Bertone Runabout Production Launch: £400,000 Price, 469bhp Supercar
Bottom line: After 55 years, Bertone finally puts the iconic Runabout into production – a £400,000, 469 bhp, rear‑wheel‑drive roadster built on a lightweight Lotus Exige chassis.
Bertone Runabout Production Launch: £400,000 Price, 469bhp Supercar
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Image: Bertone Runabout Production Launch: £400,000 Price, 469bhp Supercar – Performance Comparison and Specifications
Design & Looks
The original 1969 concept was a roofless, doorless wedge that inspired the Fiat X1/9. Today’s version keeps the dramatic silhouette but adds modern touches. Pop‑up headlights, pencil‑line daytime running lights and an aggressive front ‘S‑duct’ give it a futuristic feel. Buyers can choose a classic red finish or customise the paint, wheels and even a Bertone‑branded helmet.
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Key styling cues include pronounced wheel arches, a cut‑tail ‘coda tronca’, and twin exhausts hidden behind central apertures. For those who prefer a more conventional look, a targa version with a full windscreen and removable hard top is also offered.
Performance & Mileage
Under the sleek skin sits a supercharged 3.5‑litre V6 from Toyota, tuned by Lotus. Power jumps to 469 bhp and 361 lb‑ft of torque, while carbon‑fibre panels keep the kerb weight at just 1,180 kg. The six‑speed manual and rear‑wheel drive deliver 0‑62 mph in 4.1 seconds and a top speed of 168 mph. Fuel consumption is modest for a car this fast – roughly 30 mpg (US) in mixed driving.
Price & Rivals
At £400,000 the Runabout sits alongside the Lotus Exige S, the Alpine A110 and the Porsche 718 Cayman in the ultra‑light, high‑performance niche. Its bespoke nature – only 25 units will be built – means no homologation constraints, allowing the ultra‑low nose and unique lighting. The price reflects the hand‑built chassis, carbon‑fibre body and the ability to personalize almost every element.
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| Engine | 3.5 L supercharged V6 (Toyota) |
|---|---|
| Power | 469 bhp / 361 lb‑ft |
| 0‑62 mph | 4.1 seconds |
| Top Speed | 168 mph |
| Weight | 1,180 kg |
| Price | £400,000 |
| Top Features |
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FAQ
- What is the fuel economy of the Bertone Runabout? It averages around 30 mpg (US) in mixed driving, which is respectable for a 469 bhp roadster.
- How fast can the Runabout accelerate? The car reaches 0‑62 mph in just 4.1 seconds.
- Is the Bertone Runabout worth the £400,000 price? For collectors who value rarity, bespoke design and a piece of automotive history, many will find the limited‑run, hand‑crafted nature justifies the cost.
What do you think of Bertone bringing back such an icon? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Source: Read Official News
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