OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE
Chassis No.
00SB8050
n 1961, Citron began work on the new Project S, which was a sporty variant of the successful Citron DS. Produced from 1970 to 1975, the sleek SM was a contender for the European Car of the Year contest and actually won the Motor Trend Car of the Year award in the U.S. in 1972, an unheard-of feat for a non-U.S. vehicle. They were so unique and striking in their appearance that, despite very limited availability in the U.S., they became well-known to hobbyists and remain well-respected and hard to find to this day. First displayed at the 1970 Geneva Auto Show, the early cars were all left-hand drive, and their luxury features were quite unusual for French production of the era. Restrictions to luxury car horsepower were implemented in post-World War II France and Citron responded by maximizing the efficiency, balance, and the best technology available, using the proven 2.7-litre six, which was sourced from Maserati. The SM combined many innovative features, including the hydropneumatic self-leveling suspension, and the articulated headlamps that turned with the steering wheel. Disc brakes were utilized on all four wheels, with the front brakes being inboard, and the engine resides just behind the front axles; the result of all these innovations is a smooth riding, impressive handling luxury car. Designed in-house by Robert Apron, the SM was unusually aerodynamic for the era, with a distinctive Kamm tail and sleek front end. That very front-end limited sales here in the U.S. due to new bumper regulations. A highly advanced French automobile, this 1972 Citron SM is offered from a collection that specializes in various unique marques from around the world, such as this. A largely original example inside and out, the white paint features various touch-up spots and blends nicely with the gold beltline trim. The original factory-installed interior presents well, and the odometer currently shows 34,898, which is believed to be original, but due to the age of the vehicle, the title ds read mileage exempt. Truly ahead of its time, this Citron is loaded with creature comforts, which includes hydropneumatic self-leveling suspension, power brakes, power steering, power windows, air-conditioning, and an AM/FM radio. One of the fastest front-wheel-drive production cars in its era, the 2.7-litre Maserati-sourced V-6 engine is equipped with three Weber carburetors and drives the front wheels via a three-speed automatic transmission. Uniquely designed and engineered, the Citron SM remains one of the most ambitious and forward-thinking grand tourers of the 1970s, blending avant-garde styling with genuinely innovative mechanicals. With a limited number of examples built, it stands today as a rare and fascinating piece of French automotive history that will certainly draw attention and start conversations with enthusiasts of all generations. * 1 of just 675 examples produced * The fastest front-wheel-drive car of the era * Loaded with an array of desirable creature comforts * A highly advanced French automobile From the Kruse Auctions
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