What Happened to the Semi Truck From Smokey and the Bandit?

The classic 1977 movie ‘Smokey and the Bandit’ is still enjoyed by millions of fans today. The iconic movie stars Burt Reynolds and Sally Field as they embark on a wild cross-country adventure in a souped-up black Pontiac Firebird Trans Am. Along for the ride is the infamous semi truck, driven by Jackie Gleason’s character, Big Enos.

The semi truck that was featured in Smokey and the Bandit was an iconic 1977 Peterbilt 359 Conventional tractor. It had an extended hood, which made it appear larger than it actually was.

The truck was painted in black and gold, with a custom chrome grille, dual spotlights, and a loud air horn. It also featured custom decals with Big Enos’ name on both sides of the cab, as well as “Bandit” written on the back window.

The truck was specifically chosen for its distinctive look and to contrast against Reynolds’ character’s bright red Pontiac Firebird. The Peterbilt 359 Conventional tractor was originally produced from 1975 to 1987, so it wasn’t exactly new when it appeared in Smokey and the Bandit.

In 2015, the original semi truck from Smokey and the Bandit turned up at an auction in Arizona. The truck had been restored to its original condition and included all of its original features, including Big Enos’ name on both sides of the cab and “Bandit” written on the back window. The auction estimated that it would sell for between $20,000 to $30,000 USD, but it ended up selling for $80,000 USD!

The buyer of this classic semi truck remains unknown but it’s safe to assume that they are a big fan of Smokey and the Bandit! This iconic piece of pop culture history can be seen occasionally at car shows across North America, reminding us all just how much fun we had watching this classic film.

Conclusion

The semi truck from Smokey and the Bandit has been restored to its original condition with all its original features intact. It sold for an impressive price tag of $80,000 USD at an auction in Arizona back in 2015 and is occasionally seen at car shows across North America as a reminder of just how much fun we had watching this classic film!

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Stephen Dunn