A fully restored 1977 Pontiac Trans Am, identical to the "Smokey and the Bandit" classic, captivates enthusiasts and achieves top dollar.
The 1977 Pontiac Trans Am, a cultural icon immortalized in Smokey and the Bandit, continues to captivate car enthusiasts. One such example recently sold for a premium on Bring a Trailer, proving that the allure of this classic muscle car remains as strong as ever.
This stunning Trans Am, finished in Starlight Black with gold decals and pinstripes, is a twin to the car that sparked Trans Am fever in the late 1970s. The car underwent a complete rotisserie restoration by Kraft Automotive Resources in Brighton, Michigan, bringing it back to showroom condition with meticulous attention to detail.
Restoration Excellence
The restoration encompassed every aspect of the car, from the exterior’s flawless black finish to the refreshed interior and drivetrain. The Trans Am is powered by a 400 cubic-inch V8 engine, paired with a four-speed manual transmission and a Safe-T-Track limited-slip rear differential. A dual exhaust system with Flowmaster mufflers ensures that the car delivers a satisfying growl on the road.
Classic Features
The Trans Am is equipped with removable T-tops, allowing for open-air cruising, and includes a host of period-correct features:
- Power steering and power brakes with front discs
- Air conditioning for modern comfort
- Hurst shifter and AM/FM radio
- Power windows, power locks, and a tilt steering wheel
- Rear window defroster and analog clock
The car rides on 15-inch gold-finished snowflake wheels, completing the iconic Trans Am look that made it a star on and off the silver screen.
Documentation and Appeal
Accompanied by photos documenting its restoration and a reproduction window sticker, this Trans Am offers both authenticity and visual proof of its painstaking revival. These elements, combined with its historical significance and meticulous craftsmanship, helped the car command top dollar at auction.
The sale of this 1977 Pontiac Trans Am is a testament to the enduring appeal of muscle cars from the golden era. For enthusiasts, it’s a reminder that some classics never go out of style—they only grow more desirable with time.
