The Bertone Runabout: A Nostalgic Return of an Iconic Sports Car with Modern Exhilaration
For decades, automotive enthusiasts have yearned for a revival of classic design, a bridge between the soul-st
irring aesthetics of the past and the cutting-edge engineering of today. In the realm of automotive design houses, names like Pininfarina have often dominated the discourse around visionary concepts and exquisite production vehicles. Yet, Bertone, a titan of Italian coachbuilding, has always possessed a unique flair for the dramatic, a knack for crafting machines that ignite the imagination. Now, a decade after navigating a challenging period of financial restructuring, the resurgent Italian marque is poised to capture hearts once again with its second limited-edition creation: the Bertone Runabout. This is not merely a retro exercise; it is a meticulously engineered sports car that pays homage to a celebrated Bertone design from 1969, but infuses it with the thrill of contemporary performance and the nostalgic charm of pop-up headlights.
The genesis of the original Runabout traces back to the 1969 Turin Auto Show, where it debuted as a mid-engine barchetta concept for Autobianchi. Powered by the engine and a four-speed transmission from an Autobianchi A111 sedan, this pioneering design was unmistakably influenced by nautical aesthetics. Its distinctive wedge-shaped body, striking two-tone paint scheme, and a rear rollover bar elegantly integrating the headlights, all contributed to its avant-garde appeal. The design proved so compelling that Fiat adopted it as the foundation for the X1/9, a mid-engine sports car that enjoyed a successful production run from 1972 to 1982 under the Fiat banner, and subsequently under the Bertone name from 1982 to 1989. This lineage underscores the enduring legacy and innovative spirit of the Bertone brand, a legacy the modern Bertone Runabout aims to rekindle.
The modern iteration of the Bertone Runabout transcends the boundaries of a mere concept car. Bertone has announced plans to produce a strictly limited run of just 25 units, with a price point equivalent to approximately $464,000 (or €390,000). This exclusive offering is built upon the formidable chassis and powertrain of the Lotus Exige. Crucially, these components are not merely borrowed; they are integrated as pristine, unused “virgin” pieces, meaning they have never been part of a previously manufactured vehicle. The bespoke Runabout body is then meticulously bonded to these all-aluminum chassis, augmented by additional extruded aluminum architecture, ensuring a lightweight yet incredibly robust structure. This approach not only leverages proven engineering excellence but also allows for a unique and personalized build for each of the 25 fortunate owners.
At the heart of this resurrected icon beats a supercharged 3.5-liter V-6 engine, directly sourced from Toyota. This powerhouse, a familiar and respected unit in the performance car world, receives a bespoke exhaust system, unleashing an exhilarating output of up to 475 horsepower. Each of the 25 Bertone Runabout models will be classified for road use, receiving a completely unique Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), further emphasizing their individual exclusivity and bespoke nature. This dedication to detail ensures that each vehicle is not just a car, but a piece of automotive art, ready to conquer the open road.
While the overt headlight design of the original Autobianchi Runabout, likely non-compliant with modern safety regulations, is absent, the contemporary Bertone Runabout boldly embraces the spirit of its predecessor with the inclusion of retractable pop-up headlights. This design cue, famously associated with the Fiat X1/9, evokes a powerful sense of nostalgia and retro charm, a signature element that immediately sets the Runabout apart. Owners will also have the unparalleled freedom to personalize their Runabout extensively. Options will range across a diverse spectrum of materials, colors, textures, and finishes, allowing for a truly bespoke expression of individual taste. Furthermore, the Runabout can be configured as a pure, open barchetta, mirroring the unadulterated form of the original concept, or as a targa top, offering a delightful blend of open-air freedom and structural integrity, much like the X1/9. This commitment to personalization ensures that each Bertone Runabout will be as unique as its owner.
Stepping inside the two-seater cockpit of the Bertone Runabout is an immersive experience designed to evoke a sense of refined adventure. The dashboard itself features a distinctive decking-like aesthetic, a subtle nod to the nautical influences of the original design. Central to the dash is a functional compass, a charming and practical touch that reinforces the vehicle’s adventurous spirit. The gated six-speed manual shifter, a purist’s delight, proudly showcases its exposed mechanicals, a testament to the raw, engaging driving experience that the Bertone Runabout promises. This attention to detail in the interior craftsmanship contributes significantly to the overall retro-modern appeal of the vehicle.
The potent Toyota V-6 engine is further enhanced by an Eaton/Edelbrock TVS supercharger system, complete with an integrated charge-air cooler. This forced induction setup guarantees exhilarating performance and responsiveness. Mirroring the layout of the now-discontinued Exige, the engine is mounted transversely, driving the rear wheels. These are clad in substantial 19-inch forged aluminum wheels, with the front wheels measuring 18 inches. Bertone’s performance estimates for the Bertone Runabout are nothing short of impressive: a brisk 0–60 mph acceleration time of around 4.0 seconds and a top speed approaching 168 mph. These figures place the Bertone Runabout firmly in the territory of serious performance vehicles, offering a driving experience that is both thrilling and deeply satisfying. The advanced engineering, coupled with the timeless design, makes the Bertone Runabout a compelling proposition for collectors and driving enthusiasts alike.
Bertone has not yet released a definitive production timeline for the Bertone Runabout, nor have they confirmed if any of the 25 exclusive units will be officially imported to the United States. However, enthusiasts will have the opportunity to witness the modern Bertone Runabout in its full glory at the prestigious 2026 Retromobile auto show, held at the Paris Expo Porte de Versailles from January 29th to February 1st. The vehicle will be prominently displayed within the Ultimate Supercar Garage, sharing the spotlight with the equally captivating Bertone GB110 and the historically significant original Autobianchi concept from 1969. This exhibition promises to be a landmark event for automotive aficionados, offering a rare glimpse into the confluence of classic automotive artistry and contemporary engineering prowess. The Bertone Runabout represents a significant moment in automotive history, a testament to Bertone’s enduring legacy and its commitment to creating extraordinary vehicles.
For those captivated by the allure of the Bertone Runabout, a vehicle that artfully blends nostalgia with potent modern performance, the time to explore your options is now. Given the limited production run and the immense desirability of this unique sports car, interested parties are encouraged to engage directly with Bertone or their authorized representatives to secure their place in this exclusive automotive chapter. Don’t miss the opportunity to own a piece of automotive history reimagined for the 21st century.
