Curbside Classic CA Vacation Edition: Super-Rare 1971 Opel Manta

by Paul Niedermeyer

Published: December 31st, 2009

curbside classic ca vacation edition super rare 1971 opel manta

You never know what will wash ashore on the beaches of Half Moon Bay. Heading for the coffee/wifi cafe to send these dispatches, what do I find in the parking lot, but a pristine 1971 (or ’72) Manta. As you may remember, the best I could in Eugene was this ’74 in a carport that probably hadn’t been driven in some ten years.

But this Opel is still taking its elderly driver on her errands. And it was a stick too. There’s no doubt in my mind that this is a one-owna’ Manta. Even has the after-market/dealer installed rubber side protection strip. Must avoid parking lot dings, and keep the old Manta looking good for another decade or two! Parts? Why there’s that Buick dealer in San Mateo…

#LastManta #RareOpel

Paul Niedermeyer

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Dave7 on Jan 04, 2010

Fantastic find. Always liked these but always thought that the front and rear styling looks like its from different cars - perhaps even different decades (rear 60s, front 70s).

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Autobahner44 on Jan 04, 2010

I had a '74 Manta in college. I called it the "poor man's BMW" and it was a really fun and simple car to bang around in. Burgundy corduroy seats-chicks dug 'em...

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