If you’re a fan of car chase movies, then you must have watched Smokey and the Bandit. The movie is famous for its thrilling chase scenes and showcases some amazing cars. One such car that has become an icon in film history by being associated with the main protagonist, ‘Bandit’, is the black Pontiac Firebird Trans Am.
The 1981 sequel to Smokey and the Bandit featured another high-speed pursuit involving the iconic car, but this time they were running through country roads. Fans across the world were thrilled to see the legendary car on screen again. In ‘Bandit Goes Country’, Burt Reynolds reprised his role as Bandit and his vehicle was once again the talk of the town.
But what’s so special about the car that makes it a cinematic classic? This blog post will give you a glimpse into the history behind the black beauty and explore why it was the perfect vehicle for the character of Bandit.
The Film That Introduced the Iconic Car
Released in 1981, “Smokey and The Bandit II” introduced a car that would become iconic: the 1980 Pontiac Trans Am. Driven by Burt Reynolds’ character, the Bandit, this car captured audiences with its sleek design and impressive speed.
The popularity of the car skyrocketed after the film’s release, leading Pontiac to release a special edition Trans Am for the 1982 model year. With its black and gold paint scheme and “screaming chicken” hood decal, this car became an instant classic.
To this day, the 1980 Pontiac Trans Am remains one of the most recognizable and sought-after muscle cars in history.
The Plot of Bandit Goes Country
In “Bandit Goes Country,” the third installment of the Smokey and The Bandit franchise, Bo Darville (played by Jerry Reed) takes on another high-stakes challenge at the behest of wealthy Texan, Big Enos Burdette. This time, he must transport a pregnant elephant across state lines without getting caught by police or competitors.
Meanwhile, the original bandit himself, played by Burt Reynolds, is forced out of retirement after being framed for a crime he did not commit. He teams up with Bo and other familiar faces to clear his name and take down those responsible.
Throughout the film, the audience catches glimpses of the new bandit car – a 1980 Pontiac Trans Am similar to the original from the previous films. It showcases all the features that made the car popular, including the classic black and gold color scheme and memorable eagle graphic on the hood.
The Car That Became Synonymous with the Film
The Pontiac Firebird Trans Am
What car did Bandit drive in ‘Bandit Goes Country’? The answer is the iconic black and gold Pontiac Firebird Trans Am. This sports car became synonymous with the film due to its starring role as the getaway car driven by the lead character, Bo “Bandit” Darville.
The Pontiac Firebird Trans Am was first introduced in 1969 as a high-performance version of the regular Firebird. The second-generation model, which was used in ‘Bandit Goes Country,’ was produced between 1970 and 1981 and featured an aggressive front-end design, T-top roof, and powerful V8 engine.
In the movie, Bandit’s Firebird Trans Am was customized with a special graphics package that included a black body, golden eagle on the hood, and firebird decal on the doors. These features, combined with the sleek design of the car itself, made it the perfect getaway vehicle for Bandit and his partner Cledus Snow.
- Throughout the film, the Firebird Trans Am is seen doing some impressive stunts, including jumping over a river and outrunning police cars. These scenes helped solidify the car’s status as an icon of American cinema and pop culture.
- Even today, the Pontiac Firebird Trans Am remains a sought-after collector’s item among car enthusiasts and fans of the ‘Smokey and the Bandit’ franchise. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the impact it had on popular culture and the lasting legacy of the film itself.
If you’re looking to relive the excitement of ‘Bandit Goes Country,’ getting behind the wheel of a Pontiac Firebird Trans Am is the closest you can get to living out your own high-speed chase scene. It may not be as fast or flashy as Bandit’s version, but it’s sure to turn heads and make a statement wherever you go.
The Impact of the Film on Car Culture
The 1980s film “Bandit Goes Country” had a significant impact on car culture, particularly in relation to muscle cars. The film featured a number of high-speed chase scenes with classic American muscle cars, including the iconic black and gold Pontiac Trans Am driven by the Bandit.
Following the release of the film, there was a surge in interest in muscle cars, both among enthusiasts and casual viewers. The idea of cruising around in a powerful V8-powered vehicle became even more alluring to many people, and these cars began to enjoy renewed popularity across the United States.
This newfound interest in muscle cars led to a rise in demand for models like the Chevrolet Camaro, Dodge Challenger, and of course, the Pontiac Trans Am. Suddenly, owning one of these iconic vehicles had become a status symbol, and many car enthusiasts set about restoring old models or buying new ones.
The Rise of Muscle Cars in the 70s
The 1970s were a golden age for American muscle cars, thanks in part to advancements in engine technology that made it possible to produce increasingly powerful vehicles. As a result, muscle cars became widely popular among younger drivers looking for something fast and exciting to drive.
Cars like the Pontiac GTO, Chevrolet Chevelle SS, and Ford Mustang Boss 302 quickly gained a reputation for their raw power and impressive performance capabilities. These vehicles were designed to go fast, and they became the darlings of drag racers and street racers alike.
The Trans Am, introduced by Pontiac in 1969, quickly became one of the most sought-after muscle cars of the era. With its sleek styling and powerful V8 engine, the Trans Am represented everything that was great about American muscle cars.
