1975 Opel Manta

The Opel Manta B was in production from 1975 to 1982, and was replaced by the Manta B2 or Manta C, depending upon which unofficial name you prefer. This later model was produced until 1988. Both were available as a two-door coupe or a three-door hatchback, and the Opel Manta was the closest true rival to Ford’s Capri. It is a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive car seating four people, and is ideal for those seeking tail-out fun with a dash of style.

The Opel Manta B was launched in 1975, alongside the badge-engineered Vauxhall Cavalier coupe, and their saloon cousins the Opel Ascona and the Vauxhall Cavalier. The cars occupied the same market sector as Ford’s Capri and the Morris Marina coupe; large four-seat coupes that could be bought by family men, fleet users and those seeking to reacquaint themselves with their misspent youth.

The three-door Opel Manta B was launched in 1977, using a body shared with the Vauxhall Cavalier Sportshatch. Until 1981, Opel and Vauxhall models competed in 11 countries.

In 1982, the Opel Manta B was replaced by what has become known as the Opel Manta C. Chrome bumpers were replaced by plastic bumpers, the range was simplified with just three engine options, and the Vauxhall equivalent was dropped. Popular new models included the 1.8 GT/J and the Berlinetta three-door coupe. The popular GT/E finally came to the UK, and in 1987 Opel launched a run-out special called the Exclusive. This was based on the GT/E, with every optional extra including Recaro seats and the i200 bodykit fitted as standard.

Several special editions were produced, including the i200 and i240, but the most special Manta was the rare Manta 400 created for rally homologation. Just 245 were built.

Opel Manta Bs featured a range of engines from 1.2 litres, through 1.3 litres, 1.6 litres, 1.9 litres, and the 2.0 GT/E. The majority were based on the Cam-in-head (CIH) engine, though the 1.2-litre mill was overhead valve and the 1.3 a standard overhead cam. Most used a four-speed manual, though some were five-speed and the larger engines were available with optional automatic transmission. The Manta C was available as a 1.3-litre OHC, plus 1.8 GM Family II and 2.0 CIH derived engines.

Unsurprisingly, the Opel Manta B feels much like an Ascona B or Mk 1 Vauxhall Cavalier to drive. After all, it’s essentially a sporting Ascona in a nice body. Fast Mantas are a laugh, with lots of power and a controllable chassis which offers plenty of opportunities for tail-out fun. Smaller engined Mantas feel just as special, if not quite as fast.

Mechanically, parts are shared with other GM products, including the Vauxhall Cavalier and Carlton. Many panels are shared with the Vauxhall Cavalier Mk 1, as is a lot of the interior trim. With many accident damaged Mantas broken for spares when current, trim is available – though you’ll have to search. Service parts are easy to source too.

When buying, check for rust in the sills, valances and doors much like any other 1970s design. Battery trays, the valance behind the front lights, and the A pillars are also well known rot traps that potential buyers should check.

Most desirable of the range is of course the rapid fuel-injected GT/E, in Exclusive trim. Standard GT/Es are worth slightly less, with smaller engines worth considerably less than the halo car. Usually there is little difference in value between the coupe and hatch, though the coupe is more desirable and can typically command a tiny price increase. Opel Manta Bs are worth more than the C in comparable condition, with the exception of the GT/E model.

Period alternatives include the Triumph TR7, Morris Marina Coupe, and Ford Capri. The Sunbeam Rapier H120 might also be seen as a good rival, though perhaps slightly older. The Manta’s successor, the Calibra, occupies the same market sector.