Weird comparison here.
The article acknowledges that "they're very different", and I understand there's a difference between which car I like better, and which would be a more daunting restoration project. They both have parts bin engineering in common, and the Fiat parts bin is less intimidating than the Maserati/Citroen one for me. They are also both mid-engine configurations, as the SM's is behind the front axle.
I see the Scorpion is from the Inland Empire in California and looks like it's been quite dry inside & out. The Citroen seems to have come from a more humid environment. The Lancia's left rear fender looks worse than the right rear one in the CL ad, each requiring significant attention. We all know "what lies beneath" the carpet and rear bulkhead upholstery in the Lancia. I don't see the point of 16' Ferrari wheels, which to my eye are too big for the car.14x98 Alfetta GT alloys 14 bolt right on and they're only 12 pounds each.
I admit that I just don't get the SM. I'll take the author's word for it that I would if I saw one in person. Still, I think the one in the article would be less of a headache than the Lancia. Maybe more expensive though. Of course, there's all that we can't see in the photos of each car, but based on what's pictured, I'd rather restore the Citroen.
If I could add a "Chose Your Own Adventure" option to the article, it would be to fulfill the V6 dream (both the factory's and the owner's), and create the poor man's Merak out of the Lancia. I mean, try to hate that... Add '77 rear buttresses without glass and Monty bumpers and Giacomo's your uncle.
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