Highlights
- Only three of this model recorded left in UK, none road registered
- One owner for almost 48 years with low documented mileage
- Uprated ‘S’ model with 80bhp
- Complete and very original car
- Complete and original engine and mechanicals
- Interior in well preserved condition
- Fascinating project or great source of parts
- European sister car to the Corvette C3
The Appeal
In the late 1960s Europe’s major US-owned manufacturers, Ford and Opel, were rushing to translate Stateside success into local sales. Both set their sights on replicating the Mustang’s trajectory.
While Ford busied itself with the Capri, GM decided to use the Manta Ray concept car as a starting point. A wise choice as this show car also influenced the C3 Corvette. The resulting Manta A was Ascona-based but bore little resemblance to that three box saloon. In short, it looked fantastic.
The later Manta B may have become the doyen of dirt stages but it all started with the earlier A. Survivors are few and far between nowadays but beloved of enthusiasts for their distinctive style. This vehicle also benefits from 2 original leather key fobs.
Just three Manta A 1600 Automatic are left in the UK and none are road registered. This is one of them, a remarkable one-owner ‘S’ rarity for restoration. It is complete, with a particularly well preserved interior, so makes a good basis for a project or source of parts. We hope it’s the former.
History and Paperwork
- The current owner bought the car in March 1975 from the first owner. She is the second owner
- Extensive MOT records to verify low mileage
- These indicate that the car was last on the road in 2000
- Letter from Owners Club in 1998 confirming January 1973 factory build
- Factory owners manual
- Raft of old invoices from Vauxhall Opel dealer in Pinner
- Original key fobs
- Windows are all original as they have the etching of the registration from factory
The Condition
- Period-appropriate Ochre yellow paintwork with black vinyl interior and roof
- Webasto-style folding sunroof
- Complete car right down to the evocative ‘manta ray’ wing decals
- Underside clearly requires attention with rust visible to other panels
- Boot floor appears to be in good condition with well preserved steel spare with chrome hub cap
- Standard factory steel wheels showing surface corrosion
- Complete set of lights which are original, patinated but appear to be undamaged
- Glasswork in similar condition with no visible chips, cracks or misting
- Security engraved windows
- Complete and well kept interior undamaged but obviously requiring a clean
- Factory original interior including well kept dashboard containing veneer trim and period radio
- Two spoke factory wheel with protective rim cover
- Original factory tool kit in good condition
- Door cards in good order with no visible damage or rips
The Mechanics
- 1,584cc cam-in-head 4cyl engine
- This is the ‘S’ model with high power 80bhp engine
- Three speed automatic gearbox
- Extensive history file indicates regular maintenance prior to storage
- The engine and mechanics are complete
- We are told it was maintained to a high standard before being garaged in 2000
- Clearly this is a project car
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic’s return policy applies.
✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for details.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is, Where Is’ basis and without warranty. A full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase and bidding is highly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for guidance purposes only.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
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