Opel Manta GT/E
The Opel Manta was Germany's pony car — an affordable, stylish coupe that brought sports car looks to the everyman. Based on the Ascona platform, the Manta offered handsome fastback styling, rear-wheel drive, and enough performance to make every commute feel sporting. The GT/E version added Bosch fuel injection, giving the 1.9-liter CIH engine a useful power boost. The Manta became a cultural phenomenon in Germany, spawning a genre of 'Manta jokes' and a devoted following that persists to this day. In motorsport, the Manta was competitive in rally and touring car racing. The Manta A (1970-1975) with its clean design is the most collectible variant.
Manta A models are more collectible than Manta B. GT/E with fuel injection is the most desirable variant. Rust is the biggest enemy — check sills, floors, and wheel arches. CIH engines are robust but parts are becoming scarce outside Germany. Join Opel/Vauxhall clubs for parts sources. Still relatively affordable.
The Manta A was produced 1970-1975 with nearly 500,000 built. The Manta B followed from 1975-1988. The GT/E (Grand Tourisme Einspritzung) added fuel injection. Sold in the USA as the Buick/Opel Manta. A successful rally and touring car.