Review: 10300 Back to the Future Time Machine
Posted by CapnRex101,
The unique DeLorean Time Machine, developed by Dr. Emmett Brown, provides excellent source material for LEGO. The vehicle enjoys enormous renown and comparable subjects have certainly proven impressive, memorably including 10274 Ghostbusters ECTO-1.
10300 Back to the Future Time Machine may be even more impressive, featuring extraordinary detail and functions, which correspond with the onscreen vehicle. Furthermore, this model provides three options for display. They take inspiration from throughout the Back to the Future movies, but achieve consistent accuracy.
Summary
10300 Back to the Future Time Machine, 1,872 pieces.
£169.99 / $199.99 / €199.99 | 9.1p/10.7c/10.7c per piece.
Buy at LEGO.com »
LEGO sets rarely achieve the quality of 10300 Back to the Future Time Machine!
- Creative building techniques
- Incredible accuracy
- Clever functions
- Two excellent minifigures
- Doors cannot remain open
The set was provided for review by LEGO. All opinions expressed are those of the author.
Box and Contents
18+ branding has proven divisive, providing limited options for graphic designers and not always complementing the model. However, I think this example looks superb. The DeLorean stands out nicely against the dark background and I like the crackling energy surrounding the time machine. The sand blue band across the bottom looks good too, highlighting accents on the vehicle.
The box contains thirteen bags, numbered between one and eleven, alongside the instruction manual. This manual recalls the example from 10295 Porsche 911, since construction divides towards the end, depending on which version of the DeLorean you prefer to build. Moreover, the first several pages are devoted to information about the subject and its design.
Sven Franic developed the model from Mike Psiaki's original rendition, updating the changing wheel configuration to switch between movies. Several versions of the function were proposed before eventually reaching the solution, which enables you to grip the model and fold the wheels with one hand! Commentary from the designer and reference images of the source material are always welcome.
Two sticker sheets are also included, although the selection of stickers is far from egregious, in my opinion. The clear-backed flux capacitor sticker appears on its own sheet, while the others represent relatively subtle details and are easy to apply. The plaque sticker is obviously larger and requires care to avoid trapping air bubbles or dust underneath.
Minifigures
Previous large-scale vehicles from this series have omitted minifigures, including sets inspired by films. These two minifigures were therefore a pleasant surprise, beginning with Doc Brown. Two earlier renditions of the character have worn the Doc's white radiation suit, while the latest version instead features 'futuristic' clothing from 2015! The vibrant yellow looks fantastic and I love the pattern on the lapels.
This hair component was introduced in 71230 Doc Brown Fun Pack and looks great, while the double-sided head displays a metallic silver visor or a panicked expression. The latter seems particularly suited to Doc Brown, but Marty McFly includes a head created for Han Solo. An exclusive design would have been perfect, although this design does resemble the onscreen character.
Marty is dressed in his 'futuristic' clothing from Back to the Future Part II, so complements Doc Brown. The pink shirt and red jacket, with dark bluish grey accents, are splendid. However, the highlight is undoubtedly the legs, which include Marty's memorable Nike MAG shoes. This light bluish grey and white decoration actually continues onto the side of each leg, but the Nike logo has been simplified beyond recognition, probably for licensing reasons.
Construction
Technic has become increasingly important to these large-scale vehicles and that is definitely the case here. Beyond strengthening the chassis, this model also includes elaborate functions and the Technic construction seems reminiscent of steering assemblies in 10265 Ford Mustang and 10295 Porsche 911, although the gears and protruding axles visible below are not actually involved in steering.
Instead, these connect the front and rear wheel supports to a conspicuous red lever between them. The mechanism is surprisingly complex and therefore satisfying, transferring the motion through several gears. Shifting the lever across causes the four wheels to rotate downwards, in perfect unison and reflecting the vehicle introduced at the climax of Back to the Future.
Technic building techniques become less prevalent as construction continues, shifting focus to the bodywork. Complexity endures though, as layered bricks are connected sideways to create headlights across the front. Moreover, the characteristic ridges above the front wheels include a new 2x4 angled slope, which was developed for the DeLorean but revealed in official images of 75325 The Mandalorian's N-1 Starfighter.
The windscreen is attached between rocker plates and ball joints, so feels completely secure. While the structure is similar to 10262 James Bond Aston Martin DB5 and 10295 Porsche 911, absolute rigidity is even more important here. This vehicle's roof is relatively narrow because of the famous gull-wing doors, hence the whole assembly comprises several layers.
After assembling the intricate time displacement system towards the rear, the gull-wing doors are cleverly constructed in various directions. Brackets and headlight bricks are combined to interesting effect, presenting tiled surfaces on the exterior and including a pronounced black band between these sections. However, perhaps even more important are the 1x6 slopes with Technic pin holes supporting each door.
The rear quarter panels are secured using three hinges, demonstrating their versatile geometry. Furthermore, flexible cables are cleverly threaded behind 1x2 plates with vertical bars near the front. These cables have already appeared in multiple colours, although black is only available here and seems exceptionally useful.
