Bruno Sacco, the legendary car designer who crafted some of the most iconic Mercedes-Benz models, has died at the age of 90.
Sacco, who spent over four decades at Mercedes, passed away on September 19, 2023.
Sacco’s career began after graduating from the Polytechnic University of Turin.
Before joining Mercedes in 1958, he honed his skills at famed Italian design houses Pininfarina and Ghia.
His journey at Mercedes saw him become the company’s head of design, where he oversaw every car the brand produced between 1974 and 1999.
The Man Behind the Baby Benz
Sacco’s most renowned work includes the W201 190, often called the "Baby Benz."
Produced between 1982 and 1993, this model revolutionized Mercedes' lineup, offering a smaller, sportier car that appealed to a broader market. It also gave birth to famous variants like the 190E 2.3 16v Cosworth and the EVO I and EVO II models.
Sacco’s design language shaped many beloved models, including the W123, one of Mercedes’ best-selling cars ever, with over 2.7 million units sold between 1975 and 1986.
His last work at Mercedes was the W220 S-Class, produced between 1999 and 2005. Sacco also designed the futuristic C111 concept car in 1970, further cementing his reputation as a visionary.
Timeless Influence
"With the passing of Bruno Sacco, the world loses one of the most important car designers of the 20th century," Mercedes-fans.de wrote in an obituary. "His vehicles are and remain a symbol of timeless beauty and technical excellence."
Sacco's death comes just months after the passing of another legendary automotive designer, Marcello Gandini, the creative force behind Lamborghini’s most iconic cars.
