1971 Citroën SM
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**Please note that these photographs have been supplied by the vendor**
Highlights
- Dry country car - an Ex-Croatian Import, previously based in Portugal
- Only four owners from new
- Remarkable condition in Brun Scarabee and Tan Cuir
- Highly original with a top-quality respray in 2012
The Appeal
One of the most innovative cars in history, the SM is a key example of a car that positively defines its manufacturer. While it didn’t manage to get the market it deserved, the SM was lauded for just how dynamic and capable it was.
All the same, that impressive Maserati powerplant, self-levelling lights, hydro-pneumatic suspension and self-centring steering - it was an imposing car to take on, that required familiarisation and dedicated maintenance. By 1975, it had been dropped by the public in favour of simpler, cruder vehicles - and it took the industry decades to catch up with its futuristic features.
This remarkable example was originally built for the French market. Following this, it went to Portugal, then Croatia. All of this has been conducive to the vehicle’s excellent condition. It’s now been in the UK since June 2023, and for our money may well be one of the finest examples we’ve seen - in an utterly magnificent colour scheme.
The History and Paperwork
- Built in 1971 for the French market
- Imported to Portugal with the car’s second owner in 1988
- Following this it was imported to Croatia in 2018
- It was in March 2023 when it was then purchased by the vendor
- Sadly, the vendor now has to part due to sudden relocation
- MOT exempt but tested this year - valid until April 2024
- Currently indicates 70,980km on a five-figure odometer
- Sadly we can’t authenticate this as the car’s true mileage
- Paperwork file includes:
- Original manual
- Citroen SM guide on CD
- Current MOT certificate
- Recent invoices
The Condition
- Exceptional bodywork, designed by Robert Opron
- Free of any dents or dings
- Painted in Brun Scarabee (AC 427)
- This paintwork was refreshed in 2012 and is still excellent
- Trims in good order with nicely polished brightwork
- Original wheels in excellent order
- Shod in Michelin tyres
- Underside is in good order with only light signs of wear
It’s fair to say that the SM is one of the best bits of 70s automobile styling. Beautifully aerodynamic, with a distinctive Kamm tail, it’s an impeccable looker that had some of the finest drag coefficient performance on the market. It was modernised and unique - and is beautifully presented in Brun Scarabee, which - for our money - is an absolutely magnificent colour for the car.
- Tan Cuir leather interior with plenty of period character
- The upholstery is in exceptional order
- Door cards very nicely presented
- Dashboard is beautifully presented with original instruments
- We’ve not been informed of any technical issues in the cabin
- Some light heel wear around the pedals, though this is very insignificant
- Boot is equally clean and well-kept
Full of character, this SM’s Cuir leather interior is as remarkable as its exterior. It’s beautifully presented, with no rips or tears and a quintessentially 70s-futurist feel throughout. It's exceptionally well-preserved, with no issues to report.
The Mechanics
- 2.7 L 90° V6
- 5-speed manual transmission
- Highly original under the bonnet with no modifications
- Recent engine work carried out includes:
- Solid exhaust valves
- New gaskets
- New top changes
- Oil cooler
- Water hoses
- Reconditioned fan
- Relay and switch
- Other work includes:
- New wheel bearings
- New throttle cable
- New fuel hoses
- New work undertaken by the previous owner includes:
- New spheres all round
- New steering rack
- The latest MOT has a minor advisory for an oil leak and minor suspension wear
When they hit the market, this was one of the most complex cars in the world, and easily the most innovative. The vendor, who's got plenty of experience with the SM, notes that this one is particularly excellent - being a responsive, tight and free-revving car. To our eyes, it looks to be a marvellous example through and through - and that renowned Maserati V6 is proudly on display, ready to take your breath away.
BEFORE YOU BUY
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic’s return policy applies.
✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for details.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is, Where Is’ basis and without warranty. A full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase and bidding is highly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for guidance purposes only.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
✓ UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check, to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing.
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection or delivery.
Vehicle specification
- Year 1971
- Make Citroen
- Model SM
- Colour Brown
- Odometer 70,980 Kilometres
- Engine size 2675
Auction Details
- Seller Type Private
- Town Hackney
- Location London
- Country United Kingdom
9
bids
from 4
bidders
- Fr•••• £41,500 08/03/24
- Fr•••• £40,500 08/03/24
- wa•••• £38,000 03/03/24
- ch•••• £37,000 01/03/24
- Fr•••• £36,000 01/03/24
- Fr•••• £32,000 01/03/24
- Fr•••• £30,000 01/03/24
- si•••• £26,535 01/03/24
- Fr•••• £25,000 01/03/24
The Gallery
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| Bid Amount | Increment |
|---|---|
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