Jan NettigPALM BEACH, FLORIDA – The legendary 1977 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am, famously driven by Burt Reynolds in the classic film “Smokey and the Bandit,” is set to cross the auction block for the final time at the Barrett-Jackson event in Palm Beach on April 20th, 2024. This iconic vehicle, not just a piece of automotive history but a symbol of American pop culture, represents the last Trans Am personally owned by Reynolds, adding a profound sense of nostalgia and value to the auction.
“Smokey and the Bandit” captured the hearts of audiences in 1977 with its thrilling mix of comedy, action, and the undeniable charm of its lead actor, Burt Reynolds. The film’s plot centers on the daring Bandit (Reynolds), who is challenged to smuggle a truckload of Coors beer across state lines within 28 hours. The adventure that ensues is filled with high-speed chases and narrow escapes, with the black and gold Trans Am becoming as much of a character as Reynolds and his co-stars Jackie Gleason, Sally Field, and Jerry Reed.
The film not only became a box office success but also left a lasting impact on popular culture, boosting the popularity of CB radio and making the Pontiac Trans Am a sought-after “muscle car”. Reynolds’ personal connection to the model went beyond the big screen; he endorsed a line of special edition Trans Ams that replicated his movie ride, enhancing the car’s status among collectors and enthusiasts.
The specific model up for auction, while not used in the film, holds the distinction of being the final Trans Am registered to Reynolds before his death in 2018. Featuring the iconic black paint with gold accents, this vehicle houses a powerful 6.6-liter V8 engine and sports the custom “BAN ONE” Florida license plate, a nod to the Bandit’s audacious spirit. Authenticated by a member of Reynolds’ family, the car has been meticulously maintained and restored to movie-accurate specifications by Bandit Movie Cars in Florida under the supervision of Reynolds’ friend and business partner, Gene Kennedy.
This auction presents a unique opportunity for collectors and fans alike to own a tangible piece of cinema history, linked directly to one of Hollywood’s most beloved figures. As the auction date approaches, enthusiasts from around the world are expected to gather, eager to witness and participate in the bidding for this emblematic vehicle.
The legacy of “Smokey and the Bandit” continues to resonate, transcending generations through its portrayal of freedom, adventure, and the rebellious spirit of its era. The auction of Burt Reynolds’ last Trans Am is not just an event; it’s a celebration of a film that has achieved cult status, continuing to influence pop culture and capture imaginations decades after its release. Join the excitement at Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach to experience a piece of cinematic and automotive legacy as it takes its final ride across the auction block.
