Jack Marvin's 1973 Opel Manta: High School Memories and Big Money

Introduction to My 1973 Opel Manta

The 1973 Opel Manta was the car that made my high school years even more memorable. While most kids in my school were already rolling in cars as seniors, I was lucky enough to have a car when I was a junior. That made all the difference, and the Opel Manta was the perfect vehicle to drive me through some unforgettable times.

Cramping Seventeen People Into the Manta

One of the most outrageous things I did with my Opel Manta was cram seventeen people into it and drive around the school parking lot. It wasn’t practical, nor was it safe, but it was definitely fun. At the time, we didn’t care much about those details. We were just a bunch of teens having a blast in my 1973 Opel Manta, taking full advantage of the freedom my car gave me.

Being a Junior With a Car

It was a big deal to have a car in high school, especially as a junior. Most of the seniors had cars, but not many juniors did. That definitely worked in my favor, as I was able to get around the school and local area without relying on anyone else. It also made me more independent and allowed me to take part in activities and make memories I wouldn’t have otherwise.

Big Money with Pizza Delivery

My 1973 Opel Manta wasn’t just a source of freedom; it also became a way to make some “big money” by delivering pizzas. Sure, it wasn’t the most glamorous gig, but it was a steady source of income during high school. I’d take my Manta, drive around town delivering hot pizzas to hungry customers, and make enough money to put some away for savings and keep the car running.

Beating the Manta into the Ground

As much as I loved that Opel Manta, I have to admit, I really beat it up. Between the pizza deliveries, the countless hours spent driving it around, and the shenanigans we got up to with it, that car didn’t last long in pristine condition. But I didn’t care—at that point, it had served its purpose and left me with a ton of great memories. There’s something special about a car that helps you make a little extra cash while also providing so many unforgettable experiences.

Passing the Opel Manta Along

Eventually, the Opel Manta couldn’t take much more, and I ended up passing it along. I can’t remember exactly what happened to it after that, but I know it was eventually given to a buddy of mine at the automotive tech school. It was passed around among friends, and I think it got some good use before eventually being retired for good. The memories, however, have stayed with me, and I’ll always look back on that car as one of my first true driving experiences.

The Impact of the 1973 Opel Manta

The 1973 Opel Manta wasn’t the fastest or flashiest car on the block, but it was mine, and it had character. It helped me learn the value of independence, hard work, and the freedom that a car can bring. The experiences I had in that car are some of my most cherished memories from high school, and they shaped my journey into the world of cars.

Conclusion: The Opel Manta in My Car Journey

Looking back, the 1973 Opel Manta was more than just a car. It was a tool for freedom, a means to make money, and a symbol of my early days behind the wheel. My time with that car helped me grow and laid the groundwork for my love of cars that continues to this day. Every time I think of the Opel Manta, I’m reminded of the good times and the lessons learned during my high school years. It wasn’t just a car; it was part of my journey.