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Citroen SM (1970-75)

Total Production: 12,924
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Price New: The estimated price of a new Citroën SM in 1971 in the UK was approximately £4,800–£5,200, depending on specific configurations and local dealer mark-ups.
Using the average annual inflation rate of **5.11%** between 1971 and 2025, **£5,200 in 1971** would be equivalent to approximately **£63,000 to £65,000** in 2025.
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Citroen SM (1970-75)

The Citroën SM is a fascinating and complex car, blending French style with Maserati power. Here are some common faults associated with it:
1. Sodium-Filled Valve Tips: These rust and break, which can have dire consequences if the car hasn’t been driven in the last six months.
2. Maserati Engine Maintenance: The Maserati V6 engine requires meticulous care. Regular oil changes and proper cam chain adjustments are crucial to prevent problems.
3. Sensitive Controls: Owners accustomed to older cars may find the SM’s controls sensitive and unique. It’s essential to adapt to the SM’s nuances.
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Generations
The Citroën SM was produced in two generations from 1970 to 1975. It was a high-performance coupé that combined advanced technology, aerodynamic design, and comfort. The SM featured a collaboration between Citroën and Maserati, resulting in a unique and prestigious vehicle.
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Versions
The Citroën SM was officially available in one version: the coupé. However, there was an opportunity to collaborate with the French coachbuilder Chapron to create unique and special variations of the SM.
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Trim Levels
The Citroën SM, produced from 1970 to 1975, was a luxury grand tourer with a focus on advanced technology and performance. While it didn't have a wide range of trim levels like more modern cars, it did come in several notable versions:

1. **Standard SM**: The base model came equipped with a 2.7-litre V6 engine, hydraulic self-levelling suspension, and advanced features like swivelling headlights and Diravi power steering¹.

2. **SM Injection**: This version featured fuel injection, which improved performance and efficiency compared to the carburetted models².

3. **SM 3.0**: Introduced later in the production run, this model had a larger 3.0-litre V6 engine and was available with an automatic transmission².

4. **SM Présidentielle**: A special version built for the French government, featuring an extended wheelbase and custom coachwork by Henri Chapron².

The SM was known for its innovative design and technology, making it a standout model in Citroën's history.
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Spares
If you're looking for **Citroën SM** spares in the United Kingdom and Ireland, here are some options:

1. **SM Owners UK Parts**:
- SM Owners UK has its own parts store with many original pieces still in their Citroën packaging.
- They also list other sources of parts for the SM from around the world.
- To purchase parts, you need to join their parts scheme.

2. **Citroen Classics**:
- While they do not have an extensive selection of SM parts, they occasionally list available items.


3. **AutopartsPro**:
- The UK's No. 1 spare parts store for Citroën SM.
- Offers new SM parts online with fast and free shipping.
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Specialists
NORTHERN IRELAND CITROEN SPECIALISTS**

o Citroën specialist mechanics in County Antrim, Northern Ireland:

o 1. **McMillan Specialist Cars**
o - **Address**: Unit 10, Plasketts Close, Kilbegs Road, Antrim BT41 4NN
o - **Phone**: 028 9335 4911
o - **Services**: They offer a range of services including maintenance, repairs, engine diagnostics, and more.

o 2. **Citroën Ireland Team**
o - **Address**: 206 Straid Road, Bushmills, Co Antrim, BT57 8XJ
o - **Phone**: 028 2073 3300
o - **Services**: They provide comprehensive services for Citroën vehicles.

o Citroën specialist mechanics in County Armagh, Northern Ireland:

o 1. **McMullan Auto Services**
o - **Address**: 85A Fergort Rd, Armagh BT60 3DN
o - **Phone**: 028 3753 1766
o - **Services**: They offer car servicing, maintenance, diagnostic services, MOT testing, and repairs.

o 2. **Roadside Motors**
o - **Address**: 71 Belfast Road, Craigavon BT66 7JP
o - **Phone**: 028 3832 3232
o - **Services**: They provide sales, repairs, and refurbishment of Citroën vehicles.

