[AshSimmonds]

The Heart's Filthy Lesson:

http://www.ultimatecarpage.com/car/4419/Alfa-Romeo-Pandion-Bertone-Coupe.html

Wouter Melissen

Celebrating the 100th anniversary of Alfa Romeo, Bertone will return to the Geneva Motor Show after a two year absence.

The two classic Italian companies have had a close relationship since the early 1950s. Penned by Franco Scaglione, the first Bertone bodied Alfa Romeos were spectacular show cars like the Sportiva and B.A.T. Concepts. Production cars like the Giulietta and the Giulia GT followed suit. These established Bertone as a serious Carrozzeria and ensured the future of Alfa Romeo.

To mark the Milanese manufacturer's centenary, three Italian design houses will reveal Alfa Romeo based show cars at Geneva in March. Bertone have opted to base their 'Pandion' around the familiar V8 engine that produces 440 bhp.

The unusual name is derived from 'Pandion Haliaetus', the scientific name for an osprey. Lead designer Mike Robinson used this predator as inspiration for the exterior and interior design.

The nose of the compact sports a very organic version of the familiar Alfa Romeo grille and the tail has hints of a pack of feathers. Most impressive is the extensive use of glass around the cockpit area.