Runabout Reborn: Bertone Transforms Classic Concept into 493bhp Supercar

The Reviving Icon - In the world of automotive design, few names resonate like Marcello Gandini. Known for shaping some of the most iconic cars in history, his work includes the Lamborghini Miura, Countach, and the Alfa Romeo Montreal. Yet, one of his most experimental concepts, the Autobianchi A112 Runabout, showcased his innovative spirit in 1969 with a bold, motorboat-inspired design that defied conventions.

The return of a 1969 Design Icon: the Bertone Runabout as “pure geometry,” drawing on the simplicity that defined Gandini’s vision. (Picture from: Autocar)

The original Runabout was a vision of Gandini’s creativity during his time at Gruppo Bertone, influencing future designs like the Fiat X1/9. Although never intended for mass production, it set a distinctive design language, blending sharp angles with playful proportions. Now, more than 50 years later, Bertone has decided to revive this concept, transforming it into a high-performance supercar.

The Autobianchi A112 Runabout, a brainchild of Marcello Gandini of Bertone, exuded a distinct charm, and made its debut at the 1969 Turin Motor Show. (Picture from: Autocar)

This modern Runabout has been redesigned by Andrea Mocellin, a designer with experience at Nio and Pininfarina. While Mocellin’s career isn’t as extensive as Gandini’s, his talent and vision bring fresh life to the Runabout, merging the essence of the original with modern aesthetics. Mocellin describes the car as “pure geometry,” drawing on the simplicity that defined Gandini’s vision.

While the 1969 concept was a fully open barchetta, the new Runabout will feature an optional targa top. (Picture from: Autocar)

Staying true to its wedge-shaped form, the new Runabout incorporates necessary updates for today’s roads. The quirky, high-mounted headlights from 1969 have been replaced with pop-up lights in the nose, giving a cleaner look. Practical features like doors and side mirrors, absent in the original, enhance usability while maintaining the classic silhouette.

Maintaining its wedge-shaped form, the new Runabout updates the 1969 high-mounted headlights with sleek pop-up lights for a cleaner look. (Picture from: Autocar)

Under the hood, the new Runabout boasts a powerful 493bhp V6 engine—a stark contrast to the original’s modest 1.1-liter. This added power transforms it from a design concept into a genuine driver’s car. The aggressive front now features a larger grille, a modern necessity for cooling, without disrupting the streamlined design.

The Bertone Runabout two-seater cockpit sticks to a minimalist ethos, with red and black upholstery offset by cool aluminum accents—a stylish nod to performance-focused design without overindulgence in high-tech clutter. (Picture from: Autocar)

A notable addition to the updated Runabout is a targa top, giving drivers the option to enjoy open-air driving or close the cockpit, a feature the original didn’t have. This flexibility caters to both the thrill-seeker and the everyday driver, enhancing the car’s appeal.

Under the hood, the Bertone Runabout roars as a full-fledged supercar with a 493bhp V6 engine—a bold upgrade from the original’s modest 1.1-liter. (Picture from: Autocar)

Scheduled for production in 2026, the new Runabout will start at €350,000, making it a luxury collector’s item. As the first in Bertone’s Classics range, this car honors Bertone’s legacy, while introducing a new chapter for the design house. The video below showcases the 1969 Runabout, offering a glimpse of this legendary design.

The reimagined Runabout symbolizes the enduring charm of Italian design, combining past innovation with today’s technology. Through this revival, Bertone not only pays homage to Gandini’s vision but also sets the stage for future creations, blending heritage with modern engineering for a new generation of enthusiasts. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | BERTONE | AUTOCAR | CARBUZZ | CARSCOOPS ]

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Rare Gullwing Mercedes-Benz Arrow C1

Rare ONES - There are countless extraordinary cars in the world that often fly under the radar, rarely getting the recognition they deserve. Among these hidden gems is the Arrow C1, a highly exclusive vehicle with only four units ever produced. Built by Styling Garage (SGS), this unique car has become a collector's dream, not only because of its rarity but also due to its striking design inspired by the legendary Mercedes-Benz C111 concept. The Arrow C1 stands as a testament to innovative design, with just eleven surviving units of the original C111 concept serving as its visual muse.

