Description
** NOW SOLD **
1974 Opel Manta A SR – C20LET Turbo | Fully Restored | Performance Classic
Offered for sale is my beloved 1974 Opel Manta A SR – a rare and beautifully restored example, tastefully upgraded with Opels infamous RedTOP Turbo engine.
This is not your average Manta. Beneath its classic coupe styling sits a professionally executed C20LET 2. 0 16v Turbo engine conversion, transforming the car into something truly special – combining vintage looks with modern performance.
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Performance & Engineering
At the heart of the car is the renowned C20LET turbo engine, delivering strong, responsive performance and making this Manta an absolute joy to drive.
Key upgrades include:
• C20LET 2. 0 16v Turbo engine conversion
• 5-speed gearbox
• Race clutch
• Dump valve
• Stainless steel Powerflow exhaust system
• Alloy radiator with electric fan + manual override
Handling has also been improved too, with:
• Bilstein shock absorbers (front)
• Spax gas adjustable shocks (rear)
This is a fast, usable classic that feels planted and inspiring on the road.
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Restoration & Condition
The car went through an extensive restoration of the body shell, and mechanical components approximately 15 years ago and has been carefully stored & maintained since.
* Re-bushed and painted suspension arms, subframe and rear axel.
* Underside of car received the same level of restoration as the outer shell, it’s truly amazing.
It strikes a perfect balance between show car and usable classic.
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Interior & Details
The interior has been thoughtfully upgraded while retaining its period charm:
• Recaro seats
• GTE 3-spoke steering wheel
• New carpets with added sound deadening and discreet orange stitching
• Bespoke floor mats with orange piping
• Original PYE radio retained in dash
• Discreet Bluetooth head unit hidden in glovebox (music + calls)
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Exterior
• Classic SR styling
• Air-dam front spoiler
• 5-spoke ATS alloy wheels
A proper head-turner that gets attention wherever it goes.
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Ownership & Practicalities
* MOT exempt
* Tax exempt
* Stored in a very dry and warm garage away from direct sunlight.
* Always avoided driving in the rain.
* Driven a few hundred miles per year
* I have the car insured under classic/ modified with a limit of 3000 miles, and it costs me £120 per year.
* Original hand books
* Spare key
* Lots of documentation including photographs of the restoration
* Documentation of parts ordered during restoration.
* Previous MOT certificates. I continued getting it MOT’d even after exemption, for extra peace of mind. I don’t currently do it though. (MOT in N. Ireland is independent from garages and is very stringent).
Located in Northern Ireland (near Belfast)
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⭐ The Opportunity
Manta A models are becoming increasingly rare, and finding one with this level of restoration and performance upgrades is exceptionally uncommon.
This car offers the best of both worlds – classic 1970s styling with modern turbocharged performance – and is ready to be enjoyed immediately.
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As with any old car there is always little observations that are worth noting, these are as follows: -
* On hard acceleration there is a vibration noise from the gear stick. This is from the shifter bushing that is a little worn. It does not affect its functionality.
* There is a small paint reaction about the size of a 10p below the rear window
* 2 small paint chips on the rear alloy wheels
* Bonnet is good, but I think it could be better, no rust or anything, just not perfect.
* Rev counter not wired in. I just never got round to doing it.
* There is no boot carpet. I always meant to get round to getting one made.
* No spare wheel, I have an emergency gel instead
* I feel it would benefit from a fuel swirl pot (surge tank) as it accelerates so hard it throws the fuel to the bank if the tank and when the fuel is a little low it can drop the fuel pressure.
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Summary
A unique, high-spec Opel Manta A SR that stands out from the crowd. Whether you’re a collector, enthusiast, or someone looking for a seriously fun classic, this car delivers in every respect.
