[REVIEW] Tomica Citroen SM

Tomica time, Land of the Rising Sun-day, once again only for the origin of the model. This is Tomica F34-1, the Citroen SM. This casting entered the range in November 1977, remaining until February 1983, and contains the expected Gallic design splendor, and then some:

The SM is something of a legend, both for its technical complexity and its striking Citroen style. This is another model that entered the range after the real world vehicle ceased production, these were probably something of a cult item even then. Tomica captures the car quite well, and this nice metallic green suits the vehicle perfectly. The model features ample fine line casting detail, and excellent looking proportion. Several makers had small scale models of the SM, including Matchbox, Siku and Majorette. All of them are nice models, and the Tomica compares well with the best qualities of each. Scale is claimed to be 1:66, likely accurate. As expected, this casting features the crisp glazing, springy suspension, and snappy door action we all enjoy from vintage Tomica. From all angles, there’s no mistaking this for anything else:

Doors open to reveal a detailed interior, with accurately contoured seats and the trademark single spoke steering wheel, wonderful touch:

Front and rear views show more of the excellent quality. The chevrons on the hood are a nice touch, and the glassed in front area (with headlights behind) adds tremendous accuracy, details like this please me to no end. The louvered rear window is also interesting - I have seen a SM concept with louvers, but not a production car - I suspect these were available aftermarket though, as it was a style of the time:

The base is metal which adds heft, and contains ample technical and identifying detail:

This example lives in a nice F-series box, the illustration of which appears to show a car with US spec lighting:

No doubt I am pleased to have this model in my collection. It is a great example of Tomica quality, and the car it is based on is a legendary piece of design:

Some 1:1 images from bringatrailer.com. This is a car you can’t look away from, and I suspect with the Citroen-Maserati marriage of technology, keeping one on the road is a memorable experience. Note the varying ride heights - fun! :