Citroën SM#US exports

In 1961, Citroën began work on 'Project S' – a sports variant of the Citroën DS. As was customary for the firm, many running concept vehicles were developed, increasingly complex and upmarket from the DS.{{cite web|url=http://www.citroenet.org.uk/passenger-cars/michelin/ds/d-sport.html |title=DS – the Search for Speed |website=Citroenet |date=1996}} At some stage in the 9-year project, it evolved from developing a faster variant of the 1955 DS to developing an entirely new, thoroughly engineered car – in terms of engineering effort, a replacement for the high volume DS model. Citroën purchased Maserati in 1968 with the intention of harnessing Maserati's high-performance engine technology to produce a true Gran Tourer car, combining the sophisticated Citroën suspension with a Maserati V6.{{cite web|url=http://www.hemmings.com/hsx/stories/2006/04/01/hmn_feature18.html|title=Citroën SM – Hemmings Motor News|work=hemmings.com}}

The result was the Citroën SM, first shown at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1970. It went on sale in France in September of that year. Factory produced cars were all left-hand-drive, although RHD conversions were done in the UK and Australia.

This car was unusual for France – production of luxury cars was heavily restricted in the country by post-World War II puissance fiscale horsepower tax, so France had not had a production vehicle in this market sector since before World War II.

{{cite news| url=http://www.autonews.com/article/20161029/OEM03/310319967/reliving-the-golden-era-of-french-luxury|title=Reliving the golden era of French luxury|newspaper=Automotive News |date=29 October 2016| access-date=5 March 2017}}

The SM had an engine of only 2.7 liters owing to these regulations; it was the first response to the luxury/performance sector since the export oriented Chrysler Hemi V8 engine Facel Vega in the late 1950s.{{cite web|url=http://www.facel-vega.com/mageng1.shtml|title=Facel Vega Home Page|work=facel-vega.com|access-date=3 February 2015|archive-date=11 May 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180511152448/http://www.facel-vega.com/mageng1.shtml|url-status=dead}} Citroën's flagship vehicle competed with high-performance GTs of the time from other nations and manufacturers, such as Jaguar, Ferrari, Aston Martin, Alfa Romeo, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche and Maserati's Merak.

The origin of the model name 'SM' is not completely clear. The 'S' may derive from the Project 'S' designation, the aim of which was to produce what is essentially a sports variant of the Citroën DS, and the 'M' perhaps refers to Maserati, hence SM is often assumed to stand for "Systeme Maserati" or "Sports Maserati". Another common alternative is Série Maserati,{{cite web |title=A Maserati Collection II |url=http://www.maserati-alfieri.co.uk/maser14.htm |access-date=18 February 2011}}{{cite web |title=1974 Citroën SM V8: A Mystery No More |date=27 September 2010 |url=http://www.autoweek.com/article/20100928/COLLECTOR/100929868 |access-date=18 February 2011}} but others have suggested it is short for 'Sa Majesté' (Her Majesty in French), which aligns with the common DS model's nickname 'La déesse' (The Goddess).

The SM did not find a sufficient customer base in the small European GT market, but much of the SM's technology was carried forward to the successful Citroën CX, launched in 1974 the DIRAVI steering being the most obvious example. The same basic engine in enlarged 3.0 L form (some in Italy had 2.0 L) was used in Maserati's own Merak (1,800 units) and later with some modification in the Biturbo (40,000 units).{{cite web|url=http://www.carthrottle.com/post/retrospective-maserati-biturbo/|title=Retrospective: Maserati Biturbo|work=carthrottle.com|date=18 May 2015 }} The Merak, Khamsin, and Bora, used Citroën's high-pressure hydraulics for some functions, and the Citroën gearbox in the Merak, during the Citroën-Maserati alliance.

Contemporary automotive journalists were effusive about the SM's dynamic qualities, which were unlike anything they had experienced before. The SM provided a combination of comfort, sharp handling, and braking not available in any other car at the time.{{Cite web|url=https://drive-my.com/en/test-drive/item/1624-gian-test-citroen-sm-2-7-vs-bmw-3-0-cs.html |title=Giant test Citroen SM 2.7 vs BMW 3.0 CS E9 |date=29 April 2014 }} CAR Magazine 1972 The magazine Popular Science reported that the SM had the shortest stopping distance of any car they had tested.{{cite web|url=http://jalopnik.com/264002/citroen-sm | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20221210003214/https://jalopnik.com/citroen-sm-264002 | archive-date = 2022-12-10 | title=Citroen SM| first = Jonny | last = Lieberman|work=Jalopnik|date=29 May 2007 }}

