Vehicle Description
We have described the Citroen SM ourselves as "truly a car like
none other, before or since". Many share our fondness for these
extraordinary automobiles. The name Citroen SM - 'Sports Maserati '
- reflects the achievement of combining a high-performance Maserati
engine with Citroen's famously sophisticated chassis design.
Development originated with Citroen's Project S in 1961, as an
effort to create a sports variant of the revolutionary Citroen DS.
Citroen took control of Maserati in 1967, as development continued,
with the result of providing a bespoke engine for its most
prestigious model. The Citroen SM was one of the most advanced
production cars in the world when it was introduced in 1970, also
distinguished by a futuristic body created by Citroen chief
designer Robert Opron to draw attention to the technical marvels
that remained out of sight. The front-wheel drive chassis of the SM
incorporates Citroen's famous self-leveling hydropneumatic
suspension that provides an unrivaled level of comfort, excellent
handling and grip. Load-leveling four wheel disc brakes adjust for
differing road conditions. Citroen was the first to offer a
self-centering, variable power steering system with the SM that
allows driver feel on the steering wheel to remain constant from
low speed parking to high speed touring. The Maserati engine in the
SM was designed by legendary engineer Giulio Alfieri, who led
development of the World Championship-winning Maserati 250F F1 and
the 'Birdcage' Maserati sports cars. The compact dohc 2.7-liter V-6
engine was derived from the V-8 engine that powered the
contemporary Maserati Quattraporte sedan. The engine in the SM
produced 170 horsepower in 1972 with three Weber two-barrel
carburetors, providing a top speed of 140 mph. The Citroen SM was
produced from 1970-1975, but offered in the U.S. only briefly from
1972 to 1973 due largely to changing U.S. import regulations at the
time. This U.S. spec 1972 Citroen SM is a pretty driver with a good
history. This is an Arizona dry-climate car, accounting for the
high level of unrestored originality in this example. The stylish
exterior is finished in the rare and attractive color of Orient
Blue that remains in good condition with signs of wear as expected
for the age. The chrome and glass are all correct and original and
also in good condition. The interior is handsomely styled and
finished to a high standard throughout. The first impression seated
in the driver's seat is the signature dashboard, which displays
surprisingly modern contours combined with distinctive oval-shaped
gauges and gold toned brushed aluminum fascia that are unique to
the SM. Controls are well ordered and familiar, including the
highly desirable five-speed gearshift and air conditioning. The
seats have been re-covered utilizing the correct pattern, and the
contoured rear seats are every bit as luxurious as those found in
the contemporary BMW 3.0 CS. The door panels, carpet, headliner and
trim are all correct and original to the car, as is the trunk
lining. Everything in the engine bay looks good and is in undamaged
condition; most importantly, all of the unique components for the
hydropneumatic suspension are correct and in working order. The
engine was rebuilt in 2009, as well as installation of new gas
spheres in the suspension, and a clutch was installed in 2015.
Citroen produced a true Grand Touring automobile with the SM -
reliable, comfortable and fast. The power of the Maserati engine
speaks for itself and, with a 28.8 U.S. gallon gas tank and stated
mileage of 19.8 mpg, the SM can provide an extended cruising range
more than 500 miles in comfort. This is an opportunity to acquire
and enjoy an original and well-maintained example of this fine
automobile. Also included with the sale are the earliest
registration, receipts dating back to 1973 and a website printed
copy of the Citroen SM Operator's Manual. For additional details
please view this listing directly on our website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/5656-1972-citroen-sm-coupe/
