The likely DeLorean behind this headline is a 1981 DMC-12 modified by Otsuka Maxwell Design (OMD), with a twin-turbo 3.3-liter Kia Stinger V6 and a Porsche six-speed transaxle. Engine Swap Depot reports that it ran the quarter-mile in 11.65 seconds at 124 mph, but the available research did not verify that figure against a timing slip or primary build records. The “impossible” label is headline language: the available source reports the parts and result, not the engineering details that made the swap challenging.
The reported DeLorean engine swap
Engine Swap Depot’s 2021 report describes a 1981 DeLorean fitted with a twin-turbo Kia Stinger V6. The outlet calls the engine a Hyundai V6 in its headline and reports 487 hp. It attributes the build to Otsuka Maxwell Design and says the car was listed for sale on Bring a Trailer at the time; its current sale status is unknown. These details are secondary reporting, not independently confirmed build specifications.
| Item | What the report says |
|---|---|
| Base car | 1981 DeLorean DMC-12 |
| Builder attributed by the report | Otsuka Maxwell Design (OMD) |
| Engine | Twin-turbo 3.3-liter Kia Stinger V6 |
| Reported engine output | 487 hp, according to Engine Swap Depot |
| Reported turbo hardware | Two Garrett G25-550 turbochargers |
| Reported transmission | Porsche 996.2 six-speed manual transaxle |
| Other reported drivetrain parts | Limited-slip differential and ACT clutch |
| Reported quarter-mile pass | 11.65 seconds at 124 mph, according to Engine Swap Depot; not independently verified here |
Source for the reported build details and figures: Engine Swap Depot, “For Sale: 1981 DeLorean with a 487 hp Twin-Turbo Hyundai V6” (November 3, 2021).
What the available evidence does—and does not—show
The report names major components, including custom intake and air-to-air intercoolers and a 3-inch exhaust. It does not provide enough accessible documentation to substantiate the detailed claims often attached to this kind of conversion, such as exactly how the engine was packaged, what chassis reinforcement was performed, or how cooling, braking, and safety systems were changed. Those details should not be presented as facts without a builder account, original listing, photos, or other primary documentation.
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The reported 11.65-second pass is a striking result for a DeLorean, but it should be described as a figure reported by Engine Swap Depot, not as an independently verified record. The research did not retrieve a timing slip or original build documentation.
How this differs from another reported DeLorean swap
Engine Swap Depot has also reported on a separate DeLorean project using a 2JZ-GTE. Its search-result summary says the owner hoped to eventually run in the 11s. That was an aspiration, not a reported completed pass, and it is not the OMD Kia-powered car.
| Project | What the available report says | Performance evidence |
|---|---|---|
| OMD DeLorean | Twin-turbo Kia Stinger V6; Porsche 996.2 six-speed transaxle | Engine Swap Depot reports 11.65 seconds at 124 mph; not independently verified here |
| Separate 2JZ-GTE DeLorean | Different car and project | Owner reportedly hoped to run in the 11s; no achieved time established by the available research |
Sources: Engine Swap Depot’s OMD DeLorean report and its 2JZ-GTE DeLorean report. These are not apples-to-apples independently documented test results.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.FAQ
What engine is in the twin-turbo DeLorean?
Engine Swap Depot reports that OMD installed a twin-turbo 3.3-liter Kia Stinger V6 in a 1981 DeLorean. The outlet describes the engine as producing 487 hp; that figure has not been independently verified in the available research.
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- Includes 1 (One) Manual Transmission Repair Sleeve
- Fits list of vehicles in image gallery fitment chart
- Exceptional Quality and Performance: This OE replacement manual transmission repair sleeve is designed to meet, if not exceed, the performance and quality standards of the original equipment installed on your vehicle. Experience the same high-level performance as your original parts with this manual transmission repair sleeve.
- Direct Replacement, No Fuss: This OE replacement manual transmission repair sleeve is meticulously designed for your specific vehicle's make and model, promising a direct fit. Installation is as straightforward as it gets - no fuss, no complications. Experience a seamless replacement process, made to match the original part perfectly.
- Perfect Compatibility: Compatibility is key. Make sure to check our product specifications (in image gallery) to confirm that this OE replacement manual transmission repair sleeve matches your vehicle's requirements. Get the perfect fit and optimal performance every time with our replacement parts.
How fast did the DeLorean run the quarter-mile?
Engine Swap Depot reports a pass of 11.65 seconds at 124 mph. The research did not locate a timing slip or primary record to verify the result independently.
Was the swap really impossible?
The accessible reporting does not establish that it was technically impossible or document the full engineering process. “Impossible” is the headline’s characterization, not a verified technical conclusion.
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- Important Note: Please use Amazons vehicle fitment tool (located at the top of the listing on desktop, below the images on mobile) Check the VIN or year/make/model/trim/engine of your car
Is the DeLorean still for sale?
Engine Swap Depot said the car was listed on Bring a Trailer when it published its report in 2021. The research does not establish its current sale status.
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