The film, which is about a submarine crew during World War II, was nominated for six Oscars in 1983, including for best director, best screenplay and best photography.
Five years ago, a German TV series with the same title was made inspired by the original film.
Wolfgang Petersen was also behind a series of blockbuster Hollywood films.
The first was the fantasy film "The Endless Story" in 1984. Just over ten years later, "Outbreak - In the danger zone" came, which is about the fight against a deadly virus with Dustin Hoffman in one of the main roles.
Other blockbusters included "In the firing line" with Clint Eastwood, "Air Force One" with Harrison Ford, "The perfect storm" with George Clooney, and "Troja" with Brad Pitt.
Wolfgang Petersen was 81 years old.