Once upon a time, spotting a worn-out second-generation GM F-body was commonplace. With over two million Camaros and a million Firebirds rolling off production lines between 1970 and 1981, these vehicles were abundant. This oversupply led to affordability, making them accessible to anyone aspiring to emulate the Bandit from “Smokey and the Bandit,” especially young men with a penchant for mullets. First-generation F-bodies, however, were always a rarer sight, at least for many enthusiasts.
Sadly, time and attrition have thinned their ranks considerably. Countless Trans Ams met their end as ambitious but often ill-fated DIY projects, turning surviving examples into increasingly rare classics. The featured 1977 Pontiac Trans Am represents a breed that is slowly disappearing.
The year 1977 holds a special place in the hearts of Trans Am enthusiasts, arguably marking the peak of its popularity. This was the model year famously associated with the Trans Am driven by Burt Reynolds in the blockbuster movie, Smokey and the Bandit. Interestingly, due to the film’s production schedule preceding the 1977 model year release, Pontiac provided 1976 models fitted with prototype 1977 front-end styling for the movie.
However, 1977 also coincided with the height of the automotive malaise era. The 400 cubic inch V8 engine, while boasting a significant displacement, produced a modest 180 horsepower (or 200 hp in the optional configuration). Performance was notably impacted, with 0-60 mph acceleration times stretching to nearly 10 seconds. In terms of straight-line speed, a modern hybrid car could likely challenge a 1977 Trans Am at a traffic light, illustrating the performance constraints of the time.
Beyond its gold paint, this particular Trans Am embodies the quintessential “Bandit” aesthetic. It features the iconic “screaming chicken” hood decal, striking gold snowflake wheels, and desirable glass T-tops. The only elements seemingly missing are a CB radio antenna and the presence of Sally Field in a wedding dress, referencing memorable aspects of the movie. [Edit: It has been noted that the T-tops are likely aftermarket additions.]
What makes this example truly remarkable is its seemingly original condition. There’s no sign of typical aftermarket additions from the era, such as oversized accelerator pedals, chain steering wheels, or pistol grip shifters. Even subtle modifications like bandanas hanging from the rearview mirror are absent. Apart from a replaced radio and some minor front-end work, this 1977 Trans Am appears remarkably untouched. Externally, there are no tacked-on scoops, ill-fitting spoilers, or other questionable body modifications. Finding a 1977 Pontiac Trans Am in such original, unmolested condition today is becoming increasingly rare, a situation that might be comparable to searching for an unmodified Subaru WRX in another 25 years.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, the allure of this Trans Am is making me want to find a cowboy hat.