This rare gullwing Mercedes-Benz Arrow C1 by SGS inspired by the legendary Mercedes-Benz C111 concept. (Picture from: Wikipedia)

Styling Garage, also known as SGS, was a well-known coachbuilder and tuning company based near Hamburg, Germany. From 1979 to 1986, the company specialized in creating extravagant, custom-designed cars, primarily based on the Mercedes-Benz W126 S-Class. SGS became known for its high-end clientele, which included affluent buyers from the Arab world, American celebrities, Japanese businessmen, and African leaders. Each car built by SGS was a reflection of luxury and exclusivity, blending exceptional craftsmanship with bold, unconventional designs.

This rare Mercedes-Benz Arrow C1 by SGS featured a "flatnose" front end, widebody modifications, and a conversion to gullwing doors, all of which gave it a distinctive look that set it apart from the original model. (Picture from: CarsThatNeverMadeItEtc)

The C111 concept series, which served as inspiration for the Arrow C1’s design, was a Mercedes-Benz's  experimental vehicle series created in the 1970s. It was groundbreaking not only for its use of a Wankel rotary engine and a mid-engine configuration but also for its advanced chassis design and lightweight plastic bodywork. These innovations made the C111 a symbol of forward-thinking automotive engineering, and its sleek, futuristic design captured the imagination of car enthusiasts around the world. Though the C111 never went into mass production, it left a lasting impact on the world of concept cars, and its influence can still be seen in the Arrow C1’s styling.

SGS also fitted the 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 SEC Arrow C1 with flip-up headlights, and the radiator was repositioned to lie flat, further enhancing the sleekness of the design. (Picture from: Kevin Alan in Flickr)

The Arrow C1 by SGS was a highly modified version of the Mercedes-Benz C126 from the early 1980s. The car featured a "flatnose" front end, widebody modifications, and a conversion to gullwing doors, all of which gave it a distinctive look that set it apart from the original model. The front end of the Arrow C1 was designed to resemble the C111 concept, with an elongated nose reminiscent of both the Plymouth Superbird and the C111. This bold styling choice gave the car an aggressive and aerodynamic appearance, making it instantly recognizable.

The 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 SEC Arrow C1 by SGS at the Tuning Special Show - Retro Classics Stuttgart 2024. (Picture from: Zwischengas)

The transformation of the Mercedes-Benz 500 SEC C126 into the Arrow C1 was more than just a cosmetic overhaul. SGS fitted the car with flip-up headlights, and the radiator was repositioned to lie flat, further enhancing the sleekness of the design. The body kit, partially made from kevlar, included shaved bumpers and faux air intakes positioned ahead of the rear wheels, adding to the car's futuristic feel. The Arrow C1 made its public debut at the 1985 Geneva Motor Show, where it generated significant attention for its daring aesthetics. Shortly after, SGS unveiled a convertible version of the C126 with similar modifications, dubbed the SGS Arrow II.

The 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 SEC Arrow C1 by SGS at the Tuning Special Show - Retro Classics Stuttgart 2024. (Picture from: Zwischengas)

Despite the excitement that the Arrow C1 and other SGS creations generated, the brand’s relationship with Daimler-Benz was far from harmonious. Daimler-Benz publicly distanced itself from SGS conversions, citing concerns over both the aesthetics and the technical safety of the modified vehicles. Reports surfaced regarding the deactivation of important engine warning lights and the omission of necessary high-speed tires, raising questions about the cars' usability on the road. As a result, Daimler-Benz prohibited SGS from using the iconic Mercedes-Benz star, effectively positioning SGS as the sole manufacturer of these highly modified cars. | SvkHsIdknkY | s0jIVPDEa-w |