The Popularity of the Trans Am
Arguably, no other muscle car has been as closely associated with a single film franchise as the Pontiac Trans Am was with “Smokey and the Bandit”. The black and gold Trans Am driven by the Bandit quickly became an iconic symbol of 1970s Americana, and people all across the United States fell in love with this powerful machine.
First introduced in 1969, the Trans Am went through several updates throughout the decade. By the time the Bandit got behind the wheel, the latest models featured some truly impressive specs. With a top speed of around 140 mph and a zero to sixty time of just over six seconds, the Trans Am was one of the fastest production cars of its day.
“The Trans Am represented everything that was great about American muscle cars.”
The popularity of the Trans Am only continued to grow following the release of “Smokey and the Bandit”. In fact, sales of the vehicle skyrocketed after the film’s debut, with many buyers specifically requesting the black and gold color scheme featured in the movie.
- In summary, muscle cars like the Trans Am were already popular in the years leading up to “Bandit Goes Country”.
- However, the film helped cement the reputation of these vehicles as icons of American automotive culture.
- To this day, the Trans Am remains one of the most collectible and recognizable muscle cars in history.
The Legacy of the Film and Car
The 1981 film “Smokey and the Bandit II” introduced a new car that quickly became an icon in American pop culture – the 1980 Pontiac Trans Am. This car was famously driven by the main character, Bo ‘Bandit’ Darville, played by Burt Reynolds. But it was not only the film’s star who found fame; it was also the black-and-gold Trans Am that stole the show.
As the popularity of “Smokey and the Bandit II” soared, so did demand for the Trans Am. The car embodied freedom, adventure and rebellion – everything that made America great. Fans rushed to dealerships to get their hands on one, even if they couldn’t necessarily afford it. Nevertheless, the car became an important cultural symbol of its time.
In many ways, the phenomenon around the Trans Am shows how cars can capture people’s imaginations far beyond their practical purposes. The shiny exterior becomes more than just a mode of transport: it represents strength, power, and allure. It is no wonder then that after thirty years, fans still go crazy at classic car auctions or online listings when they see a well-preserved example of the iconic Pontiac.
The Legacy of the Film and Car
Burt Reynolds was known for his love of cars, with a particular affinity for the Pontiac Trans Am. In fact, it was Reynolds who pushed to have the Trans Am featured prominently in his hit 1977 film Smokey and the Bandit.
While Reynolds tragically passed away in 2018, the legacy of both him and the iconic car he helped make famous lives on. The Trans Am remains one of the most popular muscle cars among collectors and enthusiasts alike.
And while there were several models used throughout the filming of the original Smokey and the Bandit trilogy, it’s the black and gold 1977 edition that is most closely associated with the film – and with Reynolds himself. The car has become an enduring symbol of both Reynolds’ career and the cultural impact of the films.
The Continued Popularity of the Trans Am among Car Enthusiasts
Despite being more than four decades old, the popularity of the Pontiac Trans Am shows no signs of waning. With its sleek lines, powerful engine, and unmistakable style, the Trans Am represents everything that people love about classic muscle cars.
In fact, many car enthusiasts actively seek out Trans Ams from the era of Smokey and the Bandit, eager to own their own piece of automotive history. From drag racing to road trips, the Trans Am remains a beloved choice for drivers looking for a thrilling ride.
Thanks in part to the enduring appeal of films like Smokey and the Bandit, the Trans Am continues to be celebrated by generations of fans – cementing its place as one of the all-time great American sports cars.
The Cultural Significance of Bandit Goes Country
Bandit Goes Country was the third and final film in the Smokey and the Bandit trilogy. While it may not have been as well-received as its predecessors, the film still represents an important chapter in the legacy of both Burt Reynolds and the Pontiac Trans Am.
The cultural significance of the film lies in part with Reynolds’ highly publicized personal life at the time – including his relationship with country music superstar Dolly Parton, who co-starred in the movie. The film also marked a continuation of the popular “convoy” sub-genre in cinema, which had previously been seen in films like Convoy (1978) and Breaker! Breaker! (1977).
“While Bandit Goes Country may not have been the most critically acclaimed film of Reynolds’ career, its place in pop culture history is assured thanks to its iconic leading man, unapologetic approach to car chases, and enduring impact on American car culture.”
Taken together, these factors help to contextualize the lasting appeal of the film and why it continues to be celebrated by fans of Reynolds, Parton, and cinematic car chases alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the make and model of the car Bandit drove in Bandit Goes Country?
In Bandit Goes Country, Bandit drove a Pontiac Trans Am. The Trans Am was a two-door sports car manufactured by Pontiac from 1969 to 2002. It was considered a muscle car and was often featured in movies and television shows, particularly in the 1970s and 1980s.
What kind of car chases were featured in Bandit Goes Country?
Several car chases were featured in Bandit Goes Country. One of the most memorable was a pursuit through a cornfield. Bandit’s car was chased by a group of police cars, and the high-speed chase caused a lot of damage to the cornfield. Another chase scene took place on a country road, with Bandit using his driving skills to outmaneuver the police cars.
Was Bandit’s car used for any stunts or action scenes in the movie?
Yes, Bandit’s car was used for several stunts and action scenes in Bandit Goes Country. In addition to the car chases, there were scenes where Bandit had to navigate rough terrain and jump over obstacles. The car was also involved in a few crashes, including one where it went off a bridge and into a river.