Is a low mile DeLorean DMC-12 worth much if it is a project car? Here we have such a dilemma. This 1981 DeLorean is listed for sale here on eBay for $25,000. The car is located in Sacramento, California and has just 26k miles on the odometer. However, the condition of the car leaves much to be desired. To the uninitiated, a “project” DeLorean is a daunting prospect. To the enthusiast, however, this specific car—which recently surfaced on eBay may be worth a second look. What sets this example apart isn’t just the low 25,695 miles on the odometer; it’s the life it led before it went into hibernation. Originally owned by Anheuser-Busch and later utilized as a giveaway prize through Universal Studios, this isn’t just another barn find—it’s a piece of promotional Americana.
All DeLorean’s featured a 2.85-liter SOHC V6 engine that generated 130 horsepower and 153 lb-ft of torque, manufactured by Peugeot-Renault-Volvo and installed at the DeLorean facility. I recently spoke a long time DeLorean owner. He bought his example in 1986 for $6,000 and has kept it all these years. His primarily comment on the car was that it gets lots of attention but it is pathetically slow. This car is apparently being sold by a dealer or on consignment and there is no information on its ability to start and run. A closer inspection shows extensive damage to the front of the car.
The pictures of this car are not well lighted and there are no pictures of the whole car. Stepping inside is a journey back to 1981. The grey interior, a hallmark of the early production run, is noted as being in well-preserved condition. For a project car, this is not a bad start. While mechanical components like the Peugeot-Renault-Volvo (PRV) 2.8L V6 can be rebuilt or even swapped for more modern power, original interior trim pieces are increasingly difficult to source. The fact that the cabin remains intact suggests this car was stored with care, shielded from the California sun that usually turns 80s plastics into dust.
There are a few pictures of the front end. Where do you get new fenders or a hood much less the grill for this car. Although commonly referred to as the DMC-12, this designation was based on the original target price of $12,000, whereas the final MSRP was set at $25,000 which ironically is the same price it is currently listed for. Would you part this car out or try and restore it?
A high price for a parts car.