Finding Citroen SMs that reside in the small space between basketcase and high-dollar restoration is a challenge. Given the cost associated with properly restoring one of these exotic machines, you don’t often find sellers willing to get one to running/driving condition without taking the restoration all the way. This 1972 model here on eBay is far from perfect, but it’s also not a neglected piece of yard art locked down on its belly due to failed hydraulic suspension.
Quite the contrary, actually, as the seller has gotten the suspension to raise and lower as intended, and the Maserati-derived powerplant is running at the moment. The SM does have some issues as it relates to rust in the body and a poor respray, but these are minor sins considering just how bad these cars can get when left neglected for any period of time. The seller adds that the fender skirts and hubcaps will be included with the sale.
The interior is another bright spot, as it’s in perfectly usable condition as-is, or just a short jump away from looking world-class with some carpeting and door panels installed (the door panel is removed due to a failed window motor that needs rebuilding). The automatic isn’t surprising but the most desirable SMs have a row-it-yourself option, although that feature doesn’t seem to affect enthusiasm for a good SM as much as might a true performance car.
Mileage on the Maserati-sourced drivetrain is under 60,000, which likely plays a role in this SM not being past the point of resurrection. The seller doesn’t detail any recent maintenance or other steps taken to present this Citroen as a running/driving car, but perhaps it was a runner when he took it on. The market for good SMs is always strong, and for a car that likely has some upside potential if the rust doesn’t prove to be extensive, I’m sure this claimed “barn find” SM will find a new home soon.
What can I say – I want it!!!
Spares are available this side of the big pond – only problem would be getting it this side of the big pond. Factor in shipping costs as well as repairs and repaint and it goes out of my range. There are times I wished I lived in the USA :)
Trucking from Arizona to Long Beach would be expensive,but shipping to the UK is not at all dear.
Last time I looked depending on where it was being shipped from and whether it would fit into a container it was anywhere from £1,800 to £2,500 in shipping costs – and then once it hits the UK shores HM Customs and Excise determine whether or not they want to slap 20% VAT on the vehicle. Not sure if they would hit it with import duties as well
…just back from visiting the “Conservatoire Citroen”…..once you have the bug, hard to get rid of it! My budget and mechanical knowledge only allow me to reach the 2CV level (I own 2) but a Traction, DS, SM, CX will always be on my bucket list….problem is: I am close to the bottom of the bucket in age. I hope someone, somewhere, somehow will save this SM, they all deserve saving!!
Cold War Motors on You Tube is working on one of these.
Interesting break down of their repairs and solutions to problems, plus an inside look at the mechanical systems.
I’m by no means a fan of French cars personally – however I must admit I understand those that fall into love with the SM.
A friend of mine owns an SM and (understandably!)leaves all mechanical work to professional vintage Citroën mechanics.Considering these are approaching 50 years soon they are frikin’ complex!
All SMs are well worth saving as they were rare even when new.Gotta admit the US face doesn’t do justice to this piece of (abstract!) art though!
Stunning looking & driving cars, as we have driven many from Italy back to the UK all with 5 speed manual, either carbs or injection. Here’s a picture of the most recent one in the same colour that we have brought over & sold.
There is one up on ebay.co.uk right now – a bright red manual one just come in from Italy and needs registering. Guy is asking £21,000 for it – wish I had it…
Also thought the back view is great as well.
et al
I have had five, yes five SM’s both automatique and five speeds….All in all neat cars….worth…I find the prices are out of sight…..and I would like to know WHY?? Their are neat, but…….
I have had and have a running list of foreign cars…..and mostly French, have lived in France several years and still return…..have DS, 2CV, Hotchkiss’s, Delahaye (None now alas) Talbot Lago (One the only one off Franay bodied Talbot)….and now have SALMSON 2300S……I venture the SM is really worth…hum $5-$8.000.00 Any more…..will if one buys it….they understand…
I recently sold two to Arizona …..decent cars….So think long and hard…
SM prices are out of sight lately because demand far outstrips the dwindling supply — not least thanks to sites like this and BaT raising broader awareness of them — and enough of that demand is both must-have and well-heeled enough to outbid everyone else into cost-no-object territory.
This could turn out to be the most expensive car you ever bought…..take the money and go to Vegas. There you have a chance.
And I don´t say that because I´m not a fan, but because you can buy a very good SM for way less than the spend that this will need. Which is still a lot of money, but at least you´d be driving the car.
There is a LOT of truth in this.. SM’s have a certain reputation which is sadly well earnt. The DS and CX have a similar reputation in some ways but in truth theirs is mostly overblown. Not the SM…… They need to be maintained AND driven regularly. A sitting SM is a recipe for disaster.
It does have a Maserati engine, but it was never used in a Maserati. It was designed for and used only in the SM.
The 2.7 liter version of the C114 was not used in a Maserati, but the 3.0 and 2.0 versions were used in the Merak.
It is well documented that the engine was used by both marques.
Every article I have read about the Citroen-Maserati has contradicted the others. But that opening scene in The Longest Yard made me a fan.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=njxecsSsqY8
Whoever buys it, do yourself a great big favour, take those ridiculous North American spec headlamps and bin them, get a pair of European spec units to replace them with. Three rectangular lamps per side with the innermost units connected with the steering. Not cheap but it will transform the car from an ugly duckling to a thing of beauty.
Saw one in East Grinstead today, probably left over from the Classic Car event yesterday. Might even have been one of your imports!