The difference here is that the Volkswagen Beetle is known around the world for being a Volkswagen Beetle. If it weren't for the Back to the Future movies I'm convinced the DeLorean would have faded into obscurity in automotive history because it's really a terrible car.
From an aesthetic design perspective, I’d have to disagree, because if one looks at it compared to Ferraris/Porsches of the early 80s, the stainless steel and gullwing design really help set it apart from the rest. However, from a mechanical design perspective, the vehicle is seriously maligned. Unless you plan on lowering it to the original design specifications (where it actually handles very well for an 80s exotic), installing an adequate alternator, and swapping out the anemic PRV V6 that the Alpine A310 also got stuck with, the DMC-12 is definitely terrible.
Without its BTTF status, I’d argue the De Tomaso is a better car than the DMC from a mechanical standpoint, as it had the Cleveland 351 (both the US and Australian versions at different times) and a decent mid-engine design. However, the quality on the fit and finish was horrifying with all that body solder. I also don’t think the aesthetic design is very unique on the Pantera, as it seemed to follow the lead of the Countach/512 Berlinetta Boxer
I've never driven a Pantera, but I have driven a DeLorean. Cramped interior, useless little window, uncomfortable seats, and no faster than your average Ford Pinto. I had more fun driving my '61 Beetle.
I can't disagree. The DeLorean looks good, but that's really all it has going for it; see above comments. Gull wing doors look great, but if you're a tall person they're a pain in the ass and make getting into and out of any car more difficult than it needs to be. I have to admit they do corner well due to the low center of gravity, but it's difficult to truly appreciate that quality if you're just putting around town.
That’s pretty ironic when you consider John Z. was 193cm tall (6 feet 4 inches), and a concave section in the door’s headliner allowed him to sit comfortably inside the vehicle. Unlike many smaller owners who had to have a leather strap to pull down the doors, Delorean was able to actually grab the door handle and pull the door down himself. So if anything, the car was designed with tall drivers in mind. No word on how he felt about climbing in, however.
Interesting. I was 6'2" at the time I drove it, and I remember having to duck to avoid hitting my head on the open door while getting in and out. And once the door was closed there was very little elbow room. Other than that...
