Technical Specs

From the Lotus-inspired chassis to the rear-mounted PRV V6, the DeLorean DMC-12 blends unique engineering choices with bold design. This page breaks down the mechanical details that make the car as interesting to drive as it is to look at.

Model Year: 1981

Engine: 2.85L PRV V6

Transmission: 5-speed manual

Body: Brushed stainless steel

Doors: Gull-wing, torsion-assisted

Chassis: Lotus-based steel backbone

Engine Breakdown: PRV V6

At the heart of the DeLorean DMC-12 is the PRV V6—a 2.85L engine jointly developed by Peugeot, Renault, and Volvo. While modest by sports car standards, its unique layout and sound give the DeLorean its distinct character.

Displacement: 2.85 liters (2,849 cc)
Configuration: 90° V6, overhead cam
Fuel System: Bosch K-Jetronic mechanical fuel injection
Power Output: ~130 hp @ 5,500 rpm (U.S. spec)

Torque: ~153 lb-ft @ 2,750 rpm
Compression Ratio: 8.8:1
Cooling: Water-cooled with electric fan assist
Redline: ~6,500 rpm

Manual Transmission Breakdown

This DeLorean DMC-12 is equipped with the 5-speed manual transmission, the more performance-oriented option offered by the factory. It delivers a more connected driving experience and makes the most of the car’s PRV V6 engine.

Type: Renault UN1 5-speed transaxle
Drive: Rear-wheel drive
Clutch: Single dry plate, cable-operated

Shifter: Center console-mounted, cable-linkage
Top Speed: ~110 mph (gear-limited)
Final Drive Ratio: 3.44:1

Chassis, Body & Doors

The DeLorean DMC-12’s design is more than iconic—it’s structurally unique. Every element, from its stainless steel skin to its gull-wing doors, was engineered to stand out.

Chassis

Type: Lotus-inspired steel backbone
Material: Epoxy-coated mild steel
Suspension: Independent front & rear
Layout: Rear-mid engine, rear-wheel drive
Designed for a low center of gravity and balanced handling

Body

Material: Brushed 304 stainless steel
Panels: Non-structural, bolted to a fiberglass underbody
No Paint: All cars left the factory unpainted (except a few rare exceptions)
Durable and rust-resistant, but prone to fingerprints and dings

Gull-Wing Doors

Design: Gas struts + torsion bar spring system
Weight: ~90 lbs each, but easy to lift
Frameless Windows: Two-piece drop-down design
Requires only ~11 inches of clearance to open fully—great for tight spaces

Page updated

Google Sites

Report abuse