DeLorean DMC-12

vs

Ford RS200

USA vs UK — 1981 vs 1984

DeLorean DMC-12 (1981)
Ford RS200 (1984)
Specifications
DMC-12 DMC-12RS200 Evolution
Horsepower130 hp350 hp
Torque153 lb-ft
Engine Size2,849 cc1,803 cc
0-60 mph10.5 sec
Top Speed110 mph
¼ Mile17.9 sec
Wheelbase2,413 mm2,440 mm
Length4,267 mm4,000 mm
Units Produced9,00024
Value (Excellent)$70,000$800,000
Collectibility5/105/10
Rarity6/1010/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 1981 DeLorean DMC-12 DMC-12 brings better value to the table, and the 1984 Ford RS200 Evolution answers with more power, greater rarity. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.

Overview

The rivalry between USA and UK automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1981 DeLorean DMC-12 DMC-12 versus 1984 Ford RS200 Evolution is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1984 Ford RS200 Evolution holds a clear advantage in raw power with 350 hp compared to 130 hp, a 220-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the DeLorean DMC-12 uses a V6 SOHC 12V displacing 2,849 cc, while the Ford RS200 relies on a Inline-4 with 1,803 cc. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 24 units built, the 1984 Ford RS200 Evolution is considerably scarcer than the DeLorean DMC-12's 9,000 examples. On the collector market, the 1984 Ford RS200 Evolution commands a significant premium over the 1981 DeLorean DMC-12 DMC-12, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.