This car has so many spare body parts, they ran out of room inside and they've overflowed onto the car itself (collections tag?). But as Opel stopped being imported the following year, mechanical starvation must be the main reason for the extended parking.
I must say, a small early 70s coupe of this size is as tempting as a car gets for me. Swap in an inexpensive common EFI 4cyl+5spd (I'm thinkin' a Yota 4AGE or a Volvo B23FT) and you'd have an unforgettable automotive experience.
These were some of the best handling cars of the era, the Rallye particularly because of it's beefed up suspension, swaybars etc. So I think twice the original HP and a brake upgrade would be a dream! And without researching the market, I bet this could probably be done well for a total investment of $2000 or less.
"Swap in an inexpensive common EFI 4cyl+5spd (I'm thinkin' a Yota 4AGE or a Volvo B23FT) and you'd have an unforgettable automotive experience." How about you just enjoy it for what it is? This thing is rare as hell, no point in molesting it, imo.
Oh no doubt Justin, original would be the best. But with how long it's been parked, I'm really doubtful that it could be made drivable within my budget. Wouldn't change a thing about it if I didn't have to!
This is really rare and valuable car.It looks similar to Ascona. However, Manta has gained its rally car perception with Manta 400 at early 80s. I wish I could see a Manta 400...
I mean it is valuable in our hearts:) On the orher hand this is US spec car - which makes this more special - its injection system , bumpers etc. are different than EU versions. I didnt know that they were importing Manta cars to US at that time. Good condition Manta would worth at least 10.000 USD for Manta enthusiasts. These are old time drift cars. http://www.rally24.com/rally-cars-for-sale/rally-car-3584.html
My brother had one of these when he lived in Idaho. The license plate said 'famous potatos' and the car was covered completely with dents, so naturally it was the 'potato car'. When he moved back to Jersey he drove it as long as he could- until it had to get a New Jersey state inspection (did not happen). I'll never forget him getting pulled over by a cop with his mouth wide open. "How can you even drive this thing?"- to which my brother replied: 'It's easy- I put some gas in it, then put the key in and start it up, and shift the gear into 1st....."
Best of OPC. 
10 comments:
That car's been parked since 2001? Wow. Why anyone would leave such a cool car out to the elements is beyond me.
This car has so many spare body parts, they ran out of room inside and they've overflowed onto the car itself (collections tag?). But as Opel stopped being imported the following year, mechanical starvation must be the main reason for the extended parking.
I must say, a small early 70s coupe of this size is as tempting as a car gets for me. Swap in an inexpensive common EFI 4cyl+5spd (I'm thinkin' a Yota 4AGE or a Volvo B23FT) and you'd have an unforgettable automotive experience.
These were some of the best handling cars of the era, the Rallye particularly because of it's beefed up suspension, swaybars etc. So I think twice the original HP and a brake upgrade would be a dream! And without researching the market, I bet this could probably be done well for a total investment of $2000 or less.
"Swap in an inexpensive common EFI 4cyl+5spd (I'm thinkin' a Yota 4AGE or a Volvo B23FT) and you'd have an unforgettable automotive experience."
How about you just enjoy it for what it is? This thing is rare as hell, no point in molesting it, imo.
Oh no doubt Justin, original would be the best. But with how long it's been parked, I'm really doubtful that it could be made drivable within my budget. Wouldn't change a thing about it if I didn't have to!
This is really rare and valuable car.It looks similar to Ascona. However, Manta has gained its rally car perception with Manta 400 at early 80s. I wish I could see a Manta 400...
just checked the newest CPI (Cars of Particular Interest) Black Book price guide.
1971-1975 Opel Manta Coupe: $4,000 in excellent condition.
so, yes, i'd say it is rare.
you can tell its got some performance just from the character of the badging. really nicely done.
I mean it is valuable in our hearts:) On the orher hand this is US spec car - which makes this more special - its injection system , bumpers etc. are different than EU versions. I didnt know that they were importing Manta cars to US at that time. Good condition Manta would worth at least 10.000 USD for Manta enthusiasts. These are old time drift cars.
http://www.rally24.com/rally-cars-for-sale/rally-car-3584.html
Thanks for posting this nice piece
I just stumbled on this blog while looking for a manta rallye. Are these cars (this in particular) for sale or just found parked?
My brother had one of these when he lived in Idaho. The license plate said 'famous potatos' and the car was covered completely with dents, so naturally it was the 'potato car'. When he moved back to Jersey he drove it as long as he could- until it had to get a New Jersey state inspection (did not happen). I'll never forget him getting pulled over by a cop with his mouth wide open. "How can you even drive this thing?"- to which my brother replied: 'It's easy- I put some gas in it, then put the key in and start it up, and shift the gear into 1st....."
So I was wondering if this car is for sale or you just showing it off to us all??
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