Following Citroën’s purchase of Maserati in 1968, the company had plans to create a GT car that combined both the company’s strong suits, namely Citroën’s highly advanced hydro-pneumatic suspension, with the performance of a Maserati V-6. First shown at the 1970 Geneva Motor Show, the SM was to be Citroën’s new flagship, offering amazing technology, performance, and of course, style. As such, it was quick to impress automotive press and was the first non-American car to be named Car of the Year by Motor Trend magazine.

Its unique features and charisma attracted a fascinating assortment of buyers, including the Shah of Iran, two members of the Rolling Stones, both Cheech and Chong, and Emperor Haile Selassie I of Ethiopia. Interestingly enough, at its time, the SM was the fastest front-wheel-drive automobile the world had ever seen, boasting a top speed of 140 mph. Between 1970 and 1972, 12,920 were made, of which only 2,400 were originally delivered to the U.S.

Showing 69,070 miles on its odometer, this SM was built for the 1972 model year and is finished in highly attractive grey with a black roof and a matching black interior, exuding stately sophistication and quirkiness in keeping with the assortment of clientele it attracted when new. Seldom seen in the U.S. and a fascinating automobile to many, this SM is certainly worth considering for the enthusiast looking for something different.