To Be OFFERED AT AUCTION
Estimate:
$50,000 - $60,000
- Maserati-designed 2.7-liter DOHC V-6
- Desirable five-speed manual gearbox
- Hydropneumatic suspension
- Documented service and ownership history
- A superb long-distance Grand Tourer
- Please note this lot will need to be collected from St. Louis,
MO
In the late 1960s, Citr�en was riding high on the success of its
revolutionary DS sedan and decided to take the plunge into the
hotly contested sports car market. Initially, the plan was to
modify the existing DS platform into a compact, lightweight rival
to Porsche's all-conquering 911. However, as plans progressed, the
design morphed into a high-speed grand tourer with
Continent-cruising performance and unparalleled luxury. In 1968,
Citroen acquired the ailing Maserati, who supplied them with a
2.7-liter dual overhead cam V-6 engine to propel the new SM.
Continuing the legacy set by the DS, the SM had no shortage of
advanced features, including unitary construction, high-pressure
hydraulic four-wheel disc brakes, fully-adjustable hydropneumatic
suspension, and front-wheel drive, all wrapped in a stunning,
low-drag Avant-Garde body designed by Robert Opron. Just as the DS
moved the goalposts for saloons, the SM did the same for grand
touring coupes.
This US-market SM is an attractive example finished in dark blue
over dark brown leather trim. Powered by the carbureted 2.7-liter
Maserati V-6, it is desirably equipped with the five-speed manual
gearbox. Sold new in California, this Citroen is well-presented in
primarily original condition, benefitting from regular mechanical
service and care over the years, and ideally suited for casual
touring and driving events. The dark blue paint suits the shape
quite well, displaying some minor crazing on close inspection, but
with otherwise good alignment and panel fit. Much of the exterior
trim is original and in sound order, with some slight scuffing
noted, but otherwise consistent with the car's usable nature.
Factory steel wheels wear correct original polished wheel covers
and period-correct Michelin radial tires. The four-seater cabin
features lovely dark brown leather on the seats, which were
restored around 2014. Complementing the seats are preserved
original door cards and carpets. Occupants enjoy such niceties as
power windows and air conditioning.
The service and ownership history dates back to the 1970s, and
records show the 2.7-liter V-6 was completely rebuilt in 2005-2006,
the hydraulic spheres replaced in 2009, and the car received a
comprehensive servicing, including a clutch replacement in 2016.
Few automobiles in history provide such a unique driving experience
as Citroen's brilliant SM, and this example is sure to provide its
next caretaker with years of enjoyment.To view this car and others
currently consigned to this auction, please visit the RM website at
rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/0120.
