“Smokey and the Bandit” Trans Am Fetches $450,000 at Auction

Burt Reynolds' 1977 Pontiac Trans Am from his 1977 hit film "Smokey and the Bandit" sold at auction for $450,000, far exceeding the original estimate of $60,000-80,000. The iconic movie car was put up for auction by Julien's Auctions at the Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas last week.

While several cars were used during filming, this particular example was a promotional vehicle for the movie that was later gifted to the actor. Despite not being a screen-used example from the film, the Trans Am did come from Reynolds' own collection, which could help explain the high price. Finished in black with a gold "Screaming Chicken" decal on the hood and a T-Top roof, the 1977 Pontiac Trans Am coupe is powered by a 400-cubic-inch Pontiac V-8 with a four-barrel carburetor. An automatic transmission backs the engine. Custom touches include a gold plaque on the driver door that reads "1977 Pontiac Trans Am Owned By Burt Reynolds" as well as the "Bandit" logo.

Other "Smokey and the Bandit" memorabilia sold as the auction include the jacket worn by Reynolds' character Bo Darville aka the "Bandit" ($34,375), a western shirt also used in the film ($15,625), and a go-kart version of the famous Trans Am ($13,750). An 18K gold pocket watch ($13,750) given to Reynolds by Sally Field was also part of the auction.

In total, the auction, which included career memorabilia, awards, personal items, film-worn costumes, and pieces from the actor's personal collection, brought in approximately $2.5 million.

Source: Julien's Auctions