Chicago Man Discovers a Timeless Relic: A 1981 DeLorean in a Wisconsin Barn

Oct 13, 2023 2 min read
Chicago Man Discovers a Timeless Relic: A 1981 DeLorean in a Wisconsin Barn

Imagine stumbling upon a relic of automotive history, virtually untouched by time.


That's exactly what happened to Michael McElhattan, a resident of Crystal Lake and owner of the car restoration company, DeLorean Midwest. His latest acquisition? A shimmering 1981 DeLorean with less than 1,000 miles on its odometer.

This isn't just any old find. For those who grew up in the 80s or have an affinity for classic films, the DeLorean is synonymous with "Back to the Future," the blockbuster that showcased the car's unique stainless steel body and futuristic gull wing doors. McElhattan's discovery is like finding a time capsule, sealed away from the world for decades.

Hidden away in a Wisconsin barn, this automotive gem had been silently waiting for someone to rediscover its charm. But how did McElhattan, of all people, come to find such a treasure?

"The power of social media is truly remarkable," McElhattan commented. "Through online networks, I got wind of this particular DeLorean's existence. It was like a myth, a legend in the car community, but I had to see it for myself."

When McElhattan finally laid eyes on the car, he was astonished. Despite being stored for years, it was in exceptional condition, with all of its original parts intact. "It's as if time stood still for this DeLorean. Seeing it brought back a rush of nostalgia, and I knew I had to restore it to its former glory."

For many, the DeLorean represents a piece of their childhood, a symbol of an era where anything seemed possible. With McElhattan's expertise and passion for restoration, this DeLorean will soon be cruising the streets again, turning heads and reigniting memories of a bygone era.

In a world where we're often obsessed with the next big thing, it's heartening to see treasures from the past being valued and restored. For Michael McElhattan and the lucky few who'll get to see this DeLorean on the road, it's more than just a car - it's a journey back in time.

Motorious would like to thank FindingOldCars.com for providing content on vehicles left in fields, barns, wrecking yards, swamps, and backyards that are a homage to days gone by. In some cases there is value to the wreckage left in the boneyard for restoration, and then in other cases it's simply the artistic value of the photography. Finding Old Cars is on a mission to give these cars a place in the modern world.

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