This summer marks the 40th anniversary of Back to the Future, the beloved 1985 film that launched one of the most iconic movie franchises of all time. With its perfect blend of adventure, humor, and heart—not to mention a groundbreaking use of time travel—the movie captured the imagination of audiences around the world. But no element of the film is more instantly recognizable than Doc Brown’s DeLorean Time Machine, a stainless-steel sports car turned flux-capacitor-powered portal to the past and future.
Originally designed by automotive innovator John DeLorean, the DMC-12 was a striking car even before Hollywood transformed it into a cinematic legend. With its gull-wing doors and brushed stainless-steel body, the DeLorean had a futuristic look that made it the perfect choice for Doc Brown’s ambitious experiment. Once outfitted with time circuits, a flux capacitor, and a little plutonium, the DeLorean was ready to hit 88 miles per hour—and pop culture history was made.
To celebrate this milestone anniversary, the Midwest Dream Car Collection is excited to unveil its brand-new DeLorean Time Machine Gallery. This immersive exhibit features an incredible screen-accurate replica of the time-traveling DeLorean, complete with glowing flux capacitor, intricate interior details, and a surrounding mural that transports visitors straight into the heart of Manhattan, Kansas (our own Hill Valley). Yep, the lightning strike this time is the Riley County Courthouse at 10:04pm with the Wareham movie theater neon marquis glowing in the background in beautiful downtown Manhattan. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering the magic of Back to the Future for the first time, this new gallery brings the film’s futuristic vision to life in an unforgettable way.
We invite you to step back in time—and forward into one of the most iconic moments in film history. Come explore the new DeLorean Time Machine Gallery and celebrate 40 years of movie magic, imagination, and adventure at the Midwest Dream Car Collection. Great Scott, you won’t want to miss it!
Hope to see you soon!!
Doug Meloan, Curator
