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Acquiring Vehicles Through Car Auctions

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At The Auctions, we provide multiple purchasing methods for vehicles stored securely at our facility. Our inventory features a wide selection of vehicles, including both in-house stock and consignment listings, each meticulously inspected by our in-house quality assurance team.

Vehicles are available for collection directly from our warehouse, ensuring a seamless handover process. All payments are securely processed through Escrow.com, offering peace of mind and transparency in every transaction.

Purchase Options:

1. Blind Auction

• Submit private bids that remain confidential (other participants cannot view your offer or any other active bids).
• You can revise your bid while the auction period is open.
• If your bid is the highest and accepted by the seller, you will receive a notification of your successful submission within three business days after the auction closes.

2. Open Auction

• Participate in a traditional auction format where the highest bid is visible, allowing you to adjust your offers accordingly.
• Once a bid is submitted, it cannot be canceled.
• If your bid is the highest and accepted by the seller, you will be notified within three business days after the auction closes.

3. Fixed Price

• For a straightforward purchasing experience, vehicles are also listed at fixed prices.
• Listings are organized chronologically, with the newest entries appearing first, allowing clients to easily spot the most attractive offers.
• Vehicles can be sorted by their source for added convenience.

This range of options ensures flexibility and transparency, catering to both auction enthusiasts and those who prefer fixed pricing.

1973 Citroën SM – Ultra Rare European Fuel-Injected Example with Turning Headlights

Key Features & Highlights:

• Rare European-Spec Model – Features desirable six-headlight front end with hydraulic turning headlights, absent from U.S. models.

• Maserati-Powered Engine – 2.7L fuel-injected Maserati V6, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission for optimal performance.

• Cutting-Edge Citroën Technology – Equipped with oleopneumatic suspension, inboard disc brakes, and variable assist power steering for an unmatched driving experience.

• Comprehensive Restoration – Over $48,000 invested in mechanical restoration, ensuring peak performance and reliability.

• Provenance & Ownership – Originally delivered in France, owned by a former Shell Oil Company director, and later maintained by marque experts.

• Documented History & Maintenance – Extensive service records, factory tools, spare keys, and manuals included.

Overview

The Citroën SM remains one of the most breathtaking and technologically advanced automobiles of its era. Launched in 1970 at the Geneva Motor Show, it stunned the world with its aerodynamic design, .26 drag coefficient, and avant-garde engineering. With a Maserati-built quad-cam V6 and Citroën’s revolutionary suspension, the SM combined high-speed performance with limousine-like comfort.

This European-delivery 1973 Citroën SM is a highly sought-after fuel-injected example with the more reliable 2.7L engine, preferred over the U.S.-market 3.0L. It also retains the distinctive six-headlight front end with hydraulically controlled central beams that turn with the steering—an iconic feature absent on North American models.

Extensive Restoration & Service

After being acquired by its current owner in 2016, this SM was sent to David Hume’s Excelsior Motors in Kentucky for a comprehensive mechanical restoration, including:

• Complete Engine & Transmission Overhaul – New Maserati cylinder sleeves, piston rings, bearings, stainless steel exhaust valves, and a new cam chain.

• Suspension & Braking System Refresh – Rebuilt oleopneumatic suspension, nitrogen-recharged spheres, rebuilt power steering rack, and front brake calipers.

• Fuel & Ignition System Refinement – New-old-stock EFI distributor, rebuilt fuel injectors, and new ignition components.

• Additional Upgrades – New Pilkington windshield, brass window motor gears, new clutch and resurfaced flywheel, updated A/C system with a new rotary compressor.

With less than 1,000 miles driven since its restoration, the car is mechanically sorted and ready to drive. In May 2019, a compression test showed 165 psi across all cylinders, confirming the engine’s strong condition.

Exterior & Interior

Finished in a stunning gold paintwork, this SM retains a high-gloss finish, well-preserved factory trim, and original glass with correct etched headlight covers. The panel fit is excellent, with smooth-shutting doors and an expansive hood.

Inside, the cabin features original brown and tan leather seats, beautifully preserved with proper stitching and padding. The futuristic dash and switchgear remain in exceptional condition, along with a factory Blaupunkt Coburg Tri-Band radio. The interior maintains an authentic, well-kept appearance, with only minor signs of use on the original carpeting.

Driving Experience

With its Maserati V6 and precise 5-speed manual, this SM delivers an exhilarating drive. The oleopneumatic suspension provides an ultra-smooth ride, while the variable assist steering and weight-adjusted braking system ensure precise handling. At 140 mph, it was the fastest front-wheel-drive car of its time, and even today, it remains a thrilling grand tourer.

Additional Items Included

• Factory tools

• Owner’s manual

• Factory hydraulic suspension support mount

• Complete set of spare keys

• Full service records documenting restoration

A Rare Opportunity to Own an Iconic Grand Tourer

With its European fuel-injected configuration, distinctive rotating headlights, and fully sorted mechanicals, this 1973 Citroën SM represents one of the finest examples available. Ready for driving enjoyment or concours exhibition, it embodies Citroën’s engineering prowess and remains one of the most fascinating cars ever produced.