DeLorean DMC-12

vs

Lamborghini Silhouette

USA vs Italy — 1981 vs 1976

DeLorean DMC-12 (1981)
Lamborghini Silhouette (1976)
Specifications
DMC-12 PRV V6Silhouette P300
Horsepower130 hp260 hp
Torque153 lb-ft218 lb-ft
Engine Size2,849 cc2,996 cc
0-60 mph10.5 sec6.5 sec
Top Speed110 mph162 mph
¼ Mile17.9 sec14.8 sec
Weight2,712 lbs2,756 lbs
Wheelbase2,413 mm2,450 mm
Length4,267 mm4,320 mm
Units Produced9,00054
Original MSRP$25,000$35,000
Value (Excellent)$80,000$700,000
Collectibility8/108/10
Rarity6/109/10
The Verdict

The 1976 Lamborghini Silhouette P300 emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1981 DeLorean DMC-12 PRV V6 counters with better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.

Overview

When USA engineering meets Italy craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1981 DeLorean DMC-12 PRV V6 and 1976 Lamborghini Silhouette P300 embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 1976 Lamborghini Silhouette P300 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 260 hp compared to 130 hp, a 130-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the DeLorean DMC-12 uses a V6 SOHC (PRV) displacing 2,849 cc, while the Lamborghini Silhouette relies on a V8 DOHC with 2,996 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1976 Lamborghini Silhouette P300 edges ahead at 6.5 seconds versus 10.5 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 54 units built, the 1976 Lamborghini Silhouette P300 is considerably scarcer than the DeLorean DMC-12's 9,000 examples. On the collector market, the 1976 Lamborghini Silhouette P300 commands a significant premium over the 1981 DeLorean DMC-12 PRV V6, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.