As the Japanese auto industry climbed out of the rubble from WWII, it quickly moved from making slow, boring cars to producing cute compacts. By the late 1960s, American customers were flocking to Datsun, Toyota, and other Japanese brands. Detroit had no great answers other than to look to its European subsidiaries.
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One vital source was Opel - opens in new window or tab., the unlikely marriage of Buick and GM’s European firms. Those cars, like the 1974 Opel Manta GT recently sold on eBay, are now highly collectible.
Buick Dealers Sold Small German Cars
The Manta was a surprisingly well-balanced and agile car for its day. Its light weight and sharp handling made it a favorite of showroom-stock road racers, despite having less power than most rivals. At the same time, the cabin was more upscale than many competitors.
Nonetheless, the Manta was not a huge sales success. It was hampered by a lack of brand recognition and a relatively higher price tag than its competitors. Besides, ambivalent dealers were more interested in moving Rivieras than economy cars.
Inevitable rust issues that plague so many cars from the era make finding a running Manta nearly impossible today.
Built for Performance
These factors make the Manta sold on eBay a remarkable find. It’s fitted with GT/E performance model livery and cosmetic enhancements, including a blacked-out hood, side stripes, and trim.
A Southern California car, it is virtually rust-free. This Opel Manta GT shows like new, sporting fresh paint in period-correct brilliant blue with contrasting black stripes and trim. Only a few tasteful modifications enhance its appearance and performance.
The owner lowered the suspension for a more aggressive stance and fitted wide aftermarket mesh wheels. In addition, small bumpers from an earlier Manta are in place instead of the larger government-mandated originals that would’ve been present on a 1974 Manta.
The original 1.9-liter four-cylinder engine, matched with a factory four-speed manual transmission - opens in new window or tab., is under the hood. The engine was freshly rebuilt and bored for more power, with new pistons and other components. In addition, the original and somewhat problematic fuel injection is replaced with a Weber two-barrel carburetor - opens in new window or tab. favored by Opel enthusiasts.
This Opel Manta GT Needs Nothing
Other recent mechanical work includes a new fuel tank - opens in new window or tab., battery, alternator, and voltage regulator, along with a fresh tune-up and oil change. Originally equipped with factory air conditioning - opens in new window or tab., the compressor is missing. But all the hard-to-find vents and interior bits are in place if the new owner chooses to make the system functional.
The Opel Manta inhabits an unusual place in American automotive history. It was never popular here despite having excellent performance and European cachet. However, this one was well-loved and preserved and will likely be the only one to show up at any car show. More importantly, it’s well-sorted and ready for weekend canyon runs.
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.