1971 Citroën SM 3.0 Litre
Chassis no. SBD00SD1799

"The SM is neither a sports car nor a luxury limousine, not a prototype for proving a new concept of driving security for tomorrow. But it does combine all three of these concepts into one compete entity." – Citroën.

Combining Citröen's advanced chassis technology and Maserati's engine know-how, the SM (Série Maserati) featured DS-style hydro-pneumatic self-levelling suspension, power-assisted all-round disc brakes, self-centring steering, and steered headlamps. Maserati was responsible for the 90-degree V6 engine, and after some juggling of bore/stroke dimensions, a capacity of 2,670cc was settled on for a power output of 170bhp to fall within the 15CV taxation band. Citröen was the world leader in passenger car aerodynamics at the time, the SM's class-leading drag coefficient enabling it to reach 140mph (225km/h), making it the fastest front-wheel-drive car ever at that time.

The man responsible for styling the SM was Robert Opron, who had managed to persuade the Citroën management that it would be a good idea to have a prestige Gran Turismo at the top of the range. His portfolio while at Citroën would include overseeing the GS and CX ranges, as well as face-lifting the immortal DS. Fuel injection arrived in 1972; an automatic transmission option became available the following year; and the engine was enlarged to 2,974cc before the model was prematurely (some would say criminally) axed in 1975 following Citröen's acquisition by Peugeot, by which time a total of 12,920 had been produced. Fondly remembered, these technically advanced and functionally beautiful cars remain highly sought after today.

This 3.0-litre automatic transmission SM was purchased from City Garage (José Dula) in Courtepin, Switzerland in July 2005, at which time the odometer reading was recorded as 79,350 kilometres. Offered with copies of the City Garage advertisement, the car has been stored since acquisition and will require re-commissioning before returning to the road. A wonderful opportunity to acquire one of these 20th Century motoring icons.

Please note that this vehicle is not offered with any original registration documents, bidders should satisfy themselves as to registration requirements in their own jurisdiction. Please contact the department for further information.

Please note that if this vehicle is to be imported into Switzerland, Swiss Customs charges (Duty, Car Tax and VAT) will apply at roughly 12.5% of the Purchase Price. Included in this is the Swiss Duty which is calculated on the weight of the vehicle and shall be CHF 15 per 100 kg. Also included is Swiss Car Tax at 4% and this is calculated on the total Purchase Price (Hammer + Buyers Premium). Swiss VAT will then be applicable on the aggregated amount of the Hammer Price, Buyer's Premium, Swiss Duty and Swiss Car Tax at a rate of 7.7%.
Please note that customs rates to other countries shall vary. This vehicle will not be available for immediate collection after the sale and will only be released on completion of customs clearance. If you have any questions regarding customs clearance, please contact the Bonhams Motorcar Department or our recommended shippers.