Bertone Runabout: A Modern Masterclass in Retro Automotive Craftsmanship and High-Performance Driving
For decades, automotive design has swung between the ultra-futuristic and the nostalgically inspired
. As an industry veteran with over ten years immersed in the dynamic world of automotive engineering and design, I’ve witnessed firsthand how the allure of the past, when expertly blended with cutting-edge technology, can create something truly exceptional. This is precisely the territory now being explored by the resurrected Bertone, a name synonymous with breathtaking Italian styling. Their latest offering, the Bertone Runabout, is a testament to this philosophy—a contemporary interpretation of a beloved classic, infused with the soul of a modern supercar.
The automotive landscape is often dominated by giants, but the story of Bertone is a fascinating one. Emerging from a period of significant financial restructuring, this legendary Italian design house is proving its enduring relevance with a series of limited-edition vehicles. Following their GB110 supercar, the Bertone Runabout emerges as their second bespoke creation, a sports car that pays homage to a distinctive Bertone concept from 1969, yet arrives firmly planted in the 21st century. It’s a vehicle that doesn’t just evoke nostalgia; it actively redefines it, featuring sought-after pop-up headlights and leveraging the renowned engineering prowess of Lotus.
To truly appreciate the Bertone Runabout, we must cast our minds back to its origins. The original concept, unveiled at the 1969 Turin Auto Show under the Autobianchi banner, was a radical departure. It was conceived as a mid-engine barchetta—a minimalist open-top sports car—powered by an engine plucked from an Autobianchi A111 sedan and mated to a four-speed manual transmission. Its design was undeniably nautical-inspired, with a striking wedge-shaped body, a sophisticated two-tone paint scheme, and a prominent rear rollover bar that artfully incorporated the headlights. This innovative design resonated deeply within the industry. So much so that Fiat adopted its foundational principles for the X1/9, a mid-engine sports car that enjoyed a successful production run from 1972 to 1982 under the Fiat badge and continued as a Bertone from 1982 to 1989. This lineage provides a rich historical context for the modern Bertone Runabout, imbuing it with a legacy of automotive excellence.
However, the Bertone Runabout of today is far more than a mere styling exercise or a wistful throwback. It is a tangible, limited-production reality, with Bertone planning to produce just 25 units. The starting price point, hovering around the equivalent of $464,000 (or €390,000), firmly positions it within the ultra-luxury and bespoke automotive sector. What sets this modern iteration apart is its integrated engineering approach. Instead of starting from scratch, Bertone has masterfully integrated the Bertone Runabout’s distinctive bodywork onto an all-aluminum chassis sourced directly from the Lotus Exige. Crucially, these are “virgin” chassis—brand new, unused platforms—which the Bertone Runabout’s unique body is then bonded to. This is further augmented by additional extruded aluminum architecture, ensuring both structural integrity and a lightweight construction, vital for performance.
The heart of this contemporary classic beats with a potent, supercharged 3.5-liter V-6 engine, a powerplant directly supplied by Toyota. This is not just any V-6; it has been meticulously tuned and equipped with a custom exhaust system, unleashing an impressive output of up to 475 horsepower. This blend of proven Japanese reliability and Italian performance tuning is a hallmark of high-performance vehicle development. Each of the 25 Bertone Runabout models will receive a completely unique Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), underscoring their bespoke and road-legal status. This meticulous attention to detail ensures that each vehicle is not only a masterpiece of design but also a fully certified and registrable automobile.
While the specific headlamp arrangement of the original Autobianchi Runabout, which might face legality issues in modern markets, is not replicated here, the modern Bertone Runabout embraces the iconic pop-up headlight aesthetic, a clear nod to the beloved Fiat X1/9. This design choice alone is enough to stir emotions among automotive enthusiasts and collectors alike. Furthermore, the Bertone Runabout offers a degree of personalization that reflects its exclusive nature. Owners can opt for the full barchetta experience, mirroring the open-top purity of the original concept, or choose a targa top configuration, reminiscent of the X1/9, providing a versatile driving experience. Beyond the roofline, Bertone is offering an extensive palette for personalization, allowing owners to select from a wide array of materials, colors, textures, and finishes, ensuring that each Bertone Runabout is a unique expression of its owner’s taste. This level of customization is increasingly sought after in the high-end automotive market, where buyers desire vehicles that are as individual as they are.
Stepping inside the Bertone Runabout reveals a cockpit that continues the theme of refined homage. The two-seater cabin features a dashboard designed with a distinctive “decking-like” aesthetic, a subtle nod to the nautical influences of the original. Positioned proudly at the center is a functional compass, adding a touch of vintage charm and practicality. The gear shifter is equally noteworthy: a gated six-speed manual transmission with exposed mechanicals, a tactile and visually engaging element that speaks to the driver-focused nature of the Bertone Runabout. This combination of classic design cues and mechanical transparency offers a raw, engaging driving experience that is increasingly rare in today’s automated automotive world. For those who appreciate the art of driving, the Bertone Runabout delivers in spades.
The Toyota V-6 engine’s formidable power is further amplified by an Eaton/Edelbrock TVS supercharger system, complete with an integrated charge-air cooler. This sophisticated forced induction setup ensures optimal performance and responsiveness. Just like its spiritual predecessor, the now-discontinued Exige, the engine is mounted transversely, driving the rear wheels. These are shod with 19-inch forged aluminum wheels, providing a commanding stance and superior handling. The front wheels, slightly smaller at 18 inches, contribute to the car’s balanced dynamics. Bertone’s performance estimates for the Bertone Runabout are impressive: a 0–60 mph sprint in approximately 4.0 seconds and a top speed of 168 mph. These figures place it squarely in the league of serious performance machines, capable of thrilling acceleration and exhilarating top-end speed. The integration of modern powertrain technology with a retro-inspired chassis demonstrates a sophisticated approach to vehicle development that prioritizes both performance and heritage.
Bertone has not yet released a definitive production timeline for the Bertone Runabout, nor have they confirmed whether any of these exclusive 25 units will be officially imported to the United States market. For enthusiasts eager to experience this remarkable vehicle firsthand, the Bertone Runabout is slated for display at the prestigious 2026 Retromobile auto show, held at the Paris Expo Porte de Versailles from January 29th to February 1st. It will be showcased within the Ultimate Supercar Garage, an esteemed section of the exhibition, where it will be displayed alongside the Bertone GB110 and, crucially, the original 1969 Autobianchi concept that inspired this modern marvel. This exhibition presents a unique opportunity to witness the evolution of a design icon and to appreciate the meticulous craftsmanship that defines the Bertone Runabout.
For collectors and automotive aficionados seeking a truly unique piece of automotive history, a modern performance machine, and a conversation-starting design statement, the Bertone Runabout represents an unparalleled opportunity. Its limited production run, combined with its bespoke nature and evocative heritage, ensures its desirability in the collector car market. The blend of classic styling with contemporary engineering and performance makes it a standout in an automotive world that often favors the predictable. The Bertone Runabout is not just a car; it’s a statement of passion, a tribute to enduring design, and a thrilling proposition for any serious automotive enthusiast.
If you are captivated by the fusion of heritage, design, and high-performance engineering that the Bertone Runabout embodies, and you are seeking to explore acquiring such an exclusive vehicle or to learn more about bespoke automotive investment opportunities, we invite you to connect with our team of experts. We can guide you through the process of understanding the nuances of limited-production vehicles and help you navigate the exciting world of acquiring exceptional automobiles.