Automotive journalists marveled at the resulting ability to travel for hours at {{convert|200|km/h|mph|0|abbr=on}} in comfort.{{cite web|url=http://www.hemmings.com/hsx/stories/2014/11/01/hmn_feature1.html |title=Driving the Future – 1972 Citroën SM |website=Hemmings}} In 1972 Motorsport (U.K.) noted ..."that rare quality of being a nice car to be in at any speed, from stationary to maximum."{{cite magazine|url=http://www.motorsportmagazine.com/archive/page/december-1972/44 |title=The Citroen SM |magazine=Motor Sport Magazine |date=December 1972 |page=44}} The touring range based on the SM's fuel economy and the large {{convert|90|L|abbr=on}} fuel tank made long, fast, relaxing journeys possible.{{cite web|url=http://auto.howstuffworks.com/citroen-sm.htm |website=How Stuff Works | title=Citroen SM }}

Because the SM had a smaller {{cvt|170|PS|kW|0}} engine than competitors, the acceleration was adequate rather than exemplary – some competitors were quicker. Some owners have fitted the similar sized {{cvt|220|PS|kW|0}} Maserati Merak SS engine, which does improve the driving experience considerably.{{cite web|url=http://www.classicandperformancecar.com/features/octane_features/275635/driven_citroen_sm.html | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20121225082852/http://www.classicandperformancecar.com/features/octane_features/275635/driven_citroen_sm.html | archive-date = 2012-12-25 | date = November 2011 | title = Driven: Citroen SM | first= Keith | last = Adams | work = Octane | publisher = Classic and Performance Car }} The fuel consumption compared favorably to its competitors.

The SM combined many unusual and innovative features, some of which were only becoming commonplace on cars manufactured many decades later. It borrowed heavily from the innovations introduced on the DS, by including hydro-pneumatic (oleo pneumatic) self-leveling suspension, and self-leveling lights that swiveled with the steering (except in the United States, where these were illegal at the time).

The SM was Citroën's means of demonstrating just how much power and performance could be accommodated in a front-wheel drive design. This was novel, and many technical issues needed to be overcome, especially related to torque steer, where excessive steering feedback affects control of the vehicle.

A solution was found – no road feedback at all – the driver points and goes, regardless of what the driven wheels are experiencing.{{cite web | url = http://autoweek.com/article/classic-cars/we-drive-seductive-citroen-sm-rad-renault-5-turbo-and-other-certifiable-french | title = We drive the seductive Citroen SM, rad Renault 5 Turbo and other certifiable French classics | last = Kozak | first = Graham | work = Autoweek | date = 2015-05-06 | publisher = Hearst Autos, Inc. }} Hitting a pothole at high speed would not turn the steering wheel in the driver's hands.

{{multiple image

| align = right

| direction = vertical

| image1 = Rétromobile 2008 (52).jpg

| width1 = 180

| caption1 = Headlights turn with front wheels, to see around corners

| image2 = Citroen SM Injection Electronique 1972 (15216041494).jpg

| width2 = 180

| caption2 = Tailgate open

| image3 = Citroen SM (14521154082).jpg

| width3 = 180

| caption3 = Fiberglass wheels option

}}

This new type of variable assist power steering was later fitted to the Citroën CX in large numbers and its basic principle has since spread throughout the vehicle production.{{cite web|url=http://www.cnet.com/videos/top-5-citroen-sm-innovations-that-saw-the-future/|title=Top 5: Citroen SM innovations that saw the future – CNET|publisher=CBS Interactive|work=CNET}} DIRAVI as it was called, allowed great assistance to the motorist while parking, but little assistance at motorway speeds. The system adjusts the hydraulic pressure on the steering centering cam according to vehicle speed so that the amount of steering feel remained almost constant at any speed, counteracting the tendency of manual and ordinary power assisted steering to feel light at high speed. Thus the car turns easily at low speed, emphasized by high gearing given two turns lock-lock, and relatively more effort is required at higher speed.

If the driver released the steering wheel, then the steering would center back to the straight ahead position. It was geared for minimal steering input – with two turns from lock to lock, it is often described as go kart-like.

Many contemporary reviewers remarked that this system would take at least {{cvt|80|km|mi|0}} of driving to become familiar, but once the driver is accustomed to the system, then traditional steering feels old-fashioned.'Wheel December 1970

This steering was controversial at the time – the exaggerated, strong-arm steering inputs required in contemporary cars could cause abrupt manoeuvres in the SM.{{cite web|url=http://www.espadatechsite.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=115:espada-v-jag-e-v-aston-martin-v-citroen-sm&catid=4:literature&Itemid=9|title=1972 Espada V Jag E V Aston Martin V Citroen SM| first = Lars | last = Christensen |work=espadatechsite.com}} When the SM was cast as a TV series regular on The Protectors (1972), the lead actress refused to drive it, because of the familiarization required from the steering.{{cite magazine|magazine=Thoroughbred & Classic Cars|publisher=Emap Automotive, Peterborough, UK|date=February 2003|page=92|title=Starstruck| first =Martin | last = Buckley}}

The DIRAVI steering is self-centering and fully powered (as opposed to hydraulically assisted). This feature allows the front wheels to run near-zero caster, and means that there is no camber change as lock is applied, and also ensures that the maximum amount of tyre area is in contact with the road at all times.