Finishing the DeLorean involves three options, based upon different Back to the Future films. Numerous additions to the model are therefore supplied, including those shown below. Some pieces overlap between these details, but relatively few, so switching between designs is fairly quick and each compares favourably with their respective source materials.
The Completed Model
Doc Brown asserts that style was his primary motivation in building the time machine around a DeLorean, with the bonus of its stainless steel construction enhancing flux dispersal. That style is undoubtedly conveyed here! I think the model looks absolutely fantastic, capturing the unique body shape which characterises the DeLorean and including authentic mechanical detail too.
Certain inaccuracies become visible from either flank, notably including the wheel arches that lack appropriate curvature and the wheels appearing too large. The general profile is certainly present though, as expected given the angular subject, which accommodates LEGO elements nicely. Also, viewing the model from more natural angles disguises its disproportionate wheels, to some degree.
The vehicle featured during the first film is powered by a nuclear reactor, generating the 1.21 gigawatts necessary for time travel. Harnessing a lightning strike proves equally effective and the model can be fitted with the connecting hook shown onscreen. While the option is certainly pleasing, I prefer to display the DeLorean without the hook.
Comparing this model with equivalent large-scale vehicles reveals its considerable size. The DeLorean reaches 35cm in length, including the reactor cooling vents, which matches 10265 Ford Mustang and 10295 Porsche 911 almost exactly. The relative scale between these three models is therefore incredibly realistic, as one may expect given their shared design features.
Light bluish grey is the predominant colour, approximating the brushed stainless steel of the onscreen subject. Fortunately, metallic silver highlights are included and they are remarkably effective in creating an appropriately shiny exterior. The bumper looks excellent and trans-light blue elements complement the metallic shade, creating the impression of surging energy. The printed DMC branding is accurate too.
The wheel inserts are also printed, displaying the radial design associated with the DeLorean. As already mentioned, the wheel arches are imperfect, but I like the rounded flaring above the wheels. The light bluish grey Technic pin with 2L axle pieces at the middle of each wheel blend with the surrounding inserts, after their introduction in 10298 Vespa 125.
Sand blue elements represent the temporal flux igniters, located behind the bumper and linked to the time circuit structure using cables. Ideally, these cables would follow the contours of the wheel arches more closely, but this arrangement is adequate. More impressive is the smooth shaping of the bonnet, which nestles beautifully between the new 2x4 angled slopes. The colour consistency could be improved though.
Despite seeming outwardly almost seamless, the bonnet does open. Simple Technic supports enable the bonnet to move backwards slightly, creating the space necessary to swing upwards. Similar functions have appeared throughout the series of large-scale vehicles, but this occasion is particularly enjoyable because of its completely smooth external appearance.
Furthermore, there is room for two items inside. The pink hoverboard originates from Back to the Future Part II, while the yellow plutonium case takes inspiration from the original film. Two stickers are placed on top of the case, depicting the metal frame and radioactive hazard labels which appear onscreen. These accessories are carefully arranged to slot under the bonnet, so there is no space for anything else.
Both items are removable, so could be displayed beside the DeLorean. Opening the plutonium case reveals two trans-orange cylinders inside, representing plutonium pellets. The decoration on the exterior appears somewhat simplified, while another sticker adorns the hoverboard and features accurate stripes, with lime green details. The minifigure-scale board in 71201 Back to the Future Level Pack remains exclusive to the Dimensions set, unfortunately.
However, opening the bonnet is difficult because of its smooth edges. The model accordingly includes orange tabs on each side, found deep behind the wheels but accessible after folding them downwards. Moving the tabs lifts the bonnet slightly, allowing you to open the panel more easily and reach the accessories within.
An exclusive windscreen 14x6 component is included, resembling that from 10248 Ferrari F40. The windscreen should bow outwards slightly at the centre, but this design matches equivalent models and I can envisage the element proving useful elsewhere. Moreover, the pillars flanking the windscreen are perfectly positioned, using ball joints to achieve an accurate shape.
These also reinforce the doors, which look splendid. The side windows are empty, as normal, but their shape corresponds with the onscreen car and I love the black bands decorating both sides. The integration between the edge of the doors and the bodywork underneath is effective too, including 2x2 triangular tiles. Ideally, the angle at the front would be steeper, but I imagine that would dramatically complicate the structure.
The gull-wing doors are functional, secured using Technic pins. Unfortunately, their significant weight actually overcomes the friction of those pins, so the doors cannot stay open on display. This is disappointing because presenting the DeLorean with its famous doors open would look impressive, so maybe the designer could have included hidden props to brace the doors.
Additionally, the pillars move with the doors, exposing the sides of the windscreen. That looks awkward, although dividing the pillars in half would have been extremely difficult, even at this considerable scale. The interior is richly detailed, containing various control consoles and two dark bluish grey seats, contrasting with their primarily black and light bluish grey surroundings.
Unsurprisingly, the steering wheel is not connected to the wheels, although it can rotate. The model designer confirmed during a recent interview that steering was considered, but proved too complicated because the folding wheels function was paramount. Perhaps more significant are the bright colours sometimes visible, including red and yellow pieces in the footwells.
