Classic Car Spotlight: The Iconic Smokey and the Bandit Police Car – What You Didn’t Know Until Now

The 1977 Pontiac Trans Am, forever linked to the 1977 blockbuster "Smokey and the Bandit," remains an enduring symbol of American muscle and outlaw spirit. But the film's impact extends beyond the Trans Am itself, also elevating the often-overlooked police car featured prominently in the high-speed chases: the 1977 Pontiac LeMans. This explainer delves into the history, significance, and surprising details surrounding the "Smokey" police cars, separating fact from fiction and exploring its lasting legacy.

Who: The primary "Smokey" in the film was Buford T. Justice, played by Jackie Gleason, a cantankerous Texas sheriff obsessed with catching Bandit (Burt Reynolds) and Snowman (Jerry Reed). His vehicle of choice was a 1977 Pontiac LeMans, a full-size sedan common for police fleets at the time. Multiple LeMans models were used during filming due to the demands of stunt work, including at least one 1976 model year.

What: The "Smokey" car, beyond being a mere prop, represented law and order in opposition to the Bandit's rebellious freedom. The LeMans, painted in a standard police livery of the era (often two-tone with a dark color on top and white or light color on the bottom), was a stark contrast to the sleek, black Trans Am. It was equipped with basic law enforcement necessities: a siren, flashing lights, and a two-way radio. The specific model varied slightly between scenes, reflecting the use of multiple vehicles and the practical needs of filmmaking.

When: "Smokey and the Bandit" premiered in 1977, becoming a cultural phenomenon and immediately boosting sales of Pontiac Trans Ams. The film's impact on the LeMans was less direct, but it cemented the car's image as a symbol of authority and small-town law enforcement in the popular imagination. The film was set during that same year of release.

Where: The film's action unfolds primarily in the southeastern United States, specifically Georgia and Texas. Bandit and Snowman attempt to illegally transport 400 cases of Coors beer from Texarkana, Texas, to Atlanta, Georgia, in under 28 hours. Buford T. Justice relentlessly pursues them across state lines, making the landscapes of Georgia and Texas integral to the film's visual identity.

Why: The inclusion of the Pontiac LeMans as the police vehicle was a practical choice. Police departments frequently used full-size sedans for their patrol cars, and the LeMans was a readily available and affordable option for the film's budget. However, its role transcended practicality. The LeMans served as a symbolic representation of the established order, a foil to the Bandit's anti-establishment persona. The comedic portrayal of Buford T. Justice and his often-inept deputies further reinforced this contrast, making the "Smokey" car a source of both frustration and amusement for audiences.

Historical Context: The 1970s were a period of significant change in the automotive industry. The muscle car era was waning due to rising fuel prices, stricter emissions regulations, and increasing insurance costs. "Smokey and the Bandit" tapped into a nostalgia for the high-horsepower, rebellious spirit of the past. The Pontiac Trans Am, with its distinctive styling and powerful engine (for the time), became a symbol of this nostalgia. The LeMans, while not as glamorous, represented the more practical and restrained automotive landscape of the era. It was a car built for comfort and dependability, reflecting the needs of everyday drivers and law enforcement agencies.

Beyond the Film: Real-World Impact

While the Trans Am saw a massive surge in popularity following the film's release, the LeMans also benefited from increased recognition. Though not typically sought-after by collectors in the same way, the "Smokey and the Bandit" connection has given the LeMans a unique niche in automotive history. The film's success led to two sequels, "Smokey and the Bandit II" (1980) and "Smokey and the Bandit Part 3" (1983), though neither captured the magic of the original. The LeMans continued to feature in these sequels, further solidifying its association with the franchise.

Current Developments: Today, original Pontiac LeMans models from the 1970s are increasingly rare, especially those in well-preserved condition. While not as valuable as Trans Ams from the same era, they are attracting attention from collectors interested in the complete "Smokey and the Bandit" story. Replicas of the "Smokey" police cars are also being built, often incorporating details to accurately recreate the vehicles seen in the film. These replicas serve as tributes to the movie and the iconic cars it featured. Online forums and car clubs dedicated to Pontiac vehicles often feature discussions and information about the LeMans and its role in "Smokey and the Bandit."

What You Didn’t Know Until Now:

• Multiple Cars: Several LeMans vehicles were used for filming, resulting in slight variations in appearance between scenes. Some had different light bars, and at least one 1976 model was used.


• Engine Specs: While the Trans Am's engine performance is often discussed, the LeMans typically featured a less powerful engine option, reflecting its intended use as a practical sedan. Engine options for the 1977 LeMans included a 231 cubic inch V6 and a 301, 350, or 400 cubic inch V8.


• Color Variations: The exact shades of blue and white used on the "Smokey" cars could vary slightly depending on the specific police department or the available paint during filming.


• The Dog: While not part of the car itself, Sheriff Buford T. Justice's basset hound, Fred, was an integral part of the "Smokey" image. Fred's presence added another layer of humor and personality to the character and the vehicle.


• Beyond Law Enforcement: While primarily associated with law enforcement, the Pontiac LeMans was also a popular family car. Its spacious interior and comfortable ride made it a practical choice for many Americans.

Likely Next Steps: The legacy of "Smokey and the Bandit" and its iconic cars is likely to endure for generations to come. As classic car values continue to rise, interest in the Pontiac LeMans, particularly those with documented connections to the film, is expected to increase. The ongoing popularity of car shows and automotive events will provide opportunities for enthusiasts to showcase their "Smokey" replicas and share their passion for the film and its vehicles. Furthermore, the potential for a reboot or remake of "Smokey and the Bandit" could further revitalize interest in the original film and its iconic cars, introducing them to a new generation of viewers. The future of the "Smokey" police car, much like the Bandit's Trans Am, seems secure as a symbol of a bygone era of American cinema and automotive culture.