Athon: Bertone's Lamborghini in difficult years

Aton (or Athon) is a deity of the ancient Egyptian religion associated with the Pharaoh Akhenaten, who reigned in the mid-14th century BC. He is the god of the sun and perhaps Bertone thought of naming its Lamborghini concept car after him in the 1980s, hoping to revive a brand that was going through a difficult period.

Let's go back to 1978, when the court in Bologna placed Lamborghini under administration to avoid bankruptcy. The Athon, presented at the Turin Motor Show in 1980, was not intended for mass production, but to relaunch the Taurus brand and herald a very 'bright' future.

An idea of 1980s future

At first glance, it looks like one of the vehicles used to shoot films such as Blade Runner (1982) or Act of Strength (1990). In fact, Bertone's intention was to project Lamborghini into the new decade, which is why it opted for a square and massive, yet minimalist style.

The body is made up of a combination of panels, the most prominent of which is the lower side panel, with an oversized, protruding mini-skirt that reaches up to the rear wheel, creating a wing reminiscent of an aeroplane's tail. The front bonnet and windscreen are steeply raked, unlike the rest of the body, which remains parallel to the ground.

The very high beltline contributes to a very imposing side. The front end, on the other hand, is sharp and slender, thanks in part to the pop-up headlights. The rear is also angular and massive, with a spoiler carved out of a recess in the third volume and rear lights that are essentially three light strips. The only softer lines are those of the twin exhausts.

Lamborghini Athon, the front

Lamborghini Athon, the rear

Digital instruments, 'suspended' steering wheel and extra-large seats

The minimalist, boxy style of the exterior is also found in the Athon's interior. The interior is fully leather upholstered, starting with the seats, whose shape and materials are reminiscent of those found in the living rooms of those years.

The steering wheel is unusual in that it appears to be floating, thanks to the single spoke that connects it to the adjustable column that follows the steering angle. To its left is a kind of raised console with all the controls, such as the indicators, wipers and horn. Also revolutionary is the all-digital instrument panel, which extends horizontally in front of the driver's eyes, reminiscent of what you see in today's Mercedes.

Lamborghini Athon, the interior

All about 'Silhouette

Bertone's work is based on another Taurus sports car: the Urraco Silhouette, a sports car with a 'targa' body, of which only 53 were built between 1976 and 1979. The engine is a 260 PS 3.0-litre V8 mated to a five-speed manual gearbox. The front and rear suspension is independent.

Despite its uniqueness, the Lamborghini Athon remains little known and sought after. In 2011, Sotheby's sold it for just under €350,000. Certainly a considerable sum, but certainly less than other similar cars.

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