Stickers represent the dashboard displays, including the integral speedometer, the plutonium chamber monitor and the time controls. The uppermost readout features the destination time, while those placed underneath feature the current and departure times. The displays are only separated by a couple of minutes here, reflecting the time machine's first journey with Einstein onboard!
However, most important of all is undoubtedly the flux capacitor, which makes clever use of a grapnel hook to recreate the triangular shape of the time circuits. A sticker adorns the viewing window and presents the correct spellings, unlike the flux capacitor from 21103 The DeLorean Time Machine! Furthermore, a light brick is hidden behind this memorable device, illuminating the flux capacitor.
That light is activated using a button on top, positioned immediately behind the tachyon pulse generator. The surrounding network of tubes and colourful mechanical details looks wonderful, including the cylindrical nuclear reactor which initially powers the DeLorean time machine. I am especially pleased with the flame yellowish orange piece at the centre, showing great fidelity to the source material.
Sand green, sand blue, dark red and blue accents are also included, reflecting the movie and giving the impression of suitable complexity. The metallic silver tiles mounted on the sides are outstanding too, depicting the temporal field stabilisers. Obvious gaps appear between tiles on the angled quarter panels and the sides which is unfortunate, but was probably unavoidable.
The connecting hook is mounted between the tachyon pulse generator and the button which controls the light brick, matching its position during the film. The shepherd's crook accessory, initially developed for Bo Peep, is used to good effect in black and has never appeared in this colour before. The same piece appears on the DeLorean from Back to the Future Part III.
Stacked 1x2 foot plates comprise the reactor cooling louvres, which look fantastic. Their angle corresponds with the onscreen vehicle and I like this simple texture. The surrounding rear light assembly is also exceptional, including an accurate combination of trans-red, trans-orange and trans-clear lights. The bodywork around the lights continues that superb standard, with various slopes creating the perfect shape.
Of course, the famous 'OUTATIME' number plate is mounted between the cooling vents, with accurate yellow stripes. The sticker is applied on a trans-clear 1x2x3 window, slotting inside a black frame. The size is therefore appropriate because a 2x4 tile, which more commonly forms the number plates on vehicles of this scale, would have been too big.
Doc Brown modifies the DeLorean after visiting 2015, introducing a hover conversion and the Mr. Fusion energy generator. Similar changes can also be made to the LEGO rendition, which requires relatively subtle reconstruction at the back. Either configuration looks great, although I actually prefer the modified version because I love the prominent Mr. Fusion generator.
The folding wheels are not completely faithful to the movies, since they should extend further outwards from the chassis. However, such inaccuracies are minor and easily excusable given the complexity of this mechanism. The yellow Technic bushes located behind the wheels seem less attractive because they are frustratingly obvious in flight mode, as shown below.
Switching between wheel orientations is easy, using the aforementioned red lever underneath. The wheels move smoothly together and you can adjust their position while holding the vehicle with one hand, which was a pleasant surprise. Viewing the underside also reveals trans-clear 1x2 bricks supporting the DeLorean in flight mode, although the set looks good without them.
The nuclear reaction and surrounding structure are detached to accommodate the Mr. Fusion generator, that converts household waste into fuel. The device is cleverly assembled around a cauldron and compares favourably with the films, reflecting the generator's onscreen shape and featuring a red latch. Stickers are placed on either side, further enhancing its accuracy.
Mr. Fusion even opens, revealing a golden can and a banana inside! Doc Brown loads these exact items before departing for 2015 with Marty and Jennifer, exhibiting amazing attention to detail. The energy generator is also interesting because two white Technic half pins are placed inside. They have not been produced in white since 2005, when 4888 Underwater Exploration was available.
The number plate can also be switched, now featuring the orange design with grey bars which originates from 2015. Ideally, the bars would be a shiny silver, but this sticker is otherwise very accurate. Removing the earlier number plate does involve disassembly though and is probably the most convoluted alteration when changing designs, remarkably.
Additional updates are made to the DeLorean time machine during Back to the Future Part III, after Doc Brown accidentally travels to 1885. Beyond repairing the shattered instruments, the original tyres are replaced with whitewall equivalents. The model therefore seems completely distinctive in this configuration, surpassing the similar previous designs in that regard.
Vacuum tubes and other components from 1955, strapped to the bonnet in a Pepsi Cola crate, replace the damaged time control microchip. These are constructed using an odd combination of flexible tubes, a Butterbeer glass and the second shepherd's crook! I love this tightly packed assembly and the control system is fitted using simple 1x4 bricks with studs on the side, which are actually used upside down on the versions discussed above.
White wheel hubs recreate the whitewall tyres, with concentric red and metallic silver dishes in the centre. These are certainly not ideal because the sides of the tyres should be mainly white, although printing on rubber has not proven successful in the past. Given this restriction, I think the current solution was probably most effective.
An attractive information plaque accompanies the DeLorean, also providing space for both minifigures. Slightly more room would have been welcome, but the plate could be extended easily if you wish. The stickered information plaque displays accurate information and I hope similar accessories will appear with any subsequent large-scale vehicles inspired by films.
