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, one that partially bankrolled the DeLorean Motor Company, 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 was brought in to resolve any engineering issues.

The car is driven by a 2,850-cc, 170-hp, overhead-camshaft light-alloy V-6 engine with C.I.S. fuel injection and is paired to a five-speed manual transmission. Four-wheel independent suspension and four-wheel power assisted disc brakes are welcome additions on this 2,408-mm wheelbase platform.

This one-owner DeLorean is a great example of the widely recognized ‘80s cultural icon. With only 9,073 miles this car comes equipped with brand new Yokohama tires. But of course, where you’re going, you won’t need roads. This DeLorean was optioned with a custom car cover and locking luggage/ski rack and includes the technical owners guide and parts manual.

Always a crowd pleaser, the DeLorean remains essential to any notable collection, be it as a conversation piece or as an exciting driver.