Classic Car Wiki

Introduction to Bitter

Bitter is a low-volume German automobile manufacturer founded in 1971 by former racing driver and tuner Erich Bitter. Known for blending European chassis engineering with Italian-inspired styling and hand-crafted interiors, Bitter specialized in luxury grand tourers built on Opel mechanicals. Although production numbers have always been small, the brand developed a loyal following among enthusiasts seeking exclusivity and understated elegance.

Founder and Early Background

Erich Bitter was a successful German racing driver in the 1960s, competing in events such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the Targa Florio. After retiring from competitive motorsport, he became an importer for Abarth and later for Intermeccanica, an Italian specialty car manufacturer. When Intermeccanica’s planned Indra model ran into production difficulties, Bitter decided to create his own car company.

The First Model – Bitter CD (1973–1979)

The first Bitter production car, the Bitter CD, debuted at the 1973 Frankfurt Motor Show. Based on the Opel Diplomat’s chassis and mechanicals, it featured a sleek body designed by Frua of Italy.

Bitter CD Features

• 5.4L Chevrolet V8 engine producing around 230 hp.
• Automatic transmission as standard.
• Italian-style fastback coupe bodywork with luxury interior trim.
• Hand-built in small numbers, around 395 units produced.

The CD received praise for its blend of performance, comfort, and styling, appealing to customers who wanted something exclusive but mechanically dependable.

Bitter SC Series (1979–1989)

In 1979, Bitter replaced the CD with the Bitter SC range, available as a coupe, sedan, and convertible. The SC was based on the Opel Senator platform, allowing for more modern engineering and a wider customer base.

Bitter SC Features

• Straight-six engines from Opel with outputs between 177–210 hp.
• Italian-inspired design by Opel’s in-house studio under Chuck Jordan.
• Luxurious interiors with leather upholstery and wood trim.
• Low production volume — fewer than 500 units of all body styles combined.

The SC cemented Bitter’s identity as a boutique manufacturer offering stylish European luxury with reliable Opel mechanicals.

Attempts at Expansion (1990s–2000s)

After production of the SC ended in 1989, Bitter explored several new projects, including prototypes based on Holden and Opel platforms, but none entered large-scale production.

Bitter Type 3 and Other Concepts

• Prototypes included the Bitter Type 3 sedan based on the Opel Omega.
• Concepts were shown at auto shows in the 1990s and 2000s but demand was limited.

Revival – Bitter Vero and Insignia-based Models (2007–2013)

In 2007, Bitter launched the Bitter Vero, a luxury sedan based on the Holden Statesman/Caprice, with unique styling and upgraded interiors. In the early 2010s, the company introduced Opel Insignia-based models, such as the Bitter Insignia sedan, coupe, and convertible.

Features of Modern Bitters

• Contemporary Opel or Holden platforms for mechanical reliability.
• Custom bodywork and interiors offering exclusivity.
• Very limited production numbers.

These revival models catered to a niche market and maintained the brand’s tradition of exclusivity.

Brand Characteristics and Appeal

Bitter cars appeal to those seeking a rare combination of:

• European design influenced by Italian styling houses.
• Reliable mass-produced mechanical components for ease of servicing.
• High-quality, hand-finished interiors.
• Low production numbers ensuring exclusivity.

Conclusion

The Bitter car company remains one of the most interesting boutique automakers in Europe. While never a mass producer, Bitter carved out a unique niche blending Italian-inspired design with German engineering and dependable Opel underpinnings. Today, both the original CD and SC models are sought after by collectors who value their rarity, style, and distinctive place in automotive history.