Bertone Runabout: A Modern Masterpiece Reimagining Retro Sports Car Dreams For decades, the automotive landscape has been a canvas for design houses to showcase their w
ildest visions. While names like Pininfarina have long dominated the conversation with breathtaking concepts and production marvels, the storied Italian coachbuilder Bertone has always possessed an undeniable flair for the dramatic. Now, a decade after navigating the turbulent waters of bankruptcy, the revitalized Bertone brand is poised to reignite passion with its second limited-edition offering: the Bertone Runabout. This exquisite sports car is a bold homage to a legendary Bertone design from 1969, meticulously re-engineered for the modern era, boasting the coveted allure of pop-up headlights and the sophisticated underpinnings of a Lotus Exige. The genesis of the original Bertone Runabout concept lies in its debut at the 1969 Turin Auto Show, envisioned for Autobianchi. It was conceived as a mid-engine barchetta, a purist’s dream, drawing power from an Autobianchi A111 sedan engine coupled with a four-speed manual transmission. Its design language was profoundly influenced by nautical aesthetics, featuring a striking wedge-shaped body, a captivating two-tone paint scheme, and a distinctive rear rollover bar from which the headlights emerged. The impact of this design was profound. It proved so compelling that Fiat adopted it as the foundational blueprint for its iconic X1/9 mid-engine sports car. The X1/9 enjoyed a successful run under the Fiat banner from 1972 to 1982, and subsequently, from 1982 to 1989, it bore the Bertone nameplate, solidifying its legacy. The modern iteration of the Bertone Runabout transcends the realm of mere concept. Bertone has committed to producing a strictly limited run of just 25 units, with prices commencing at the equivalent of $464,000. This is not a superficial restyling; rather, it’s a sophisticated revival built upon a foundation of cutting-edge engineering. The all-aluminum chassis and potent engine are sourced directly from the Lotus Exige, meticulously integrated without undergoing extensive modification. These pristine, unused chassis are bonded with the bespoke Runabout body and further augmented by an extruded aluminum architectural framework, ensuring both structural integrity and remarkable lightness.
At the heart of this resurrected icon beats a supercharged 3.5-liter V-6 engine, a direct offering from Toyota. This powerhouse has been fine-tuned with a bespoke exhaust system, unleashing an impressive 475 horsepower. Each of the 25 Bertone Runabout models produced will be road-legal, distinguished by its own unique Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), a testament to its exclusivity. While the overtly integrated headlights of the original Autobianchi Runabout, which would likely face modern regulatory hurdles, are absent, the contemporary Bertone Runabout embraces the spirit of its predecessor with the return of thrilling pop-up headlights, a signature feature that instantly evokes memories of the beloved Fiat X1/9. Owners can choose to experience the Runabout in its purest form as an open barchetta, mirroring the original concept, or opt for a targa top configuration, reminiscent of the X1/9. Furthermore, Bertone is offering an unparalleled level of personalization, allowing owners to meticulously spec their Bertone Runabout with an extensive array of materials, color palettes, textures, and finishes, ensuring each vehicle is a unique expression of individual taste. Stepping inside the two-seater cockpit is an immersive experience. The dashboard design evokes the intricate decking of a high-performance marine vessel, elegantly incorporating a functional compass at its focal point. The gated six-speed manual shifter, a tactile delight for any enthusiast, proudly showcases its exposed mechanical components, a bold statement of engineering prowess. The Toyota V-6 benefits from an Eaton/Edelbrock TVS supercharger system, complete with an integrated charge-air cooler, delivering potent and consistent forced induction. Mirroring the layout of the now-discontinued Exige, the engine is mounted transversely, driving a formidable set of 19-inch forged aluminum rear wheels. Complementing these are 18-inch front wheels, contributing to the car’s dynamic stance. Bertone projects that the Bertone Runabout will achieve a blistering 0-60 mph time of just 4.0 seconds, with a top speed capability of 168 mph. This performance metric places it firmly in the elite category of high-performance sports cars. Beyond its blistering performance and exquisite design, the Bertone Runabout represents more than just a new vehicle. It signifies the resurgence of a legendary marque, a testament to enduring automotive artistry, and a unique proposition for collectors and driving enthusiasts seeking something truly extraordinary. This blend of classic automotive charm and contemporary engineering expertise makes the Bertone Runabout a compelling proposition in the exclusive world of limited-production sports cars. While Bertone has not yet announced a definitive production timeline or confirmed any specific allocations for the United States market, the anticipation for this remarkable machine is palpable. Prospective owners and admirers will have the opportunity to witness the modern Bertone Runabout in person at the prestigious 2026 Retromobile auto show, held at the Paris Expo Porte de Versailles from January 29th to February 1st. It will be prominently displayed within the Ultimate Supercar Garage, sharing the spotlight with the Bertone GB110 and the historically significant original Autobianchi concept from 1969, offering a compelling narrative of Bertone’s design evolution. For those captivated by the allure of automotive history reimagined for the 21st century, the Bertone Runabout presents an unmissable opportunity. This isn’t just a car; it’s a statement piece, a fusion of heritage and innovation, and a chance to own a piece of automotive legend. If the prospect of a retro-inspired sports car with modern performance and timeless styling ignites your passion, exploring the limited availability and unique customization options of the Bertone Runabout is the definitive next step. Discover how this exceptional vehicle can become the centerpiece of your automotive collection.
