Would you buy a used car from me? John DeLorean

A key element of its evidence was a videotape showing Mr DeLorean discussing the drugs deal with undercover FBI agents.

During the trial Mr DeLorean's lawyer argued that his client had been 'entrapped'.

He said the agents had cajoled Mr DeLorean into a position that made it look as if he had committed a crime.

After the verdict Mr DeLorean thanked those who had helped him and said it was "a miracle" the truth had come out.

"Perhaps somehow we can get the laws changed and the codes of conduct changed so that this can't happen to other people," Mr DeLorean said.

"If that truly happens then maybe all of this has been for a worthwhile and constructive purpose."

But he told reporters he felt bitter about the damage done to his reputation as a businessman, joking "would you buy a used car from me?"

Mr DeLorean must now wait and see whether the FBI succeeds in bringing fraud and tax evasion charges against him in connection with his Northern Ireland car plant.

	E-mail this story to a friend