Germany vs West Germany — 1970 vs 1981
| Manta GT/E | Manta 400 Rally Homologation | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 105 hp | 144 hp |
| Torque | 116 lb-ft | 155 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,897 cc | 2,420 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 10.5 sec | 8.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 115 mph | 129 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.5 sec | 16.0 sec |
| Weight | 2,160 lbs | 2,337 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,420 mm | 2,518 mm |
| Length | 4,242 mm | 4,470 mm |
| Units Produced | 498,553 | 245 |
| Value (Excellent) | $30,000 | $200,000 |
| Collectibility | 6/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 9/10 |
The 1981 Opel Manta 400 Rally Homologation emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1970 Opel Manta GT/E counters with lighter weight, 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.
The Opel Manta lineage tells a fascinating story of automotive evolution. Comparing the 1970 Opel Manta GT/E with the 1981 Opel Manta 400 Rally Homologation reveals how Opel refined and reimagined one of its most important nameplates over the years. The 1981 Opel Manta 400 Rally Homologation holds a clear advantage in raw power with 144 hp compared to 105 hp, a 39-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Opel Manta uses a Inline-4 CIH displacing 1,897 cc, while the Opel Manta 400 relies on a Inline-4 DOHC 16V with 2,420 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1981 Opel Manta 400 Rally Homologation edges ahead at 8.5 seconds versus 10.5 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 245 units built, the 1981 Opel Manta 400 Rally Homologation is considerably scarcer than the Opel Manta's 498,553 examples. On the collector market, the 1981 Opel Manta 400 Rally Homologation commands a significant premium over the 1970 Opel Manta GT/E, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1981 Opel Manta 400 Rally Homologation rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.