I used to live in the SF area and I've done that route multiple times. My recommendation for the best scenery is:
Highway 160 to 190 to Death Valley. Continue on 190 through Death Valley.
At the split take 136 to US-395 North.
Unfortunately all the mountain passes will probably be closed so you'll have to keep on 395 until you get to US-50. Take US-50 to Sacramento where it hits I-80 into SF.
Bring a camera. The drive on 190 out of Death Valley is worth it.