1985 Bitter SC Coupe

One of 461 SC coupes built over a decade-long run ending in 1989, this 1985 example represents the model’s most popular body style, followed by a convertible (22 built) and four-door sedan (5 built).

Bitter’s first car, the Opel-based, Chevy small block-powered CD (for “Coupe Diplomat”) was inspired by the Opel Frua, a beautiful, Carrozzeria-styled concept from 1970 that nearly made it to serial production.

Where the CD wore an Italian-styled, German-made Baur body, most SC’s feature German-styled panels manufactured by Carrozzeria Maggiore, a Turin based coachbuilder and manufacturer remembered for their work on the De Tomaso Mangusta, Pantera, and Maserati Mistral.

This example wears color-matched factory alloy wheels and appears to be complete with all standard trim, including the spectacular badgework seen on the rear.

Much like the Ferrari 365 GT4 2+2 that inspired them, Bitter SC’s must be seen up close to best appreciate their low, wide, and exotically proportioned sheet metal. Most SC’s seem to have been gray, silver or champagne in color, but navy blue suits this one particularly well.

Like the exterior, the cabin looks to retain a high degree of completeness - note for example the original brass chassis tag located on the center console. Materials appear to be factory as well, and overall, leather, wood and other fitting seem to be holding up nicely. Hides or timbers cover almost everything inside, complementing interesting mustard color Bitter/VDO instruments.

"I want a beautiful, fast car, but I also want to get in it and drive away."

- Erich Bitter

Bitter and Opel worked very closely on the development of SC, and by all accounts their efforts produced a smooth, quiet, and refined GT with excellent handling and mass market reliability.

Based on its contemporary Opel Senator, the SC is suspended by struts in front, trailing arms in back, with coil springs all around. There are anti-roll bars at each end as well.

The auction car is made even scarcer by its optional stroker straight-six, which boosted the standard Opel 3.0 liter, 177 hp unit to figures of 3.9 and 207, respectively.

This car is sold without extensive history, but does include a handful of receipts as well as its original factory maintenance logbook and owner’s manual.

Exotic but usable, Bitter SC’s are also rare, attractive, rewarding, and much more mechanically straightforward than most cars even half as special. Though not without its needs, this one could make quite an impact in one’s collection for a relatively small outlay. Estimated $4,000 - $8,000.

IMPORTANT NOTICE TO ALL BIDDERS

It should be noted that this vehicle has been on static display for a number of years and there is no history available beyond that displayed in our photography section.

We have not started or driven the car so cannot vouch for its mechanical viability or functionality. It will require recommissioning prior to road use and is sold ‘as seen’.

Due to California emissions laws, please note that this vehicle may only be sold to an out-of-state resident for use outside of California or to a licensed automotive dealer.

Please note that the title for this vehicle is in transit.