If you’re asking what car was in Smokey and the Bandit, you’re likely picturing one iconic vehicle. The primary pursuit car in *Smokey and the Bandit* is a black and gold 1977 Pontiac Trans Am. This car didn’t just appear in the movie; it became a superstar in its own right.
Driven by Burt Reynolds as the Bandit, the Trans Am symbolized freedom and rebellion. Its sleek design and powerful engine captured the imagination of a generation. This article will tell you everything about this legendary automobile and its role in cinematic history.
We’ll look at its specs, its cost, and where you might see one today. You’ll also learn about the other important vehicles in the film. Let’s get started.
What Car Was In Smokey And The Bandit
The unmistakable answer is the 1977 Pontiac Trans Am. Specifically, it was a Pontiac Firebird Trans Am with the iconic “Screaming Chicken” hood decal. This model was part of the second generation of Firebirds, known for its aggressive styling.
Pontiac supplied several cars for the production of the film. The hero car used for close-ups was a fully functional 1977 model. Stunt cars were modified to handle the jumps and crashes that defined the movie’s high-octane chases.
The car’s color scheme is officially called “black and gold.” The gold accents on the fenders, wheels, and hood created a striking contrast. This look became so popular that Pontiac offered a special “Bandit Edition” Trans Am for public sale in 1978 and 1979 due to the film’s massive success.
The Specifications Of The Bandit’s Trans Am
Under that iconic hood lay a powerful engine that made all the stunts possible. The car was as potent as it looked, built for speed and performance.
The standard engine for a 1977 Trans Am was a 6.6-liter (400 cubic inch) V8. However, due to tightening emissions regulations, the horsepower was rated at a modest 180 hp. In reality, with the right tuning, these engines could produce much more power.
The movie cars were likely equipped with the W72 performance package. This option bumped the power output to a more respectable 200 horsepower. It also included a functional hood scoop and a dual exhaust system.
- Engine: 6.6L Pontiac 400 V8 (likely with W72 package)
- Transmission: 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic (the hero car used an automatic for easier filming)
- Horsepower: Approximately 200 hp
- 0-60 mph: Roughly 7.5 seconds
- Top Speed: Electronically limited to around 125 mph
The handling was enhanced by a special WS6 performance package. This included stiffer springs, a rear stabilizer bar, and special alloy wheels. These features helped the car perform the precise maneuvers and slides seen throughout the film.
The Cultural Impact Of The Trans Am
The movie’s success turned the Pontiac Trans Am into a cultural phenomenon. It wasn’t just a car anymore; it was a symbol of cool. Sales of the Trans Am skyrocketed after the film’s release in 1977.
Kids wanted posters of it on their walls. Adults dreamed of owning one. The car represented a carefree, rebellious spirit that resonated deeply with audiences. It perfectly matched Burt Reynolds’ charismatic and rule-breaking character.
This impact extended beyond just Pontiac. It cemented the muscle car’s place in American pop culture for the late 1970s. The film and the car are forever linked, each boosting the legend of the other.
Merchandising And The “Bandit Edition”
Capitalizing on the hype, Pontiac released official “Bandit Edition” Trans Ams in the following years. These were 1978 and 1979 models painted in black with the gold accents. They featured the same iconic hood decal and special interior trim.
Today, these Bandit Edition models are highly sought after by collectors. Their value is significantly higher than a standard Trans Am from the same era. The movie created a lasting legacy that still influences classic car prices.
Other Important Vehicles In The Film
While the Trans Am is the star, other vehicles played crucial roles in the story. The plot revolves around a bet to transport Coors beer from Texas to Georgia. This required a support vehicle.
Bandit’s partner, Cledus “Snowman” Snow, played by Jerry Reed, drove the truck. This was the “support” vehicle that actually carried the illegal beer. Their teamwork is central to the film’s plot and humor.
The 1974 Kenworth W900 Semi-Truck
Snowman’s rig was a 1974 Kenworth W900 long-nose conventional tractor. It hauled a refrigerated trailer supposedly full of Coors. The truck was as much a character as the Trans Am, nicknamed “Snowman’s Rig.”
It was painted in a maroon and cream color scheme. Like the Trans Am, it became an icon in the trucking world. The film’s portrayal of trucker culture was hugely influential and beloved by real truck drivers.
The Police Cars: The “Smokeys”
The antagonists were the police, or “Smokeys,” giving the film its title. They pursued the Bandit across state lines in various patrol cars. The primary police car was a 1977 Pontiac LeMans sedan, chosen ironically because it was also made by General Motors.
Other police vehicles included Ford LTDs and Chevrolet Impalas. The relentless pursuit by Sheriff Buford T. Justice, played by Jackie Gleason, provided the film’s conflict and much of its comedy. His frustration with the elusive Bandit is a constant theme.
