Opel Manta Tire Pressures

• The ideal Opel Manta tire pressure is 20/33 PSI PSI.
• To find the ideal tire pressures to match your car's year, model, and chosen tires follow the link to our Opel Manta Tire Pressure Guides.

• For a standard 1970-1975 Opel Manta A on 5”x13” wheels; Longstone recommends the 165R13 PIRELLI CINTURATO CN36.
• For an Opel Manta A with wider wheels (5.5”x13”) Longstone recommends the 185/70R13 PIRELLI CINTURATO CN36.
• For an early Opel Manta GT/E on 5.5” wheels, Longstone recommends the 185/70R13 PIRELLI CINTURATO CN36.
• For a Post-1984 Opel Manta GT/E Longstone recommends the 195/60R14 Michelin MXV3-A.

• For a 1975 Opel Manta B on 5.5” to 6” rims Longstone recommends the 185/70R13 PIRELLI CINTURATO CN36.
• For an Opel Manta B with 5” rims Longstone recommends the 165R13 PIRELLI CN36 recommended.

---

 
• To see more information on Opel Manta tires follow the link to our Opel Manta Tire Section.
• You can also see a range of period Opel Manta Tire Pressure Guides from tire manufacturers to check your precise model of Manta.
                           

Opel Manta A Tires (1970–1975)

From 1970 to 1975, the Opel Manta A was typically outfitted with 165R13 tires on 5”x13” tubeless wheels. This standard setup was seen across its base models, including the Opel Manta L, 1.6, 1.6S, and 1.9S, for which the 165R13 PIRELLI CINTURATO CN36 tires are recommended.

Intriguingly, early versions of the Manta A series sometimes featured 6.45-13 crossply tires. If you desired a set of crossply (or Bias-ply in the USA) tires we can offer the 6.40 x 13 Camac in this size. We would not recommend this tire however, as it it is not of the highest quality, and offers less performance than a radial tire. The 165 R13 radial tire size, exemplified by the fantastic 165R13 PIRELLI CINTURATO CN36 and 165R13 Michelin XAS, became more prevalent as time went on.

Crossply Vs Radial Tires

Radial tires offer better handling, fuel efficiency, and durability due to their construction, which allows the sidewall and the tread to function as two independent features of the tire. They are also much better suited to modern, high speed roads, where cars drive at high speeds for sustained periods of time. In these conditions crossply tires tend to struggle, and you may find yourself struggling to drive in a completely straight line.

Opel Manta GT/E Tires

The Manta GT/E, as part of the Opel Manta A line-up, initially came equipped with 185/70R13 PIRELLI CINTURATO CN36 tires. These models sported a 5.5” wide 13” rim, compatible with the 185/70R13 tire size. For these Manta GT/E vehicles, the 185/70 VR 13 PIRELLI CINTURATO CN36 is still recommended today.

Notably, the majority of Opel Manta GT/E models from this era were equipped with 185/70R13 tires. However, in 1984, the Opel Manta GT/E underwent a change, adopting the 195/60R14 tire size. For these newer models, the 195/60R14 Michelin MXV3-A is recommended, aligning with the handling needs of post-classic sports cars.

B Series Opel Manta (1975–1981)

The B series Opel Manta, a second series and face-lifted version produced between 1975 and 1981, featured 185/70R13 tires on 5.5 to 6” wide wheels. Many of these vehicles were originally equipped with PIRELLI CINTURATO CN36 tires.

For the B series Manta, the 185/70VR13 PIRELLI CN36 is the tire of choice. However, it's worth noting that some B series Mantas still utilized 5” rims, for which the 165R13 PIRELLI CINTURATO CN36 is the recommended option.

Opel Manta Innertubes

Our comprehensive period fitment guides confirm that throughout its production, the Opel Manta was equipped with tubeless wheels. As a result, innertubes are not necessary for these tires, provided that your wheel rims are in optimal condition and free of damage.

Should there be a need for an innertube for 165R13 tires, the Michelin 13D model is the ideal choice, specifically designed for this size. Similarly, for 185/70 R13 tires, the Michelin 13E innertube stands out as the best option, offering compatibility and reliability for this specific tire size.

Original Fitment Opel Manta Tire Brands

We found it quite fascinating to delve into identifying the original brand and tread pattern of the tires that were fitted on the Opel Manta as original equipment. Despite extensive research, a definitive answer remained elusive. However, we did come across some insights from an Opel Manta forum, which provided valuable information on this topic:

“Found some early reviews of the Manta A, and they were either the Goodyears, or Firestone Cavallino. An early Manta B road test from late 1975 mentions that car being fitted with Cinturatos. By 1982 a road test 1.8 Berlinetta had Grand Prix S fitted.”

In our quest to determine the original equipment tires for the Opel Manta, we discovered that enthusiasts reported their vehicles leaving the factory with a variety of brands, including Semperit, Kleber, and Continental. However, as of now, aside from Pirelli's Cinturato, these manufacturers no longer produce classic tire carcasses compatible with the Opel Manta. While they may offer tires in the appropriate size, the carcass structure of these modern tires is not well-suited to the unique requirements of 1970s or 1980s youngtimer cars.

In our consideration of tires that align with original specifications, we noted that many Opel Mantas across all models were originally fitted with the PIRELLI CINTURATO. This tire was a premium choice during the 1970s and 1980s. We have great confidence in the current production of Pirelli's CINTURATO CN36, which has not only excelled in classic tire tests but also outperformed the majority of modern tires.

Importantly, its carcass is specifically designed to complement the chassis of classic cars. Therefore, we are pleased to affirm that the PIRELLI CINTURATO CN36, in sizes 165R13 and 185/70R13, was not only the original equipment on the Opel Manta but also remains the best choice for superior handling on a Manta in today's market.

Opel Manta History

The Opel Manta, a rear-wheel-drive sports coupé, was manufactured by Opel in two generations from 1970 to 1988. It was based on the Opel Ascona family car and remained rear-wheel drive through its production. The first Manta (Manta A) launched in September 1970, featuring round tail lights and a variety of engine options, including 1.2, 1.6, and 1.9-liter engines. In the US, it was initially sold as the "1900 sport coupé" before adopting the Manta name.

Distinctive versions included the "Berlinetta," with trim packages and vinyl roofs, and the fuel-injected GT/E with impressive performance figures for its time. Special editions like the "Black Magic" and the "Swinger" also emerged. In the US, the "Luxus" model offered upscale refinements, and a rare "Blue Max" special edition was released in 1973.

Two notable limited production models were the "Turbomanta" and "TE2800". The Turbomanta was a turbocharged prototype with only 33 made, while the TE2800, not officially endorsed by Opel, featured a 2.8-litre engine, with only 79 units produced. These models, especially the TE2800, had performance that could rival much more expensive sports cars of the time​​.