Description
The Citroën SM, a car that speaks volumes and about which books can be written, and of course, many already have been put to paper. A uniquely designed car from a French car manufacturer with Italian technology on board: a more than striking combination.
The elongated lines, the unique front with headlights housed in a kind of glass display case, and the rear distinct from any other car: Citroën showed incredible audacity when they treated visitors to the Geneva Motor Show with the slender coupe. The origin of the name SM has never officially been explained, but actually two possibilities are often mentioned. In the first case, SM stands for Série Maserati, because of the six-cylinder Maserati engine in the front, the second option is Sa Majesté, which is French for ‘Her Majesty’, a name that fits perfectly with ‘Déesse’, which stands for ‘The Goddess’.
The SM was (and is) elegant, exclusive, expensive, and very fast, thanks to its 180 hp strong 2, 965 cc Maserati DOHC engine. Fueled by three Weber 42 DCNF carburettors and coupled with a smooth three-speed automatic transmission, the SM is a fantastic GT with sports car aspirations.
The chic warm grey SM we offer here dates back to 1972 and has been fully restored. This SM was originally delivered in America, making the American destination of the Frenchman recognisable by the absence of the headlight glass covers. The coupe, drawn by the, in automotive circles, legendary Robert Opron, gives the car a line that clearly resembles the DS, without any corresponding feature.
In its time, the SM was the fastest front-wheel-drive production car in the world, only reaching its limit at about 225 kilometers per hour. After five years, in 1975, production of the SM ceased with 13, 000 cars produced. However, only 2, 400 of the American version were built, making this gray-brown SM quite special.
As mentioned, the bodywork has been restored to top quality level. With beautiful paintwork, chrome that is in concours condition, and with the right wheels, tyres, and details, it’s a car to be admired. Gorgeous!
The interior is just as beautiful, with stunning black leather cladding the futuristic designed seats. Electrically operated windows, variable power steering, air conditioning, the steering wheel with a single spoke, and the beautiful Jaeger gauges: everything about this SM exudes luxury and quality. It may almost sound boring after mentioning the perfect bodywork, but there is simply not much you could add to improve the interior either.
The SM’s engine is in optimal condition, the sound of such a Maserati is beautiful, and it has been very well maintained. Of course, the Citroën is equipped with a hydropneumatic suspension and the car has disc brakes with ABS all around.
Looking for an SM in an exceptionally good condition? Then a visit to Brummen is an excellent idea!
