• 20th Century motoring icon
• Left-hand drive
• Present ownership since 1998
• Hydropneumatic Suspension extensively overhauled ahead of sale

"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.

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 particular SM was purchased for the collection at a UK auction in 1998 (purchase invoice on file). The car has recently undergone significant recommissioning, carried out by the collection staff (invoices on file), following a lengthy period of static display. Crucially, this included a complete rebuild of the hydropneumatic suspension, as well as comprehensive mechanical recommissioning, which included repairs to the fuel pump; new fuel filter installed; carburettor stripped and rebuilt; fuel lines replaced; fuel tank removed, chemically cleaned and reinstalled; water pipes replaced; radiator removed, cleaned, repaired, and reinstalled; thermostat replaced; water pump repaired; engine oil changed; oil filter replaced; spark plugs replaced; alternator replaced; and a new battery installed.

Accompanying paperwork includes old MoT certificates; parts invoices dated 2023; and an old V5 registration document (RUF 879M). A wonderful opportunity to acquire one of these 20th Century motoring icons.

Please note that this vehicle is from outside the UK. Our customs agents, CARS UK, will manage all post sale customs administration. A fee of £350+VAT will be charged on the buyer's invoice to administer both import or export customs movements. If the buyer also chooses to ship with CARS UK, this will be quoted separately. If this vehicle is to remain in the UK, it will be subject to Import VAT at the reduced rate of 5% on the hammer price. This vehicle will not be available for immediate collection after the sale and will only be released on completion of customs clearance formalities. If you have any questions regarding customs clearance, please contact the Bonhams Motorcar Department.