Both projects began around the same time in 1972. Two different special models were made of the Manta A with the primary objective of the versions being to up the power. The Isuzu Gemini version of the T-car was imported from Japan and sold by Buick dealers as the 'Opel by Isuzu', and later 'Buick Opel'. In 1975 US imports of Opels ended as costs rose. The Manta A was one of only a small few Opel models sold in the U.S. In the United Kingdom market, the original Manta was sold only as an Opel, with no Vauxhall-branded Manta or Ascona until following the launch in 1975 of the Manta B1 and Ascona B. European Manta models didn't have the large bumpers. '74-75 Manta models featured large aluminum 5 mph bumpers that complied with U.S. Though in Europe, this feature was only available on the high-end GT/E Models which also featured a lower front spoiler and fog lamps which wasn't offered on any of the US Spec Manta models. Market with a special dark blue vinyl rood, automatic transmission, and mechanical sunroof.Īll Manta and 1900 models in 1975 were outfitted with the Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection in the U.S. The 'Blue Max' in 1973 was the only special edition Manta that was ever produced for the U.S. The 'Luxus' model was introduced in 1973 and featured luxurious updates including corduroy seats, faux wood paneling, and color-coded blue or burgundy interiors. Both featured dual rear sway bars, which provided the best in class handling. The only difference mechanically was the gear ratio in the models with manual transmissions and the Rallye model came with a tighter turning radius, standard stiffer suspension and agile front caster adjustments. Overall an appearance and gauge package, the most obvious difference was the addition of a black hood and on 70-73 models and new fog lamps. Market known as the Rallye was introduced from 1971 until 1974. Going on to win a large number of rallies in Europe and the U.S., the Manta was known to be one of the best-handling vehicles in its class.Ī sport model in the U.S. The car came with either a four-speed manual or an optional three-speed TH-180 automatic. had the 1.9L and larger heavy-duty radiator which was an option on European models. Normally the Manta was equipped with a 1.6-1.9 liter CIH engines, though in Europe, a small 1.2-liter motor was also available. The Manta was dubbed 'Project 1450' by the Opel designers and became a stylish and safe alternative with a new rear axle and coil springs innovations of the time. A two-door 'three-box' coupe, the Manta had unique round taillights similar to the ones on the Opel GT. Sharing many parts with the Cortina, the Manta was a direct competitor to the Ford Capri. In September of 1970, Opel started with the Manta A, a rear-wheel-drive sports coupe produced for 13 years until 1988 when the final model rolled off the production line in Antwerp, Belgium. The Opel factory began producing bicycles by June 1886 and they were selling nicely, due to the sporting success of the 5 sons Karl, Wilhelm, Heinrich, Friedrich and Ludwig. Adam Opel and his five sons all worked at the factory before the sons encouraged their father to start making cycles. The competition history of the vehicle is not fully known, it is known that this car was driven by Salvador Servia and Jorge Sabater in the 1984 Monte Carlo Rally and to have won a round of the Spanish Rally Championship.Ī family of competing cyclists, the Opels had a history that was begun with the manufacturing of sewing machines from a factory in Germany near Frankfurt. It was delivered new to Conrero in 1984 and was first registered on Turin number plates, TOW 90798. Powering the car was a Cosworth engine delivering 275 horsepower in phase 3, in Weber carbureted form.Īutotecnica Conrero (aka Studio Futuro) fully prepared this Opel Manta 400 for Group B rally racing. Several other improvements were made to the vehicle, making the Mantra 400 more competitive than its predecessor. The engine was moved back six cm in an effort to better distribute the vehicle's weight. The front panel, front wings, hood, doors, rear arches, boot lid, spoiler, and headlight holders were all made from this lightweight material. The Mantra, unlike the Ascona 400, made full use of Kevlar body panels. The completed car carrying the necessary approval made its world debut in Corsica, driven by Guy Frequelin. Hoping to accomplish this task in just a few months, it took until 1983 before FISA gave the official stamp of approval. Though driver Jimmy McRae was using the Opel Ascona 400 at the time, Tony Fall felt he could turn the Mantra into a competitive vehicle. The Opel Manta 400 made its debut in the United Kingdom in 1981. High bid of €75,000 at 2012 RM Auctions at Monaco.
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