Overall
10300 Back to the Future Time Machine approaches perfection. The model includes fantastic detail and replicates the DeLorean's characteristic shape with impressive accuracy. There are small issues, including some awkward colours and the doors' tendency to close, but these are certainly overshadowed by positive attributes. In fact, the doors failing to remain open reflects the original DeLorean, with its myriad design flaws!
The model also includes outstanding functions. Switching between driving and flight modes is incredibly satisfying and the light brick is nicely integrated behind the flux capacitor, while even the opening bonnet requires a clever solution. The presence of minifigures further enhances the set and the price of £149.99, $169.99 or €169.99 seems reasonable, hence I would absolutely recommend 10300 Back to the Future Time Machine.
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83 comments on this article
This is the UCS vehicle I have been waiting for my entire life.
Hey, at least the frame on this DeLorean doesn't bend whenever someone sneezes!
Love it :D :D
This is a lot smaller than what I initially thought, thankfully. I thought it was like the new Ecto-1
What an awesome, thorough review. I SO can’t wait for this. I don’t buy a whole lot on the day it comes out…but this I will. I may even leave my house to get one in my hands rather than go the online route. Me wantee very, very much!
If I have one crit, and it’s kinda dumb really, is that I would like the III version to look dirty somehow. I loved how grimy it was when it first rolled out in BTTF III. I’ve got some toy versions that emphasize this. Wonder how this could be achieved here?
Great set!! Thinking about buying it...
So... it is in the scale of Mustang, but not in scale of Ecto-1 or Batmobile?
My only wish would be that they included six minifigs- 3 different iterations of the characters throughout the Trilogy. Still buying it though...
@parsom said:
"So... it is in the scale of Mustang, but not in scale of Ecto-1 or Batmobile? "
Most recent large-scale vehicles are constructed at slightly different scales, but close enough to display them together, based upon their lengths:
10265 Ford Mustang - 1:13.6
76139 1989 Batmobile - 1:11
10274 Ghostbusters ECTO-1 - 1:13.4
10279 Volkswagen T2 Camper Van - 1:12.9
10295 Porsche 911 - 1:12.9
10300 Back to the Future Time Machine - 1:12.2
Hopefully we get a speed champions version at some point. I would love to spend $30 or $40 on a smaller model. I love the DeLorean, but $170 is not a price I'm willing to pay. These cars are way too large for me to display.
@blogzilly said:
"What an awesome, thorough review. I SO can’t wait for this. I don’t buy a whole lot on the day it comes out…but this I will. I may even leave my house to get one in my hands rather than go the online route. Me wantee very, very much!
If I have one crit, and it’s kinda dumb really, is that I would like the III version to look dirty somehow. I loved how grimy it was when it first rolled out in BTTF III. I’ve got some toy versions that emphasize this. Wonder how this could be achieved here?"
Everyone's favorite solution: STICKERS ;)
As for the model. The review definitely makes me want the set more than just the initial photos. Some neat features for sure. Plus the figures look solid.
$170 isn't terrible considering I was expecting $200 for some reason. But I guess we will see where the budget falls this year.
One of my favourite franchises... An exceptional model... Yup, day one puchase for me. It is even better than my wildest expectations! I loved the Dave Slater model. This one looks more robust however. I love the fact it arrives just before my birthday!
Haha, had to find one con! Beautiful model and probably a day 1 purchase for me. These movies were such a big part of my childhood.
Thanks for the excellent review. I really don't think that the designers could have done any better. A definite day one purchase for me! I'm sure that it's going to look great displayed alongside 10274 Ecto 1. Hopefully they'll be to similar scale!
I haven't bought and built a big LEGO set for over a year. This might push me over the edge.
This was maybe discussed in the reveal post . . . but I'm really shocked by the lack of visible studs.
Why again the color mess inside even visible from the outside? I don't get why TLG thinks their customers are so stupid, that they would fail to build the model without these stupid ugly colors. The yellow bushes are looking horrible but also the bright colors visible with open doors.
@Superlulu said:
"My only wish would be that they included six minifigs- 3 different iterations of the characters throughout the Trilogy. Still buying it though..."
Or at the very least, that weird futuristic hat for Marty! :) But still a rare day-1 purchase for me. Huge fan. Been waiting for this since 1985.
Okay, forget what I said about too expensive. Definitely going to get this one.
Also, I'd be curious to know if the passenger side has enough space for the hoverboard to be tucked in front of the seat as it was in BTTF III?
This review made me think to buy this one...
What an incredible set. Looks absolutely beautiful to display and so fun to build. I appreciate the thorough review!
Me, a few days ago: "eh, it's nice, but I still think the smaller one is fine."
Me, after reading the review "dang it..."
My main gripe is the windscreen. That's supposed to be transparent? That's more like trans-light-purple. I especially hate how LEGO themselves cheat on the box art by making it look like a perfectly trans-clear piece of the sort they don't even produce anymore.
I'm sure the set wouldn't sell as well if they were honest about it and showed exactly how awful the new material looks in reality.
