The Italian design legend Bruno Sacco, who played a significant role in shaping Mercedes-Benz automobiles from the 1950s through the 2000s, passed away at the age of 90 last week. His iconic and sophisticated designs have left a lasting impact on the automotive industry, setting a standard that Mercedes-Benz no longer follows. Sacco’s goal was to create designs that would stand the test of time, and he certainly achieved that.
One of Sacco’s key contributions to Mercedes-Benz design was the concept of “horizontal homogeneity” and “vertical affinity.” Horizontal homogeneity aimed to ensure that the brand’s range of designs shared common stylistic cues, creating a strong visual connection between the smallest and largest models. Vertical affinity focused on designing cars that would not become stylistically obsolete with the release of newer models, emphasizing timelessness in design.
While some may criticize the ML as being less attractive and timeless compared to Sacco’s other designs, it was a commercial success for Mercedes-Benz, selling a significant number of units. The R230-generation SL, launched in 2001, represented the pinnacle of grand touring for Mercedes, showcasing a collaborative design process that involved merging twelve quarter-scale models to create the final product.
In the late 1990s, Mercedes sought to enhance the luxury experience of the S-class by increasing interior volume while maintaining a modern design. The first-generation CLK-Class, a coupe version of the C-class sedan, proved to be a successful model for Mercedes, with over 350,000 units sold globally between 1997 and 2002.
Sacco’s design philosophy truly shined in the W123, W140, and 124-series E-class models, showcasing simplicity, elegance, and durability. The W123, in particular, remains an icon of beauty and functionality, standing out among its contemporaries from the late 1970s.
The pillarless coupe design of the second-generation S-class exemplified Sacco’s dedication to aerodynamics and performance, setting new standards for Mercedes-Benz in handling and efficiency. The SLK, developed for the compact two-seat sports car market of the 1990s, reflected a blend of luxury and sportiness, incorporating design elements from the SL and CLK models.
Sacco’s personal favorite, the 190, was a versatile and comprehensive sedan that became a cornerstone of Mercedes-Benz’s success, with nearly two million units produced over a decade. The C111 concept, Sacco’s first project at Mercedes, explored innovative powertrain technologies and set speed records, showcasing his commitment to pushing boundaries in automotive design.
As we reflect on Bruno Sacco’s legacy, it raises the question of whether his design philosophy continues to influence modern Mercedes-Benz vehicles. Models like the EQE SUV, with its aggressive styling and modern features, deviate from Sacco’s emphasis on simplicity and timelessness. Despite these changes, Sacco’s iconic designs have left an indelible mark on the automotive world, reminding us of his enduring impact on Mercedes-Benz’s design language.
