In 1970 at the Geneva motor show, Citroen, with their usual flamboyance, unveiled this remarkable car - the Citroen SM or Citroen 'Special Maserati'. Citroen were always years ahead of their rivals - this new showpiece was no exception.

To drive this car was to drive a car with an array of unique mechanical features. Among these were: adjustable hydro-pneumatic suspension; self-centering variable power steering; front-wheel drive plus inboard disc brakes at the front; a brake button in place of the normal pedal; a 5-speed gearbox; superb aerodynamics; bolt-on body parts and of course, the Maserati engine capable of taking this 1450kg car to 100kkm/h in just over 8 seconds. Later a smooth Borg-Warner automatic became available making the SM the ultimate cruiser.

Now, 30 years on, shrouded in technical innovation and built only in limited numbers, the "mystical Citroen SM" has become one of the world's most exclusive collectors' models, whilst retaining a daily drive-ability not often enjoyed from such a classic Grand Tourer.

The SM has stood the test of time.

• It is still the official Presidential limousine of France.
• It still dominates a unique sector of the market, acquired and appreciated for the qualities of a true automotive masterpiece.
• It is still the ultimate combination of a luxury personalised limousine and a hi-performance sports car, with unique timeless styling and ground breaking technology.

Never will there be a real replacement for the SM - truly a harmony of opposites.