| Production | |
|---|---|
| Model Year: | 1987 |
| Production Years: | 1991 - 1992 discontinued in 1992 |
The Bitter Type 3 Cabriolet, produced between 1991 and 1992, marked one of the final expressions of the Bitter brand's commitment to crafting luxury vehicles that combine German engineering precision with elegant, timeless design. This generation of the Type 3 model was uniquely available only as a cabriolet, catering to enthusiasts of open-top driving experiences. Although Bitter cars are not mass-produced, the Type 3 Cabriolet stands out for its intimate blend of performance and exclusivity. The vehicle typically features classic convertible elements such as a fabric roof that folds back seamlessly, allowing drivers to enjoy the open air while maintaining the refined aesthetics the brand is known for. The Type 3 Cabriolet's dimensions reflect its luxury coupe heritage, with a design focused on sleek proportions and driver comfort. Although exact dimensions vary by unit, Bitter's approach to the Type 3 emphasized balanced length, width, and height ratios to maintain both road presence and agility. Lightweight construction helped achieve an agile driving feel, tuned for both spirited drives and leisurely cruising. To enthusiasts and collectors, the Bitter Type 3 Cabriolet remains a symbol of 1990s German automotive craftsmanship with a distinctive niche appeal, bridging classic convertible style with modern engineering influences from its era.
Discover the standout features that make the 1987 Bitter Type 3 Cabriolet a leader in its class
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The Bitter Type 3 Cabriolet, produced between 1991 and 1992, has an overall length of approximately 4,835 mm (190.4 inches), a width of around 1,770 mm (69.7 inches), and a height of about 1,345 mm (52.9 inches). This size gives it a balanced road presence typical for luxury cabriolets of that era, providing enough space for comfortable seating while maintaining its sleek profile.
The Bitter Type 3 Cabriolet weighs approximately 1,430 kg (3,153 lbs) when empty, which is moderate for a luxury convertible of its time, reflecting a solid construction using high-quality materials. It comfortably seats four passengers, offering both front and rear seats suitable for adults, although rear space is typical of cabriolets, best suited for shorter journeys or smaller passengers.
Yes, the Bitter Type 3 Cabriolet fits into a standard residential garage. With a width of about 1,770 mm (69.7 inches) and a height close to 1,345 mm (52.9 inches), it fits comfortably within typical garage dimensions, which generally accommodate widths starting from approximately 2,400 mm (94.5 inches) and garage door heights around 2,100 mm (82.7 inches). This makes it easy to park and store safely without hassle.
The Bitter Type 3 Cabriolet is essentially a continuation and refinement of previous Bitter Type 3 models but with the distinct convertible body style. Compared to its coupe predecessor, the Cabriolet maintains similar dimensions in terms of length and width but has a slightly lower height due to the open-top design. The Type 3 Cabriolet also improved its structural reinforcements to compensate for chassis rigidity lost without a fixed roof. While the overall footprint is quite close to the original Type 3, the Cabriolet's weight is marginally more due to these modifications.
Inside the Bitter Type 3 Cabriolet, front legroom is ample for a comfortable driving experience, typically around 1,050 mm (41.3 inches), allowing drivers and passengers to stretch out on longer trips. Headroom, however, is slightly reduced compared to the coupe version because of the convertible design, measuring approximately 980 mm (38.6 inches) in the front due to the folding roof mechanism. Rear passenger space is adequate, but like many cabriolets of its era, rear headroom is somewhat limited, making it more suitable for occasional use or smaller adults and children.
The cargo space in the Bitter Type 3 Cabriolet is limited compared to traditional sedans or coupes due to its convertible design. With the roof up, the trunk offers around 350 liters (12.4 cubic feet) of storage capacity, which is sufficient for luggage suitable for weekend getaways or daily errands. When the roof is down, the available cargo space drops significantly because the folded soft top occupies trunk volume, limiting practical storage to a very small amount.
Dimensionally, the Bitter Type 3 Cabriolet stands competitively among luxury convertibles in the early 1990s. For example, compared to contemporaries like the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class (R129), which measured about 4,515 mm (177.8 inches) in length, the Bitter is slightly longer at 4,835 mm (190.4 inches). Width is fairly comparable, with the SL at roughly 1,750 mm (68.9 inches) versus the Bitter's 1,770 mm (69.7 inches). Height of the Bitter is slightly lower, contributing to a sportier stance. Overall, the Bitter offers a rare blend of classic sedan-derived space with the open-air experience, making it stand out from many sportier two-seaters of the era.
The Bitter Type 3 Cabriolet was designed with a focus on luxury, exclusivity, and classic elegance. It features premium leather upholstery, wood trim accents, and high-quality craftsmanship throughout the cabin. Its design is inspired by American muscle cars combined with European luxury, creating a unique appearance with a long hood, prominent grille, and refined details. The convertible soft top is manually operated, typical of the period, and offers a smooth transition between open and closed driving modes. Under its hood, the car is equipped with a powerful V8 engine inherited from its base Opel Senator platform which gives it impressive performance for a luxury convertible.
Due to its dimensions, the Bitter Type 3 Cabriolet strikes a good balance between luxury and drivability. Its size provides enough cabin comfort and trunk space for comfortable long-distance touring, especially with its supportive seats and smooth V8 powertrain. It’s larger than many sports convertibles, making it practical for daily use while offering open-air motoring enjoyment. However, limited rear seat and cargo space constrain its utility somewhat, so it's ideal for couples or small families rather than full-time family transport. Maintenance and parts availability should also be considered due to the low production volume.
Given the Bitter Type 3 Cabriolet was produced in very limited numbers between 1991 and 1992, maintenance considerations are unique. The car uses components from the Opel Senator platform, which makes certain mechanical parts more accessible. However, some specialized bodywork and interior materials could be difficult and costly to source. Convertible top mechanisms require regular maintenance to avoid leaks and mechanical failures. Owners typically need to seek specialized workshops familiar with rare European luxury convertibles. Regular upkeep is essential to preserve this niche classic, including rust prevention and careful servicing of its V8 engine.
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