1972 Citröen SM

1972 Citröen SM
Chassis no. AC7200SB4954
2,965cc OHV V-6 Engine
3 Twin-choke Carburetors
170bhp at 5,500rpm
5-Speed Manual Transmission
4-Wheel Independent Hydraulic Suspension
4-Wheel Disc Brakes

*Stunning and seldom seen livery
*Desirable 5-Speed manual transmission
*In the current enthusiast ownership for nearly 40 years
*Expertly maintained by marque specialists
*California car

THE CITROEN SM

Combining Citröen's advanced chassis technology and Maserati's engine know-how, the SM (Série Maserati) featured DS-style hydro-pneumatic suspension, power-assisted, all-around load-sensitive disc brakes and fully-powered, self-centering steering that allowed the car to be set up with zero caster, thereby keeping the tires in full contact with the road at all times. Citröen had acquired Maserati in 1968, principally to acquire the latter's engine technology for its new top-of-the-range Gran Turismo Coupe, and the Italian firm responded to the brief with remarkable speed by the simple expedient of chopping two cylinders off its Indy four-cam 90-degree V-8 to create the required V-6. The styling of the SM was straight out of a 1970s' science fiction movie. The long sleek fastback body, with loads of glass and unadorned flanks, looked like some alien spaceship as it glided along on its self-levelling suspension with skirts over the rear wheels, hydraulically adjustable and swiveling headlamps under curved heated glass, and an asymmetric air intake on the bonnet.

Citröen was the world leader in passenger car aerodynamics at the time, and the SM's class-leading drag coefficient enabled it to reach 140 mph, making it the fastest front-wheel-drive car ever at that time. Fondly remembered, these technically advanced and functionally beautiful cars remain highly sought after today.

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

This Superb Citroen SM was acquired by the consignor in the early 1980s from a fellow Californian Citroen collector. The consignor was drawn to this particular example thanks to its originality, incredible color combination, and highly desirable 5-speed manual transmission. During his nearly 40 years with the car, the consignor has spared no expense in maintaining it to the highest of standards. Over the years, nearly every wearable item has been refurbished or replaced by marque specialists. The hydraulic system is in great working order and really provides an incredibly unique driving experience. The car has received a full bare metal respray in its original color and more recently had the interior restored to as new condition in the original shades.

Accompanying the sale of this space aged cruiser are a number of books, service receipts, and a unique set of factory Citroen engineering drawings and schematics. When considering the cars stunning color combination, highly desirable 5-speed specification, and incredible condition, this long term, enthusiast owned SM coupe is surely one of the best.