Reviving the Iconic Bertone Runabout: A Timeless Masterpiece Reborn

Oct 31, 2024 at 10:01 PM
The classic 1969 Runabout wedge car from Bertone is making a triumphant comeback, retaining its iconic nautical style while introducing a modern twist with a removable roof. Designed by the legendary Marcello Gandini, the original Runabout was a revolutionary automotive design that inspired numerous other iconic models. Now, decades later, Bertone is reviving this timeless classic, blending its heritage with cutting-edge performance and technology.

Rediscovering the Allure of the Wedge Car

Honoring the Past, Embracing the Future

The new Bertone Runabout, now renamed the RUNABOUT, pays homage to its 1969 predecessor while infusing it with a contemporary flair. The distinctive L-shape on the side, starting from the roll bar and continuing to the front, highlights the car's signature wedge appeal. Bertone has meticulously preserved the visual elements that gave the original model its nautical or watercraft-inspired look, ensuring the new iteration remains faithful to its iconic roots.

A Versatile Driving Experience

Bertone is offering the RUNABOUT in two distinct configurations, catering to the preferences of modern enthusiasts. The Barchetta variant features an open-air setup, removing the roof and windshield for a true open-top driving experience. In contrast, the Targa model offers a removable roof, allowing the driver to choose between the exhilaration of the elements or the comfort of a closed cabin.

Powering the Wedge Car Revolution

Under the sleek wedge-shaped body, the RUNABOUT is equipped with a potent V6 engine, delivering a thrilling performance range from 55 to a staggering 500 horsepower. Bertone's lead designer, Andrea Mocellin, acknowledges the challenge of maintaining the purity of the original 1969 model while seamlessly integrating high-performance technology. The result is a perfect blend of design heritage and modern capabilities, creating a driving experience that celebrates the joy of the open road.

A Timeless Design Reborn

The Bertone Runabout's iconic wedge design, first introduced in 1969, has stood the test of time. Decades after its initial debut, the classic model earned the prestigious Gran Turismo Award at the 2022 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, solidifying its status as a true automotive icon. Now, Bertone is reviving this timeless design, offering a limited production run of the RUNABOUT to cater to the discerning tastes of modern enthusiasts who appreciate the blend of heritage and performance.

Celebrating the Good Life and the Pleasure of Driving

As Andrea Mocellin eloquently states, the new Bertone RUNABOUT is "a perfect blend of design heritage and modern performance, created for those who celebrate the good life and the pleasure of driving." This sentiment encapsulates the essence of the revived Runabout, a car that not only pays homage to its illustrious past but also embodies the spirit of the modern automotive enthusiast who seeks a thrilling and unforgettable driving experience.