6 and replacing it with a modern V6 tuned to make between 350 and 400 horsepower. Executives are in talks with two engine suppliers — including, ironically, GM — so final technical specifications won’t be published until an agreement is reached.
DMC-12 production is scheduled to kick off early next year. DMC will only build 325 examples annually — the limit set by the new law — and each one will cost a little less than $100,000 before options are factored in. Buyers who don’t like the idea of spending BMW M5 money on a DeLorean can order a fully restored one for approximately $50,000.
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