How Many Trans Ams Were Used In The Movie
Moviegoers often wonder how many cars were wrecked during the spectacular stunts. Film productions typically use multiple copies of a vehicle to complete different types of shots.
For *Smokey and the Bandit*, Pontiac provided four 1977 Trans Ams. Each had a specific purpose to ensure the filming could continue even if a car was damaged.
- The Hero Car: This was the pristine, camera-ready vehicle used for close-up shots of the actors. It had the best paint and interior detail.
- The Stunt Car: This was a reinforced vehicle used for the majority of the driving stunts, jumps, and slides. It was built to withstand punishment.
- The Jump Car: A specially modified Trans Am was used for the famous river jump scene. It had a strengthened frame and suspension to handle the landing.
- A Backup Car: A fourth car was kept in reserve in case any of the others were damaged beyond immediate repair.
Remarkably, reports suggest that only one Trans Am was totally destroyed during filming. This was the car used for the final crash into the fairgrounds. The other vehicles survived, though they likely needed significant repairs.
Where Are The Movie Cars Today
The fate of the original screen-used Trans Ams is a topic of great interest for fans. Unlike some movie cars, they weren’t all lost or forgotten.
The most famous survivor is believed to be the primary hero car. After filming, it was reportedly used for promotional tours. It then passed through several private collections over the decades.
In recent years, one verified hero car from the film was restored and sold at a high-profile auction. It fetched a price in the hundreds of thousands of dollars, proving its enduring value. Other cars may still exist in private hands, their histories sometimes unclear.
The Kenworth semi-truck also survived. It has been restored and occasionally appears at truck shows and nostalgia events. It remains a powerful symbol of 1970s trucking culture.
Buying A 1977 Pontiac Trans Am Today
Inspired by the film, you might consider owning a piece of this history. A 1977 Pontiac Trans Am is a classic American muscle car. Its value depends heavily on its condition, originality, and whether it’s a true “Bandit” spec car.
Prices can range widely. A project car in need of full restoration might cost $15,000 to $25,000. A driver-quality car that runs well but has some flaws could be $40,000 to $60,000.
A fully restored, numbers-matching Trans Am in excellent condition can easily command $80,000 to $100,000 or more. If you find a documented 1978 or 1979 Bandit Edition, expect to pay a significant premium. Authenticity is key, so look for documentation like the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and build sheets.
- Check for rust: Focus on the frame rails, floor pans, and lower fenders.
- Verify numbers: Ensure the VIN, engine code, and transmission match the car’s supposed model year.
- Documentation is gold: Original manuals, build sheets, and ownership history increase value.
- Beware of clones: Many standard Trans Ams are painted to look like the Bandit car. Know what you’re buying.
The Stunts And Filming Challenges
The driving sequences in *Smokey and the Bandit* are legendary for their practicality. Before the era of common computer graphics, these stunts were performed by real drivers with real cars.
Hal Needham, the film’s director, was a famed Hollywood stuntman himself. He insisted on realistic and exciting chase scenes. The most famous stunt is arguably the jump over the dismantled bridge, which was filmed in Georgia.
For that jump, a ramp was constructed on one side of the river. The stunt driver, Buddy Joe Hooker, accelerated the specially prepared Trans Am off the ramp. He cleared approximately 90 feet of water before landing on the opposite bank. The shot was done in one take, and it remains one of the most impressive car stunts in film history.
Coordinating the chases with multiple police cars and the semi-truck required precise timing. The film’s success proved that audiences loved realistic automotive action. It set a new standard for car chase movies that followed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about the cars from *Smokey and the Bandit*.
What Kind Of Car Was In Smokey And The Bandit?
The main car was a 1977 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am. It is a two-door sports car with a powerful V8 engine, noted for its black paint with gold accents and the large firebird decal on the hood.
Was The Trans Am In Smokey And The Bandit Special?
While it was a standard production model, the movie cars were chosen for their visual appeal and likely had performance options. After the film, Pontiac created a special “Bandit Edition” for public sale due to popular demand.
How Fast Could The Bandit’s Trans Am Really Go?
In 1977, factory Trans Ams were electronically limited to a top speed of about 125 mph. However, the stunt cars in the film may have been modified to achieve higher speeds for certain shots, though the exact specs are not public.
What Happened To Burt Reynolds’ Car From The Movie?
Burt Reynolds did not own the car personally; it was studio property. The primary hero car is believed to have survived and changed hands among collectors. One confirmed car was restored and sold at auction for a high price.
What Truck Was Used In Smokey And The Bandit?
Cledus “Snowman” Snow drove a 1974 Kenworth W900 semi-tractor. It pulled a refrigerated trailer and was crucial to the plot of bootlegging the Coors beer across state lines.