Germany vs Germany — 1980 vs 1982
| Ascona 400 Rally | Manta 400 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 144 hp | 275 hp |
| Torque | 155 lb-ft | 207 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,410 cc | 2,420 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 8.2 sec | 6.2 sec |
| Top Speed | 124 mph | 143 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.2 sec | 14.5 sec |
| Weight | 2,315 lbs | 2,337 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,518 mm | 2,518 mm |
| Length | 4,322 mm | 4,465 mm |
| Units Produced | 2,484 | 245 |
| Value (Excellent) | $120,000 | $350,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 9/10 |
The 1982 Opel Manta 400 emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1980 Opel Ascona 400 Rally counters with better value, 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.
Within the Opel stable, the 1980 Opel Ascona 400 Rally and 1982 Opel Manta 400 represent different approaches to performance and purpose. Both carry the Opel badge, yet each carves out its own distinct identity. The 1982 Opel Manta 400 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 275 hp compared to 144 hp, a 131-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Opel Ascona uses a Inline-4 DOHC displacing 2,410 cc, while the Opel Manta relies on a Inline-4 DOHC 16V (CIH-based) with 2,420 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1982 Opel Manta 400 edges ahead at 6.2 seconds versus 8.2 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 245 units built, the 1982 Opel Manta 400 is considerably scarcer than the Opel Ascona's 2,484 examples. On the collector market, the 1982 Opel Manta 400 commands a significant premium over the 1980 Opel Ascona 400 Rally, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.