1972 Citroën SM

1972 Citroën SM
Chassis no. 01SB0102
Engine no. 450368
2,670cc DOHC V6 Engine
3 Twin-choke Carburetors
170bhp at 5,500rpm
3-Speed Automatic Transmission
4-Wheel Independent Hydraulic Suspension
4-Wheel Disc Brakes

*Beautiful example of Citroën's 1970s style and technology icon
*Refurbished by marque specialist
*Dazzling Sable métallisé exterior
*Magic carpet hydraulic suspension

THE CITROËN 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

Delivered new to Southern California, Mr. Veir, the Citroen's first owner, would regularly drive this svelte grand tourer for roughly 10 years before stashing the car away within his garage to sit indefinitely. It wasn't until a moment of fate when visiting an automotive bookstore, that the opportunity arose for the car to become the property of its next owner. Sold under the condition that the car would go to a good home in which it would be restored and enjoyed; work began soon after to recondition the car back to its former glory. Marque Specialist, Jerry Hathaway was commissioned to complete the project and the fruits of his efforts are readily apparent. The spectacular period correct Sable métallisé exterior greatly enhances the aura of this magnificent display of 1970s design while the matching brown leather interior is undoubtably a serene environment in which to clock miles of gentle cruising. Do not miss the opportunity to get behind the wheel of one of France's finest creations.