The Arrow C1 remains a remarkable piece of automotive history. While it may not have been embraced by Mercedes-Benz, its daring design and exclusivity have cemented its place as a unique creation from a bygone era of coachbuilding. With only four examples ever built, the Arrow C1 is a rare find, offering a glimpse into the world of extravagant custom cars and the visionaries behind them. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | SGS STYLING GARAGE | IMCDB.ORG | WIKIPEDIA ]

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The Scorpion: Jerry Pennington’s Radical Corvette Masterpiece

Unique ONES - In the world of custom cars, creativity often leads to extraordinary results. Jerry Pennington’s journey into the world of show cars is a testament to how passion can turn into a legacy. His love for Corvettes and custom vehicles began in his garage, where he spent countless hours working on car repairs and modifications. From humble beginnings, Jerry’s dedication to his craft led him to establish Pennington Collision in 1968, marking the start of a professional career that would soon gain national recognition.

Jerry Pennington's 1972 Ridler and International Championship Awarding winning 'Scorpion.' (Picture from: Story-Cars)

What made Jerry Pennington stand out was his ability to take the classic Corvette design and transform it into something that had never been seen before. His most remarkable creation, the Scorpion, is a perfect example of this. Built on the foundation of a 1969 Corvette C3, the Scorpion was a radically modified rear-engine machine that captured the imagination of car enthusiasts. It wasn’t just about performance, but about design and innovation. Jerry, alongside designer Randy Wittine, crafted the Scorpion to be more than a show car. With its wide wheelwells, sleek scoops, and a turbocharged small-block engine mounted in the rear, the Scorpion became a symbol of cutting-edge customization.

The Jerry Pennington's Scorpion made its debut at the International Champion Auto Show, where it secured the Grand Championship title for two consecutive years, 1971 and 1972. (Picture from: Autorama)

Jerry’s shop in Troy, Michigan, became a hub of creativity where fiberglass repairs and custom modifications were done by hand. The Scorpion’s transformation was an intense process, with spoilers and wheelwell flares meticulously molded into the Corvette’s body lines. It wasn’t just the exterior that received attention, either. 

The Jerry Pennington's Scorpion sat on display at the 2013 Detroit Autorama. (Picture from: WeirdWheels)

The interior of the Scorpion was fitted with luxurious red velvet upholstery, giving the car an even more unique and striking appearance. This attention to detail extended to every corner of the vehicle, showcasing Jerry’s commitment to excellence.

The Jerry Pennington's Scorpion sat on display at the 2013 Detroit Autorama. (Picture from: CorvetteBlogger)

The Scorpion made its debut at the International Champion Auto Show, where it secured the Grand Championship title for two consecutive years, 1971 and 1972. This achievement not only put Jerry on the map but also solidified his reputation as a master builder. The Scorpion's success didn’t stop there. At the prestigious Detroit Auto Rama in 1972, Jerry took home the Ridler Award, one of the highest honors in the custom car world, recognizing his creativity and vision. The Scorpion had become more than just a car—it was a statement.

Jerry Pennington's Scorpion, powered by a stock 350 Chevy engine, was modified to reverse its rotation direction, coupled with four Holley 4-barrel carburetors and four turbochargers, and paired with a custom-built transaxle, all installed in the rear. (Picture from: CorvetteBlogger)

But Jerry didn’t stop with the Scorpion. In 1973, he unveiled yet another masterpiece, the Devilfish, which also won the Ridler Award, making him the first person ever to win this prestigious accolade two years in a row. His ability to consistently produce winning designs and innovative vehicles made him a force to be reckoned with in the custom car industry. He even went on to build the “Atlanta Phoenix,” a car that would win the International Championship for both 1973 and 1974, proving that Jerry’s creative genius was unmatched.

The 1973 Ridler award winning "Devilfish." (Picture from: PenningtonCollision)

Jerry’s streak of success continued throughout the decade, earning him the title of "Builder of the Decade" by the International Champion Auto Show (ICAS) for the 1970 to 1980 period. His influence on custom car design was undeniable, and his creations became icons in the automotive world. In addition to his work on show cars, Jerry was also involved in other projects, including building a custom Corvette for the television show “The Magician.”

