The legendary 1969 Bertone Runabout concept car is back, and it's not just a dream for collectors. This iconic design, known for its radical wedge-shaped form, has finally made its way into production, over five decades after its initial unveiling. The original Runabout, designed by Marcello Gandini, featured a roofless and doorless body paired with a 1.1-litre Autobianchi powertrain. Its unique design influenced Fiat's X1/9 sports car in 1972. Now, this modern interpretation is a driving enthusiast's dream, offering a blend of classic style and cutting-edge performance. With a starting price of £400,000, the new Runabout is built on a fresh Exige chassis, powered by a supercharged, Toyota-sourced 3.5-litre V6 engine that delivers an impressive 469bhp and 361lb ft of torque. This lightweight chassis, combined with carbon fibre body panels, results in a kerb weight of just 1180kg. The car comes equipped with a six-speed manual gearbox and rear-wheel drive, achieving a 0-62mph time of 4.1sec and a top speed of 168mph. But what sets this car apart is the extensive customization options. Bertone is offering Bertone-branded helmets and a luggage set designed to fit seamlessly into the car's slim boot and glovebox. The company expects that no two cars from the production run of 25 will be identical, as each client will follow a curated configuration journey, shaping the car's identity through a personal dialogue with Bertone's centro stile. This limited production means the Runabout doesn't have to adhere to homologation rules, allowing for its low and slim front end and pop-up headlights. These features, along with pencil-line daytime-running lights, create a distinctive and forward-thinking design. So, if you're a fan of the original or simply a lover of innovative automotive design, the Bertone Runabout is a dream come true. But be prepared to pay a premium for the chance to own a piece of automotive history.
