Photo: Reinsch Engineering
Fans of the DeLorean DMC-12 no doubt know its Achilles heel was its criminally underpowered engine that originated under the Renault/Peugeot group. DIY gurus often fix this issue with an LS engine or even an EV conversion. But what about a French engine that isn't completely anemic and comical in a way?
That's exactly what Reinsch Engineering in the UK is setting out to do, a one-man auto modification company with some real mechanical know-how to play with. They even created a mockup in AutoCAD to show us what the finished engine setup will look like. The engine in question is a 3.0 liter V6 Peugeot/Citroen engine seen in the Renault Avantime, Renault Laguna, and a few Citroens as well. With 250 horsepower on tap, it nearly doubles the power output of the anemic original engine. With some light tuning, it could be even more.
Such an involved job is not for the faint of heart. The stainless steel body of the DMC-12 may very well be resistant to rust and sun damage, but just try and get deep scratches out if you're a bit reckless with an engine hoist. We'll reserve a packet of Kleenex wipes in the event of this most unfortunate circumstance. The entire rear clip and bumper needed to be removed in order to ensure nothing was scratched or damaged as the old engine was removed.
The engine is due to be paired with a five-speed UN1-369 manual transmission mated together with a custom mounting adapter. The front grille and headlight assembly have also been removed, but what's in store for that end of the car is currently known only to its creator, LED high beams, anyone?
The DeLorean is the kind of car that modders don't mind breaking into in order to make it more powerful. Being that its lack of power was the final nail in the coffin of the company, it makes all the sense in the world. Best of luck to Reisch Engineering in their project.
Such an involved job is not for the faint of heart. The stainless steel body of the DMC-12 may very well be resistant to rust and sun damage, but just try and get deep scratches out if you're a bit reckless with an engine hoist. We'll reserve a packet of Kleenex wipes in the event of this most unfortunate circumstance. The entire rear clip and bumper needed to be removed in order to ensure nothing was scratched or damaged as the old engine was removed.
The engine is due to be paired with a five-speed UN1-369 manual transmission mated together with a custom mounting adapter. The front grille and headlight assembly have also been removed, but what's in store for that end of the car is currently known only to its creator, LED high beams, anyone?
The DeLorean is the kind of car that modders don't mind breaking into in order to make it more powerful. Being that its lack of power was the final nail in the coffin of the company, it makes all the sense in the world. Best of luck to Reisch Engineering in their project.
Google News