The wiper mechanism, when on the "low speed" setting, is 'sensitive' to rain, by measuring the current needed to drive the wiper motor, while the steering column is adjustable in both height and reach.

The braking system, adapted from the DS, employs disc brakes at all four corners (the DS has drums at the rear), with the front brakes being inboard, and cooled via large ducts on the front underside of the car. The hydraulic braking pressure front to rear balance is self-adjusting according to the weight in the rear of the car, so on hard braking the entire car lowers evenly.The Longest Yard – Lockdown Edition DVD, selection 02638, Paramount Home Entertainment, 2005.

Standard wheels are steel with stainless trims, but for the rigors of off-road racing, Michelin developed a unique solution – a lightweight fiberglass wheel, which became a factory fitted option. These plastic wheels weigh less than half the standard weight and were decades in advance of similar applications. Hemmings and others are wrong when mentioning Michelin's "Roues Resin" as carbon fiber wheels,{{cite web |url=http://www.hemmings.com/hmn/stories/2007/04/01/hmn_feature23.html |title=Reinventing the Wheel Leave it to Citroën to bring the world's first resin wheels to market |first=David | last = LaChance |work=Hemmings |date=April 2007 |access-date=14 October 2015}}{{Cite web |url=http://www.cats-citroen.net/citroen_sm/sm_history.html |title=Citroën SM History | archive-date= 2010-12-26 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20101226195349/http://www.cats-citroen.net/citroen_sm/sm_history.html | work = Cats Citroën Net | first = Jeroen | last = Cats | url-status=dead }} the wheels contain glass fibers, not carbon fibers.{{cite web | url=http://www.citroen-sm.org/wiki/index.php/Wheels | title=Wheels - Citroën SM Wiki }} This is very clear when seeing the backside of the rims.{{cite web | url=https://thecarhobby.blogspot.com/2011/10/michelin-resine-renforcee-wheel.html | title=The Car Hobby: The Michelin Résine Renforcée Wheel | date=10 October 2011 }} Jalopnik also wrongly states that the wheels are made with carbon fibers {{cite web |url=http://jalopnik.com/michelin-made-carbon-fiber-wheels-for-citroen-back-in-1-1543922374 |title=Michelin Made Carbon Fiber Wheels For Citroën Back In 1971 |first=Máté |last=Petrány |work=Jalopnik |date=17 March 2014 |access-date=31 July 2015}}

Designed in-house by Citroën's chief designer Robert Opron, the SM bears a family resemblance to the Citroën CX and Citroën GS, and to some extent the Maserati Mistral. Like the CX, the SM retains the rear fender skirts, and seen from above, the SM resembles a teardrop, with a wide front track tapering to a narrower rear track.

The SM was unusually aerodynamic for its era, with a Kamm tail and low drag coefficient. At launch, Citroën claimed a drag coefficient of 0.26,'Motor Trend' magazine (USA), May 1970 issue although it later published a revised figure of 0.339.{{cite web |url=http://www.citroenet.org.uk/miscellaneous/aero/aero01.html |title=Citroenet.org, Aerodynamics (reproduced from Citroen in-house magazine Double Chevron #59 1980) |first=Julian |last=Marsh |date=1999 |access-date=15 February 2023}} The ventilation intake is located in a "neutral" area on the hood, which makes the ventilator fan regulate the interior ventilation at all road speeds.

{{multiple image

| align = left

| direction = horizontal

| image1 = Citroen SM - Flickr - exfordy (1).jpg

| width1 = 200

| caption1 = The SM in profile

| image2 = Paris - Retromobile 2014 - Citroën SM Mylord Cabriolet Chapron - 1975 - 006.jpg

| width2 = 200

| caption2 = The SM interior

}}

With its distinctly modernist influence, the interior styling of the SM is as dramatic as the exterior. The small oval steering wheel is matched by oval gauges. The manual shift lever 'boot' is a highly stylized chrome gate. The seats are highly adjustable buckets with centre padding composed of many individual 'rolls'. High-quality materials are used throughout. The bonnet is aircraft grade aluminum, while the external bright work is stainless steel, rather than 'cheaper' chrome (except for "plastichrome" "SM" trim at the rear base of the rain gutter).