o Citroën specialist mechanics in County Down, Northern Ireland:

o 1. **Donnelly Citroën Bangor**
o - **Address**: 3 Green Road, Bangor, Newtownards BT23 7PZ
o - **Phone**: 028 9124 0676
o - **Services**: They offer a full range of services including sales, maintenance, repairs, and parts.

o 2. **Clifton Motors**
o - **Address**: 2 Balloo Drive, Bangor BT19 7QY
o - **Phone**: 028 9145 4304
o - **Services**: They provide vehicle repairs and servicing.

o Citroën specialist mechanics in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland:

o 1. **Nixon Car Spares**
o - **Address**: 2 Drumcoo Road, Enniskillen, BT74 4FY
o - **Phone**: 028 6632 4737
o - **Services**: They offer a range of services including new and used car parts, vehicle dismantling, and motor factor services.

o 2. **Fermanagh Motors**
o - **Address**: 1 Tempo Road, Enniskillen, BT74 6HR
o - **Phone**: 028 6632 2333
o - **Services**: They provide comprehensive vehicle servicing, repairs, and maintenance.

o Citroën specialist mechanics in County Londonderry, Northern Ireland:

o 1. **J.C. Halliday & Sons**
o - **Address**: 10 Courtauld Way, Eglinton BT47 3DN
o - **Phone**: 028 7181 1470
o - **Services**: They offer a full range of services including sales, maintenance, repairs, and parts.

o 2. **Lloyd Cooke Motors**
o - **Address**: 53 Lismacarol Road, Londonderry BT47 3LZ
o - **Phone**: 028 7130 2100
o - **Services**: They provide vehicle maintenance, car bodywork repairs, and accident repair services.

o Here are a couple of Citroën specialist mechanics in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland:

o 1. **Donnelly Citroën Dungannon**
o - **Address**: 59 Moy Road, Dungannon, BT71 7DT
o - **Phone**: 028 8744 0484
o - **Services**: They offer a full range of services including sales, maintenance, repairs, and parts.

o 2. **ClickMechanic**
o - **Service Area**: Various locations across Northern Ireland, including County Tyrone
o - **Website**: [ClickMechanic](https://www.clickmechanic.com/locations/northern-ireland/citroen)
o - **Services**: They provide mobile mechanics who can come to your location for repairs and servicing.
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Racing
The Citroën SM did participate in racing, particularly in rally events. Here are some highlights of its racing history:

1. **Rallye du Maroc 1971**: The Citroën SM won its first race at the 1971 Rallye du Maroc. This victory showcased the car's potential in rallying.

2. **Short Wheelbase "Breadvan" Version**: Following its initial success, Citroën developed a short wheelbase version of the SM, often referred to as the "breadvan," specifically for competition.

3. **FIA Historic Racing**: The Citroën SM has also been featured in historic racing events, maintaining its legacy in motorsport.

The SM's combination of advanced technology, such as its hydro-pneumatic suspension, and the powerful Maserati V6 engine made it a unique and competitive car in its time.

The Citroën SM's victory at the 1971 Rallye du Maroc is a notable chapter in its history. Here are some key details:

### The Event
- **Rallye du Maroc**: This rally was known for its challenging terrain, including desert landscapes and mountainous regions, making it a true test of a car's durability and performance⁴.

### The Car
- **Citroën SM**: The SM used in the rally was equipped with a 2.7-litre Maserati V6 engine and featured Citroën's advanced hydro-pneumatic suspension, which provided excellent handling and comfort even on rough terrain⁴.

### The Victory
- **Drivers**: The winning team consisted of Jean Deschaseaux and Jean Plassard⁴.
- **Performance**: The SM's combination of power, advanced suspension, and innovative design helped it outperform its competitors, securing a victory in its very first outing⁴.

### Legacy
- **Impact**: This victory showcased the SM's capabilities and helped cement its reputation as a technologically advanced and capable performance car⁴.

The Citroën SM's success in the Rallye du Maroc remains a highlight of its motorsport history, demonstrating the car's potential in competitive racing.

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