Opel Manta Classic Cars for Sale

History of the Opel Manta

Launched in 1970 as a direct competitor to the Ford Capri, the Opel Manta projected a bold image for the younger driving public, its design inspired by the Chevrolet Corvette Stingray. Based on the Ascona, it introduced a low beltline, long bonnet and rear-wheel drive—features appealing to enthusiasts. The first version, Manta A, ran until 1975 and was followed by the more angular Manta B (1975–1988), which added new body variants and engineering improvements. Throughout its production run, the Manta fostered a lively tuning scene, inspirational for the pop culture of the 80s and 90s through film, music, and endless jokes about its flamboyant image.

Model Series Overview

The Manta A (1970–1975) boasted a clean, rounded coupé profile and was sold in base, L (Luxury), and SR (Sport/Rallye) trims, with power outputs from 55 to 105 PS. In 1974, Opel introduced the GT/E with electronic fuel injection and 105 PS. The successor Manta B (1975–1988) adopted a more masculine, squared-off appearance, added the Combi-Coupé (CC) hatchback from 1978, and benefited from several mechanical updates such as OHC engines. Special names within the range include GT/J, Berlinetta, GSI, and most notably, the Manta 400, homologated for rallying with a Cosworth cylinder head. Over its lifetime, more than one million units were sold, the bulk being Manta B.

Unique Features and Popularity

The Manta sets itself apart with its light, agile handling, broad track, and recognisable styling details like its lengthy bonnet, coupe silhouette, and iconic round tail lights (Manta B). Models such as the GT/E, GSI, and the rally-bred Manta 400 offer notable motorsport pedigree. Factory-fitted equipment ranges from sports steering wheels and comprehensive gauges to ATS and Ronal alloy wheels, Recaro bucket seats, and sporty dash layouts. Its mix of robust mechanicals, straightforward repairs, and affordability made the Manta a practical yet charismatic daily driver, while its rally success fuelled a strong cultural following.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

Highlights include the luxury-trimmed Berlinetta, sporty SR, injection-powered GT/E, plush GSI, and the CC (hatchback) variants. The Manta 400 is the most sought-after, equipped with a 2.4L 16v Cosworth head, only built 245 times (59 wide-body), directly derived from rally sport. Extremely rare variants include the TE2800 and Turbomanta, which featured turbocharging or larger engines developed in limited collaboration with specialists. For the US market, models like the Manta Rallye and Blue Max offered unique trims and equipment.

Weak Spots and Maintenance

Rust is the Manta's most critical long-term issue—particularly at sills, wheel arches, boot floor, front crossmember, and jacking points. Good examples are increasingly rare. Mechanically, the engines (especially the CIH) are reliable with regular servicing and have excellent parts supply; timing chains are a noted advantage over belts. Most cars used simple, rugged engineering, making repairs straightforward. Interiors (especially in special trims) can suffer from wear or sunlight fade, and original details like the dash or seat covers are valuable. Electrical issues are usually age-related rather than due to design flaws. Safety features are minimalist, limited to seatbelts and (rarely) headrests; ABS or airbags were never fitted.

Engine and Driving Experience

The Manta's reputation stems from rear-wheel-drive dynamics, good weight distribution, and responsive handling. The broad track and long wheelbase provide confident cornering. Earlier Manta A models offered lively, if modest, performance, with SR and GT/E variants upping the engagement through improved suspension and fuel-injected power trains. The Manta 400 takes performance furthest with up to 275 PS in competition trim. Most models are manual, providing direct, connected driving. The brakes and suspension are solid; the ride is sporting but comfortable enough for everyday use. Popular choices include the Manta B GT/E and GSI for drivers seeking injection-powered performance and richer equipment, and the rare Manta 400 for those interested in motorsport heritage. The Manta A SR and GT/J remain attractive for their classic looks and purist drive. Hatchback CC models add everyday practicality to the line-up.

Design, Interior, and Equipment

The Manta stands out for its unmistakable coupé styling: long bonnet, sleek roofline, slim pillars, and expansive glass. Notable for high-contrast paint jobs and occasional vinyl roofs, special trims (Berlinetta, GT/E, GSI) featured metallic or vibrant colours, wood or brushed aluminium dash inlays, optional Recaro bucket seats, sporty three-spoke steering wheels, and fully equipped instrument clusters. Many featured accessories—including Kamei spoilers, decorative side stripes, sport mirrors, and ATS/Ronal wheels—are prized today. Interior options ranged from basic cloth through to velour or corduroy, with plenty of period detailing. Factory sunroofs and electric accessories are rare treasures.

Additional Insights

The Opel Manta was not only a sports coupé, but also a symbol of German pop culture, referenced in films like 'Manta, Manta' as well as countless songs and jokes. Its affordability made it popular amongst younger drivers, and extensive aftermarket tuning means that unmodified examples are now becoming valuable. The Manta was delivered across Europe and supported by strong parts supply, making it one of the more maintainable and usable classics from its era.

Summary

The Opel Manta remains a defining example of the accessible European coupé, marrying distinctive design, robust mechanics, and a genuine driver’s feel. With a wide choice of versions, strong support for parts, and unmistakable road presence, the Manta appeals to classic enthusiasts who appreciate original engineering and 70s–80s style.