Delorean Time Machine

1:18 Diecast Model by Sunstar

Few movie cars have achieved the legendary status of the DeLorean time machine from Back to the Future. With its stainless steel body, iconic gull-wing doors, and time-travel modifications courtesy of Doc Brown, this car has cemented its place in both cinematic and automotive history. Sun Star’s 1:18 scale die-cast model captures the spirit of this iconic time machine, but how does it hold up in terms of functionality, build quality, and attention to detail? Let’s take a closer look.

A Nostalgic Blast from the Past

The Sun Star DeLorean faithfully replicates the original car from the first film, complete with a removable lightning rod accessory that fans will recognize from the climactic clock tower scene. As a longtime fan of the franchise, I’ve proudly displayed this model alongside other movie memorabilia, and despite a few scratches over time, it still manages to turn heads.

Functionality: What Works and What Doesn’t

When it comes to functionality, the model offers two main features: the gull-wing doors and the hood, which doubles as a front trunk (or “frunk”). Both components open smoothly and stay in place. However, that’s where the interactivity ends. There’s no working steering, suspension, or operational flux capacitor. While the static nature might disappoint some collectors, the inclusion of the lightning rod adds a nice touch of authenticity.

Build Quality: Solid Yet Simplistic

The DeLorean’s stainless steel finish closely mirrors the look of the movie car, and the body is constructed from solid metal. True to the original vehicle, the bumpers are made from rubber-like materials, while most of the time machine’s components are plastic. While durable, details like the rear cooling vents and the wiring could have benefited from more premium materials such as metal or rubber for added realism.

The model measures 9.5 inches long, 4.25 inches wide, and 2.75 inches high, weighing a sturdy 1.74 pounds. Its build feels substantial, but the use of plastic for the wheels and interior might feel underwhelming to collectors seeking a higher level of craftsmanship.

Attention to Detail: Hits and Misses

Sun Star does an admirable job capturing the overall look of the DeLorean, with accurate decals, license plates, headlights, and rear lights. However, the finer details leave room for improvement. For instance, the engine bay lacks vibrant paint on key components, and the tires are missing the Goodyear Eagle GT lettering—a small but noticeable omission for die-hard fans. Inside, the model includes the time circuits, overhead console, and flux capacitor, though a few smaller elements are either simplified or missing entirely.

Is It Vault-Worthy?

For fans of Back to the Future, the Sun Star 1:18 scale DeLorean offers a nostalgic trip down memory lane. While it’s not perfect, its charm lies in its ability to capture the spirit of the iconic time machine. It’s a solid display piece that holds sentimental value, even if it’s not the most detailed or interactive model on the market.

If you’re curious to see more about this model and whether it earns a place in my vault, I invite you to check out my full video review on YouTube. There, I’ll dive deeper into the functionality, build quality, and every little detail that makes this DeLorean a must-see for collectors and fans alike. Don’t miss it!