When John DeLorean launched the original as a challenge to the Corvette in 1981, its 130hp, 2.8-liter V6 went from 0mph to 60mph in 10.5 seconds.

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The death, at the weekend, of John DeLorean, the controversial American tycoon, will do nothing to detract from the buzz about the cars that bear his name.

BBC: NEWS | UK | Magazine | Wings of desire

Would George Clooney make a good John DeLorean?

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Holder told reporters, "If this bill becomes law, people like John Gotti, who beat the rap at his first trials, and John Hinckley and John DeLorean, who were also acquitted, could wind up with big taxpayer checks".

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But while the DeLorean production line ground to a halt in 1982 as John DeLorean himself was charged with cocaine smuggling - he was eventually acquitted - the car itself lives on in the hearts and garages of fanatics.

BBC: NEWS | UK | Magazine | Wings of desire

John DeLorean was not in attendance.

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