| Production | |
|---|---|
| Model Year: | 1970 |
| Production Years: | 1970 - 1972 discontinued in 1972 |
Precise measurements of the 1970 Citroen SM, engineered for optimal performance and comfort
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4893 mm192.6 in16.1 ft |
| Width: | 1836 mm72.3 in6.0 ft |
| Height: | 1324 mm52.1 in4.3 ft |
| Ground Clearance: | 155 mm6.1 in0.5 ft |
| Weight Specifications | |
| Curb Weight: | 1450 kg3197 lbs |
| Maximal permitted Weight: | 1800 kg3968 lbs |
| Tire Specifications | |
| Tire Size: | 195/70 R15 (W:195 | H:70 | D:15) |
The 1970 Citroen SM is a luxury grand tourer that blends striking coupe styling with innovative engineering, produced from 1970 to 1972. Designed as a distinctive French flagship, the SM stands out with its substantial dimensions and refined character. Measuring 4893 mm (192.5 inches) in length, it offers an elongated profile that enhances its grand touring presence, while its width of 1836 mm (72.3 inches) provides a wide and stable stance on the road. Standing at a low height of 1324 mm (52.1 inches), the SM presents a sleek, aerodynamic silhouette that underscores its sporty nature. With a curb weight of approximately 1450 kg (3197 lbs), the car balances mass and agility, enabling confident handling despite its sizable body. The maximum permissible weight reaches 1800 kg (3968 lbs), reflecting the vehicle’s robust structure and load capacity. Ground clearance is set at a moderate 155 mm (6.1 inches), suitable for a grand tourer aimed at smooth, high-speed cruising rather than rough terrain. The SM rides on 195/70 R15 tires, which complement its dynamic chassis setup and contribute to the distinctive driving experience. Available as both coupe and hatchback body styles, the 1970 SM combines elegant design and cutting-edge technology such as hydropneumatic suspension and power steering, defining an iconic model in Citroen’s history. This car’s dimensions and weight make it competitive among luxury grand tourers of its era, offering a unique blend of French automotive innovation and imposing road presence.
Discover the standout features that make the 1970 Citroen SM a leader in its class
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The 1970 Citroen SM features a length of 4893 mm (192.5 inches), a width of 1836 mm (72.3 inches), and a height of 1324 mm (52.1 inches). These dimensions reflect its sleek coupe and hatchback design, offering a low and aerodynamic profile that was advanced for its time. Its relatively wide stance contributes to good road stability and presence, while the low height gives it a sporty and elegant look on the road.
The 1970 Citroen SM has a curb weight of approximately 1450 kg (3197 lbs) and a maximum weight rating of 1800 kg (3968 lbs). This moderate weight for a luxury coupe of its size helps balance driving dynamics, providing a refined ride without being too heavy to impact agility. The car's sophisticated hydropneumatic suspension system is designed to complement this weight, offering a smooth and controlled ride with good handling and comfort, typical of Citroen’s engineering excellence.
The 1970 Citroen SM has a ground clearance of 155 mm (approximately 6.1 inches). This relatively low ride height is consistent with its sporty coupe design, improving handling and aerodynamics. However, the low clearance may require cautious driving on rough terrain or speed bumps. Thanks to the hydropneumatic suspension system, the height can be somewhat adjusted for better clearance when needed, increasing practicality without compromising the vehicle's sporty character.
Yes, the 1970 Citroen SM will fit inside a standard residential garage, but clearance may be somewhat tight depending on garage dimensions. With a length of 4893 mm (192.5 inches) and a width of 1836 mm (72.3 inches), the car fits comfortably within most standard garage sizes that are around 6 meters (20 feet) long and 3 meters (10 feet) wide. The low height of 1324 mm (52.1 inches) ensures ample vertical clearance in virtually all typical garages.
The Citroen SM did not have a direct predecessor as it was a unique model combining luxury and performance in a coupe form. Compared to earlier Citroen models like the DS, the SM is longer (4893 mm vs DS's approximately 4850 mm), wider (1836 mm vs DS’s 1798 mm), and lower in height (1324 mm vs 1450 mm). It is also heavier with its 1450 kg curb weight compared to lighter Citroens, reflecting its larger engine, enhanced features, and more upscale positioning.
When comparing the 1970 Citroen SM to luxury sports coupes of the early 1970s like the Maserati Ghibli or Jaguar E-Type, the SM holds its own with a length of nearly 4.9 meters (192.5 inches), which makes it longer than the Jaguar E-Type (about 4485 mm) but close to the Maserati Ghibli (about 4680 mm). Its width of 1836 mm (72.3 inches) is comparable to rivals, offering a stable and substantial road presence. The SM’s combination of aerodynamic design, innovative suspension, and performance-oriented size places it competitively in this class.
The 1970 Citroen SM uses 195/70 R15 tires, which were fairly wide for the time, contributing to good road contact and stability. The tire width of 195 mm (~7.7 inches) and relatively high sidewall height (70% of width) provide a balance of ride comfort and responsive handling. The 15-inch wheel diameter supports both ride softness over bumps and adequate tire profile for grip, complementing the vehicle’s advanced hydropneumatic suspension system for a smooth yet confident driving experience.
Despite its coupe design with a stylish hatchback rear, the 1970 Citroen SM offers a comfortable and roomy interior. Its long wheelbase and width translate into good shoulder and leg room for front occupants, though rear seating is somewhat limited due to the coupe body style. Headroom is constrained by the low height of just 1324 mm (52.1 inches), favoring sportiness over upright comfort. Overall, the cabin reflects a blend of luxury and ergonomic design aimed at two adults with occasional rear seating.
The Citroen SM’s dimensions directly influenced its aerodynamic and futuristic design—its long length and low height create a sleek silhouette aimed at reducing drag. The relatively wide track enhances stability and road grip. This generation was revolutionary with a front-wheel-drive layout and advanced hydropneumatic self-leveling suspension. These features, combined with the large glass areas and sharp body angles, make the SM stand out among contemporaries both in appearance and performance derived from its dimensional choices.
The size of the 1970 Citroen SM strikes a balance between grand tourer luxury and sports car agility. Its length and width provide a stable platform for high-speed cruising and cornering, while the low height reduces aerodynamic drag for better performance. The moderate curb weight helps with handling and fuel efficiency. Additionally, the adjustable ride height via the hydropneumatic suspension allows practical usability on varied road surfaces, ensuring the car combines comfort, performance, and striking design.
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