The Opel Manta B, the second-generation model to carry the Manta name, debuted in August 1975. Built on the redesigned Opel Ascona platform, the Manta B took design cues from the 1975 Chevrolet Monza, giving it a more aggressive and sporty appearance. Unlike the Ascona, the Manta featured a distinctive droop-snoot nose, making it stand out among its contemporaries.
The Vauxhall equivalent of the Manta was the Cavalier Mk1 Sports Hatch and Coupe. Until 1981, Vauxhall models were available in 11 European countries, resulting in competition between the Opel Ascona B and Vauxhall Cavalier Mk1.
Engine Options and Performance
The Manta B was available with a variety of engine options over its production run:
- 1.2L OHV
- 1.6L CIH
- 1.9L CIH
- 2.0L CIH (GT/E, introduced in 1976)
- 2.0L CIH (Bosch L-Jetronic injection, 110 PS / 81 kW, 1979)
- Dealer-installed tuning kit (125 PS / 92 kW with modified camshaft, valve lifters, and exhaust system)
Tire specifications varied based on model:
- 165R13 on 5″ wheels
- 185/70R13 on 5.5″ or 6″ wheels
In 1977, a three-door hatchback variant was introduced, complementing the existing two-door coupe.
Facelift (Manta B2) – 1982 Update
In 1982, the Manta B received a facelift, incorporating:
- Plastic front spoiler and sideskirts (GT/E and GSi models)
- Small rear wing
- Quadruple air intakes on the grille
- Updated engine lineup:
- 1.3L OHC (replacing 1.2L OHV)
- 1.8L OHC (replacing 1.6L CIH)
- 2.0L S and E CIH engines
The GT/E was rebranded as the GSi in 1983 (except in the UK). The GSi came with 195/60R14 tires on 6″ alloy wheels.
Final Production Years and Special Editions
Even after the Ascona and Cavalier moved to front-wheel drive, the Manta B continued production. The 1.8L Family II engine from the Ascona C was introduced in 1982, improving fuel efficiency and allowing the use of unleaded fuel.
Exclusive Edition (1986–1988)
Opel introduced the Manta B Exclusive, featuring:
- Recaro seats with red cloth and grey leather-like interior
- Irmscher-designed body kit (similar to Manta 400)
- Twin round headlights in plastic covers
- Front and rear spoilers (producing 80 kg of downforce at 200 km/h)
- Color options like Dolphin Grey with red-piped cloth seats
Production ended in 1988, making way for the Opel Calibra (1989), which became its successor in the sports coupe segment.
Motorsport Legacy – Rally and Special Versions
In 1979, Opel developed rally-spec versions of the Manta B and Ascona B. The Ascona 400 proved more successful due to better weight distribution, but the Manta 400 became a legendary homologation special.
Manta 400 – A Rally Icon
Opel collaborated with Irmscher and Cosworth to develop the Manta 400:
- 2.4L CIH engine with a Cosworth-designed 16-valve head
- Standard power output: 144 PS (106 kW)
- Phase 2 Evolution version: 230 PS (169 kW) with 48mm DCOE-style carburetors
- Lightweight carbon and Kevlar body panels
- Repositioned engine for improved balance
A total of 245 Manta 400s were built to meet FIA homologation requirements.
Other Special Models
- i200 (700 units) – A GSi-based model featuring Manta 400 styling cues and a tuned 2.0L engine.
- i400 “Phase 3” – Custom-tuned models pushing beyond 300 PS (220 kW), built by private teams.
Legacy and Collectibility
Today, finding a Manta B in original condition is rare, leading to rising values among collectors. Its combination of classic styling, rally heritage, and rear-wheel-drive dynamics ensures its continued popularity among enthusiasts.
The Manta B remains an iconic piece of Opel’s history, celebrated for its timeless design and motorsport pedigree.
