Genius Behind The Most Iconic Mercedes Cars Dies, Aged 90

Bruno Sacco, the legendary designer responsible for some of the Three-pointed Star’s most iconic designs (such as the W124 E-Class), has died at the age of 90. The Italian-born stylist served as Chief Designer at Mercedes-Benz from 1975 until 1999, and during that time penned several masterpieces, including the R129 SL-Class and the W126/C126 S-Class models.

However, his career at Mercedes started before 1975; he was hired as a stylist in 1958. His love for design blossomed in his teens, with the late designer telling EyesOn Design that the styling of a 1950 Studebaker Commander Regal he saw as a young man had a huge influence on him. Sacco studied mechanical engineering in the early ’50s and went on to work at Carrozzeria Ghia SpA.

Sacco Was Destined For Greatness

Sacco’s relationship with Mercedes would begin soon after, with the young creative meeting Karl Wikfert, head of Mercedes-Benz body testing at Sindelfingen, in 1957. The Italian-born designer was hired as a second stylist a year later, where he worked alongside the brilliant Paul Bracq (who designed the ‘Pagoda’ W113 SL, the 600 Grosser sedan, and several of BMW’s most elegant cars). Beloved for his production models, Sacco was also largely responsible for the Wankel-engined C 111 and C 111-II experimental vehicles.

He was also heavily involved in the W123 series, which is widely considered to be the most successful Mercedes-Benz of all time. Following his appointment to chief engineer in 1975, Sacco served as head of the styling department. His first major project was the W126 S-Class sedan and C126 coupes, which were lauded for their advanced styling and aerodynamic shape when they launched. For Sacco, these models are what he is most proud of. “The 126 model series in all design forms is the best thing I have done for Mercedes-Benz.” Even in his retirement years, the designer chose a 560 SEC as his personal transport.

Strict Styling Requirements For Germany’s Finest Automobiles

Mercedes-Benz has an incredibly strong image and upholding that was very important to Sacco. The designer firmly believed that a Mercedes-Benz should always look like a Mercedes-Benz (something that has been forgotten in recent years) and must never look dated. This ethos is clear to see now, with many older models still appearing contemporary and beautiful. The C126 SEC, the R129 SL, and the W124 E-Class are excellent examples.

To Sacco, few things were as important as symbol strength. That meant that new models in a series had to look modern and appealing but without dating the predecessor. More importantly, there had to be homogeneity between models, showcasing evolution and not revolution. Details would also filter through to other models, such as the protective strips first seen on the W126 S-Class. This was eventually adopted by the compact 190 series two years later, the W124, the R129, and even the W126’s successor, the W140. Interestingly, the W140 S-Class is one vehicle Sacco expressed dissatisfaction with, noting that it stood four inches too tall.

Balancing Family Resemblance With Distinctiveness

Despite a strong desire to have a resemblance among models, Sacco also understood the need for vehicles to stand out in their own right. That’s why the original SLK (R170) has such a unique look compared to the SL but is still recognizable as a Mercedes. Sacco did this to prevent the smaller roadster from cannibalizing sales from its big-engined sibling.

Some Of The Cars Styled By Bruno Sacco

• S-Class W126 (1979-1991/1994)
• S-Class Coupe C126 (1981-1991)
• 190 Series W201 (1982-1993)
• E-Class W124 (1984-1997)
• E-Class W210 (1996-2003)
• SL-Class R129 (1989-2002)
• S-Class W140 (1991-1998)
• S-Class W220 (1998-2005)
• SL-Class R230 (2002-2011)
• ML-Class W163 (1998-2005)