1972 Citroen

In 1961 Citroën decided that it wanted to make a run at the crown with a revolutionary new top model, launching the ‘Project-S’, a project with a Sci-Fi sounding name that did however ultimately produce a car that looked like it was from outer space. The design came from the hand of Citroën designer, Robert Opron, and if this car were launched today it would still be an overnight sensation. The Citroën dealers at the time struggled to steer the vast public interest in the right 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 eventually the project began following the Italian style of bookkeeping and ultimately required a French infusion. Maserati was incorporated in 1968, with the aim being to use the V6 engine in the premier SM. Although never officially confirmed, the SM likely stands for ‘Sport Maserati’. That naming slightly missed the mark, however, as both the BMW 3.0CS and Jaguar E-type were faster, owing to SM’s 'limited' engine power and relatively high weight. Nevertheless, the car was tremendously well-received, 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, the high degree of directional stability, and the characteristically rotating headlights. The SM also claimed a large share of world-famous admirers, such as Leonid Brezhnev, Jay Leno, Johan Cruyff, Idi Amin and Burt Reynolds. All were big fans, just like you will be. However, many admirers are also aware of her technically weaker points, and it is precisely these critical areas that have been vastly improved in the model offered here. In collaboration with Cyril Sars and Citroën Specialist Le Velo, in Wassenaar, this SM’s engine was revised and modified. The vital chain tensioners and valves will cause no problems in this engine. The hydraulic system was revised and all questionable mechanisms repaired or replaced. Serious investment was made in this car – invoices available. A Citroën SM with an expertly revised, newly rebuilt engine is a tangibly different car than a model in which this has not been done. The engine runs more smoothly, is appreciably better balanced and quieter. This car simply drives better, and we invite you to come experience this for yourself.

Originally delivered new in Italy, I purchased this Citroën SM in 2015 from an elderly gentleman who did not drive the car for many years. I immediately noted the originality and hard body, but also realized that a non-running, original engine would require serious investment. Having sold many SM’s over the years, I knew that the discerning buyer would demand that the work that must be done should be done properly, comprehensively and immediately. A ‘small fortune’ was therefore invested in this car, but fortunately the value of the car has appreciated fortuitously in recent years. Although this car will never be a ‘profit maker’ for us, I can guarantee you that it would be very hard to find a better, more beautiful model than this one. Delivered with new MOT and ‘old blue’ Dutch license plates. The market value of this car is in line with the current asking price, and, given the large sums invested in the restoration, I could rightly ask for more. Hence, a good deal for you.