Skip to main content

The Manual may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site.

This near-perfect replica of the ‘Back to the Future’ DeLorean could be yours

1981 DeLorean replica rebuilt for one lucky 'Back to the Future' auto enthusiast

1981 delorean replica for auction
Mecum

In 1975, the DeLorean Motor Company (DMC) was founded by automaking legend John DeLorean. Although this brand never produced many cars during its short and tumultuous history, it is well remembered for manufacturing the beautiful gull-winged stainless steel 1981 DeLorean DMC12. 

Recommended Videos

This model was featured in the hit franchise ‘Back to the Future’ and was depicted as a time-traveling machine with its outfitted flux capacitor. In real life, it was a normal car, but that didn’t stop everyone who was anyone from wanting to own one. This is especially true considering its futuristic look, which was unlike anything seen before in the automotive industry despite numerous automakers aiming for an aggressively futuristic look. 

DeLorean appearance and history

The DeLoreans were wedge-shaped coupes with a stunning visual effect thanks to their stainless steel outer body. Still, unfortunately, its looks alone couldn’t make up for its lackluster performance for many people at a time when how fast and powerful a car was determined its value more than its looks. 

Even though the car overall wasn’t a success, it became iconic thanks to Universal using the DeLorean in its ‘Back to the Future’ franchise. Sadly, this was years after the automaker went publically bankrupt. 

Very few DeLorean models were produced before the company declared bankruptcy in 1982, making these cars rare collector’s items. Numerous auto firms make these replicas intending to get them to look as close to the ‘Back to the Future’ version as possible, but not everyone manages to get it right. 

DeLorean on auction

Numerous DeLorean fans are always looking for one of these models in pristine condition to make its presence known at auction houses, and for one lucky buyer, their wish could come true in 2023. Mecum Auctions has a 1981 DeLorean that will be auctioned off, but it’s no ordinary DeLorean. It’s one of the most beautiful homages to the franchise collectors have seen in a while. 

The 1981 Delorean for sale has had much work done to make it far superior to other replicas without removing its signifying original features and looks. For example, this sale model has retained its V-6 2.8 liter engine and still features the original Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection. The interior has also been given an intentional homemade look to ensure it resembles the original vehicle from the movies. 

The cool features that have been added make the price tag worth it. This DeLorean sale item is equipped with buttons that power working time circuit displays and neon lighting strips alongside the rear vents and outside that can perform an incredible smoke effect similar to how it would look if the car was going back in time. 

There is also a lightable flux capacitor, a theoretical electronic circulator device (with no real purpose) behind the comfortable bucket seats. Additionally, various components in the car can be swapped out to look like the ones seen in the ‘Back to the Future II’ film if a driving enthusiast so wishes. 

Another element that sets this DeLorean apart from other replicas is that it has the signature of Christopher Lloyd, who played the iconic Doc Brown in the fan-favorite ‘Back to the Future’ film franchise. If you’re interested in placing a bid or following the bidding projections, you should note that this DeLorean will be auctioned off in Indianapolis starting May 12th via Mecum. A fantastic replica of the Gray Sports Almanac from the second movie will be thrown in as a freebie to sweeten the deal for the buyer.

Learn More

Jason Collins
Former Contributor
Jason is a busy writer, avid traveler, and a car fanatic.
One of the most iconic Porsche 911s could fetch almost $1 million
This air-cooled 911 Turbo S is up for sale right now
one of the most iconic porsche 911s could fetch almost 1 million 911

When it comes to collectible Porsches, the 911, and more specifically, the 993 Turbo S, is on many enthusiasts' Mount Rushmore in the Porsche lineup. Sure, the incredible hypercars like the Carrera GT and blisteringly fast 918 Spyder have carried the torch that the classic, and unbelievably powerful 959 put into motion back in the 1980s, will always garner plenty of the spotlight, but this 1997 911 Turbo S is quietly one of the lusted lusted-after cars on the planet.

Marking the end of the air-cooled 911 Turbo era, only 183 of these bad boys were made for North America, and each one was custom-built by Porsche’s Exclusive department, packed with plenty of cool upgrades. The only downside is that this auction held by RM Sotheby's will be closed by the end of the month.

Read more
Tesla recalls nearly every Cybertruck due to faulty panel adhesive
Tesla recalls every Cybertruck because panels may fly off
Tesla Cybertruck parked outside with a mountain in the background.

Here we are again. Regardless of how you may feel about Elon Musk and his non-automotive projects and aspirations, Tesla has always been a polarizing topic in the autoverse. Beyond that, having been the innovator leading the charge at the forefront of the EV phenomenon, Tesla has been a lightning rod and poster child for everything great and awful in the world of electric vehicles, with its radically styled Cybertruck sitting at the heart of the maelstrom of swirling opinions and seemingly endless controversy.

For those who have lost count, this is now the eighth recall for Tesla's infamous Cybertruck. Elon's company topped the list of most recalled vehicles for 2024, and it seems like it is well on its way to the top of the leaderboard for 2025 with this latest recall.

Read more
2025 F1 season starts with fierce competition and major team changes
All 10 F1 teams have different plotlines for this racing season
The first Gordon Ramsay F1 Garage in 2025 with be at the Miami Grand Prix

The 2025 Formula 1 season begins in mid-March, and the teams are focused. They compete for points that determine the FIA Formula 1 World Driver's and Constructor's Championships. While winning is a shared goal, each team has unique challenges. Understanding those differences can clarify why the teams make certain decisions throughout the year.

Events are speeding up before the 2025 FIA Formula 1 World Championship starts. The Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne on March 14 to 16 is the first race of the 2025 F1 Season, but before the 10 F1 teams head to Australia, other events have filled their calendars.

Read more