Citroën SM. 1970–5 (prod. 12,920). 3-door coupé. F/F, 2670, 2965 cm³ (V6 DOHC). Another futuristic design from Citroën, under the direction of Robert Opron, with tapering body. Very low C_d of 0,26 on test models, unheard of at the time, though reality was closer to 0,34. Individualistic, art-déco looks housed Maserati engine (after Citroën acquired the Italian marque), with high-tech features such as variable assisted power steering, lights that turned with the steering, and hydraulic brakes and suspension. V6 engine related to existing Maserati quad-cam V8. Larger unit mainly for export. Heavily complex, leading to its demise; the fuel crisis of 1973 did not help.

Manufacturing location: France

Marque: Citroën

Off-site links

• K. Adams: ‘The cars: Citroën SM development story’, AROnline
• K. Adams: ‘Pleasure & Pain’, Octane