In 1970, it was the fastest front-wheel-drive car, with a factory-quoted top speed of {{convert|220|km/h|mph|0|abbr=on}}, and independent tests achieving as much as {{convert|235|km/h|mph|abbr=on}}. It was an example of the car as a symbol of optimism and progressive technology, similar to the SM's contemporary, the Concorde aircraft.{{cite web|url=http://www.ftp-artnum.com/AON_LDA/2014/01/citroen-sm-collectionnez-la-maintenant/|title=CITROËN SMCOLLECTIONNEZ-LA MAINTENANT !|work=Aon – LDA Classic Car|access-date=6 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150207005256/http://www.ftp-artnum.com/AON_LDA/2014/01/citroen-sm-collectionnez-la-maintenant/|archive-date=7 February 2015|url-status=dead}}

The SM's design placed eleventh on Automobile Magazine{{'}}s 2005 "100 Coolest Cars" listing.

==US exports==

File:1972 Citroen SM US model.jpg system.]]

The main export market for the SM was the U.S., where the market for personal luxury cars was much larger than in Europe. Competitors included the Cadillac Eldorado, Lincoln Mark IV and Ford Thunderbird alongside Italian, British, and German imports.{{cite web | url = http://boitierrouge.com/2015/05/16/citroen-sm-la-chute-de-sa-majeste/ | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150819165439/http://boitierrouge.com/2015/05/16/citroen-sm-la-chute-de-sa-majeste/ | archive-date = 2015-08-19 | title= Citroën SM: la chute de "Sa Majesté" | trans-title = Citroën SM: "Her Majesty's" fall | first = Paul | last = Clément-Collin | publisher=Boitier Rouge |date=16 May 2015 | language = fr }} The unique design of the SM made quite a splash and won the Motor Trend magazine's Car of the Year award in 1972, unheard of for a non-US vehicle at the time.Motor Trend February 1972{{cite news|url=https://www.motortrend.com/news/ultimate-car-year-finalist-1972-citroen-sm/|title=Why the Strange Citroen SM Was Our First Foreign Car of the Year|publisher=Motor Trend| first = Scott | last = Evans|newspaper=Motortrend |date=28 March 2013|access-date=14 April 2021}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.budgetdirect.com.au/blog/award-winning-cars-every-car-of-the-year-winner.html|title = Award-winning cars: Every Car of the Year Winner|date = September 2020}}

The SM's system of six replaceable-bulb composite halogen headlamps with swivelling high beams was illegal in the U.S., where regulations at the time required all vehicles to have two or four round sealed-beam headlamps on fixed mounts and with no lens or other covering in front of them.{{cite news|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2013-03-28/audi-wants-to-change-a-45-year-old-u-dot-s-dot-headlight-rule|title=Audi Wants to Change a 45-Year-Old U.S. Headlight Rule|publisher=BloombergBusinessweek| first = Angela | last = Greiling Keane|newspaper=Bloomberg.com|date=28 March 2013|access-date=22 August 2016}} So, SMs for the U.S. market were fitted with four exposed round non-swivelling sealed beams.

Despite initial success, U.S. sales ceased suddenly when Citroën did not receive an expected exemption for the 1974 model year {{convert|5|mph|km/h|abbr=on}} bumper regulation imposed by the NHTSA. The integral variable height suspension of the SM made compliance impossible.{{Cite journal| url=https://reason.com/1978/03/01/billion-dollar-bumpers/| first = Jack | last = Solomon | title = Billion Dollar Bumpers| journal = Reason| date = March 1978}} The 1974 SMs built for the U.S. market (134 cars), could not be supplied to Americans due to the effective date of the bumper regulation, so were sold in Japan instead.{{cite magazine|title=SM:Into the mystic|magazine=Car Magazine |page=38 |date=December 1979 | first = Steve | last = Cropley}}

==Engines==

File:1969 Giulio Alfieri and SM V6 engine.jpg and SM engine in May 1969]]

The SM was sold with a small, lightweight engine in various forms, designed from scratch by Giulio Alfieri but capable of being assembled on the existing tooling for the Maserati V8 engine. Because of this, the engine sported an unusual 90° angle between cylinder banks – a trait shared with the later PRV V6. It was a very compact and innovative design that allowed the use of just one pattern for the cylinder heads and an intermediate shaft extended out to drive the auxiliaries.

The engine was aluminum, weighing just {{cvt|140|kg|lb|0}}, and was always mounted behind the front axle.{{cite web|url=http://www.maserati-alfieri.co.uk/menotti12.htm|title=Maserati Engines II|work=maserati-alfieri.co.uk}}

The size of the 2.7 L engine was limited by French puissance fiscale taxation, which made large displacement vehicles too expensive to sell in any quantity in France.

