Bertone Runabout: A Revived Icon Blending Retro Charm with Modern Performance
For automotive enthusiasts who appreciate the confluence of heritage and cutting-edge engineering, the automotive landscape of
ten presents fleeting glimpses of brilliance. Among the legendary design houses, Bertone has long held a revered position, synonymous with audacious concepts and exquisite production vehicles that push the boundaries of automotive artistry. Now, a decade after its resurgence from financial restructuring, the revived Italian marque is poised to recapture imaginations with its second limited-edition creation: the Bertone Runabout. This contemporary sports car is a masterful homage to its 1969 progenitor, imbued with the nostalgic allure of pop-up headlights and anchored by the formidable underpinnings of a Lotus Exige, all powered by a robust Toyota engine.
The genesis of the original Bertone Runabout traces back to the 1969 Turin Motor Show. Conceived for Autobianchi, it was a radical mid-engine barchetta, a purist’s open-top sports car, powered by an engine borrowed from an Autobianchi A111 sedan, paired with a four-speed transmission. Its design was a symphony of nautical inspiration, characterized by a striking wedge-shaped silhouette, a captivating two-tone paint scheme, and a prominent rear rollover hoop that ingeniously housed the vehicle’s headlights. This pioneering design resonated profoundly within the industry, proving so influential that Fiat adopted its essence as the foundation for the X1/9, a mid-engine sports car that graced public roads under the Fiat banner from 1972 to 1982, and subsequently as a Bertone from 1982 to 1989.
This modern iteration of the Bertone Runabout transcends mere concept; it is a tangible testament to Bertone’s enduring legacy, slated for production in a strictly limited run of just 25 units. With a starting price point equivalent to approximately $464,000 (or €390,000), this exclusivity underscores its position as a collector’s item. The foundation of this remarkable vehicle is the highly acclaimed chassis from the Lotus Exige, meticulously integrated and enhanced. These chassis, constructed from virgin, all-aluminum extrusions, serve as the pristine canvases onto which the Runabout’s bespoke bodywork is bonded, further augmented by an additional extruded aluminum architectural framework. This approach ensures both structural integrity and a featherlight curb weight, critical for exhilarating performance.
The heart of the Bertone Runabout is a supercharged 3.5-liter V-6 engine, directly sourced from Toyota’s formidable powertrain arsenal. This potent mill, breathing through a custom-engineered exhaust system, unleashes an impressive output of up to 475 horsepower. Each of the 25 Bertone Runabouts will be homologated for road use, each bearing a completely unique Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), a testament to its handcrafted and individualized nature. This meticulous attention to detail further enhances its appeal for discerning collectors seeking a truly one-of-a-kind automotive masterpiece.
While the distinctive, fixed-mount headlights of the original Autobianchi Runabout, which might face contemporary regulatory hurdles, are not replicated, the modern interpretation embraces the spirit of its lineage with the inclusion of classic pop-up headlights. This nostalgic touch, reminiscent of the iconic Fiat X1/9, adds an undeniable layer of retro charm and kinetic visual appeal. Beyond the headlights, owners will have the privilege of customizing their Runabout to an extraordinary degree. The vehicle can be configured as a pure, unadulterated open barchetta, mirroring the original concept’s minimalist purity, or as a targa-top variant, echoing the beloved Fiat X1/9. The possibilities for personalization extend to an extensive palette of materials, colors, textures, and finishes, allowing each owner to craft a truly bespoke automotive statement.
Stepping inside the two-seater cockpit is an experience in itself. The dashboard design evokes the tactile sensation of a ship’s deck, complete with a functional compass centrally integrated, a charming nod to the nautical influences. The centerpiece of the gear selection is a gated, six-speed manual shifter, its exposed mechanical linkages a celebration of pure, engaging driving dynamics. This tactile interface, combined with the strategic placement of the compass, creates an immersive environment that harkens back to a golden era of driver-focused automobiles. The palpable sense of connection between man and machine is an undeniable hallmark of this exceptional sports car for sale.
The Toyota V-6’s forced induction is expertly managed by an Eaton/Edelbrock TVS supercharger system, featuring an integrated charge-air cooler to optimize performance and efficiency. Consistent with the now-discontinued Lotus Exige, the engine is mounted transversely, delivering its prodigious power to the rear wheels. These are shod with 19-inch forged aluminum wheels, while the front wheels measure 18 inches in diameter. Bertone estimates the Runabout will achieve a breathtaking 0-to-60 mph sprint in approximately 4.0 seconds, with a projected top speed of 168 mph. These figures place the Bertone Runabout firmly in the realm of high-performance sports cars, offering an exhilarating driving experience that belies its classic aesthetic.
While Bertone has not yet announced a definitive production timeline or confirmed any specific allocations for the United States market, anticipation is already mounting. Prospective buyers and enthusiasts 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 original 1969 Autobianchi concept, offering a compelling narrative of Bertone’s design evolution.
The allure of the Bertone Runabout extends beyond its retro styling and potent performance; it represents a significant investment opportunity for collectors of rare and significant automotive creations. For those seeking a limited edition sports car that embodies both historical reverence and contemporary engineering prowess, the Runabout presents an unparalleled proposition. Its bespoke nature, coupled with the heritage of the Bertone marque, ensures its place among future automotive legends. The pursuit of such a vehicle often begins with thorough research into new sports car releases and understanding the nuances of boutique car manufacturers.
For collectors and performance aficionados in the United States keenly interested in acquiring such an exclusive vehicle, exploring avenues for importing or securing an allocation is a crucial next step. Engaging with specialized dealerships or directly with Bertone’s representatives can provide invaluable insights into the procurement process. The opportunity to own a piece of automotive history, reimagined for the modern era, is within reach for a select few. If the blend of timeless design and exhilarating performance captivates your spirit, now is the moment to explore the possibilities and begin your journey towards owning the extraordinary Bertone Runabout.
