Turin, Italy – Legendary Italian car designer Marcello Gandini has passed away in Turin at the age of 85, according to Italian news outlet RaiNews. Gandini served as chief designer for Bertone, where he penned a series of iconic cars in the 1960s and 1970s, including the Lamborghini Miura and the first-generation BMW 5 Series concept car.
A Master of Wedge Design
Gandini’s designs were characterized by their sharp, wedge-shaped lines, which were both revolutionary and aesthetically pleasing. His work helped to define the look of the supercar during the golden age of automotive design.
Lamborghini Miura: A Design that Shook the World
In 1966, at the age of 27, Gandini unveiled his masterpiece, the Lamborghini Miura. The Miura was a mid-engined supercar that broke all the rules with its futuristic design and blistering performance. It became an instant icon and is still considered one of the most beautiful cars ever built.
Lamborghini Countach: The Ultimate Supercar
Gandini followed up the Miura with another iconic design, the Lamborghini Countach. The Countach was even more extreme than the Miura, with its wedge-shaped body, scissor doors, and massive rear wing. It was the epitome of the 1980s supercar and remains one of the most recognizable cars of all time.
Beyond Lamborghini
Gandini’s genius was not limited to Lamborghini. He also designed cars for other automakers, including Lancia, BMW, Bugatti, Fiat, Alfa Romeo, Renault, and Jaguar. Some of his other notable designs include the Lancia Stratos, the first-generation BMW 5 Series, and the Citroën BX.
A Legacy of Innovation and Beauty
Marcello Gandini was a true visionary who left an indelible mark on the automotive world. His designs were not only beautiful but also innovative, pushing the boundaries of what was possible. He was a giant of his generation and his work will continue to inspire designers for years to come.
Additional Details
- Gandini was born in Turin, Italy, in 1938.
- He studied industrial design at the Turin Polytechnic.
- He joined Bertone in 1963.
- He left Bertone in 1979 to start his own design studio.
- He retired in 1990.
Quotes
- “The car is a dream, a desire, lasting for millennia.” – Marcello Gandini
Conclusion
Marcello Gandini was one of the most influential car designers of all time. His work helped to shape the look of the supercar and his designs continue to be admired today. He was a true legend of the automotive industry.