Best Car Reviews - 1987 Bitter Gmbh and Co. Kg Bitter SC

Introduction

The 1987 Bitter Gmbh and Co. Kg Bitter SC is a striking testament to the exquisite craftsmanship of its era, offering a blend of performance, luxury, and distinct design characteristics that appeals to classic car enthusiasts. Targeted at affluent drivers looking for a compact yet stylish vehicle, the Bitter SC captures attention with its unique fusion of European aesthetics and American powertrain. What truly sets this model apart is its manually operated 5-speed transmission, offering pristine driveability, and a design that harmonizes sophistication with sportiness.

Design and Exterior Features

The Bitter SC presents a wind-sheared, sporty silhouette that is both elegant and dynamic. Its compact design is punctuated by bold lines and a streamlined profile. It stands out with:

Distinctive front grille flanked by quad circular headlights.
Clean and assertive lines running the length of the body.
Aerodynamic design elements improved from previous models.

Interior and Comfort

Inside the Bitter SC, drivers are greeted with a rich and luxurious cabin environment. The interior is a testament to the highest quality materials and exquisite craftsmanship. Highlights include:

Leather seats with adjustable settings for optimal comfort.
Wooden trim accents enhancing the sophisticated ambiance.
Ample legroom and intuitive dashboard layout facilitating an enjoyable ride.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the GUZZLER FFS engine with 6 cylinders provides a robust driving experience. Known for its spirited performance, the Bitter SC accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 8.6 seconds. The car delivers:

A solid and connected feeling on highways, making for smooth cruising.
Agile handling in urban settings with a sensation of full control.
Fuel efficiency rated at an average consumption of 18.59 l/100 km, underlining its powerful performance focus, with all driving dynamics supported by its rear-wheel-drive system.

Technology and Connectivity

The technology in the Bitter SC aligns with the standards of its time, providing enough features to support convenience and entertainment:

Basic infotainment system for radio and cassette players.
Manual climate control ensuring comfort during rides.
Traditional analog dashboard controls, giving a classic driving feel.

Although the tech offering is somewhat minimal compared to modern standards, it is in keeping with the car's classic appeal.

Safety Features

For a vehicle built in 1987, the Bitter SC offers safety features aligned with its era:

Sturdy body structure providing baseline protection.
Seat belts for all passengers.
Standard driving lights and trunk locks.

While it lacks modern ratings, its build quality endows it with a reasonable sense of security for its time.

Pricing and Variants

When introduced, the Bitter SC was priced as a premium offering, with a base price of around USD 50,000. While it was priced higher than some of its compact competitors, it justified this with superior build quality and exclusivity.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Classic and elegant design stands out.
Powerful engine delivering impressive performance.
High-quality interior materials.
Exclusive build for car enthusiasts.
Smooth and engaging driving experience.

Cons

Higher fuel consumption not optimized for efficiency.
Sparse technology features by modern standards.
Premium pricing compared to similar category cars.
Limited cargo space thanks to its compact design.
Maintenance costs can accrue due to less available parts.

Maintenance and Common Issues

Annual maintenance costs can be on the higher side due to the vehicle's exclusivity, averaging around USD 1,500. Common problems include:

Wear on transmission gears.
Issues with electrical components.
Corrosion in body due to age.
Difficulties in sourcing replacement parts.
Fading upholstery and interior trim over time.

Rating

Design: 9/10
Comfort: 8/10
Performance: 7/10
Technology: 5/10
Safety: 6/10
Overall Rating: 7/10

User Reviews and Feedback

Some feedback from current owners include:

"The design remains timeless; I turn heads wherever I drive."
"The fuel consumption is high, but the driving experience makes up for it."
"Parts are hard to come by, but worth the challenge for such a car."
"Luxury feel inside, despite its age."
"Love the manual drive; feels connected to the road."

Best cars in this category

1987 Porsche 944
1987 BMW E30 3 Series
1987 Ferrari 328
1987 Mercedes-Benz 190E
1987 Mazda RX-7

Summary

The Bitter SC is best suited for enthusiasts who appreciate a combination of luxury, classic design, and sporty performance. Its unique blend of a powerful engine and high-quality interior materials gives it a lasting appeal. While it may not boast modern connectivity or safety features, its timeless design and engaging drive offer a nostalgic yet captivating experience for classic car aficionados. With its higher upfront costs and maintenance, this model is more of an art piece on wheels than a daily driver.