1977’s Smokey and The Bandit inspired a lot of look-alike Pontiac Firebird Trans Am muscle cars, and remains one of the most recognizable liveries to-date.
When Smokey and The Bandit first came out in 1977, it was well regarded for its 1970’s style charm, as well as the sheer level of fun that transpired throughout the film especially since the overall plot was simply about distracting law enforcement long enough so a truck load of Coors beer could make it across the country. While Reynolds achieved a high level of fame and praise for his role in the movie, the unsung hero of the film was his vehicle of choice a 1977 Pontiac Firebird Trans-Am. Before we go any further along we do have one tiny bit of bad news, this particular vehicle was NOT in the movie itself, instead it actually served as a promotional vehicle to help spread word of the film and to draw in as many prospective viewers as possible. After its time on the promotional circuit ended, it was given to Reynolds for his personal use which is backed up by a vehicle title that lists his name as the previous owner.
While it may not have quite the same level of cinematic provenance as the Trans Am that was actually used in the film, it is still a 1977 Firebird Trans Am first and foremost which means that in addition to the golden hued “screaming chicken” on the hood, it also wields a 400-cubic-inch V8 under the hood which features four barreled carburetors and is mated to an automatic transmission though we prefer a more involving manual to go in its place. The exterior paint work is still in relatively good condition as is the interior which features special plaques that proclaim it as a “1977 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am owned by Burt Reynolds.” As a neat bonus, there is even a “Bandit” decal on the door.
In addition to the Trans Am (which currently has a top bid of $130,000), the Julien Auctions sale also features a whole swath of other assorted Reynolds memorabilia including suits, signed photographs, trophies, as well as a motorized stagecoach that was used when he married actress Loni Anderson. The custom stagecoach was built on the platform of an International Harvester Scout, and features a custom interior that was allegedly designed and provided by country singer Dolly Parton.
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