His work with BMW and the fact that the brilliant Ro80, engines aside, inspired Audi to create the 80’s “aero” 100 makes Claus Luthe one of the most influential auto designers ever.
Ex-BMW chief Claus Luthe dies at age 75
Claus Luthe died on 17 March at age 75. As chief designer at BMW from 1976-1990, he supervised the design team that developed the lineup of 3 Series, 5 Series and 7 Series into the epitome of the luxury sports sedan of the 1980s, turning BMW into one of the most desirable (and profitable) brands in the world. He was also the designer of the revolutionary NSU Ro80…
