John DeLorean is most famous for designing the iconic DeLorean DMC-12, the stainless steel sports car with gull-wing doors. However, his design influence extended far beyond that single model. His most significant contributions were during his tenure at General Motors (GM), where he was the chief engineer for Pontiac and later a division executive. The key cars he designed or oversaw include the Pontiac GTO, widely credited as the first "muscle car," the Pontiac Firebird, and the Pontiac Grand Prix.
Before the DMC-12, DeLorean was a star at GM. He championed the idea of a powerful engine in a mid-size car, leading to the 1964 Pontiac GTO. This car created an entirely new performance segment. He also played a pivotal role in the development of the original Pontiac Firebird, GM's answer to the Ford Mustang. His work on the Grand Prix introduced innovative design elements like the overhead console and special instrumentation.
The DeLorean DMC-12 was the culmination of his vision for a safe, ethical sports car, featuring a lightweight fiberglass underbody and those famous gull-wing doors. Despite its innovative design, the company failed due to financial issues and a government sting operation. The car's later fame was cemented by its role as a time machine in the Back to the Future films.
| Car Model | Manufacturer | Production Years | Key Design Features & Notes |
|---|
| Pontiac GTO | Pontiac (GM) | 1964-1974 | Considered the first muscle car; V8 engine in a mid-size Tempest body. |
| Pontiac Firebird | Pontiac (GM) | 1967-1981 | Original development; GM's pony car to compete with Ford Mustang. |
| Pontiac Grand Prix | Pontiac (GM) | 1969-1977 | Influential "G-body" personal luxury car with distinctive styling. |
| DeLorean DMC-12 | DeLorean Motor Company | 1981-1983 | Stainless steel body, gull-wing doors, rear-engine layout. |
| Pontiac Tempest | Pontiac (GM) | 1961-1963 | Early involvement; innovative independent rear suspension. |
