The Movie Star Car
In Smokey and the Bandit (1977), Bo “Bandit” Darville, played by Burt Reynolds, drives a 1977 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am to distract law enforcement while his partner hauls a truckload of Coors beer across state lines. Pontiac supplied multiple Trans Ams for the production, and the car’s striking black-and-gold appearance, combined with high-speed action sequences, made it one of the most recognizable movie cars in cinema history.
Several Trans Ams were damaged or destroyed during filming, but their on-screen legacy lived on. The car became a symbol of freedom, rebellion, and ’70s cool, earning its nickname as the “Smokey and the Bandit Firebird.” Its mix of attitude and design flair made the Trans Am a cultural touchstone, inspiring countless fans to seek out their own Bandit-style Firebirds in the years that followed.
Key Takeaways
- The 1977 Pontiac Trans Am rose to icon status after starring in Smokey and the Bandit.
- The T/A 6.6 version used a 6.6 L V8 (~200 hp) matched with a 4-speed manual.
- Its black and gold color scheme, hood “screaming chicken,” and quad headlights define the Bandit look.
- Collectors prize authenticity in paint, decals, and original parts when restoring one.
- Raybuck Auto Body Parts carries many of the sheet metal, panels, seals, and trim needed for a faithful rebuild.
Did you know one of the stunt Trans Ams used in filming was fitted with a booster rocket for a bridge jump?
Specs & Design Highlights
Powertrain & Performance
The 1977 Trans Am (T/A 6.6) came equipped with a 6.6 L (400 cu in) V8 engine rated at approximately 200 horsepower (SAE net). It was paired with a 4-speed manual transmission, offering drivers both performance and control.
Performance figures for the T/A 6.6 included:
- 0 to 60 mph in around 9.3 seconds
- Quarter-mile time of roughly 16.9 seconds at 82 mph
- A practical top speed of about 110 mph
While not as powerful as early 1970s muscle cars, it balanced style, sound, and accessibility in a decade defined by emission limits.
Exterior Design & Styling
The 1977 Trans Am featured a redesigned front end with quad rectangular headlights replacing the earlier round units. Its aerodynamic look and flexible nose gave it a more aggressive stance, setting it apart from previous years.
The movie car’s black paint with gold trim, gold “Trans Am” side lettering, and the enormous gold “screaming chicken” decal on the hood made it unforgettable. Optional T-tops enhanced the car’s sporty character, letting drivers enjoy open-air cruising with the roof panels removed.
Production Numbers & Rarity
Pontiac produced around 68,744 Trans Ams in 1977, making it one of the company’s best-selling years for the model. The release of Smokey and the Bandit directly contributed to this surge in popularity. Pontiac even released a special black-and-gold 50th Anniversary edition that shared the movie car’s signature look, solidifying the aesthetic as the “Bandit style.”
Key Specifications of the 1977 Trans Am (T/A 6.6)
| Specification | Value |
| Engine | 6.6 L V8 (400 cu in) |
| Horsepower (SAE net) | ~200 hp |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| 0–60 mph | ~9.3 seconds |
| Quarter mile | ~16.9 s @ ~82 mph |
| Headlights | Four rectangular units |
| Production volume (Trans Am) | ~68,744 units in 1977 |
Collector Appeal & Legacy
The Smokey and the Bandit Trans Am became a symbol of individuality and adventure. After the film’s release, sales of the Trans Am skyrocketed. Pontiac credited the car’s movie role with significantly boosting the model’s popularity.
Today, the 1977 Trans Am remains one of the most collectible muscle cars from the late 1970s. Collectors look for authenticity — the right black-and-gold color scheme, hood decals, and interior detailing. Restoring one that mirrors the on-screen version adds both value and nostalgia.
For many, owning a 1977 Trans Am isn’t just about the car itself but about preserving a piece of American film and automotive history.
Restoration: What You Need & Sourcing from Raybuck
Restoring a Bandit-era Firebird requires patience, planning, and access to reliable parts. Common areas of focus include:
- Sheet metal and body panels: doors, quarter panels, rocker panels, and roof skins
- Front bumper covers: often damaged or cracked over time
- Weatherstripping and seals: critical for preventing water intrusion and wind noise
- Hood and support seals: essential for proper alignment and function
- Trim, badges, and decals: key for capturing the original Bandit appearance
Raybuck Auto Body Parts offers a broad selection of restoration components that can help bring a 1977 Firebird or Trans Am back to factory condition. The Raybuck catalog for Firebird and Trans Am restoration parts (covering 1967–1989 models) includes:
- Front bumper covers (1977–78)
- Door shells and door skins
- Quarter panels (1975–81)
- Hood-to-core support seals (1977–81)
- Trim and hardware items for precise fitment
Tips for a Smooth Restoration
- Dry-fit all panels before painting to confirm alignment.
- Compare reproduction parts to originals to ensure accurate dimensions and contours.
- Follow correct decal placement for the “screaming chicken” hood and “Trans Am” lettering.
- Use corrosion protection on hidden surfaces before final assembly.
- Combine Raybuck’s sheet metal parts with specialty vendors for drivetrain, decals, and trim pieces.
Raybuck Auto Body Parts specializes in helping restorers find structural and body components that are often difficult to source, allowing owners to focus on preserving authenticity while achieving a professional finish.
Balancing Authenticity with Practical Upgrades
Restorers often face a choice: maintain absolute originality or include practical improvements for better drivability. Some tasteful, period-friendly upgrades include:
- Improved suspension bushings or shocks
- Disc brake upgrades for safer stopping power
- Enhanced cooling systems
- Modern tires with vintage-correct sidewalls
These updates keep the car functional for regular driving without compromising its iconic look. The goal is to retain the Trans Am’s classic feel while benefiting from modern reliability and safety.
Conclusion: 1977 Pontiac Trans Am
The 1977 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am from Smokey and the Bandit remains one of the most legendary cars ever filmed. Its black-and-gold styling, muscular stance, and cinematic history transformed it from a muscle car into an icon.
For enthusiasts ready to rebuild or restore one, reliable access to quality parts makes all the difference. Raybuck Auto Body Parts, with its range of Firebird and Trans Am restoration components and the searchable catalog continues to support those keeping the Bandit legacy alive.
Further Reading
- Smokey and the Bandit: A Legendary Ride Through Movie History — A retrospective look at the film’s car legacy and how the Trans Am became central to its appeal
- Stages of a Classic Car Restoration: A Comprehensive Guide to the Process — A breakdown of restoration phases, from disassembly to finishing touches
