A total of 12,900 SM's were built, between 1970-1975. Citroen Cars SA imported only 1,729 to the US, in 1972 & 1973. All SM's utilize Citroen's hydropneumatic system for suspension, steering, and brakes. All SM's were built with a Maserati 90' V6 engine. European models had a six-headlight system in which the two innermost high beams turned with the steering. All USA model SM's were equipped with: leather upholstery, power steering, power brakes, power windows, air conditioning, a 2.7 in '72, a 3.0 in '73, and carburetors. The only option (in the States) was the Borg-Warner automatic transmission (instead of the standard 5-speed).

Correct diagnosis, thorough repairs, and a systematic schedule of preventive maintenance are the keys to enjoying this unique automobile. It is important to replace suspension spheres before they're so flat that the pavement beats cracks into the chassis. It is important to change the engine oil often enough to keep the tappets ad camshafts from getting wiped out from lack of lubrication. It is important to service the ignition distributor for good performance. The list goes on.

Dealing with the SM from the end of a wrench often requires a degree of finesse too. It is more like a watch than a backhoe and, like a fine instrument, can be ruined by ignorant repair attempts. That said, it is amazing just how much neglect an SM will take and still, as they say "...runs...comes up.." as they do. At issue here is the quality of the function. Which reminds me,there is a misconception that needs to be cleared up. There is a comment made, full of happy anticipation, that is really very sad. It is "I've always wanted an SM and now they've gotten affordable. . ." Affordable? No. A cheap SM is not affordable. A cheap SM usually isn't even cheap; it's usually an over-priced parts car. If you are looking at SM's and considering a purchase, the most valuable advice we can offer you is buy the very best one you can afford. Quality is the paramount issue. It is the true difference between the $3500.00 SM and the $35,000.00 SM; though both may "run". If you buy at mid-range ($15K plus or minus), get as thorough records as you can and be prepared for repairs of $3000-$8000 within 2-3 years.

If you must begin with a project car, be aware. There is a difference between a project car and a parts car. Good project cars do surface from time to time but most SM's advertised as such are so far gone that restoration is not a consideration. A viable project car should be all-there and basically sound. A viable do-it-yourselfer should have talent, patience, and a passion for the way things work. Once an SM has been severely neglected, or abused, or flogged until it was just used-up, it can take a lot to put it right again.

Right. Now there's a word. We interpret "right" to be as-itwas-intended/new, and this is our goal throughout. Attaining the quality of new when it's been 26 years since it was, takes vigilance and dedication. Since the beginning, SM World has been committed to the promotion and preservation of the Citroen SM, and offers an unrivaled and world-renowned knowledge, expertise, and supply of parts; not to mention restoration and service facilities, just for the SM. We also proudly hold our own SM's as examples of the quiet, strong, magnificent automobiles they were meant to be.