DeLorean: The Rise, Fall, and Immortal Legacy of a Futuristic Auto Vision

The cost of a DeLorean car varies significantly depending on several factors, primarily because all original DeLoreans are now considered collector's items. When new in 1981-1983, the DMC-12 had a base price of around $25,000, equivalent to approximately €85,000-€95,000 in today's currency when adjusted for inflation.

In the current market, prices for original DeLoreans typically range from €30,000 to €60,000. However, cars in exceptional condition, with low mileage, or with special historical significance can command prices upwards of €100,000.

Factors affecting the price include:

• Condition: Well-maintained or professionally restored cars fetch higher prices.
• Mileage: Lower mileage examples are generally more valuable.
• Originality: Cars with original parts and minimal modifications are often more desirable.
• History: Vehicles with interesting provenance, such as those used in films or owned by celebrities, can be considerably more expensive.

It's worth noting that the Texas-based DeLorean Motor Company, which acquired the original company's remaining parts inventory, offers refurbished and upgraded DMC-12s. These can cost between €65,000 and €100,000, depending on the level of restoration and modernization.

When discussing the 'cheapest' DeLorean, we're typically referring to the most affordable examples of the DMC-12 available on the used market, as this was the only model produced by the original company. The price of the most affordable DeLorean can start from around €30,000, but these are usually cars that require significant restoration.

The final price depends on several factors:

• Condition: Cars needing extensive repairs or restoration work are typically the least expensive.
• Mileage: Higher mileage examples tend to be cheaper.
• Originality: Cars with non-original parts or modifications might be less expensive, though this can vary based on the quality and nature of the modifications.
• Market demand: Prices can fluctuate based on current collector interest and overall market conditions.

It's important to note that while a €30,000 DeLorean might seem like a bargain, potential buyers should be prepared for additional costs. Restoration expenses can quickly add up, potentially doubling or tripling the initial purchase price. Parts for these cars can be expensive and sometimes difficult to source.

For those interested in a more modern interpretation, the planned electric Alpha5 model by the new DeLorean Motor Company is expected to start at around €125,000 when it enters production. While not 'cheap' by most standards, it represents a new entry point into the DeLorean brand for those seeking a factory-fresh vehicle.

The most expensive DeLorean cars are typically rare, historically significant, or highly customized examples of the DMC-12. These can reach prices of €150,000 or more, with some exceptional cases fetching even higher amounts.

Factors that can drive up the price to these levels include:

• Celebrity Ownership: Cars previously owned by famous individuals, especially those connected to the DeLorean story or the 'Back to the Future' films, can command premium prices.
• Film History: DMC-12s used in movies, particularly those from the 'Back to the Future' franchise, are extremely valuable. One of the cars used in the film trilogy sold for $541,000 (approximately €495,000) at auction in 2011.
• Prototypes and Pre-Production Models: Early prototypes or pre-production models are rare and highly sought after by collectors.
• Exceptional Originality and Condition: Perfectly preserved, low-mileage examples with all original parts can fetch top dollar.
• Special Editions: Some limited edition models, such as gold-plated DMC-12s (of which only a handful were produced), are exceptionally valuable.
• Extensive Customization: While not original, some DMC-12s have undergone extensive modifications, including modern engine swaps, interior upgrades, and even conversions to replicate the 'Back to the Future' time machine. These unique builds can be very expensive.

It's worth noting that the upcoming DeLorean Alpha5, an all-new electric vehicle inspired by the original DMC-12, is expected to have a starting price of around €125,000. However, high-end configurations with premium options could potentially push the price much higher, possibly making it the most expensive 'new' DeLorean when it enters production.