File:Citroen SM Twin Turbo.JPG, California – achieved {{convert|325|km/h|abbr=on}} at Bonneville Salt Flats ]]

One SM had a Maserati V8 motor – this was a heavily used test bed developed by Maserati for the 1974 Maserati Quattroporte II.{{cite web|url=http://autoweek.com/article/1974-citron-sm-v8-mystery-no-more|title=1974 Citron SM V8: A Mystery No More – Autoweek|work=autoweek.com|date=27 September 2010}} Despite developing {{convert|260|HP|abbr=on|order=flip}}, the car required relatively modest adjustments, and the performance made the SM into a true sporting car.{{cite web|url=http://www.autotraderclassics.com/car-article/The+lost+prototype+Reborn+_+Citroen+SM+V8-84209.xhtml|title=AutoTraderClassics.com – Article The lost prototype Reborn – Citroen SM V8|work=autotraderclassics.com}}

One SM had a V6 twin Turbo – developed by specialist Jerry Hathaway (SM World) for land speed record testing at Bonneville Salt Flats – achieving {{convert|202|mph|order=flip|abbr=on}}.

Smooth shifting 5-speed manual transmissions were fitted to most SMs. A 3-speed Borg Warner fully automatic transmission was an option in North America in 1972–73, and in Europe 1974–75.

The engine was also used in the Maserati Merak from 1972 to 1982. Later versions of the Merak SS had much larger valves and developed {{convert|220|HP|||abbr=on|order=flip}}. The Ligier JS2 sports car also used this V6 engine. The final SMs were produced in the Ligier factory in Vichy.

Under new ownership, Maserati developed the 1981 Biturbo model, by applying turbocharging to this engine, and sold 40,000 units.

File:Rétromobile 2011 - Citroën SM Rallye du Maroc 1971 - 003.jpg]]

The SM won its first competitive outing, the gruelling 1971 Rallye du Maroc. Citroën continued rallying the SM, eventually developing a "breadvan" short-wheelbase racing variant.

SM World, a marque specialist in Los Angeles, California, produced a turbocharged SM, which in 1987 set the land speed record for production vehicles in its class at the Bonneville Salt Flats, Utah – traveling {{convert|202|mph|km/h|order=flip|abbr=on}}.{{cite web|url=http://www.lefigaro.fr/automobile/2007/12/28/03001-20071228ARTFIG00408-des-californiens-fanatiques-du-chevron.php|title=Des Californiens fanatiques du Chevron|work=Le Figaro|date=28 December 2007}}

After the 1974 bankruptcy of Citroën, Peugeot took ownership of the company and, in May 1975, divested from Maserati. Peugeot quickly decided to stop building the SM, as production had dropped to 294 cars in 1974 and 115 units the final year.

Observers often attribute the demise of the SM to the 1973 oil crisis and economic recession.{{cite web|url=http://www.westbriton.co.uk/Ultimate-flight-fancy-sealed-Citro-n-s-fate/story-11398987-detail/story.html|title= Ultimate flight of fancy that sealed Citroën's fate |work=West Briton| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402121149/http://www.westbriton.co.uk/Ultimate-flight-fancy-sealed-Citro-n-s-fate/story-11398987-detail/story.html|archive-date=2 April 2015|url-status=dead}}

While the oil shock certainly affected sales, many far more profligate cars were introduced at the same time the SM ceased production, including the hydropneumatically suspended Mercedes-Benz 450SEL 6.9. Peugeot even introduced a V6 powered car of similar displacement and fuel consumption in 1975, the 604. In the U.S. (the main export market for the SM), the SM was actually an economical vehicle relative to its competitors.{{cite magazine|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=pdvMRoDOTbMC&q=citroen&pg=PA5|title=European Thoroughbreds: What Are Their Secrets? |magazine=Popular Science |page=40 |date=December 1973 | first1 =Jan P. | last1 = Norbye |first2= Jim | last2 = Dunne | author-link2 = Jim Dunne (automotive spy photographer) }} However, the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) imposed new automotive design regulations in 1974, effectively banning the Citroën from the U.S. market.

As illustrated under production numbers, SM sales declined starting in 1972. This appears to be attributable to maintenance issues. Like an exotic Italian car, the Weber carburetors require frequent adjustment. Many engines experienced failure at 60,000 km – it was unclear to most owners that the interference engine design has timing chains that require manual adjustment, an issue not corrected until long after production ceased.Citroën SM' Osprey Autohistory, Jeff Daniels, 1981, {{ISBN|0-85045-381-X}} The 90° engine timing was unfamiliar to mechanics in the 1970s. Only Buick (1962–66; 1975–) and Jeep (1966–71) used a V6 with 90° between banks of cylinders. Another issue that has been resolved with retrofit is the unreliable ignition breaker cassettes.

