Abschied von einer Design-Ikone: Bruno Sacco, der Vater des modernen Mercedes, verstorben

The renowned automotive designer Bruno Sacco has passed away at the age of 90 on September 19, 2024, in Sindelfingen. The Italian-born designer, who also held German citizenship, served as the head designer at Mercedes-Benz from 1975 until his retirement in 1999. Among his notable contributions were the designs for the 190 and R 129 models. Bruno Sacco's death marks the loss of a legendary figure in Mercedes design.

"Gorden Wagener, the Chief Design Officer at Mercedes-Benz Group AG, remarked that Bruno Sacco has left a lasting impression on the company with his signature designs and his zeal for aesthetics. He noted that with Sacco's passing, they mourn the loss of a remarkable individual and an extraordinary connoisseur of beauty. He extended their deepest sympathies to Sacco's family and friends."

Photo Gallery: Bruno Sacco (1933-2024)

When one examines the modern designs of Wagner alongside the everlasting creations crafted by Sacco, a yearning for the touch of the grand master becomes apparent. As Marcus Breitschwerdt, the CEO of Mercedes-Benz Heritage GmbH, rightly points out, "Bruno Sacco shaped the design of many Mercedes-Benz icons. Several of these continue to grace our daily commutes, while others captivate us as classic embodiments of the brand."

Under the leadership of Bruno Sacco as head of the design department, several vehicles were created including the later E-Class of the 124 series in all four body styles, the S-Class of the 126 series along with the coupe, the Mercedes 190 (W 201), and the SL of the R 129 series.

Mercedes SEC Series (Model C 126, spanning the years 1981

At the same time, they, along with many other passenger and commercial vehicles, embody the guiding principle he always adheres to: "A Mercedes-Benz must always look like a Mercedes-Benz." With this ethos, the designer, whose influence extends well beyond the brand, shapes the design language of several generations of models. Sacco joined what was then Daimler-Benz AG in 1958 and dedicated his entire career to the firm.

Born on November 12, 1933, in Udine to a mountain infantry battalion commander, Bruno Sacco was Italy's youngest qualified surveyor when he completed his studies at the age of 17 in his hometown. That same year, 1951, he attended the Turin Motor Show, a hub for cutting-edge design concepts, where Italy's renowned car designers showcased their latest models, prototypes, and sketches.

Captivated by the realm of automotive designs, Sacco began attending the Polytechnic University in Turin in 1952. In 1955, he joined the Turin-based Carrozzeria Ghia SpA, where he gained experience in model making. At Ghia, he was involved in the creation of thrilling prototypes resembling futuristic aircraft as well as sophisticated everyday cars.

Bruno Sacco during the internal design selection for the W 124

In 1957, Sacco had the opportunity to meet Karl Wilfert in Turin. Wilfert, who was in charge of the Mercedes-Benz Body Testing department at the Sindelfingen plant, had been developing the new Styling department since the mid-1950s under Friedrich Geiger's leadership. Paul Bracq was the first to be hired by Wilfert as a dedicated car designer. Following an invitation to Bruno Sacco to the Sindelfingen plant, he joined the team in 1958 as the second stylist.

Sacco is engaged in the preliminary development of car bodies and later takes on the role of head of body design and dimensional concept departments. During his tenure, exceptional models such as the Mercedes-Benz 600 (W 100, 1963-1981) and the 230 SL "Pagoda" (W 113, production period 1963-1971) come to life. He also leads design projects for safety exhibitions and significantly influences the rotary engine experimental vehicles C 111 (1969) and C 111-II (1970). With his contribution, widely popular vehicles like the mid-size series 123 (1976-1986) are created.

The story starts with a station wagon

In 1975, with the promotion to Chief Engineer, Sacco succeeds Friedrich Geiger as the head of the Main Styling Department. The first vehicle he oversees is the 123 series T-model, introduced in 1977 as the brand's initial station wagon sedan. During this period, he influences the design of the graceful S-Class of the 126 series (1979 to 1992) and the associated SEC coupe (1981 to 1991).

