1973 Opel Manta A – Project Profile

Rare, no reserve, a beautiful design and in need of rescuing. This 1973 Opel Manta A has all the right things to make any spanner-happy classic car enthusiast whet their whistle. And this thing really is rare, too. It’s one of three in this specification believed to still exist, none of which are on the road. It’s been with the same owner for 48 years, and while it is in something of a sorry state, it has been dry stored and from what we can see, remains reasonably solid for what it is. But we’ll get to that later.

What is it? 

When someone mentions the Opel Manta, it’s easy to think of the Manta 400, Russell Brookes, Andrews or Rothmans livery and lots of dirty rally action. And quite right, too. Those rally versions were ace, as were the roadgoing versions like the GT/E. But that was the Cavalier Coupe-based Manta B. And it only existed because of the glorious, beautifully sculpted Manta A. It was Opel’s answer to the Capri, and what an answer it was. A gorgeous coupe profile, rear wheel-drive, a stunning interior, it was wonderful. But, it couldn’t match the Capri’s sales. But then, what could? It enjoyed a five-year production run, but it was never a huge seller here on our shores. However, the classic car world has embraced it with open arms, making this particular car something to jump on. Figuratively. Unless you secure the winning bid, then you can indeed jump on it if you like. You weirdo.

Why is it a project? 

Bought from the first owner in 1975, this 1973 Opel Manta A 1600 S automatic has been with the same second owner ever since. She drove it until the year 2000, at which point it was driven into this garage where it has quietly sat ever since. A good garage it is, too, as while there is some corrosion, the car is in remarkably solid condition. And it’s achingly original, even down to the Radiomobile stereo. In fact, the interior is probably the best bit, as it has been almost perfectly preserved. The rich, black coverings seem to only need a wipe down. It’s remarkable. The body, on the other hand, will need love. The car is straight and true, but the lower sections – valances and the like – have suffered. There could well be internal corrosion, too. But, it’s all there in its entirety. Mechanically, it’s going to need a full go-through, having not been started  for decades, but the 1600 four-cylinder engine in this is a doddle to work on, though you might want to get a specialist to refurbish the thee-speed automatic transmission.

What should you look for? 

Being a NO RESERVE auction here on Car & Classic, we have once again done all the hard work for you. It would appear our roving photographer also has a side-line as a contortionist, as the fact this Manta A is still in the garage has posed no issue. He’s been in, he’s been around, he’s even been under. That’s dedication. And it means you have 186 pictures to pore over as well as a detailed description, meaning you can bid with absolute confidence. Just don’t expect to drive it home!

What should you do with it? 

Restore it. Bring this once cherished car back to its original glory. It’s down at heel, sure, but to be presented with a classic so rare and so incredibly original is not an everyday occurrence. This beautiful coupe deserves to see the road again in the condition it once was. And when it does, heads will turn, red ropes will part and the classic car world be that little bit more special because this 1973 Opel Manta A is back in it, fighting fit.