Plus, why didn't they print the 2015 licence plate on that mirror foil sticker material they often used in Friends sets in the past. Would look so much better. But I guess it would have cost a couple of cents extra, so the budget planners went "nah, who needs that?"
@AustinPowers said:
"My main gripe is the windscreen. That's supposed to be transparent? That's more like trans-light-purple. I especially hate how LEGO themselves cheat on the box art by making it look like a perfectly trans-clear piece of the sort they don't even produce anymore.
I'm sure the set wouldn't sell as well if they were honest about it and showed exactly how awful the new material looks in reality.
Plus, why didn't they print the 2015 licence plate on that mirror foil sticker material they often used in Friends sets in the past. Would look so much better. But I guess it would have cost a couple of cents extra, so the budget planners went "nah, who needs that?""
Spot on with the windscreen colour shout out - that really looks bad in the photos!
Dang, that Marty figure would be absolutely phenomenal if they'd dual-moulded the legs. Having the lower half white would have made the printing break far less awkward. Other than that, this set looks incredible to me
Have you tried using the original technic friction pins for the gull-wing doors? Maybe those would hold them in place.
Outstanding review.
A day 1 purchase for me.
Alright, at this sort of scale, we've got quite a few 'iconic movie cars' (in no particualr order):(1) James Bond DB5, (2)GhostBusters Ecto-1, (3) this one: Delorean Time machine, (4) soon, the Jurassic Park Ford Explorer, (5) the Thumbler(s), (6) The Batmobile(s), (7) I may have missed one or two.
Here is a list of other models at that scale that would be nice to complete the series:
(again in no particular order)
1- Lotus Esprit (James Bond, The spy who loved me)
2- Pontiac Trans Am (smokey and the bandit)
3- Dodge Charger (The Dukes of Hazzard)
4- Volkswagen beetle (Herbie)
5- The Mutt Cutts van (Dumb and Dumber)
6- Chitty Chitty Bang Bang
7- Pontiac Firebird Trans Am KITT (Knight Rider)
8- Minis (already made) for either Italian job or Mr Bean.
9- The A-Team van.
10- The Gigahorse (Mad max Fury Road)
11- Spinner (Blade runner)
12- M577 armoured personal carrier (Alien II)
13- Ford LTD Country Squire (National Lampoon vacation)
There are definitely quite a few more (depending on the region and/or general theme) but this would be a good start.
@CapnRex101 or @Huw maybe a poll to see what other iconic movie car (real or sci-fi) would be the most desired?
Edit: the upcoming Ford Explorer XLT is smaller scale (more like minifig scale)
Waiting for the Huey Lewis minifig - Hold it fellas, but I'm afraid you're just too darn loud.
I really like it and hope to get it, I'll probably make it the second one and put the wheels down. A bit disappointed with Marty's face though.
Did anyone else notice it doesn't say DeLorean on the box, plaque, or LEGO.com? Odd.
This is a great review, thank you. When the official images were first released I felt a little underwhelmed (other than the flux capacitor, v cool), bt the review has revealed the scale and complexity of the build, so very impressed. Much more tempted now.
Hi! I miss Einstein here.... :)
Those milky windscreens. :'((((
@BulbaNerd4000 said:
"I really like it and hope to get it, I'll probably make it the second one and put the wheels down. A bit disappointed with Marty's face though.
Did anyone else notice it doesn't say DeLorean on the box, plaque, or LEGO.com? Odd."
Not really that odd. They have a license to make a set based on the time machine from Back to the Future, not a set of a DeLorean. Of course the time machine is itself made from a DeLorean and everyone knows it, but still, as long as they make the set specifically represent Doc Brown’s fictional time machine and not just a regular stock DeLorean, and don’t *call* it a DeLorean, they don’t have to pay for a separate “DeLorean” license.
Great review. This is a must buy! Hopefully I can get it before the holiday season, strictly due to budget. If the budget allowed, it would be a day one purchase. I have been hoping for this, since the Ideas set was released.
I would probably buy this on day 1 even if it was terrible just on nostalgia alone but this is much better than expected. release day can't come soon enough. Well done lego. now give me some new LOTR sets and I'll never talk shiz about lego again.
No photo side by side with the original model?
@fulcrumbop said:
"Waiting for the Huey Lewis minifig - Hold it fellas, but I'm afraid you're just too darn loud."
If we're going with musicians, then I would prefer a Flea minifig.
@HOBBES said:
"Alright, at this sort of scale, we've got quite a few 'iconic movie cars' (in no particualr order):(1) James Bond DB5, (2)GhostBusters Ecto-1, (3) this one: Delorean Time machine, (4) soon, the Jurassic Park Ford Explorer, (5) the Thumbler(s), (6) The Batmobile(s), (7) I may have missed one or two.
Here is a list of other models at that scale that would be nice to complete the series:
(again in no particular order)
1- Lotus Esprit (James Bond, The spy who loved me)
2- Pontiac Trans Am (smokey and the bandit)
3- Dodge Charger (The Dukes of Hazzard)
4- Volkswagen beetle (Herbie)
5- The Mutt Cutts van (Dumb and Dumber)
6- Chitty Chitty Bang Bang
7- Pontiac Firebird Trans Am KITT (Knight Rider)
8- Minis (already made) for either Italian job or Mr Bean.