The custom Corvette built in 1973 for the television show 'The Magician.' (Picture from: PenningtonCollision)

In 1982, Jerry’s son, Ed Pennington, stepped in to manage the family business, continuing the tradition of excellence that Jerry had built. When Jerry passed away in 1990, Ed took on the responsibility of keeping Pennington Collision running, preserving his father’s legacy. The Pennington family remains dedicated to the craft, ensuring that Jerry’s vision and passion live on through their work. | NrM83sjM2UA |

The story of Jerry Pennington is not just about cars—it’s about dedication, creativity, and a lifelong commitment to innovation. His legacy continues to inspire custom car builders today, proving that with hard work and imagination, the boundaries of design can always be pushed further. The mark he left on the world of custom Corvettes will never fade, much like the vibrant red paint of the Scorpion that once dazzled show car audiences everywhere. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | PENNINGTON COLLISION | MOTORTREND | STORY-CARS | AUTORAMA | CORVETTEBLOGGER | WEIRDWHEELS ]

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Grafit: The Iconic Tatra Supercar You've Never Heard Before

The LEGACY - Unique automobiles often carry fascinating stories, and the Tatra Grafit is no exception. As a distinctive creation from the Czech Republic, the Grafit showcases the country's rich automotive heritage and the innovative spirit that defines Tatra vehicles. This car stands out not only for its design but also for the intriguing journey it has taken over the years.

The Tatra Grafit appeared as a result of designer Ivan Labaška's work in 1983, was built in 1986, and received road homologation in 1991. (Picture from: Pinterest)

The Tatra Grafit appeared as a result of designer Ivan Labaška's work in 1983, was built in 1986, and received road homologation in 1991. Though not directly linked to the renowned Tatra manufacturer from Kopřivnice, the Grafit shares the same passion for excellence that characterizes Tatra's legendary vehicles.

The Original Tatra Grafit's sharp lines, low profile, and aggressive stance give it a unique presence on the road, making it an embodiment of the 1980s automotive zeitgeist. (Picture from: Pinterest)

The car was based on the Tatra 613, a hallmark of Tatra's engineering expertise, emphasizing performance and reliability. Initially featuring a 3.5-liter 8-cylinder engine and 4-speed transmission, it was later upgraded with a rear-mounted Tatra 700 engine, an air-cooled 4.5-liter DOHC  V8 engine, coupled with a manual five-speed gearbox,  capable of reaching 325 km/h.

The Tatra Grafit bears a striking resemblance to the iconic Lamborghini Countach. (Picture from: Pinterest)

What truly sets the Tatra Grafit apart is its design, which bears a striking resemblance to the iconic Lamborghini Countach. This bold and distinctive aesthetic makes the Grafit a head-turner, capturing the attention of car enthusiasts and collectors alike. The car's sharp lines, low profile, and aggressive stance give it a unique presence on the road, making it an embodiment of the 1980s automotive zeitgeist.

Due to its bold and distinctive aesthetic makes the Tatra Grafit a head-turner, capturing the attention of car enthusiasts and collectors alike. (Picture from: PowerMagazine.sk)

A deeper dive into the history of the Tatra Grafit reveals more about its fascinating journey. The car has been the subject of extensive coverage, including a detailed article in the September 2003 edition of Tuning-Magazine. This article highlighted the Grafit's impressive top speed of 320 km/h, showcasing its high-performance capabilities and engineering prowess. Such performance figures place the Grafit among the elite supercars of its time, further cementing its status as a remarkable vehicle.

The Tatra Grafit's interior was made purposefully spartan, featuring a Raid steering wheel, Sparco Evo 2 sports seats upholstered in a black finish, and Sparco and Zender seat belts. (Picture from: PowerMagazine.sk)

The story of the Tatra Grafit took an intriguing turn following an accident. The car was meticulously rebuilt, receiving a fresh coat of bright red paint and new rims, which gave it a renewed lease on life. This restoration not only preserved the car's legacy but also enhanced its appeal, ensuring that it continues to capture the imagination of automotive enthusiasts.

