Lot 208 - 1981 DeLorean DMC-12
|Odometer reading||25,597 km|
|Estimate||£26,000 - £32,000|
|Result||Sold - £24,640|
When John Z. DeLorean stepped down from his position as the general manager of Chevrolet in 1973, it was widely reported that DeLorean 'had fired General Motors'. Always ambitious and willing to try new things, the talented salesman and engineer was planning to go his own way with a new sports car, one that would be more technically advanced and have superior safety features. He called it 'the ethical sports car-for the bachelor who's made it'. Built in Northern Ireland, under an agreement with the British Government, the DMC-12 was styled by Giorgetto Giugiaro, of Italdesign. It featured distinctive gullwing doors and outer body panels of brushed stainless steel over a rear-engined, Renault-powered chassis and suspension that was largely based upon the Lotus Esprit. Colin Chapman, founder of Lotus, was then brought in to resolve any engineering issues. The first 500 production DeLoreans were ready for shipment in April 1981 and, at first, the model was a smash success, mainly due to its founder's fame and innovative design. Unfortunately, the success cooled quickly and the DeLorean Motor Company filed for bankruptcy in late 1982, after John DeLorean's well-publicised arrest on drug trafficking charges. He was eventually acquitted but it was too late to save his dream. Some 9,200 DeLoreans had been built with approximately 6,500 still in existence worldwide today.
Originally imported to Europe from the USA, it has since had all its taxes and duty paid with appropriate documentation to be found within the history file as well as, importantly, its first and original invoice. It has undergone a full general health check with great results. The body is described by the vendor as in 'mint' condition, important as this can certainly be an expensive aspect of these specialist cars to correct. The interior has been refreshed, although is still in its original condition and in good order. Spectacular to look at and great fun to drive, this is priced well and in good condition throughout.
Interested parties should satisfy themselves as to the description and condition of each lot prior to the sale. Buyers are advised to inspect the car in person or use a professional to carry out this service.