Next Generation DeLorean to Be Based on C8 Corvette

The C8-based DeLorean is the brainchild of John Z. DeLorean’s daughter.

The DeLorean DMC-12 was built from 1981 to 1983. Thanks to the stainless-steel body, gullwing doors, and starring role in the Back to the Future films it has gained a cult-like following. But the actual car itself was not very good. The rear-mounted V-6 engine made just 130 horsepower, it took about 9 seconds to reach 60 mph and topped out at a pedestrian 120 mph. Worst of all, it could not actually travel through time. Or can it? Because now there is a new DeLorean on the way. To address the weak performance of the original car, the sequel is going to be based on the C8 Corvette, according to a report by Hagerty.

The new DeLorean may be based on the C8 Corvette, but the driving force behind the project is Kathryn DeLorean, the daughter of the creator of the original car. She is also the CEO of DeLorean Next Generation Motors (DNG). “I needed to find a way to build an affordable car for the DeLorean community,” says Kathryn DeLorean. “They’ll be heartbroken forever if I don’t give them something.” That something is going to be a C8 Corvette with the fiberglass body replaced by one of DNG’s own design. And yes, it will have gullwing doors.

DNG Models

The C8-based car is not the only model that DNG will build. They also have the Model JZD. The Model JZD will be a hand-built car limited to just 42 units. It will be exclusive and expensive. The Corvette-based car is going to be the more affordable model. To keep it on the affordable end of the spectrum the new DeLorean will be based on the Stingray and not the Z06 or E-Ray models. And that should be fine as the Stingray is plenty quick thanks to the 490 horsepower LT2. It can certainly put an original DeLorean DMC-12 to shame.

Why the Corvette?

John Z. DeLorean spent 17 years working for General Motors. He was the man that got the Pontiac GTO into production. And from 1969 to 1972 he was the head of Chevrolet. During that time, he was pushing for a mid-engine Corvette. In fact, when he quit Chevrolet in 1973 he wanted to purchase the plans for the mid-engine Aerovette. Chevrolet turned him down. Kathryn DeLorean says that building the DeLorean-bodied Corvette “allows me to finish my dad’s story. I’m building him his dream car.”

How to Buy

The Corvette-based DeLorean doesn’t even have a name yet. And a formal release date has not been confirmed. So, it is a bit premature to talk about ordering one for yourself. Although you will probably want to. If it performs anything like a C8 Corvette Stingray and looks anything like the renderings provided by Ángel Guerra we think that it is going to be a hit. Even if it can’t take you back to the future.

Images: Instagram/angelguerradesign

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