Marcello Gandini is widely recognized as one of the most influential automotive designers in history, being largely responsible for ushering in the wedge sports car era. On the heels of Gandini’s iconic Lamborghini Miura that debuted in ’66, Marcello would introduce the motoring public to another one of his wildly-influential designs in the form of the Autobianchi A112 Bertone Runabout. First revealed at the 1969 Turin Auto Show, the Runabout would go on to inspire other iconic wedge-shaped production models like the Lancia Stratos and Fiat X1/9, though the Runabout itself never saw the light of production. 

That is, until now, as five-and-a-half-decades after the iconic concept car first broke cover, Bertone Classic is now producing a limited run of modernized Runabout cars combining heritage design and contemporary performance and technology. 

The Basics

The Bertone Classic Runabout puts a modern spin on Gandini’s original concept without fundamentally altering its design language or DNA — as the thing is still readily-identifiable as being a Runabout. In addition to sporting an updated design, this limited production model also benefits from a modern power plant, contemporary suspension and running gear, and a retro-inspired cabin with modern amenities. And, while Bertone hasn’t actually spoken on it, we imagine it’s safety standards have also been brought into the 21st century. 

The Body

The new limited production Runabout boasts an overall design and geometry that follow the Zero principle, plus the car’s silhouette is comprised of just two lines; an Æ-shaped roofline and roll bar; and a wedge-shaped main body. Penned by lead designer Andrea Mocellin, the car is being offered in one of two configurations; an open-air Barchetta variant with no roof or windshield; or a Targa version that gains a windscreen and a removable hardtop. 

The Powertrain

While specific details are somewhat scant, Bertone Classic has revealed a few aspects of the contemporary Runabout’s powertrain. Like Gandini’s Miura, this wedge-shaped model utilizes a mid-mounted engine, however, instead of the Lamborghini’s V-12, the Runabout packs a V6 — though it makes nearly the same amount of power at 493hp. This isn’t just a respectable horsepower output, it’s also a massive step up over the original concept’s 54-hp 1.1-liter four-banger. Based on the images of the new Runabout, it appears its V6 will at least be available with a manual transmission — if not offered exclusively with one. 

What Makes it So Special

There are admittedly plenty of retro-inspired models on the market, though there are several factors that make Bertone Classic’s forthcoming Runabout unlike anything else out there. For one, it doesn’t just take inspiration from a retro model or concept, but instead stays remarkably true to the design. Sure, a few elements have been tweaked and/or modernized, it’s still readily identifiable as being based on the 1969 wedge-shaped one-off. I also applaud Bertone for bestowing the vehicle with a modern manual gearbox-equipped gas engine, rather than a soulless electric powertrain. With around 500hp on tap and an extremely svelte curb weight, the new Runabout’s performance will likely be something special, too. 

Straight From The Horse’s Mouth

“The challenge was maintaining the spirit and purity of the original 1969 model while integrating modern high-performance technology. 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,” explains Bertone’s lead designer Andrea Mocellin.

Spec Sheet

Pricing & Availability 

Limited to only 25 units worldwide, the Bertone Classic Runabout is scheduled to begin deliveries in Q2 of 2026. Pricing for this modernized concept starts at around €350,000 (~ $380,000).

2026 Bertone Classic Runabout

Bertone Classic is turning a Marcello Gandini-deigned concept car from 1969 into a limited production model combining heritage wedge car design with modern technology and performance capabilities.