9- The A-Team van.
10- The Gigahorse (Mad max Fury Road)
11- Spinner (Blade runner)
12- M577 armoured personal carrier (Alien II)
13- Ford LTD Country Squire (National Lampoon vacation)
There are definitely quite a few more (depending on the region and/or general theme) but this would be a good start.
@CapnRex101 or @Huw maybe a poll to see what other iconic movie car (real or sci-fi) would be the most desired?
Edit: the upcoming Ford Explorer XLT is smaller scale (more like minifig scale)
"
Lego would never make the DoH Dodge Charger because of that huge Confederate flag on the roof.
I'm curious how the BTTF 3 version looks with train wheels (e.g. pieces 2903 or 85489b). If I'm to buy three sets to display all versions I'd be tempted to put the third one on train tracks (not the six-wide tracks of course).
Glad to see that they spelled "shield" correctly! :)
What a missed opportunity for the very first iridescent Lego brick!
Not to mention a return of the hoverboard : (
Must travel back to the future and purchase this.
Great review.
@hold0511 said:
" @AustinPowers said:
"My main gripe is the windscreen. That's supposed to be transparent? That's more like trans-light-purple. I especially hate how LEGO themselves cheat on the box art by making it look like a perfectly trans-clear piece of the sort they don't even produce anymore.
I'm sure the set wouldn't sell as well if they were honest about it and showed exactly how awful the new material looks in reality.
Plus, why didn't they print the 2015 licence plate on that mirror foil sticker material they often used in Friends sets in the past. Would look so much better. But I guess it would have cost a couple of cents extra, so the budget planners went "nah, who needs that?""
Spot on with the windscreen colour shout out - that really looks bad in the photos!"
YES. Saw the pictures and this was one of my first thoughts! ... " I especially hate how LEGO themselves cheat on the box art by making it look like a perfectly trans-clear piece of the sort they don't even produce anymore"
I understand the change in materials/process, but the box art move is literally false advertising. Some might think that's an overreaction, but this is an 18+ set aimed at collectors...
Looks very good. So long as it doesn't fall to bits as easily as Sven Franic's VW T2 Campervan! Hopefully Mike Psiaki's influence will see to that.
Great review of a great looking set! A few minor issues, but overall pretty darn good!
My main gripe again is the stickers. Most don't really bother me here, except for the one (two) on the Mr. Fusion. That should have been a print. And I think this set actually could have used two more stickers: grey bars to put on the side of the windscreen, for when the doors are opened.
And that 6x6 tile on the bonnet still looks awful. Why can't they make that just look the same as any other tile?
I'd thought the DeLorean was Margaret Thatcher's fault- turns out she was just fulfilling a subsidy agreement by Jim Callaghan: How to Waste State Money 1.01.
Why was this vehicle chosen for BTTF?
@WizardOfOss said:
"And that 6x6 tile on the bonnet still looks awful. Why can't they make that just look the same as any other tile?"
That is not a tile, I think it is a 1x6x5 panel, but still clearly a different shade of Light Bluish Grey and looks bad.
Ow yes, you're right indeed. I wrongly assumed Lego only had one piece about that size that looked so bad....
Not convinced by the windscreen - its milky colour draws attention to the lack of glass in the side windows. As others have said, stickers in a set of this calibre are very disappointing. The colour difference between the panel in the bonnet and the rest of the bricks which surround it also jars. It’s a good set for sure, but it’s not yet the epitome it could be. The second version which was released in 2037 looks much better, though it does cost nearly twice as much.
Where are the windshield wipers?
@Real_Jonny_G said:
"Haha, had to find one con! Beautiful model and probably a day 1 purchase for me. These movies were such a big part of my childhood."
Agreed entirely. Sat here remembering going to the cinema (which was a really special treat) to watch BTTF2 and seeing the trailer for BTTF3 at the end of the film. So excited for this set and the interest it will create in my 6yr old to watch the films.
The only bad thing I've seen so far is that I'm going to have to buy 3 copies so I can display all the different versions together. ;_;
An interesting thing I read a few years ago is that the original DeLorean is back in production…sort of. A car parts warehouse in Texas realized they were sitting on tons of spare parts, because the car sold abysmally in its original release. Someone wondered if they had enough parts to actually build a car, and it turned out they had enough to build several cars. So, they started assembling new cars. But as long as they were starting with loose parts, they fixed a few issues. They lightened the frame, improved the leaky door seals, and because nobody in their right mind would actually paint the stainless steel body (but not everyone wants silver), they started anodizing the body panels so you can buy them in other colors (because who doesn’t want a purple DeLorean?). Sadly, no hover conversion.
@blogzilly:
Dirt?
@Superlulu:
Just six? Doc Brown wears the radiation suit and at least one period 1955 outfit in the first film, and probably has at least half a dozen outfits total. Marty also has a radiation suit, and for BttF3 he wears that sad cowboy outfit that Doc gives him, plus the period 1855 outfit. He wears a different outfit in the band, too, so again at least six outfits for Marty, too.
