The 1977 classic movie, Smokey and the Bandit, has long been a beloved film for car enthusiasts, not only for its iconic Trans Am and the automotive destruction scenes, but also for the unexpected vehicles that make brief appearances. One such vehicle is the Citroën SM, a car that stands out as the least-expected car to appear in the film. The SM is a large-ish two-door car with a relatively large engine and a plush interior, and it's a French-made GT car with a Maserati engine. It's a rare sight in the American market, with only 2,037 units sold in the US during its lifetime. The SM's presence in the film is even more surprising given that the movie was shot in Georgia, a state that wasn't a big market for Citroën's cars. The SM's owner, who has a pair of fog/driving lamps in place of the front license plate, is a testament to the car's rarity and the owner's commitment to preserving it. The SM's appearance in the film raises a deeper question: what makes a car iconic, and why do some cars become more memorable than others? Personally, I think the SM's unexpected presence in the film is what makes it so fascinating. It's a car that stands out, not only because of its rarity but also because of its unique design and history. The SM's presence in the film also highlights the cultural significance of the 1970s, a time when CB radios and trucking were popular forms of entertainment. The film's plot, which hinges on a wager to smuggle Coors beer from Texas to Georgia, adds an interesting layer to the SM's appearance. The Coors beer smuggling plot is a thin one, but it provides a reason for the Bandit to chase the Bandit in his Trans Am. The SM's owner, who has a pair of fog/driving lamps in place of the front license plate, is a testament to the car's rarity and the owner's commitment to preserving it. In my opinion, the SM's appearance in the film is a reminder of the importance of preserving rare and unique vehicles. It's a car that stands out, and its presence in the film is a testament to the power of cinema to capture the imagination and inspire curiosity. From my perspective, the SM's appearance in Smokey and the Bandit is a fascinating and unexpected detail that adds depth and intrigue to the film. It's a car that's worth remembering, and its presence in the film is a reminder of the importance of preserving rare and unique vehicles for future generations to enjoy.
