West Germany vs West Germany — 1981 vs 1964
| Manta 400 Rally Homologation | Admiral 2.8 V8 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 144 hp | 125 hp |
| Torque | 155 lb-ft | 161 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,420 cc | 2,784 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 8.5 sec | 13.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 129 mph | 106 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.0 sec | 19.0 sec |
| Weight | 2,337 lbs | 2,976 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,518 mm | 2,845 mm |
| Length | 4,470 mm | 4,837 mm |
| Units Produced | 245 | 55,876 |
| Value (Excellent) | $200,000 | $25,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 4/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 7/10 |
The 1981 Opel Manta 400 Rally Homologation holds an edge across most measurable criteria, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. That said, the 1964 Opel Admiral 2.8 V8 brings better value and remains a compelling choice for enthusiasts who value Opel heritage. The right pick depends on whether you prioritize specifications or the intangible qualities that make a car truly special.
The 1981 Opel Manta 400 Rally Homologation and 1964 Opel Admiral 2.8 V8 share a manufacturer in Opel, but that's where the similarities get interesting. These two models reveal the versatility and ambition of the Opel brand. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1981 Opel Manta 400 Rally Homologation producing 144 hp and the 1964 Opel Admiral 2.8 V8 delivering 125 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Opel Manta 400 uses a Inline-4 DOHC 16V displacing 2,420 cc, while the Opel Admiral relies on a V8 OHV with 2,784 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1981 Opel Manta 400 Rally Homologation edges ahead at 8.5 seconds versus 13.5 seconds. The Opel Manta 400 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 639 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 245 units built, the 1981 Opel Manta 400 Rally Homologation is considerably scarcer than the Opel Admiral's 55,876 examples. On the collector market, the 1981 Opel Manta 400 Rally Homologation commands a significant premium over the 1964 Opel Admiral 2.8 V8, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1981 Opel Manta 400 Rally Homologation rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.