@BulbaNerd4000:
The original studio contract gave them basically perpetual rights to merchandise the BttF DeLorean, but this probably doesn’t include a second contract with the DeLorean estate, so they may not have rights to the name, especially after the estate sued the studio for fully exercising their merchandising rights.
@Blondie_Wan:
Generally speaking, that would not be true. In this case it is because John DeLorean gave Universal a sweetheart deal just to get the publicity, but doing Jurassic Park vehicles requires a secondary contract with Ford for the touring vehicle, or Jeep for the staff vehicles.
@Pongo:
It was distinctive, the gull wing doors worked as a UFO, and it wasn’t a refrigerator. No, seriously, that’s what was first pitched as the time machine.
What's interesting to me is that virtually all the cons mentioned in this review are addressed in David Slater's version of the DeLorean time machine from three years ago that can be found on BrickVault.
The doors are able to stay up indefinitely thanks to little props under the hinges, the wheel arches are made from windshields that perfectly encircle the tires, the hood is beveled at the rear so it's easier to open, the cables on the side are attached with rigid clips to give them a more accurate shape, and the folded wheels extend farther out because of the way the converting mechanism is designed.
I think LEGO has done a very good job with this set, and I will definitely be getting at least one copy. But for anyone who wants the more accurate version out there, I recommend they build the David Slater version.
At last they finally made it. I have been waiting for it since the Ecto-1 or back when the Idea set came.
Im going to get it to complete my 2 fav movie cars of the 80s. I know there has been others.
@blogzilly said:
"What an awesome, thorough review. I SO can’t wait for this. I don’t buy a whole lot on the day it comes out…but this I will. I may even leave my house to get one in my hands rather than go the online route. Me wantee very, very much!
If I have one crit, and it’s kinda dumb really, is that I would like the III version to look dirty somehow. I loved how grimy it was when it first rolled out in BTTF III. I’ve got some toy versions that emphasize this. Wonder how this could be achieved here?"
Rub some dirt on it.
Amazing set and great review! I hope to have a chance to buy it in a local store, since the shipment and importation fees will be high due to the box size and price...
@CapnRex101 I have two questions (thanks in advance if you could check this):
1. Does the assembled car fit inside the box, or at least removing only a few parts? For example, 21103 can be kept inside the box with the manual if you remove the tachyon pulse generator.
2. Is there any reference to the DMC or DeLorean trademarks inside the manual or in the box? It would be strange if no text in the manual mentions the DeLorean / DMC-12 as the car out of it a time machine was built, or the licensing rights to use the DMC logo at the front of the set.
It really seems like we are in a golden age with the number of excellent set designs, and at the same time a dark age in terms of quality. To some extent the two may go hand in hand, but I do wish incredible designs like this wouldn't be marred by poor color matching and transparency. The build is the most important thing for me, so this still makes the wanted list.
@DFX said:
"Amazing set and great review! I hope to have a chance to buy it in a local store, since the shipment and importation fees will be high due to the box size and price...
@CapnRex101 I have two questions (thanks in advance if you could check this):
1. Does the assembled car fit inside the box, or at least removing only a few parts? For example, 21103 can be kept inside the box with the manual if you remove the tachyon pulse generator.
2. Is there any reference to the DMC or DeLorean trademarks inside the manual or in the box? It would be strange if no text in the manual mentions the DeLorean / DMC-12 as the car out of it a time machine was built, or the licensing rights to use the DMC logo at the front of the set."
1. Yes, the car does fit inside the box when constructed, but you must remove the tachyon pulse generator and Mr. Fusion.
2. I wondered about this myself and no, the DeLorean brand is not mentioned anywhere in the instruction manual or on the box.
That windscreen is pretty cloudy.
My only issue with this is that I’m sure as you go through the instructions it is a very cool build. But then you are going to get to the end and find a giant “to be continued” on the last page and you know you’ll have to buy another $200 Lego set.
While this does look awesome, Delorians have not aged well. I remember that car being so cool as a kid and how excited I was to see one in person and sit in it, but wow is it ugly now.
Shame the BTTF 3 version does not come with time logs. Also should it not be on train wheels? That version prob spent more time on screen
This is an amazing model. Oh, how much I want to have it but I'll wait for a minifigure scale set so that it will fit with 21108. I can't start collecting this scale sets after 50...
Hey, does anyone know why the 10274 ECTO 1 was not reviewed at Brickset?
I was waiting for that review but never came. I mean is not relevant now but I always had that question...
Excellent review, as always! The decision to build the hoverboard from bricks instead of using the already excisting part from 71201 for me seems a bit strange. Also, as so many already mentioned, the murkiness of that windscreen compared to the promo pic where it's very much clear is another problem. As well as the color mismatch on the bonnet. And to use stickers where prints would have been so much better. Especially because this is a 18+ UCS set.
Sooo... maybe it's a first day buy for me. But just maybe.
‘Certain inaccuracies become visible from either flank, notably including the wheel arches that lack appropriate curvature…’
With Lego being so representative and fairly abstract, i wonder how many of us want it to look more blocky and Lego-like or more ‘real’?
