When fans revisit the iconic 1985 sci-fi classic, one question frequently surfaces regarding the vehicle that enables time travel: what is the car called in Back to the Future.
The DeLorean DMC-12: More Than Just a Time Machine
The answer is the DeLorean DMC-12, a stainless steel sports car manufactured by DeLorean Motor Company between 1981 and 1983. Director Robert Zemeckis specifically chose this model for its futuristic gull-wing doors and brushed metal exterior, which visually screamed "advanced technology" even in the 1950s setting. While the car was already a commercial failure in reality, its role in the film immortalized it as the most recognizable time machine in cinematic history.
Design Choices That Defined a Generation
Production designer Lawrence G. Paull and the art department deliberately selected the DMC-12 because its wedge shape and polished surface resembled a spacecraft more than a conventional automobile. The choice was practical; the lack of visible mechanical parts in the chassis area allowed filmmakers to add the necessary time-travel equipment without breaking the car's clean aesthetic. This transformation turned the vehicle into a symbol of innovation, making it the definitive answer to what is the car called in Back to the Future.
From Pop Culture Icon to Collectible Asset
Following the film's release, the DeLorean became inextricably linked with Marty McFly and Professor Brown, driving demand for replicas and original models alike. Enthusiasts often refer to the vehicle as the "BTTF car," cementing its status in automotive trivia. The movie's success rescued the DeLorean brand from obscurity, ensuring that the question of what is the car called in Back to the Future remains a staple of nostalgia discussions.
Technical Specifications and Modifications
Although the real DMC-12 was powered by a 2.85-liter V6 engine, the film's "time machine" version featured significant alterations to accommodate the Flux Capacitor and Mr. Fusion components. Underneath the hood, filmmakers installed a custom-built 351 cubic inch Windsor V8 to provide the necessary power for stunts. These modifications highlight the lengths production went to ensure the car looked authentic while meeting the demands of the script.
Legacy and Cultural Impact
Decades after its debut, the DeLorean continues to capture imaginations, appearing in merchandise, video games, and countless parodies. The vehicle's association with temporal paradoxes and hoverboard technology has solidified its place in the canon of science fiction. Understanding what the car is called in Back to the Future is essential for anyone interested in the intersection of automotive history and cinematic legend.
Preservation and Replicas
Original surviving DeLoreans from the franchise are meticulously preserved in museums and private collections, often fetching high prices at auction. Companies like Steve Gawron Productions specialize in building screen-accurate replicas for exhibitions and events. This ongoing fascination demonstrates that the question of what is the car called in Back to the Future transcends simple identification, touching on the vehicle's enduring cultural significance.
