This miniature of the Citroën SM Presidential captures the essence of an era when the French automobile embodied technological excellence and republican prestige. Reproduced in its official dark grey livery, this exceptional piece reflects the French automotive refinement of the 1970s.
A true symbol of French know-how, this miniature appeals to collectors passionate about automotive history and enthusiasts of presidential vehicles. It naturally finds its place alongside the finest collectible pieces dedicated to state cars.
Miniature Features
- Model: SM Presidential
- Brand: Citroën
- Year: 1970-1975
- Scale: 1/43
- Color: Dark Grey
- Protective case included: Yes
The Original Model: A Technological Revolution
The Citroën SM was born in 1970 from the desire to create a grand touring car à la française, combining the legendary comfort of Citroën suspensions with the sportiness of a Maserati engine. This exceptional sedan embodies the technical audacity of the brand with the chevron, featuring variable speed-sensitive automatic return steering and a revolutionary hydraulic system.
The vehicle is distinguished by its futuristic lines designed by Robert Opron, its six swiveling headlights, and its spacious cabin designed for long journeys. The presidential version benefits from specific fittings ensuring safety and comfort for the highest personalities of the state.
Despite a critical success and international recognition, the SM remains exclusive with only 12,920 units produced, making it one of the most exclusive Citroëns in the brand's history.
Citroën in the 1970s: Innovation at the Service of Prestige
At the beginning of the 1970s, Citroën experienced a period of creative effervescence under the direction of Pierre Bercot. Building on the success of the DS, the French manufacturer aimed to conquer the luxury automotive segment with cutting-edge technologies. The acquisition of Maserati in 1968 paved the way for this high-end strategy.
This era marks the apex of Citroën innovation, where each new model pushes the boundaries of automotive technique. The brand cultivates its image as a pioneer, offering revolutionary solutions that will lastingly influence the global automotive industry. The SM perfectly embodies this corporate philosophy, combining aesthetic daring and technical prowess.
A Presidential Car with a Frustrated Destiny
The story of the SM Presidential perfectly illustrates the paradoxes of French automotive politics. Specially commissioned for official travel, this armored and fitted version was meant to embody French technological prestige worldwide. However, its effective use remained limited due to complex protocol considerations.
The most famous anecdote concerns an official visit where the presidential SM, despite its exceptional qualities, was overshadowed by diplomatic considerations. Security services ultimately preferred more conventional vehicles, relegating this technological wonder to the rank of a historical curiosity.
This misadventure symbolizes the gap between French innovation and the constraints of republican protocol. Nevertheless, the SM Presidential remains a unique testament to French automotive ambition, embodying an era when technique prevailed over conventions.
Today, the few surviving examples are of particular interest to collectors, aware they hold a fragment of automotive history with multiple political and technical dimensions.
Complete Your Collection of Presidential Miniatures
This SM Presidential naturally fits into collections dedicated to Citroën vehicles, where it harmonizes with other iconic models of the brand. It perfectly integrates into thematic collections dedicated to French automobiles of the 1970s.
Collectors passionate about classic cars will appreciate this exceptional piece that ideally complements collections dedicated to prestigious sedans. This miniature is also aimed at enthusiasts of French political history, attracted by the authenticity of its reproduction at 1/43 scale, the reference scale for this exceptional type of vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to understand the scales of miniatures?
Scale indicates the reduction ratio between the real car and the miniature. For example, at 1:43 scale, each centimeter on the miniature corresponds to 43 centimeters on the real vehicle.
Concretely, a 1/18 scale Ferrari model is approximately 25-30 cm long, while in 1/43 scale it measures approximately 10 cm.
What scales are available?
Our model cars are mainly offered in 1/43, 1/24, 1/18 and 1/87 (HO) scales. The scale is always indicated in the product sheet.
The smaller the second number, the larger the model car (e.g. 1/18 is larger than 1/43).
Does the model car come with protection?
Yes, each model car is systematically delivered in its protective box. This box preserves the collectible value and protects your model car from dust and shocks.
How is my package protected during transport?
We package each order with the utmost care: bubble wrap, appropriate cushioning, and polystyrene. Your model car is perfectly secure during its journey.
What is the delivery time?
In-stock items are shipped within 24-48 hours. Please allow 2-3 business days for France via Colissimo or 4-5 days via Mondial Relay.
The model car is no longer in stock, when will you have it?
It's impossible for me to know exactly when I'll receive a new stock because I receive arrivals in dribs and drabs. Please contact me so I can keep you informed as soon as it's available.
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