RE: Opel Manta GT/E | Spotted

Yeah, Exclusives were the run out model for 87/88. Just a colour change outside and velour retrim inside, plus the Irmscher kit of quad lights, mirrors, spoiler, rear bumper, and number plate insert where the plate was moved down from between the rear lights to a cut out in the rear bumper. Finished off with the properly 80s anthracite/silver wheels.

There were also some badged GSi which I think was the same treatment, only not in blue.

A Monza is, like you say, probably a fairer comparison having a six

Although if you wanted to keep it as a Manta, although not many made, an i240 was comparable performance-wise

I paid half that for a RHD Audi RS2

My now deceased Grandad bought one of these exact model Mantas in red brand new, I believe he collected it at midnight too, when that was a thing.

A696KKE was written off I believe but if it was ever for sale I'd happily try and get it in my garage. Was replaced by a Belmont 1.8 GLSi which the 7 or 8 year old me thought was quite luxurious at the time but never was as cool as the Manta

The velour trim (known as Chicago), came in on the standard GT/E in 1986. Mine had it. Grey with red piping.

The first Exclusives came out in 86 I think.
The Exclusive range was initially:
GT/E Hatch and GT/E coupe. They also had a different steering wheel in addition to the standard range.
Available in:

Monaco Blue
Dolphin Grey

During 87 they realigned the range and the GT/E Exclusive hatchback was replaced with the 1.8 GT Exclusive hatchback, and Dolphin Grey was discontinued.

The range continued with the 1.8 Hatch and GT/E coupe.

1.8 had the standard non Recaro seats and steel wheels.

Available in:

Monaco Blue
Glacier White
Starmist Black
Carmine Red

Starmist black GT/E’s had Silver wheels as standard rather than anthracite.

GS/I Exclusiv’s we’re the European spec ones, they did an unusual champagne colour aswell and the seats were a variation on the Chicago being bright red down the centre squab and back panels. I think you could get air con as an option on the European Mantas too.

I remember sitting in an Exclusive at the NEC motor show in the late 80s. I later bought a GTE I the 90's. Not bad performance and the Recaro's were nice but other than that it was a bit boring. It also had starting problems despite a new battery.

Back in the days these looked like they had so much presence. Now they look tame. I am also shocked at the power which seems so low now.