The 1969 Autobianchi Runabout: A Design Inspired by the Motorboat World - AllCarIndex

The Autobianchi Runabout, unveiled at the 1969 Turin Motor Show, was a design project that took its inspiration from the world of motorboats. This unique prototype, created by the talented designers at Bertone, was a departure from the typical styling seen in the automotive industry at the time.

Drawing from the sleek and futuristic racing speedboats of the late 1960s, the Runabout stood out with its pointed shape, generous rollbars housing the headlamps, and vibrant colors chosen by its designer. Despite its unconventional appearance and dream car status, the Runabout served as the foundation for the design of the future Fiat X1/9, which would be introduced a few years later.

Powered by the engine from the Fiat 128, the Autobianchi Runabout was presented under the Autobianchi marque, targeting a youthful demographic. The car embodied a sense of fun and carefree travel, inviting drivers to experience the sheer joy of driving without the constraints of everyday traffic.

The Runabout captured the imagination of onlookers at the Turin Motor Show, showcasing an original vision of the future that pushed the boundaries of traditional automotive design. With its unique inspiration from the motorboat world and its focus on delivering a thrilling driving experience, the Autobianchi Runabout left a lasting impression on those who were fortunate enough to witness it firsthand.

While the Runabout project never made it to production, its influence can be seen in the innovative design language of the Fiat X1/9 and the lasting impact it has had on the automotive industry as a whole.