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Topic starter
21/08/2026 2:00 pm
From the http://www...
1955 Alfa Romeo B.A.T. 9d
Alfa Romeo's directive for the final Bertone aerodynamic concept emphasized road-going practicality, prompting Franco Scaglione to revise the themes established by the B.A.T. 5 and B.A.T. 7 with reduced tailfins for improved rearward vision and the elimination of rear wheel skirts.
The more restrained fins, coupled with a slightly cleaner side profile, helped move the car visually closer to something that might plausibly see street use while still retaining the experimental B.A.T. character.
A pronounced beltline emerged at the rear quarters, and a production-style Alfa Romeo shield grille incorporating the Milano crest replaced the earlier cars' bespoke nose treatments, clearly linking the study to contemporary showroom Giuliettas.
The design represented Scaglione's interpretation of a gran turismo that could be adapted for actual road use, even though the hand-formed coachwork over Alfa Romeo 1900 mechanical components made sure it remained a pure concept rather than a production prototype.
Shown at the Turin Motor Show in October 1955, the B.A.T. 9d completed what has since been recognized as one of automotive history's most celebrated design trilogies.
This topic was modified 1 month ago by John Bono
John Bono
North Jersey
Topic starter
21/08/2026 2:04 pm
Got to wonder if the rear window had any influence on the design of 1963 Corvette split window coupe?
John Bono
North Jersey
21/08/2026 3:02 pm
Could have been Batmans personal ride, besides his work car.😁
21/08/2026 3:32 pm
For 1955 it sure has “far-out” styling.
21/08/2026 4:11 pm
I generally like Alfa Romeo cars very much but I never took to these B.A.T. Designs.
21/08/2026 6:29 pm
Ha! Just saw the B.A.T. in John Ks Jaguar video. Hobbydragon posted pics of his B.A.T.s from his 1/43 Alfa collection.
This video really shows its 'Batmobile' design features. Thank you again John for another great representation of the rare and unusual from the auto world. Maybe start up your own company in competition to Autocult?
21/08/2026 6:42 pm
I had the good fortune to see all 3 BAT cars together in Nashville a number of years ago, along with an amazing assortment of rare one-offs and priceless vehicles. The Miura at the show could have been a Beetle compared to the others.
https://fristartmuseum.org/exhibition/bellissima-the-italian-automotive-renaissance-1945-1975/
The 250 GTO was in its own room like a chapel setting.
This post was modified 1 month ago by Ed Glorius
Retired in Dunedin, Florida.
21/08/2026 8:23 pm
@ed-glorius unbelievable collection Ed, thanks. How could u leave once in there? They'd have to drag me out screaming at closing time!
Topic starter
21/08/2026 9:06 pm
This post was modified 1 month ago by John Bono
John Bono
North Jersey
Topic starter
21/08/2026 9:08 pm
@ed-glorius Ed, all beauties...thanks for sharing.
John Bono
North Jersey
22/08/2026 6:01 am
WOW John, another incredible find. Looks like a multiple cross between the Batmobile, a 63 Stingray Split Window Coupe, and a Disco Volante!
22/08/2026 6:35 am
Many advanced design features for 1955.
17/09/2026 7:00 am
17/09/2026 7:05 am
".....wonder if the rear window had any influence on the design of 1963 Corvette split window?"
Hmm..... sure looks like it me! 👍 👍 👍
Geoff Jowett and John Bono reacted
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