1985 Bitter SC

2dr Coupe

6-cyl. 2969cc/178hp FI

#1 Concours condition#1 Concours
#2 Excellent condition#2 Excellent
#3 Good condition#3 Good

$17,800 CAD*

-15.6%
#4 Fair condition#4 Fair
Value Graph01/2404/2407/24$5k$10k$15k$20kOct 2024
Pricing adjustments
+$1,500 for 5-spd man.
Adjustments are in USD
+$1,500 for 5-spd man.
Adjustments are in USD
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1980-1986 Bitter SC stats
Highest sale
$41,274 CAD
Lowest sale
$3,283 CAD
Most recent sale
$14,490 CAD
Sales
23

Photos

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1985 Bitter SC Coupe
1985 Bitter SC Coupe
1985 Bitter SC Coupe
1985 Bitter SC Coupe
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Model overview

Model description

With Opel's discontinuation of the Diplomat platform and the GM small-block V-8 in 1977, Erich Bitter started planning the eponymous SC, a new luxury coupe, which entered production in 1980. The car was equipped with a smooth-revving Opel 3.0-liter inline-6 motor that used a cam-in-head design and Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection to generate 177 hp. The overwhelming majority of cars carried automatic transmissions, though a Getrag 5-speed transmission was available as a no-cost option. More than half of production ended up being exported to the North American market. Design was angular and emblematic of the era.

SCs were well built, well appointed, and expensive, too—by the time production ended in 1986, the cars wore a $54,000 price tag. With the Opel engine, the cars were quick (though not sporting) for their day, and we're perfectly suited to comfortable long-distance drives. Unfortunately the first 100 cars or so we're constructed from recycled Italian steel and quickly fell victim to rust. The remaining production run fared better but the use of acidic window adhesive resulted in continued rust issues in window frame areas.

The biggest change in the car's run was the 1985 introduction of a Mantzel-stroked 3.9-liter engine. The bump in displacement boosted horsepower to 207, and torque to a motivational 240 ft-lb.

Production dates are a matter of debate, but in all 460 SC coupes were built between 1982 and 1985, with another 21 convertibles and 5 sedans. Survivorship has been relatively low with an estimated half of manufactured cars existing today, making Bitters in excellent condition exceptionally difficult to locate. By design common consumable parts were used to ensure good serviceability. The two enthusiastic Bitter clubs are the best place to start a quest for ownership.

As mentioned, rust has been the SC's biggest issue over the years and spare body panels are nonexistent. Documentation of rust repairs is a big plus when finding a proper car. Interior woodwork and the leather dashboards are other common areas of concern.

SC sedans are cherished and have yet to be seen on the market, which makes their value difficult to assess. Convertibles are also quite rare and tend to trade at twice the price of a coupe. Cars equipped with a 5-speed are much better drivers and command a premium, while the original Ronal wheels are a must for purists since no extras exist. A sunroof is also a desirable option for shorter drivers. Regardless of spec or body style, as any Bitter owner will tell you, the limited number of cars guarantees an exclusive and unique ownership experience.

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Common Questions

The value of a 1985 Bitter SC can vary greatly depending on its condition, mileage, options, and history. Typically, you can expect to pay around $14,300 USD for a 1985 Bitter SC in good condition with average spec.

The highest selling price of a 1985 Bitter SC at auction over the last three years was $14,013 CAD. The highest prices are usually reserved for rare or exceptionally well-maintained examples with desirable features or modifications and excellent history.

The lowest selling price of a 1985 Bitter SC at auction over the last three years was $14,013 CAD. The lowest prices are usually paid for examples that have extensive maintenance needs, differ greatly from their original configuration, or have accident histories or title problems.

In the last three years there have been 1 1985 Bitter SCs sold at public auction.

The most recent auction sale of a 1985 Bitter SC was $14,013 CAD on September 27, 2022 by Bonhams Cars Online.

Many factors can increase a car's value including excellent condition, exceptional originality, a recent restoration, low mileage, unique provenance, desirable options, popular or unique color choices, and excellent maintenance records. Upgrades and modifications that enhance performance or aesthetics can also add value.

Factors that can decrease a car's value include unusually high mileage, poor maintenance history, visible wear and tear, accidents or damage, title issues, and gaps in ownership history. Additionally, less popular color choices and extensive modifications that don't appeal to a broad audience can reduce value.

Mileage plays a significant role in a classic car’s value. Lower mileage usually increases value because it indicates a higher degree of originality, is rarer, and suggests less wear and tear. However, cars with exceptionally low mileage may also have maintenance needs due to lack of use. Whether someone should pay more for a vehicle with lower miles will depend on how they plan on using it, and the vehicle's specific condition.

The value of modified cars differs widely based on the type and quality of modifications. While some modifications can significantly increase value, especially performance enhancements and high-quality custom work, others may not add much or could even detract from the car’s value if they appeal to only a limited audience.

All prices shown here are representative of stock condition vehicles only and based on various data sources, as detailed in About Our Prices. Value adjustments for optional equipment are in U.S. dollars. More information on how forecast models are calculated can be found on Forecasted Values page. For additional information and a complete description of benefits, visit hagerty.CA/legal. Purchase of insurance not required for membership in HDC. Hagerty, Hagerty Valuation Tools & Hagerty Drivers Club are registered trademarks of the Hagerty Group LLC, ©2024 The Hagerty Group, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

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