Modest Opel Manta – a rival to Ford Capri – originally worth £6,000 now selling for £40,000

A 1985 Opel Manta GT/E once worth £6,000 is now listed for £40,000 due to its rare condition, low mileage, and classic status ahead of auction on May 17.

A modest Opel Manta – a rival to the Ford Capri – originally worth just £6,000 is now selling for £40,000.

The white 1985 GT/E model is now 40 years old, which means it can be classified as a classic car.

The 120mph motor – which can go from 0-60mph in just 8.5 seconds -has done over 65,000 miles.

But that works out at only 1,625 per year on average.

It originally sold for around £6,000 now worth around £18,000 in today’s money.

But it is on sale for over twice that, as reported by Luxury Auto News.

The listing states: “The Opel Manta GT/E represented nothing less than the rebirth of the model in the UK when it was launched in 1983.

“It must rank as one of the most successful facelifts.

“The Opel Manta B, which looked so elegant and suave at its launch in 1975, was looking decidedly dated by the early 1980s.

“A new breed of hot-hatchbacks was threatening to render the coupé obsolete, leaving the likes of the Manta and Ford Capri facing a fight for survival.

“Opel hoped the B2 would add three years to the Manta’s life expectancy, but it managed to soldier on until 1988, outlasting its Ford rival.

“It was decently quick for a 1980s two-litre.

“With a sharp five-speed manual gearbox and independent rear suspension, the GT/E was able to stake its claim as a driver’s car.

“Finished in polar white with a very period black and orange chequered fabric interior, this very smart example was supplied new in Wolverhampton to its first owner in June 1985.

“Currently displaying 65,614 miles, we believe the car was in storage between 2009 an 2022 prior to being fully recommissioned.

Parts invoices and emails in the car’s history file suggest extensive restoration work by JLH in June 2023, and it certainly presents well with unmarked bodywork, an immaculate interior, and an engine bay that looks showroom fresh.

“Included in the documents is the original audio manual, owners’ handbook and even RAC membership cards from the first owner.

“The original service book is present, showing its pre-delivery inspection and the first five services.

“A rare and desirable 1980s coupé in remarkable condition that would be welcome in any collection but would be equally as happy to be driven on the open road.”

It is being auctioned by Iconic Auctioneers, Northampton, next Saturday (May 17).