Most vehicles require only generalist maintenance, where any competent mechanic can properly maintain the vehicle. Certain vehicles – like Citroëns and Ferraris – require specialist care due to their unique design. While a sturdy car if maintained rigorously, an SM requires two sets of specialist care – Citroën specialists, which are widespread in Europe, and a rarer Maserati specialist, to keep the engine in tune.{{cite web|url=http://www.conceptcarz.com/vehicle/z13879/Citroen-SM.aspx |title=1972 Citroen SM History, Pictures, Value, Auction Sales, Research and News| website=Conceptcarz}} Once potential buyers began to realize this, sales dropped precipitously.

The Quai André-Citroën factory on the banks of the Seine River in Paris closed in 1974, necessitating new manufacturing facilities for both the DS and the SM. The runout DS models were built at the new Aulnay-sous-Bois factory, while the final 135 examples of the SM were built by Ligier.{{cite web | url = https://www.classicdriver.com/en/article/cars/citroen-sm-restomod-a-modern-day-concorde-road | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20210528074925/https://www.classicdriver.com/en/article/cars/citroen-sm-restomod-a-modern-day-concorde-road | archive-date = 2021-05-28 | date = 2020-02-11 | work = Classic Driver | title = This Citroën SM restomod is a modern-day Concorde for the road | first = Etienne | last = Raynaud }}

Components of the SM lived on, albeit mirror imaged – in the Maserati Merak (engine, transmission) and the Lotus Esprit (transmission). The successful Citroën CX carried forward most of the SM's dynamic qualities, including the trendsetting speed sensitive power steering.

A total of 12,920 SMs were produced during its lifetime. Sales declined steeply each year following the first full year of production. The North American market took 2,400 cars in 1972 and 1973.{{cite web|url=http://www.citroenet.org.uk/passenger-cars/passenger-cars-index.html|title=The Cars of Citroën index|work=citroenet.org.uk}}

The factory produced just a single body style – a LHD two-door fastback fixed head coupé, but the design did inspire a variety of derivatives, none produced in any quantity.

File:Citroën SM présidentielle - trois-quart.JPG|1972 Citroën SM présidentielle

File:Paris - Retromobile 2014 - Citroën SM Mylord Cabriolet Chapron - 1975 - 003.jpg|1975 Citroën SM Mylord – sold at auction in 2014 for €548,320 (US$754,220)

File:SM Opera ar.jpg|1974 Citroën SM Opéra

File:1972 Citroën SM breadvan.jpg|"Breadvan", short-wheelbase racing variant

File:1972 Citroën SM Frua.jpg|1972 Citroën SM Frua concept

Coachbuilder Henri Chapron from Levallois-Perret produced several very collectible variants of the SM.

French Presidents from Georges Pompidou to Jacques Chirac enjoyed touring Paris in the two 4-door convertible Citroën SM présidentielle models, sharing them with such notables as Pope John Paul II and visiting heads of state. The inaugural drive for this version was a month after completion, by Pompidou and Queen Elizabeth II in May 1972.{{cite magazine | title = La République en Mouvement | trans-title = The Republic on the Move | language = fr | page = 59 | ref = EH08 | first = Eric | last = Hélaine | magazine = Rétroviseur | date = October 2008 | number = 238 | publisher = Éditions LVA | location = Fontainebleau, France | issn = 0992-5007 }} Built by Chapron to a design by Citroën, the chassis was stretched by {{cvt|52|cm|in|1}} to an overall length of {{cvt|5.60|m|in|1}}. These manual transmission cars have special low gearing and additional cooling suitable for parade use, allowing them to travel at a speed of {{cvt|6-7|km/h|mph|1}}.Hélaine (2008), p. 57. They also feature a small, rearward-facing dropdown seat for the use of a translator or secretary, and an electrically powered top with hydraulic actuators. The SM présidentielles served for 37 years and were retired with around {{cvt|25000|km|mi}} on their odometers.

