Opel is revisiting the Manta half a century after it was launched, not with a new model, but with a restomod said to provide the best of both worlds: electric powertrain and classic looks.
Officially named the Manta GSe ElektroMOD, it pays tribute to the original ‘pony car’ of the 1970s and the 1971 Elektro GT prorotype that set several world records for electric vehicles 50 years ago.
As it is clearly visible in the teaser that accompanies the announcement, the Manta GSe ElektroMOD sports Opel’s new Vizor front end. The corporate face, which has already debuted on the latest iterations of the Mokka and Crossland, and will become a hallmark of the brand’s future lineup, brings new LED headlights and a simple grille with the ‘blitz’ logo in the middle.
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“What was sculptural and straightforward half a century ago still fits perfectly with the Opel design philosophy today”, the German car manufacturer, which is now part of Stellantis, says. “The Opel Manta GSe ElektroMOD stands there boldly and clearly and confidently starts a new future: electric, emission-free – full of emotion.”
The restomod also features a fully digital cockpit. Opel did not disclose any details surrounding the motor(s) and battery pack, but in order to stay true to the original Manta, the restomod project would need rear-wheel drive.
Opel’s approach reminds us of the 2018 Peugeot e-Legend Concept, which was inspired by the 504 coupe and used a 456 HP and 590 lb-ft (800 Nm) electric powertrain. The set-up enabled a sub-4 seconds 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h), a 137 mph (220 km/h) top speed and a 373-mile (600-km) electric range.