West Germany vs Italy — 1981 vs 1979
| Manta 400 Rally Homologation | 131 Rally Stradale | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 144 hp | 140 hp |
| Torque | 155 lb-ft | 137 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,420 cc | 1,995 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 8.5 sec | 8.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 129 mph | 117 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.0 sec | — |
| Weight | 2,337 lbs | 2,381 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,518 mm | 2,485 mm |
| Length | 4,470 mm | 4,340 mm |
| Units Produced | 245 | 400 |
| Original MSRP | — | $14,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $200,000 | $120,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 8/10 |
The 1979 Abarth 131 Rally Stradale emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering quicker acceleration, stronger collectibility, better value. The 1981 Opel Manta 400 Rally Homologation counters with higher top speed, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
When West Germany engineering meets Italy craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1981 Opel Manta 400 Rally Homologation and 1979 Abarth 131 Rally Stradale embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1981 Opel Manta 400 Rally Homologation producing 144 hp and the 1979 Abarth 131 Rally Stradale delivering 140 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Opel Manta 400 uses a Inline-4 DOHC 16V displacing 2,420 cc, while the Abarth 131 Rally relies on a Inline-4 DOHC with 1,995 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1979 Abarth 131 Rally Stradale edges ahead at 8.5 seconds versus 8.5 seconds. Both cars have earned their place in automotive history and continue to captivate enthusiasts around the world.