The Tatra Grafit is equipped with an air-cooled 4.5-liter DOHC V8 engine, capable of reaching 325 km/h, a hallmark of Tatra's engineering expertise, emphasizing performance and reliability. (Picture from: PowerMagazine.sk)

The Grafit's restoration process is a testament to the dedication and craftsmanship of those who recognize its value and historical importance. The effort to bring the car back to its former glory underscores the passion and commitment of the automotive community, ensuring that the Grafit remains a symbol of innovation and excellence.

The story of the Tatra Grafit took an intriguing turn following an accident, as the car was meticulously rebuilt with a fresh coat of bright red paint and new rims, giving it a renewed lease on life. (Picture from: PowerMagazine.sk)

Reflecting on the Tatra Grafit's journey, we are reminded of the boundless creativity and determination that drive the automotive industry. This car is more than just a machine; it is a testament to the enduring spirit of innovation that defines exceptional automobiles. The Grafit's story encourages us to appreciate the extraordinary achievements in automotive design and engineering, showcasing the remarkable potential of passionate creators.

Due to its bold and distinctive aesthetic makes the Tatra Grafit a head-turner, capturing the attention of car enthusiasts and collectors alike. (Picture from: Pinterest)

As we continue to celebrate unique cars like the Tatra Grafit, we find inspiration in their stories and the legacy they leave behind. These vehicles serve as beacons of innovation, reminding us that the pursuit of excellence knows no bounds.

The Grafit, with its distinctive design and impressive performance, remains a shining example of what can be achieved when passion and engineering prowess come together. Other creations such the Tatra JK2500, the MTX V8, and the AML Lanta also remind us that the passion for creating exceptional automobiles will always find a way to shine through. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | SOVIETAUTO.FR | AUTOVERCITY.RU | TATRAPORTAL.SK | AUTOHIFICLUB.CZ | POWERMAGAZINE.SK | CLASSIC AND RECREATION SPORTSCARS ]

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SAAB Mayo P1: The Forgotten Swedish Supercar

Forgotten GEMS - In the world of automotive legends, few brands evoke as much loyalty and admiration as SAAB. Known for its steadfast reliability, this Swedish icon has built a dedicated following across the globe. But amid the many myths that swirl around the automotive industry, one particularly intriguing story stands out — that of the SAAB Mayo P1. This car, which could have been a worthy successor to the SAAB Sonett, had the potential to shine as a Swedish super sports car, competing with the fastest vehicles of its era.

The SAAB Mayo P1, built on the SAAB 9000 platform, was a collaboration between Leif Mellberg and Sune Envall, making its public debut in 1991. (Picture from: SAAB Blog)

The Mystery of the Yellow Sports Car Finally Solved

Mystery REVEALED - It all began when we stumbled upon an intriguing sports car on the internet a few years ago. At first glance, this car immediately captured our attention with its unique and striking design. Unlike anything we had ever seen before, its sleek lines and bold features set it apart from other vehicles. Our curiosity was piqued, and we set out on a journey to uncover the identity of this captivating machine.

It began with curiosity about this car, rumored to be a Puma kit car, but to this day, its exact identity remains unknown. (Picture from: LB-Photo)

As we dug deeper by writing an article titled Once Upon a Time: The Golden Era of Italian Kit Cars, which offered some intriguing clues. One possibility suggested that the car might be a Puma kit car. Yet, despite our efforts, its exact identity remained unclear. The design, however, gave us some hints—it appeared to blend elements of the iconic Lamborghini Countach with a front end reminiscent of the rare Cizeta-Moroder. Adding to its appeal was a distinctive Alfa Romeo-shield style grill and Testarossa-inspired side panels, further intensifying the mystery of its origin.

