1973 Citroen

In 1961 Citroën decided that it wanted to make a run at seizing the crown held by the big, established European car brands by launching a revolutionary top model, as part of what it termed ‘Project-S’. This project with the Sci-Fi sounding name did ultimately produce a car that looked like it came from outer space. The design was from the hand of Citroën's designer, Robert Opron, and if this car were launched today it would still be a sensation. The Citroën dealers at the time had great difficulty steering the tremendous public interest in the proper direction. Because Citroën did not have access to a sufficiently powerful engine of its own, in 1963 the company reached out to Maserati in Modena, Italy, where gradually the project began to follow the Italian style of bookkeeping, ultimately requiring the French infusion. Maserati was incorporated in 1968, with the aim of using the V6 engine in the premier SM. Although never officially confirmed, the SM likely stands for ‘Sport Maserati’. That naming missed the mark, however: a BMW 3.0CS or Jaguar E-type was still faster, owing to SM’s 'limited' engine power and relatively high weight. The car was however tremendously well-received and appreciated, owing to its design and Citroën’s traditional technical characteristics, such as the hydro-pneumatic suspension, the speed-sensitive DIRAVI assisted steering system with automatic recoil and high degree of directional stability, and the characteristically rotating headlights. Moreover, the SM had plenty of world-famous admirers, such as, to name a few, Leonid Brezhnev, Jay Leno, Johan Cruyff, Idi Amin and Burt Reynolds. All were big fans, just like you will be.

Sold new in 1972 by an Italian Maserati dealer. Has had only three owners, the last of whom owned the car for more than ten years. The last owner was also an engineer with a deep knowledge of the latest technologies and excellently maintained the car. However, with advancing age, he rarely drove the car, and hence she ultimately came to reside with us here in Warmond. A very fine car lover’s car that is a pleasure to drive. Includes the original mirror in its proper color.