The Gumball Rally was made 5 years before the slightly more famous Cannonball Run, which starred a host a big names such as Burt Reynolds, Roger Moore, Farrah Fawcett, Sammy David Jr. and Dean Martin. On a smaller budget, the Gumball Rally was the original cross-country car race where a group of people, all from different backgrounds had one thing in common: when they hear the world "gumball" whispered by one of the others, they know that it's time for the Gumball Rally: a no-holds barred, secret, winner-take-all rally across the United States.

The film was partly shot in New York, with scenes taking place in front of the original JFK airport terminal, Times Square, Wall Street and Park Avenue. Gallagher's Steak House at 228 West 52nd Street was used as the meeting place, and 303 East 47th Street, since been re-developed, was used at the garage.

Actor Michael Sarrazin, better known for his TV work than motion pictures heading up the cast and played race organiser Michael Bannon. Driving a 1966 Ford Shelby Cobra 427 "Side Oiler" Bannon and his co-driver held the record from the previous year’s race. Other cars featured in the film included a 1974 Ferrari Daytona, a 1974 Porsche 911 Targa, a 1971 Dodge Polara 440 police car and a 1970 Chevrolet Camaro Z28.

The Gumball Rally will soon be featured in the Locations section of OTSONY.