DeLorean: The Fall, Rise, and Second Life of a Stainless Steel Dream – New Book
Curious about the real story behind the DeLorean? Matt Stone’s new book ‘DeLorean’ offers a captivating look at John Z. DeLorean, the mastermind behind the iconic car from ‘Back to the Future.’ DeLorean’s career was full of highs and lows, from revolutionizing GM with the Pontiac GTO to creating his gull-winged sports car. Stone’s comprehensive account promises to take readers on a thrilling ride through one of the most intriguing chapters in automotive history.
Stone’s book uncovers the fascinating blend of Italian design and Irish manufacturing that gave birth to the DMC-12. It traces the car’s journey from concept to reality, exploring how DeLorean’s ambitious vision came to life despite numerous challenges. Even as the company faced a headline-grabbing drug trial and eventual bankruptcy, the DeLorean car managed to secure its place in history, achieving immortality on the silver screen.
Delving into DeLorean’s triumphs and controversies, Stone offers an engaging, in-depth exploration of a true industry maverick and his unforgettable creation. The book reveals how the DeLorean saga, from its troubled beginnings to ongoing revival attempts, continues to captivate automotive history buffs and pop culture fans alike.
At its core, the DeLorean story is one of ambition, innovation, and unexpected twists. John DeLorean’s vision for his sports car was truly unique, combining American engineering with European flair. Stone illuminates DeLorean’s innovative mindset, quoting from the book: “He [DeLorean] also wanted to minimize the ‘planned obsolescence’ that was seemingly baked into the makeup of so many cars on the road: inadequate design, cars that rotted and rusted, fuel tanks that rolled through and leaked gas, powertrains that didn’t go long miles, and cars that looked old only a year or two being produced.”
This forward-thinking philosophy led to the DMC-12’s distinctive features: a corrosion-resistant stainless steel body and eye-catching gull-wing doors that set it apart from anything else on the road. Taking readers behind the scenes, Stone chronicles the journey from initial concept sketches at Italdesign to establishing a state-of-the-art factory in politically charged Belfast.
Perhaps most intriguing is the DeLorean’s unexpected second life. After the company’s 1982 bankruptcy, the car’s starring role in the 1985 blockbuster “Back to the Future” catapulted it to pop culture stardom. This twist of fate has kept the DeLorean dream alive, spawning numerous revival attempts that Stone examines in fascinating detail.
Whether you’re a dedicated automotive enthusiast or simply curious about this unique chapter in automotive history, “DeLorean” promises a compelling ride through the life of an industry rebel and the enduring legacy of his stainless steel dream machine.
The book is available for pre-order on Amazon or Motorbooks/The Quarto Group. To learn more about Matt Stone visit mattstonecars.com.
