Bitter CD Coupe
Erich Bitter, a successful racing driver and dealership owner, created the CD (Coupe Diplomat) as a bespoke German grand tourer. Built on the Opel Diplomat platform with its reliable inline-six engine, the car received stunning bodywork designed by Giovanni Michelotti. Hand-built in small numbers with luxurious interiors and exceptional build quality, each CD was essentially custom-made to owner specification. The combination of Opel mechanical reliability, Italian styling, and German craftsmanship created an exclusive alternative to more common GT cars. Bitter continued building low-volume luxury cars into the 1980s and 1990s, but the CD remains the most celebrated model.
Very rare with only 395 built. Opel mechanical components ensure parts availability for running gear. Bodywork and trim parts are unique and scarce. Italian coachbuilt body quality varies depending on care. Luxurious interior materials need maintenance. Values have increased as rarity becomes recognized. Most examples remain in Germany. Hand-built nature means no two cars exactly alike.
Only 395 units produced from 1973-1979, all hand-built. Each car was essentially custom-ordered with individual specifications. Used Opel Diplomat chassis and running gear. Later models could be ordered with 5.4-liter V8 engine. Production was extremely low-volume and labor-intensive. Bitter continued with other models after CD production ended.