1986 Opel Manta GT review from UK and Ireland

Brake Servo failed and needed replacing at 90,000 miles.

Rear drums badly worn, replaced at 89,000 miles.

Exhaust manifold gasket blew at 90,000 miles.

Shock absorbers replaced, 89,000 miles.

Watch out for rust in the chassis at the front of the car where the suspension arms join the main chassis, I have seen a few, mine included, that require some very awkward welding to fix.

This car is a design classic with its long bonnet and sloping rear it looks like its seriously shifting even when its parked. The addition of side-skirts and spoilers to much of the range adds to the sporty looks.

The inside on the 1.8 is dated and a bit drab, although if you go for the 2 litre GTE you get recaros, which are much better.

Driving the thing was great fun, the 1.8 litre engine is reliable and enjoys being revved, its only got about 80 BHP, but it feels a lot more when your on your own on the open road.

Does 0-60 in about 10-11 seconds, and feels very stable at 110 on the motorway.

Handling in the dry was good, but would benefit from stiffer shocks. Going into corners a bit lively resulted in understeer, best bet seems to go in a bit slower and then use the throttle to bring the back out, great fun on wet roundabouts although it can get a bit scary.

Taking wet bends on country roads at high speed without the experience/ability to correct the tail slide does tend to result in some ditch interaction though, as I found out, resulting in the death of my beloved Manta.

Safety wise it seems to take a front impact very well, but I don't recommend testing it.