Faults:

Rust appeared under the wheel arches at 50,000 miles, which I suppose took quite a while for an un galvanized body.

Fuel gauge stopped working at 70,000 miles (after that had to use the milometer to guess when the car needed re fueling).

General Comments:

What an absolute beauty!

Bought the car new from Belgium in 1985.

This car was way ahead of its time in terms of appearance. I never had a minutes trouble with this car, and apart from the minor problems mentioned above, the car ran trouble free and never broke down.

The Calibra had a lot to live up to as the Manta's replacement and I still don't think it was any where near as good!

The wheels looked fantastic and the car was a real joy to drive (even without power steering) and it always got heads turning.

I think Opel should give the Manta a small face lift to make it a bit more modern then re - release it because I truly miss this car.

Faults:

Alternator failed at 114,000.

Intermittent fuel pump cut-out, which mysteriously fixes itself after several hours, several times over the last few years.

Recently started letting in water during very heavy rain, on passenger side.

Passenger door has always required considerable force to close.

Window handle knobs became detached.

General Comments:

This car has provided excellent service for over 10 years. It has been exceptionally reliable, with the exception of recent fuel-pump cutouts.

It is easy and inexpensive to service, and the performance and handling have never disappointed me. It compares well in speed and handling with modern cars.

Possibly the eye of the beholder and all that, but it still seems a very attractive car.