The Opel Manta B could be delivered in two versions – coupe and combi-coupe. Under the shell, they shared technology with Ascona B and Ascona C.
Model history
The Opel Manta B shared engines and technology with the Ascona B but received a sportier body and interior. When the Ascona B was replaced by the Ascona C in 1983, production of the Manta B continued with a facelift. Upgraded models received 4 slots in the grille instead of 2 – and are often referred to as the Manta B2. The model years for pre-facelift cars were 1976 through 1982. In 1980, the cars received plastic bumpers.
The Manta B2 was produced as a model year 1983 through 1988. The engines were the same as the Ascona for the respective production years. Among the engines delivered to Norway were the 1.3 S (75 HP), 1.9 S (90 HP). But the Manta could also be delivered with larger engines, such as the 2.0 S (100 HP), the 2.0 E with injection 110 HP, and the 2.4 E (144 HP).
There were two body styles in the Manta series – a 2-door coupé and a 3-door combi-coupé called CC. Popular trim levels were GT/J (Jung), GT/E. The B2 was available in GSi trim.
Sporty, but not a sports car
Cars like the Opel Manta were popular in the 70s. Several other car manufacturers made sporty coupé models of their standard cars. Examples include the Ford Capri, Renault 15 and 17, Saab Sonett and Fiat 124. Well, the cars were more streamlined than the standard cars, but they weren't very fast - at least not in the standard version. But the Opel Manta has been a favorite starting point for power increases and conversion projects later in the car's life cycle.
Manta Coupe
Manta CC
About the pictures
Opel Manta B and B2 are rare cars to see on the road. The photo of the green Manta coupé was taken at a car rally in Perpignan, France. The red Coupe parked against the sidewalk participated in Veteran Car Day in Skien 2026. The photo of the white car in profile was taken outside a car repair shop in Lørenskog. The red Coupe depicted obliquely from behind in a park environment, participated in a vehicle exhibition in Gunnarsbøparken Tønsberg. The red Manta GSI participated in Cars & Coffee Ringerike 10 years, 2024. The blue combicoupe (CC) was photographed at a shopping center in Ytre Enebakk. The Sienna red car was photographed at Revetal in connection with a 17-May outing.
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