"In 1961, Citroën began work on 'Project S', a sports variant of the revolutionary Citroën DS. As was customary for the firm, many running concept vehicles were developed, increasingly complex and upmarket from the DS. Citroën purchased Maserati in 1968 with the intention of harnessing Maserati's high-performance V6 engine technology to produce a true Gran Turismo car combining the sophisticated Citroën suspension. The result was the Citroën SM, first shown at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1970 and which went on sale in France in September of that year. Factory produced cars were all lefthand drive, although righthand conversions were available in the UK and Australia. The origin of the model name 'SM' is not completely clear. The 'S' may derive from the Project 'S' designation and the 'M' perhaps refers to Maserati, hence SM is often assumed to stand for ‘Systeme Maserati’ or ‘Sports Maserati’.
Originally purchased new by a Mr Manya who was a doctor living in Perpignan with the French registration of 8279 TH 66, the car was then sold to an English musician, a Mr. Garrick, who was living in the same area. When he moved back to the UK he brought the Citroën with him and registered the car here with the number RBY 691K. He entrusted general maintenance and servicing to DS Workshop in Barnet. The current vendor mentioned his interest in SM’s to the garage and after some negotiations this Citroën SM came his way in November 2016. The car has been used on a regular basis and has proved to be nothing but a joy. Finished in blue with sand velour trim this SM presents in delightful condition. The underside is corrosion free, even the stainless steel sill covers are in place and in great order. The car is fitted with the rare Continental Edison radio that was especially made for the SM. These Citroëns are a superb piece of engineering, rarely do we see them as good as this. Viewing is highly recommended to appreciate the quality of this stunning car.The health and safety of both our customers and team remains the utmost priority, we are therefore operating to Government guidelines throughout viewing and auction day."