The Truth Behind the Gold Dash Bezel in the Smokey and the Bandit Trans Am

For car enthusiasts, the iconic muscle car of the 1970s, the Chevrolet Camaro Trans Am, holds a special place in their hearts. One legendary 1977 model, the Smokey and the Bandit Trans Am, is particularly revered for its gold dash bezel. Many debate whether this bezel was actually made of gold or if it was simply a sticker. In this article, we will explore this mystery and uncover the truth behind the gold dash bezel in the Smokey and the Bandit.

About the Smokey and the Bandit Trans Am

The Smokey and the Bandit Trans Am, released in 1977, was a hollywood classic based on the 1977 film of the same name. The car was a Ford Mustang but altered to resemble the Chevrolet Camaro Trans Am. The car was famous for its performance, including its distinctive gold dash bezel, which added a glamorous yet practical touch to the vehicle.

Understanding the Gold Dash Bezel

For many collectors and owners, one of the most appealing features of the 1977 Trans Am is the gold dash bezel. This bezel, located on the instrument panel of the car, is a unique and eye-catching element. However, the discussion around whether the bezel was made of gold or merely a sticker has raged on for decades.

In reality, the optical dashboard was decorated with a sticker that mimicked the appearance of gold. This sticker served not only to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the car but also to cater to personal taste and preference.

The sticker was carefully applied to the dash to ensure that it looked perfectly in place and added a sense of luxury to the interior of the car. These stickers provided a quick and cost-effective way to personalize the car, without the need for complex or expensive machining processes.

Production and Maintenance of the Gold Bezel

Manufacturers faced a unique challenge when it came to adding the gold bezel to the dash. While it was possible to machine and then gold-plated the bezel, it would have been a time-consuming and expensive process. Instead, opting for a sticker solution allowed for a more cost-effective and efficient production method.

This sticker technique is known in the automotive industry as a throttle plate and gauge bezel decal. The sticker was precision-cut and applied to the dash, ensuring a perfect fit. Over time, these stickers can become scratched or worn, but replacing them is a simple task that does not require any significant modifications to the dashboard.

To maintain the gold bezel on the dash, owners can follow basic cleaning and care guidelines. Regular cleaning with a soft cloth and mild soap can help remove dirt and grime, keeping the sticker looking shiny and new. However, if the sticker becomes scratched or worn, it can be easily replaced without damaging the underlying dashboard.

Modern Market and Collectibility

The car has become a headline in the classic car world, with collectors and fans eagerly seeking out an original Smokey and the Bandit Trans Am. Among the features that attract these enthusiasts is the gold bezel. While many car enthusiasts continue to debate the authenticity of the gold bezel, its status as a sticker has not diminished its value.

Vanity plates also play a crucial role in the appeal of the Smokey and the Bandit Trans Am. These plates, custom-cut to fit the shape of the dash bezel, can be affordably obtained and can match the specific style and design of each car. Owners of custom stickers can choose to create their own unique vanity plates to further personalize their ride.

The collectibility of the Smokey and the Bandit Trans Am has led to their rising value in the classic car market. Cars in better condition, with original gold bezels and stickers, often command higher prices. This has fueled the ongoing debate about the authenticity of the bezel, as owners and enthusiasts seek to preserve the iconic features of the car in the best possible condition.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the gold dash bezel of the Smokey and the Bandit Trans Am is a decoration sticker, designed to enhance the aesthetic appeal and personal style of the car. The sticker provides a low-cost and effective solution for achieving a unique look, which has become a significant aspect of the car's appeal. Whether the bezel is made of gold or a sticker does not diminish the significance of the Smokey and the Bandit Trans Am in the world of classical motoring. As a collector's item or a personal vehicle, the Smokey and the Bandit Trans Am remains a beloved and timeless icon of the automotive world.