Opel Manta Coupe Polycarbonate Windows

The Opel Manta Coupe was Opel’s answer to the wave of stylish, fun-to-drive coupes dominating the 1970s and 1980s. Designed to compete with cars like the Ford Capri, Toyota Celica, and even some BMW models, the Manta wasn’t just another sporty coupe, it was a driver’s car with real personality.
First introduced in 1970, the original Manta (A-Series) was a sleek, well-proportioned coupe that immediately stood out with its sharp styling, long bonnet, and wide stance. It was designed with European touring and rallying in mind, blending a balance of sportiness and everyday usability that made it hugely popular. But it was the Manta B, launched in 1975, that truly cemented its place in motoring history.
The Manta B Coupe was a rear-wheel-drive machine with a lightweight, well-balanced chassis, making it an absolute joy to drive. Under the bonnet, Opel offered a range of four-cylinder engines, from 1.2-litre economy units to the more powerful 2.0-litre versions, with power outputs ranging from 55 to 110 horsepower. While that might not sound like much, the Manta made up for it with brilliant handling, a responsive chassis, and a level of agility that made it perfect for spirited driving.
The real fun began when Opel introduced the Manta GT/E, which featured fuel injection, a sportier suspension setup, and a more aggressive look, making it a proper performance model. With tight steering, predictable oversteer, and a lively engine, the GT/E version was a true enthusiast’s car, giving drivers just the right amount of power to play with while keeping the focus on balance and control.
But where the Manta really made its mark was on the rally stage. Competing against the likes of the Ford Escort and Lancia Stratos, the Manta 400 was Opel’s most serious attempt at rallying dominance. Developed with Cosworth, the Manta 400 featured a 2.4-litre twin-cam engine producing over 230 horsepower in competition spec, along with wider arches, lightweight body panels, and a no-nonsense approach to performance. While it didn’t reach the same level of WRC success as some of its rivals, it proved Opel could build a proper, rally-ready sports coupe that could go head-to-head with the best.
Despite its performance credentials, the Manta was also an incredibly stylish car. The sleek coupe design, aggressive stance, and distinctive front-end styling made it stand out from the crowd. It had the kind of timeless appeal that still looks good today, making it a favourite among classic car collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate a well-sorted, rear-wheel-drive sports coupe.
The Manta’s cult status grew in the 1980s, particularly in Germany and the UK, where it became a favourite for tuners, racers, and anyone who wanted a coupe that was fun, affordable, and easy to modify. Even today, well-kept examples are highly sought after, with enthusiasts restoring and modifying them to bring out their full potential.
For those who get behind the wheel of a Manta today, it’s a reminder of a golden era of driving, an era where lightweight, rear-wheel-drive coupes ruled the roads, and every drive felt like a bit of an adventure. It may not have had the badge prestige of some of its competitors, but it had something far more important, character, charm, and a driving experience that puts a smile on your face every time you hit the road.