For Sale: 1973 Citroen SM in Saint Louis, Missouri

The most essential of French car companies, Citroen pushed the boundaries of passenger car design like few others. With the mold-shattering DS a tremendous success, Citroen considered a sports car to compete head-to-head with Porsche's all-conquering 911, and in 1968 - voila - Citroen acquired Maserati. Paris turned to Bologna for a new engine, and the Italians initially proposed a 90-degree V6 that was essentially a Maserati V8 minus two cylinders. Once receiving the go-ahead, Maserati's Giulio Alfieri penned a clean-sheet four-cam V6 specifically for the new Citroen SM.
When the SM finally debuted in 1970, it was no longer the lithe sports car first envisioned, having morphed into a grand four-seat GT. The exotic Italian-built 2.7L V6 came with a choice of a 5-speed manual or automatic gearbox, powering the front-wheels. The styling, looking straight from the pages of science fiction, came from Citroen's own Robert Opron, the brilliant designer responsible for the facelifted DS. Viewed from above, the sweeping body tapered like a teardrop and skirted rear wheels made it look as if it was gliding on air. Covered headlamps reduced drag, and like the DS, the main beams swiveled hydraulically with the steering. Much of the chassis was derived from the DS, including the fully adjustable hydro-pneumatic suspension, and high-pressure load sensitive brakes. The SM added Citroen's wild DIRAVI self-centering steering, which virtually eliminated bump steer - although it did require reprogramming of the driver's head! With unparalleled style, superb ride quality and sonorous Italian V6 engine, Citroen's brilliant SM is one of the most exceptional GTs of the era; proudly counted among the most technologically advanced automobiles of all time.
This 1973 SM has been in the care of Citroen enthusiasts since being imported to the United States from Italy in 2016. It is a highly desirable European model, with features including the desirable covered headlamp design, electronic fuel injection, factory air conditioning, and the 5-speed manual gearbox. Attractively finished in its original color of Gris Largentiere Metalisse (code ACO82) over a black leather cabin, with proper details like factory wheel covers and period-correct Michelin radials, this car is a prime example for driving enjoyment, with the backing of an excellent service history.
Upon its arrival stateside in 2016, the then owner - a Citroen enthusiast with several fine examples of the marque in his collection - had it serviced and sorted by Citroen specialists R&R Automobile Restorations of New York. Receipts show the injected Maserati V6 was also tended by Italian car experts Dominick European Car Repair in White Plains, New York. Records show the hydraulics, braking, cooling, electrical and exhaust systems were all tended, with the goal of making the car drive as good as it looks. It has continued to be enjoyed with care under the stewardship of its current owner.
The interior is in fine fettle, with an inviting, broken-in character on the distinctive black leather bucket seats. This car is equipped with electric window and air conditioning for touring comfort.Details like the oval instruments, oval steering wheel, and the chrome shifter make you feel like you're in a spaceship - while the sophisticated hydraulics make it drive like one.
The SM is a masterpiece of design and engineering - a grand tourer with a level of style and sophistication not seen before or since. This wonderful example ticks all the boxes for the discerning enthusiast - in the most desirable 5-speed, fuel-injected, European specification, and a solid service history by marque specialists.

Offers welcome and trades considered.