Chapron also created five convertibles (SM Mylord) and seven sedans (SM Opéra). Original examples of these rare models are very valuable – the last MyLord sale recorded was for €548,320 in February 2014.{{Cite web |url=http://www.artcurial.com/en/asp/fullCatalogue.asp?salelot=2400+++++326+&refno=10448628 |title=Rétromobile 2014 & Solo Alfa by Artcurial Motorcars - Sale N° 2400 - Lot N° 326 | Artcurial | Briest - Poulain - F. Tajan |access-date=20 November 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150923174056/http://www.artcurial.com/en/asp/fullCatalogue.asp?salelot=2400+++++326+&refno=10448628 |archive-date=23 September 2015 |url-status=dead }} Some SM owners have made their own copies of the SM convertible in particular.{{cite web|url=http://www.lefigaro.fr/automobile/2014/01/22/30002-20140122ARTFIG00535-sm-chapron-cabriolet-oh-mylord.php|title=Citroën SM Chapron Cabriolet, oh Mylord !|work=Le Figaro|date=22 January 2014}} Unlike the DS, the factory never authorized a convertible model, as Citroën felt the roof was integral to the structure of the SM.'Citroën SM' Osprey Autohistory, Jeff Daniels, 1981, {{ISBN|0-85045-381-X}} On the SM, the roof and rear quarter panels were welded on.

In 1971, Heuliez produced two examples of pillarless targa top convertible, the SM Espace.{{Cite web |url=http://www.artcurial.com/en/asp/fullCatalogue.asp?salelot=2138+++++217+&refno=10394694 |title=Sport & GTS au Mans Classic - Sale N° 2138 - Lot N° 217 | Artcurial |access-date=31 January 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304202723/http://www.artcurial.com/en/asp/fullCatalogue.asp?salelot=2138+++++217+&refno=10394694 |archive-date=4 March 2016 |url-status=dead }} Unlike the factory SM, the rear quarter windows could retract into the bodywork.

Just before the SM's demise, Citroën produced several short-wheelbase racing versions with squared-off rear sections and highly tuned engines – known as the "breadvan" model.

In the UK, three official RHD prototypes were constructed by Middleton Motors, a Citroën dealer in Hertfordshire, England. At least one of these prototypes still survives.

In Australia, 12 cars were converted to RHD by Chappel Engineering in Melbourne, Australia for Dutton's (the Australian importer of Citroën at the time).{{cite web|url=http://www.shannons.com.au/auctions/lot/ABN0FCE159F3CA6P/#.VG0WVYu4lsY|title=Citroen SM Coupe (RHD) Auctions – Lot 24 – Shannons|work=shannons.com.au|access-date=19 November 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141129171721/http://www.shannons.com.au/auctions/lot/ABN0FCE159F3CA6P/#.VG0WVYu4lsY|archive-date=29 November 2014|url-status=dead}} Cars are still being modified with RHD controls and dashboards for the Australian market, where RHD is mandatory.

In the U.S., 100 cars were fitted with an electric sliding steel sunroof built by ASC.

Frua also proposed a concept car based on the SM, a front-wheel-drive car that closely resembled the mid-engine Maserati Merak.

In the spring of 1974, Maserati created a special {{convert|260|HP|order=flip|abbr=on|0}} 4.0 L V8 engine based on the latest C114-11 engine variant. This engine, installed in a standard SM, tested over 12,000 kilometers. The engine was then removed and preserved, while the rest of the car was destroyed by Alejandro de Tomaso. The SM Club of France created an exact replica of this car using the actual engine from the original and displayed it at the Rétromobile 2010 show.

Unfortunately, the intended recipient never received this V8. The Maserati Quattroporte II was a Maserati-badged, four-door variant of the SM with an angular body and lengthened floorpan. The six headlights were retained and the later 'SS' version of the engine fitted. This model was introduced at the time of Citroën's bankruptcy in 1974. It entered production in 1976 and only twelve were produced between then and 1978.{{Cite book | last = Tabucchi | first = Maurizio | title = Maserati: The Grand Prix, Sports and GT cars model by model, 1926–2003 | publisher = Giorgio Nada Editore s.r.l. | location = Milano | pages = 288–289 | year = 2003 | isbn = 8879112600 }}

File:Citroën SM interior, brown (1).jpg]]

Like the Citroën DS, the SM has had many celebrity owners.

General Secretary of the Communist Party of the USSR Leonid Brezhnev,{{cite web|url=http://www.klassiekerlogeren.nl/main.php/v/SM/Brez/pics/Brezhnev+at+Russian+Embassy+in+Paris_+France.jpg.html|title=Brezhnev and his Citroën SM|work=klassiekerlogeren.nl|access-date=31 January 2015|archive-date=3 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150203083320/http://www.klassiekerlogeren.nl/main.php/v/SM/Brez/pics/Brezhnev+at+Russian+Embassy+in+Paris_+France.jpg.html|url-status=dead}} Rolling Stones bassist Bill Wyman,{{cite web|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/cars/classics/bill-wyman-cars-at-goodwood-auction/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151119094440/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/cars/classics/bill-wyman-cars-at-goodwood-auction/ |archive-date=19 November 2015 | title=Two Bill Wyman cars to be auctioned at Goodwood Festival of Speed |date=6 May 2015 |url-status=dead |work=The Telegraph}} Adam Clayton of the rock group U2,{{cite web|url=http://bringatrailer.com/listing/1972-citroen-sm-2/ |title=1972 Citroen SM 5-Speed |website=Bring a Trailer Auctions|date=15 February 2024 }} and Emperor Haile Selassie I of Ethiopia each drove SMs, while Ugandan dictator Idi Amin had seven of them.{{cite web|url=http://www.mink.net.au/?p=395|title=MinkMeister – Citroen SM|work=Some things matter|date=22 December 2014 }} The Shah of Iran drove an SM.