I think I appreciate those blocky flaws.
@CapnRex101 Does a 318 bar pusshed through the Technic pins solve the closing door issue? Or the old type of Technic pins (pre 2021)?
"Unfortunately, their significant weight actually overcomes the friction of those pins, so the doors cannot stay open on display."
How did you take the picture then? ^^" Anyway, awesome model, some parts could be switched out tho (yellow bushes, some brackets inside). And I bet it's easy to modify one or both doors to stay open for display, if someone would wish to do that.
Delorean the word may not appear in the box or manual but the firm's logo is pretty clearly displayed front and centre on the car itself? So some kind of deal must have been done... probably an incredibly boring one.
Or it's just an oversight in the writing of the booklet.
@Superlulu:
Just six? Doc Brown wears the radiation suit and at least one period 1955 outfit in the first film, and probably has at least half a dozen outfits total. Marty also has a radiation suit, and for BttF3 he wears that sad cowboy outfit that Doc gives him, plus the period 1855 outfit. He wears a different outfit in the band, too, so again at least six outfits for Marty, too.
Granted, yes, you could do more, but I just want six different figures so you can display the appropriate movie minifigs with the 3 different car configurations. Since I do have the original Delorean, I will have figures from the first 2 movies, just missing any from the 3rd movie. A small nitpick, but I would have paid extra money for the extra figures, no debate.
@Fizyx said:
"The only bad thing I've seen so far is that I'm going to have to buy 3 copies so I can display all the different versions together. ;_;"
I was already debating with myself if I'm going to do that too or just change what model I display off and on. my mind is saying buy all 3 but my wallet says hold on lets think about this lol.
@alfred_the_buttler:
Oh, I still think it _looks_ cool, and I wouldn’t mind owning one of the Texan DeLoreans, but I’ve seen a few of them up close, and even sat in what may have been the “C” car (used for closeups and interior shots) at the moment that Doc Brown and Marty arrived in 2015. The stainless steel body was a novel idea, but didn’t translate perfectly. Up close, you can see that the body panels have a lot of imperfections, and the finish looks, well, unfinished.
@todd1981:
Ironically, the train wheels are what people most associate with BttF3, and the 50’s wheels are often overlooked or simply forgotten.
@trelic:
The Dimensions hoverboard is 2x5, while this is 2x7, so there’s a scaling issue right off the bat. Dimensions also has studs for a minifig, which is great when you put a minifig on it, but kinda looks out of place on a large-scale display model.
@Desbug:
The Bobs wanted the car, and DeLorean wanted the publicity badly enough that he gave them rights to merchandise the BttF car in a deal that was one-sided enough that his estate later tried to sue them for royalties that they weren’t actually buying entitled to. So, what appears on-screen they can sell any way they see fit, but they don’t have rights to the brand in general.
"In fact, the doors failing to remain open reflects the original DeLorean, with its myriad design flaws!"
Even the con is a pro - attention to the source material!
@Cindipool:
I bet the doors leak when it rains, too.
@Pongo said:
"I'd thought the DeLorean was Margaret Thatcher's fault- turns out she was just fulfilling a subsidy agreement by Jim Callaghan: How to Waste State Money 1.01.
Why was this vehicle chosen for BTTF? "
If you're going to build a time machine into a car, why not do it with some S T Y L E
Does anyone know what the gift with purchase will be on April 1st ?
@hardwax said:
"Does anyone know what the gift with purchase will be on April 1st ?"
40527 Easter Chicks and 30583 Easter Bunny from March 25th - April 16th in Germany at least... maybe UK too.
I wish the minifig scaled Delorean could be updated to use more techniques similar to this design. The model that was sold versus the original ideas model was a disgrace, even considering the stability concerns it simply looked incomplete.
@Anonym:
They said the hood on the original project was too sloped, and they were right. About half that angle would be perfect. As one giant slope, there’s also the issue that the only way to depict the 1955 electronics strapped to the hood is to strap the parts to the hood. It’s no more or less perfect than the submitted design.
@Blondie_Wan said:
" @BulbaNerd4000 said:
"I really like it and hope to get it, I'll probably make it the second one and put the wheels down. A bit disappointed with Marty's face though.
Did anyone else notice it doesn't say DeLorean on the box, plaque, or LEGO.com? Odd."
Not really that odd. They have a license to make a set based on the time machine from Back to the Future, not a set of a DeLorean. Of course the time machine is itself made from a DeLorean and everyone knows it, but still, as long as they make the set specifically represent Doc Brown’s fictional time machine and not just a regular stock DeLorean, and don’t *call* it a DeLorean, they don’t have to pay for a separate “DeLorean” license."
I doubt this is the reason. The use of the DMC logo on the front almost certainly means they paid a license, but that's relatively small for cars compared to their other licensed themes. They probably paid a bit more for the movie rights.
It's just a marketing thing. Same reason the Mjolnir set is called "Thor's Hammer". Just easier for people to say, type, search for, etc.
Hi! Nice review, many thanks. I am dreaming about having a BTTF theme, including for example a steam loco flying time machine.... :D