It turns out that this is the Balasini Tiger, built on the Puma GTV-30 by the Italian kit-car manufacturer Puma Club Italia. (Picture from: Motori360.it)

After waiting for some time, we finally came across a comment on the mentioned article that hinted at possible names for this enigmatic sports car. The commenter mentioned three potential identities for the yellow vehicle: the Puma GTV Monte Carlo, the Puma 'Balasini Tiger,' or the Puma Adriano Gatto16. However, the truth behind these names remained unclear. While none of these possibilities could be confirmed with absolute certainty, the comment gave us a direction to explore further, sparking the next phase of our investigation.

The Balasini Tiger features a shorter nose with a front end reminiscent of the rare Cizeta-Moroder, complemented by pop-up headlights cleverly hidden within the body. (Picture from: Puma GTV Monte-Carlo)

Armed with those leads, we embarked on an extensive search to verify the names associated with the car. After thorough research, we confirmed that the vehicle is indeed the Balasini Tiger, a model based on the Puma GTV-033, which was first introduced by Stabilimento Puma Roma in 1983. Despite our efforts, however, there remains no available information about who commissioned its construction or who currently owns this remarkable piece of automotive history.

The Balasini Tiger blended elements of the iconic Lamborghini Countach, featuring a distinctive Alfa Romeo-shield style grill and Testarossa-inspired side panels. (Picture from: Puma Club Italia)

The Balasini Tiger features a shorter nose with pop-up headlights cleverly integrated into the body, enhancing its sleek and streamlined design. The rear of the car saw significant design updates, with a more angular shape and sides that formed distinct angles, paying tribute to the aerodynamic styling of racing cars from that era, ultimately improving both its aesthetics and performance.

The Balasini Tiger is also equipped with distinctive doors that lift the entire canopy upwards, providing an impressive and dramatic entrance while enhancing the car's sleek and futuristic design. (Picture from: Puma GTV Monte-Carlo)

Unfortunately, there is limited technical data on the engine specifications or performance of the Balasini Tiger, leaving enthusiasts craving more details. While this lack of information is disappointing, we are still pleased to have uncovered its identity. The Balasini Tiger remains a rare gem, skillfully blending the innovative design philosophy of the 1980s with a unique flair that continues to captivate and inspire car enthusiasts today.

The Balasini Tiger's cabin boasts a luxurious interior with black upholstery—though it's unclear whether it's velvet, leather, or another material—complemented by a vibrant yellow dashboard, a three-spoke sports steering wheel, and a central console, all designed to comfortably accommodate two passengers. (Picture from: Puma GTV Monte-Carlo)

For those seeking more visuals of this elusive sports car, there is a captivating interview video featuring Adriano Gatto, the founder of Stabilimento Puma Roma, in which he delves into the rich legacy of Italian kit cars and their impact on automotive design. Throughout the interview, the Balasini Tiger makes several intriguing cameo appearances, showcasing its unique features and highlighting the innovative spirit that defined its creation, providing viewers with an engaging glimpse into the world of this remarkable vehicle.

We would like to express our gratitude to the anonymous commenter who helped guide us in uncovering the story of this rare Balasini Tiger sports car. While we may not have answered every question, we have certainly shed light on a vehicle that many might not have known existed. There's always room for more knowledge and discoveries in the world of classic cars, so if anyone has additional information about this fascinating vehicle, we would love to hear from you. Please feel free to share your insights and thoughts in the comment section below.

The Balasini Tiger identified by its plaques in the rear, features a more angular shape with distinct side angles, paying homage to the aerodynamic styling of racing cars from that era while enhancing both performance and visual appeal. (Picture from: Puma GTV Monte-Carlo)

Our fascination with cars like the one-off Balasini Tiger reminds us that automotive history is full of surprises, hidden gems, and untold stories waiting to be uncovered. Who knows what other unique vehicles are still out there, waiting for someone to take notice? For now, we can appreciate the rare and distinctive design of the Balasini Tiger, a testament to the creativity and passion of those who dared to build something different. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | PUMA CLUB ITALIA | AUTOBELLE | REEZOCAR | MOTORI360.IT | PUMA GTV MONTE-CARLO | PUMA CLUB ITALIA |  ]

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