Available on eBay: The Kia Optima That Starred in Robocop Remake
Culture
Movies and Television
An original Delorean DMC-12 Time Machine from Back To The Future is out of reach for most collectors. So if you covet a sci-fi car, take a look at this extensively modified 2011 Kia Optima - opens in new window or tab. used in the production of the 2014 remake of Robocop.
This Optima is similar to the car that exploded in Detroit detective Alex Murphy’s suburban driveway in the film’s pivotal scene, causing the ghastly injuries which prompted his resurrection as Robocop. The seller does not provide detail on the number of similar cars used in production, although they state that this specific car was not used in the explosion scene.
The Optima’s exterior modifications imply electric propulsion. A great deal of effort has gone into aerodynamic tweaks. The gas filler door was replaced by an electric plug design. Aero mods include full Insight-like rear skirts on the rear wheels, extended rocker panels, widened wheel wells, smooth hubcaps, rear view side cameras, shaved door handles, and an elaborate flush front grille that extends onto the headlamps.The tail panel and trunk have been customized with a wraparound LED tail light and the faux Michigan license plate sticker features a QR code.
The interior’s extensive modifications include a full custom center console, dashboard, steering wheel, and shotgun holders. Although the dashboard features a high degree of digital customization, the stock gauges are concealed underneath. The rear seat has been upholstered in what appears to be heavy-duty cop car vinyl.
The Optima is fully drivable. Its 2.4-liter GDI four-cylinder engine and automatic transmission remain intact. However, the seller states that the “car comes with a clear title but due to its alterations we are selling it as a movie prop and the buyer will sign a bill of sale stating off-road use only.” As a result, the buyer might need to trailer it to car shows and Comic-Con.
While it may be possible to register the car, there are a number of required modifications for road use. Specifically, the side rear view cameras might not pass state inspection and the extensive front grille blocking might prove to be problematic in warmer climates.
The car - opens in new window or tab. was featured by Motor Trend, AutoWeek, and Jalopnik. The seller, Flat Twelve Gallery of Dallas, Tex. will include a framed Robocop movie poster signed by Joel Kinnaman, the actor who portrayed Alex Murphy in the film.
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