Citroën SM: Maserati-Engined Grand Tourer

amanico · 2015-07-20T13:26:25Z

Discover the iconic Citroën SM, a unique French Grand Tourer with a Maserati engine and hydraulic suspension. Explore its design, history, and collector appeal.

amanico

WPS member · Automotive forum

51 replies17528 views4 photos

Amanico introduces the iconic Citroën SM, a car celebrated for its distinctive design and advanced engineering, despite its brief production run from 1970 to 1975. This post delves into the unique characteristics of this French Grand Tourer, from its Maserati-derived engine to its innovative hydraulic suspension. The community discussion further explores the SM's appeal, ownership challenges, and its place in automotive history.

A car which was born in 1970, for a short 5 years life, and a very short production of a bit less of 13 000 examples.

Starting with a 2, 7 engine, it ended with a 3 liters. From 170 to 190 HP all along these 5 years.

The car was quite unique with its loooong body ( 4, 80 m ) which is a lot for an european car. With its typical hydraulic suspension, this Citroen was very special.

A lovely Grand Turismo... ala Française.

Here are some pics found on the web:

I've read somewhere that the 3 Liter engine was used in the Maserati Merak, which is not surprising as SM stands for... S Maserati.

Best,

Nicolas

Key Points from the Discussion

The Citroën SM is a striking car that defies conventional beauty, appearing timeless and driving more modern than its vintage suggests, despite known reliability and engine issues.
While the SM is delightful to drive, the standard version may not be extreme enough for some, leading to a fascination with unattainable variants like the 4-door presidential or the 'Mylord' convertible.
The Maserati V6 engine in the SM was a 'clean sheet' design by Alfieri, based on a V8 architecture, and its rapid development contributed to initial difficulties, with its demise ultimately linked to high price and the oil crisis.
The SM was a dream car for many, especially in the US where its rarity, lack of parts, and unfamiliar mechanics made survival difficult, yet it inspired significant passion.
The Maserati-shared engine adds to the SM's allure, and its long body and weight share some DNA with modern Citroën models like the C4, highlighting a lineage of distinctive French automotive design.
Cars of this age are heavily dependent on restoration quality, and while the hydropneumatic suspension is manageable, the Maserati/Citroën engine can be challenging; the 'mushroom' brake is a notable point of contention.

The Discussion

JerryW

Jul 20, 2015

It was a really fun car. Also drove a DS21, amazing ride for such a funny looking car. Was not my car but I seriously thought of buying one. Wish they would bring the line back to the US. JerryW

amanico

Jul 20, 2015

But lovely, yes... Best, Jerry. Nicolas

amanico

Jul 20, 2015

The car was not very reliable, and I don't like hydraulic suspensions . Best, Nicolas

BDLJ

Jul 21, 2015

Cars of this age are as much dependent on the quality of the restoration as of the original engineering... That said, the hydropneumatic suspension is not very ddifficult to keep in good order. The Maserati/Citroen engine and the engine bay are... I've driven one (very nice navy Blue). Very disappointed. Having tried a Merak and several Goddesses, it's doesn't measure up to either (plus I hate the Citroen "mushroom" brake. That said. I adore these cars. A wonderful concept that is utterly lost n

amanico

Jul 21, 2015

So the feelings are much better, if so. I know what you mean with these mushrooms brakes. I was on to have an accident, once, with a CX, just because of that and the waaay to light assisted direction. Best, Nicolas

Marcus Hanke

Jul 21, 2015

UFO: http://2. It was so futuristic! Marcus

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