Actors Lorne Greene and Lee Majors, composer John Williams, author Graham Greene, and former Mauritian QC and Politician Sir Gaetan Duval (1930–1996), football player Johan Cruijff, Rolling Stones drummer Charlie Watts, Cheech & Chong's Cheech Marin and Thomas Chong,{{cite web |url=http://www.petrolicious.com/attaining-nirvana-in-a-citroen-ds |title=Attaining Nirvana in a Citroën DS |date=20 February 2015 |website=Petrolicious |access-date=14 May 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150518081457/http://www.petrolicious.com/attaining-nirvana-in-a-citroen-ds |archive-date=18 May 2015 |url-status=dead }} motorcycle racer Mike Hailwood,{{Cite web|url=http://www.lap63.co.uk/#!sm-hailwood/cckw|title = Your Ultimate Destination for All Automobile News, Reviews and Vehicle Prices}} composer John Barry, and musician Carlos Santana, all owned SMs as well.{{cite web|url=http://citroens.citroen1.info/Amsterdam2003/cruijf.htm|title=AutoRAI 2003 – Johan Cruijf's SM|work=citroen1.info|access-date=31 January 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150814184849/http://citroens.citroen1.info/Amsterdam2003/cruijf.htm|archive-date=14 August 2015|url-status=dead}} Yugoslav and Croatian singer Mišo Kovač had his very own golden SM.

As of 2019, Guy Berryman of Coldplay was driving an SM.{{cite web |url=https://www.motorious.com/articles/news/346266/check-out-coldplay-star-guy-berryman-s-garage| first =Tyler | last = Heatley | work=Motorious| title=Check out Coldplay star Guy Berryman's garage| date=24 April 2019}} Television host and comedian Jay Leno's SM is seen frequently in the background of his Jay Leno's Garage YouTube videos.{{cite web|url=http://www.popularmechanics.com/cars/jay-leno/4227132|title=Jay Leno Ponders Charm (and Quirky Engineering) of French Cars|work=Popular Mechanics|date=October 2009}}

{{reflist}}

{{refbegin}}

• 'Citroën SM,' Osprey Autohistory, Jeff Daniels, 1981, {{ISBN|0-85045-381-X}}
• {{cite book|last=Broustail|first=Joël|title=Citroën et le citroënisme : essai historique sur la passion automobile et l'innovation |trans-title=Citroën and Citroenism: Essay on the History of Automobile and Innovation|year=2020|publisher= Au Pont 9|location=Paris|isbn=9791096310609|language=fr}}
• 'Motor Trend' magazine (USA), February 1972 issue
• 'Car and Driver' magazine (USA), June 1972 issue
• 'Popular Science' magazine (USA), December 1973 issue
• 'Motor Trend' magazine (USA), February 1974 issue
• 'Car Magazine' (UK), December 1979 issue
• 'Collectible Automobile' magazine (USA), June 2001 issue
• 'Thoroughbred & Classic Cars magazine (UK), April 1995 issue
• 'The Longest Yard – Lockdown Edition' DVD, selection 02638, Paramount Home Entertainment, 2005

{{refend}}

{{Commons category|Citroën SM}}

• [http://ateupwithmotor.com/model-histories/citroen-sm/ Ate Up With Motor: She Likes Whips and Chains: The Pleasures and Pains of the Citroën SM] – a retrospective of the SM
• [http://www.curbsideclassic.com/curbside-classics-european/curbside-classic-1972-citroen-sm-gran-touring-franco-italian-style/ Curbside Classic: 1972 Citroen SM – Gran Touring, Franco-Italian Style] – another retrospective of the SM
• [http://www.citroen-sm.org Citroen SM Wiki]
• {{imcdb vehicle|make=Citroen|model=SM|Citroen SM}}

{{Citroën}}

{{Early Citroën vehicles}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Citroen Sm}}

Category:Grand tourers

SM

Category:Coupés

Category:Cars introduced in 1970

Category:Cars discontinued in 1975

Category:Front-wheel-drive sports cars

Category:Group 4 (racing) cars