Bruno Sacco behind the wheel of his 560 SEC

Reflecting on his career, he holds a special fondness for one particular series: "The Series 126 in all its designs is the pinnacle of my work for Mercedes-Benz," Sacco admits, looking back after many years. It's hardly surprising then, that during his retirement, a sleek, dark blue 560 SEC occupies pride of place in his two-car garage. The only aspect that mars its perfection, in his view, are the bulky door handles.

As a smart and disciplined advocate for his craft, he knows how to elevate design to its proper place within the Mercedes-Benz hierarchy. Thus, in 1978, the main Styling department is promoted to a specialized division, led by Bruno Sacco.

Sacco identifies himself as an aesthete, focusing on the essence and the power of symbols in his designs. He emphasizes that each generation of Mercedes-Benz cars should maintain its series identity to prevent the previous generation from appearing outdated after the release of a new one. Furthermore, he believes that a Mercedes-Benz should be instantly recognizable as such, regardless of its location around the globe.

Distinctive Side Molding and a Timeless SL

A striking feature introduced by Sacco in 1979 is the side protection molding, mirroring the front bumper design of the S-Class Series 126. This design element was also adopted in subsequent years by models such as the 190 (W 201, from 1982 to 1993), Series 124 (from 1984 to 1997), the S-Class Series 140 (from 1991 to 1998) and the SL of the R 129 series (from 1989 to 2001). However, Sacco has always had a lifelong struggle with the term "Sacco Boards" coined for these moldings.

Mercedes SL (Series R 129)

Despite a shared family look, it's intentional that different models have their own distinguishing features. Sacco emphasizes that the SLK (R 170, produced from 1996 to 2004) should be clearly distinct from the larger SL (R 129) to prevent any overlap within the brand. Even 30 years later, Sacco still holds the SL in high regard, reflecting, "I still like the R 129." In 1993, Sacco joins the executive circle of the company, a role in which he also oversees the design of Mercedes-Benz's commercial vehicles.

Under Sacco's leadership in design, Mercedes-Benz is placing a greater emphasis on aesthetics such as aerodynamic efficiency. The proportions and contours are distinct and functionality is emphasized. Sacco's belief in enduring elegance is resonating with a younger demographic. This initially applies to the Model 190 (W 201), which is attracting new customer segments to the brand.

Photo Gallery: Mercedes S-Class (W 220, 1998-2005)

The signature design of Sacco becomes highly evident during the mid-90s when Mercedes-Benz expanded their range with the introduction of the A-Class (Series 168, 1997-2005), M-Class (Series 163, 1997-2004), SLK (R 170), CLK (Series 208, 1997-2003), and V-Class (W 638, 1996-2003). The final models overseen by Bruno Sacco before his retirement were the S-Class Series 220 (1998-2005) and the upper-class CL-Class coupe Series C 215 (1999-2006).

Esteemed Retirement

Sacco is deeply committed to the brand's official oversight, which extends beyond just the vehicles. He spearheads the creation of the new design center in Sindelfingen, a project crafted in collaboration between Italian celebrity architect and industrial designer Renzo Piano and the Gaggenau-based architectural firm C. Kohlbecker.

Mercedes-Benz Classics:

Bruno Sacco's knack for blending beauty with engineering has established him as one of the most pivotal figures in car design history. He transitioned into retirement on March 31, 1999, with a portfolio of numerous accolades. Peter Pfeiffer stepped up to continue the legacy as the head designer for Mercedes-Benz.

In 2002, Bruno Sacco was honored with an honorary doctorate from the University of Udine. Four years later, in 2006, he was inducted into the Automotive Hall of Fame located in Dearborn, Michigan, followed by his entry into the European Automotive Hall of Fame in Geneva in 2007. Reflecting on his retirement after twenty years, Bruno Sacco states, "Mercedes has been my life, and I fully stand by that era."

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