The DeLorean DMC-12 had its share of shortcomings, particularly with its engine. The 2.8-liter V6 from Peugeot-Renault-Volvo generated a mere 130 horsepower, making it a challenge for the DMC-12’s stainless steel frame to gain any real speed. Over the years, owners have sought to enhance performance through various engine swaps, ranging from Chevrolet V8s to electric systems. However, the most intriguing swap emerges from a tuned Kia Stinger GT, which features a turbo V6 engine boasting an estimated output of over 600 horsepower. Its owner proudly asserts it is the most powerful DMC-12 in existence.
This remarkable transformation was carried out by Otsuka Maxwell Design in San Diego, California, in collaboration with Nick Reid of Reid Performance, a company specializing in high-performance parts for exotic and sports cars. Recognizing the durability of the Stinger GT’s 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6 during drifting, OMD and Reid opted for it to power this restored and modified DeLorean, incorporating a range of custom parts designed and fabricated specifically for this project.
Among the enhancements are custom-machined intercoolers with performance levels comparable to those in a Ferrari F40. These direct cooled air into a stock-inspired intake manifold fashioned from a solid 70-pound aluminum block, which incorporates velocity stacks while concealing the fuel rails and a one-gallon surge tank. Instead of utilizing the standard direct fuel injection system, it is equipped with a high-flow aftermarket port setup that effectively manages the fuel required for the boost produced by twin Garrett turbochargers.
With merely nine pounds of boost, Reid’s DeLorean achieved an impressive 487 horsepower at the wheels during a dyno run—surpassing the 405 horsepower from a Ferrari 458. From this performance, Reid estimates the potential power output to be around 630 horsepower and 490 pound-feet of torque. This new engine potentially dethrones the previously recognized most powerful DMC-12, which was a 575-horsepower model powered by a Buick Grand National that garnered attention in 2012.
To ensure the transmission could handle the remarkable power increase without failure, OMD replaced it with a six-speed manual transaxle equipped with a limited-slip differential from a Porsche 996.2. This transmission features additional gears, close gearing, and reduced drivetrain loss, enabling the DMC-12 to accelerate from a standstill to 60 mph in just 3.9 seconds—around the same time it takes for a 996 Turbo—and complete the quarter-mile in 11.8 seconds. Reid notes that while more boost could increase speed, he prefers the current power balance of his DeLorean.
“This is only running at nine psi, so there’s potential to significantly increase the power, but I believe that might detract from the overall enjoyment,” he explained to The Drive. “We’re not chasing more power; the chassis is well-suited for this level and provides an incredible driving experience in all gears, whether straight or during corners.”
Transforming the handling of a DMC-12, which is famous for its lack of rigidity, poses a considerable challenge. To tackle this problem, OMD reinforced specific sections of the suspension, upgraded to KW coilovers, and fitted brake calipers from a Ferrari 348 Challenge along with rotors from AP Racing.
While Reid’s DMC-12 is equipped with an array of high-end components, he prefers to keep this under wraps.
“The goal of this build is for it to appear factory-standard and authentic to those who aren’t in the know,” Reid stated. “The interior has not yet been revamped, but we plan to add vintage Recaro seats and an Alpine sound system, as well as a complete overhaul of the remaining interior.”
“Despite being in good condition for a 40-year-old vehicle, the interior doesn’t reflect the effort put into the rest of the build.”
In layman’s terms, there’s no flux capacitor here, but Reid assures that this vehicle can reach 88 mph—the top speed he’s recorded is 147 mph in the half-mile. It’s clear that this performance would likely earn respect in Emmett Brown’s universe.
Have a similar wild project in the works? Reach out to the author at james@thedrive.com
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