Known for its tradition of automotive innovation, French car manufacturer Citroën spent most of the decade of the 1960s developing plans for a high performance front-wheel drive GT. Looking to marry superior engine technology with their revolutionary hydropneumatic, self-leveling suspension, the company purchased Maserati in 1968, and the SM [Sport Maserati] debuted at the Geneva Motor Show in 1970. Maserati’s mid-mounted 2.7 liter V6 engine made the SM the fastest front wheel drive car ever made at the time, and it was also reputed to have the shortest stopping distance. The SM quickly became Citroën’s flagship model with its unprecedented combination of comfort, sharp handling and high performance.

The futuristic SM was the brainchild of chief designer Robert Opron, and is considered to be his masterpiece. Calling on his experience working with American airplane aerodynamics, Opron shaped the SM like a tear drop, with a wider track at the front end, that tapers towards the rear and features a sharply cut tail with vestigial chrome fins. The car is still frequently called upon today to represent the car of the future. Jay insists that the SM is the best car to drive in rainy conditions, as its aerodynamic design causes rain to wick away from the windshield. Opron’s “glasshouse” front end encases six halogen headlights that swivel with steering, which also became a trademark look for Citroën, though it was not allowed in the United States.

Opron introduced several revolutionary elements on the SM that are now commonplace today, like its self-leveling headlights and rain-sensitive wipers. One of the car’s finest features is its high-pressure hydraulic system, which raises the car to ride height when the engine is turned on. A dashboard lever allows the driver to select body height, and 1000 pounds of nitrogen pressure encased in green spherical balls under the hood mean no bumps. A fully powered self-centering steering system, known as DIRAVI or Varipower in English-speaking markets, provides maximum power at low speeds, reducing power as velocity increases.

Jay owns a 1972 stock model; his buddy Jerry Hathaway, arguably America’s foremost SM expert and Bonneville Land Speed Record holder, converted one of his SMs into a unique pick-up. Sadly, production of the SM topped out at 12,290. Despite initial success, U.S. sales dropped sharply when DOT regulations changed in 1973, and its variable height suspension made compliance impossible. With the oil crisis and accompanying economic recession in full swing, Peugot took ownership of the company in 1974, and ceased production of the SM in 1975.