2020 marks 50 years since the introduction of the GS and the SM, arguably 2 of the most significant Citroëns since the introduction of the original DS.
In August 1970 Citroën introduced the GS at the Paris Auto Show.
The GS would go on to completely change the mid-size segment in its own unique way. The design team, under the leadership of Robert Opron, drew up a car that was certainly ultramodern and slender.
The bold interior design was also striking. The GS combined an advanced four-cylinder gas boxer engine with air cooling and dual overhead camshafts, as well as the hydropneumatic suspension to deliver unparalleled comfort. Check out: https://citroenvie.com/gs-gallery/
At the Geneva Motor show in 1970, Citroën debuted the SM.
Also designed in house at Citroën under the leadership of Robert Opron, it went on sale in France in September of that year. Automotive journalists were effusive about the SM’s dynamic qualities, which were unlike anything they had experienced before.
The SM provided a combination of comfort, sharp handling, and braking not available in any other car at the time. Even by today’s standards the SM is considered a benchmark Grand Touring automobile. Check out: https://citroenvie.com/sm-gallery/
Both the GS and the SM will be included in a special vehicle display “The cars of Robert Opron” at the Citroëns at Carlisle event to be held on the Carlisle Fairgrounds in Carlisle, PA from May 15 -17, 2020.