It became a box office smash and molded the next generation of cross-country racers even after the Cannonball Run died out. New races, such as the U.S. Express from 1980 to 1983, were held.

The Sheik who competed at the last Cannonball Run, is berated by his father for not winning it. So he tells him to go and win. Problem is that there is no Cannonball Run. So his father tells him ...