OPEL MANTA (1975-88)

2-door 5-seater coupé, 3-door hatchback coupé.

Amazingly successful and long-lived sporty-derivative of mid-seventies type Ascona, on same 99ins wheelbase, floorpan, nose style and running gear, with choice of coupé or (from 1978) hatchback styles. Thought to be on way out in 1981, but substantially re-engineered, and sold with new 'Family II' 1.8-litre engine as well. No 1.2s in UK. 110mph from 1.9-litre models, which were almost identical to Cavalier coupés.