Lot details
Registration No: OJC733M
Chassis No: OOSC3543
Mot Expiry: Jan 2007

Masterminded by the head of Citroen's internal 'Bureau des Etudes', Robert Opron, the SM was unveiled at the 1970 Geneva Motor Show. Intended as a grand routier to follow in the wheeltracks of Facel Vega, Delahaye and Bugatti, it married the most technologically advanced front wheel drive platform in the world to Maserati 'quad-cam' power (the Italian marque having been a Citroen subsidiary since 1968). Boasting a drag co-efficient of just 0.25, the 'Serie Maserati' featured all round independent olio-pneumatic suspension, speed-sensitive power steering (2.0 turns lock to lock) and super-sharp disc brakes. Fast and sure-footed, Motor magazine found one capable of 137mph and 0-60mph in 8.3 seconds, it was a rival to the likes of the Jensen Interceptor, Alfa Romeo Montreal and BMW 3.0CSL. Of the 12,920 SMs built, only 327 were ever officially imported into the UK. First registered on July 1st 1974, the last year of manufacture for this model, to Frank Tyldesley chairman of the West Shore Garage of Llandudno (Citroen agents), OJC 733M benefits from the later fuel injected version of Guilio Alfieri's intricate 2,670cc V6 (rated at 178bhp and 171lbft of torque). A left-hand drive five-speed manual example - the factory never made a RHD version - its specification includes tan leather upholstery, tinted electric windows and air conditioning. Acquired by its second owner of twenty-three years Kevin Docherty in July 1975, it was maintained for him by both Citroen UK (Slough) and Hypertronics Ltd (now trading as Andrew Brodie Engineering). Treated to the 'approved engine modifications' by the latter, more recent work has seen it re-sprayed in the original metallic bronze (during late 2002). Showing some 14,000 miles on its odometer (the total mileage is believed to be approximately 94,000), it is described by the vendor as being in excellent overall condition throughout, the interior is totally original, with a fresh MOT certificate until January 2007. Recent work carried out includes having the starter rebuilt and new brake pads, a stainless steel exhaust, three replacement spheres and a new battery fitted. It is offered for sale with a V5 registration document and the history file including the owner's handbook and sales brochure. An extremely rare 'supercar', which will handle as though it is on rails. An experience to savour.

PLEASE NOTE: The vendor has informed us that this vehicle had a new alternator fitted last week.