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Pony1977 Pontiac Trans Am: The Smokey and the Bandit Car
Black, gold and a movie career.
In 1977 the Pontiac Trans Am was a stylish coupe with a power problem, until Hollywood gave it a starring role. Smokey and the Bandit arrived in May 1977, and a black Trans Am with gold trim became one of the most recognizable cars in film.
1977 Trans Am engine and styling
Emissions rules had trimmed engine output across Detroit. The Trans Am's 6.6-liter V8 made roughly 200 horsepower in its stronger form, a long way from the early muscle car numbers. What it kept was attitude: a hood-mounted firebird decal, flared fenders, a front spoiler and optional T-tops that made it look quick standing still.
Trans Am sales and collector value
Trans Am sales climbed through the rest of the decade and peaked in 1979. Buyers today love the black-and-gold look, often called the Bandit style, and good examples cost far less than 1960s muscle. T-top seals and the rear window area are common trouble spots, so inspect them first.
1977 Pontiac Trans Am key facts
- Model year
- 1977
- Film
- Smokey and the Bandit
- Look
- Black and gold