The ultimate italian coachbuilder site
The ultimate italian coachbuilder site
One of the most original cars on show at the 58th Turin Motor Show has to be the Lamborghini Athon prototype by Bertone.
The Lamborghini Athon, a roadster born from the tumultuous journey of Lamborghini, emerged as a testament to Carrozzeria Bertone’s unbridled creativity and a deliberate push to redefine the roadster concept. Based on the Lamborghini Urraco, the Athon maintained the length and chassis of its precursor, opting for an audacious design by Marc Deschamps, that pushed the boundaries of convention. Retaining the Urraco’s proportions, the Athon’s rear exuded an aura of power, accentuated by the treatment of the wings that contributed to its over-the-top (OTT) aesthetic. The deliberate exaggeration of the roadster concept was evident, showcasing Bertone’s desire to explore extremes in automotive design. The central styling element of the Athon was its expansive windscreen, characterized by a pronounced double curve and an original chromatic effect. This feature not only enhanced the vehicle’s visual appeal but also underscored its powerful engine, creating a harmonious blend of form and function. In the context of Bertone’s portfolio during that era, marked by pragmatic models like the Volvo Tundra and Fiat Ritmo Cabriolet, the Lamborghini Athon marked a departure from the constraints of mass production. Following in the footsteps of iconic designs like the Alfa Romeo Carabo and the Lancia Stratos Zero in 1970, the Lamborghini Athon allowed Bertone to unleash his creativity on the international stage. The Athon was more than just an extravagant showpiece; it symbolized a return to creating Motor Show stars for Bertone. As automotive enthusiasts witnessed the Athon’s unveiling, it stood as a testament to Bertone’s ability to transcend practicality and delve into the realm of artistic expression. By giving free rein to his creativity, Bertone crafted a roadster that not only echoed the spirit of Lamborghini but also left an indelible mark on the landscape of automotive design, proving that sometimes, pushing the boundaries can lead to breathtaking innovation.
Bertone was probably the most innovative and certainly the most courageous coachbuilder in the automotive history. We’ve tried to rank them, here are the 20 greatest concept cars made by Bertone. We are aware that you will not always agree with us, so let us know what are your favourite one’s in the comment section.
