I am no economics guru or anything, but I think that a 52% increase since 1982 isn't bad at all. Looking at Consumer Price Index conversion factors as compared to the year 2000 here: http://www.orst.edu/Dept/pol_sci/fac/sahr/cv2000.pdf It seems like $1000 dollars in 1982 would be roughly equal to $1786 in 2000 (1000/.560). So a 52% increase isn't too bad after all. Please correct me if I am wrong. I also believe that comparing the value of the car itself to the value of parts is like comparing apples to oranges. Most vehicles depreciate each year; the fact that Deloreans have overcome this depreciation is impressive in itself. Parts on the other hand, are a commodity in continued circulation and will more than likely adhere to the simple economics of inflation coupled with supply and demand. I do agree that the idea of buying a $5000 Delorean is treacherous from a financial standpoint, but may very well be worth it to restore it as a hobby, or to make sure the restoration is complete and done "correctly" (all in the eyes of the owner, of course). It's the automotive equivalent of survival of the fittest, further swelled in our case because our cars are 20 years old. There will always be parts cars, and as far as I'm concerned they would do better to sustain the rest of us in some fashion rather than being crushed. Years ago I had a couple of Merkur XR4Ti's, and those were plain ridiculous in regards to parts vs. car value. A radiator for that car was roughly 1/3 of what the car was worth; a motor or tranny swap would put you upside-down. But, I loved driving those cars nonetheless. So, I agree with your thinking as it pertains to "bargain" cars, but purchasing a nicer example makes more financial sense in the long run. In addition, I am not one to depend on the predicted value of our cars, but I will say that it looks like we are in a valley right now because of the economy as well as the simple fact that people may be beginning to forget about them. As much as I hate to say this(zipping up my flame suit), I believe that when the BTTF movies are released on DVD our cars will enjoy the same resurgence as the movie (that is not necessarily a good thing). But my reasons for ownership have nothing with these economics, I bought one because I always wanted one. Sorry, enough of my rambling, just stick to the rule of $20,000 as a starting point and from there prioritize why you drive these wonderful cars. Max Glover #5284