Is it Worth Driving a DMC DeLorean Today?

When considering whether to drive a DMC DeLorean today, the answer is a firm no. The car's iconic status and recognition from the Back to the Future movies make it a popular conversation piece, but its practicality as a daily driver is severely limited. Let's delve into the details to understand why.

Iconic Pop Culture

The DeLorean is one of the few cars that gained immense notoriety and recognition due to its appearance in the 1985 hit movie Back to the Future. Thanks to its distinctive angular styling with a brushed stainless steel body and gull-wing doors, the car is instantly recognizable almost everywhere. Millennial car enthusiasts, who were in their teens and young adulthood around the time of the film's release, still hold it in high regard. However, its status as a collectible does not make it a suitable choice for regular driving.

Performance and Reliability Issues

The original v6 engine, which only produced 130 horsepower, was underpowered and unable to reach 60 mph in under 9 seconds. This performance falls far short of modern expectations. Moreover, the DeLorean's handling and braking systems are notoriously poor. Steering is difficult, and the entire vehicle tends to be mechanically unreliable. These factors make it a subpar driving experience compared to contemporary models.

Market Value and Maintenance

While the DeLorean's performance may be poor, it has considerable value as a collector's item, especially after an engine swap. However, its age (nearly 35 years old) and subsequent lack of spare parts can make maintenance a significant challenge. Finding replacement parts and ensuring the car is mechanically sound can be costly and time-consuming.

Value Proposition for Daily Use

Those considering a DeLorean as a daily driver should think carefully about their motivations. If you are financially strained and need to prioritize essential expenses like rent and basic living costs, purchasing a DeLorean is not advisable. If, on the other hand, you have significant disposable income and enjoy nostalgia, the DMC DeLorean could be a fascinating acquisition.

As a collectible, it offers immense value. However, if you're after a reliable and high-performance car, you might want to consider other vintage models. For example, the Pontiac TransAm 6.6 with its powerful engine could be a perfect alternative for those who appreciate 80s sports cars. Alternatively, a modern performance car like a Honda Civic or MiniCoCooperS would be much more practical and enjoyable to drive on today's roads.

Final Thoughts

The DMC DeLorean is undeniably a piece of automotive history, but its downsides make it a less-than-ideal choice for regular driving. If you're solely interested in owning a piece of retro fashion and cinema history, it can be a rewarding experience. But for those who prioritize practicality and performance, the DeLorean truly is a joker's car, destined to be the butt of many a bad joke. In summary, while owning a DMC DeLorean might be desirable for collectors, it is not worth it as a daily driver for most people.