The Prowler began as what is now referred to as a halo vehicle, a limited production model whose purpose is to help promote an auto manufacturer’s engineering or design prowess. This 1999 example, marketed under the Plymouth brand by DiamlerChrysler just prior to the Plymouth marque’s demise in 2001, is a wonderfully preserved car showing only 655 original miles since being sold new. With this example having been delivered through the Cimino Brothers Chrysler Plymouth franchise in Raton, New Mexico, the Prowler’s origin was a unique attempt to bridge the popularity of high-level Street Rodding toward new-car buyers. The design, spearheaded by Tom Gale, resulted in a two-seat roadster body with a narrowed front profile, separately mounted front fenders, near 50/50 weight-distribution and prominent use of lightweight body components. These cars were assembled by hand at the Connor Avenue plant in Detroit, which also did all Viper construction. More powerful than the company’s pedestrian Magnum V-8s at the time, under the hood was a 24-valve, 3.5L Chrysler SOHC V-6 featuring an aluminum block and rated at 253 HP at 6,400 RPM. This was coupled to a 4-speed AutoStick automatic transmission with overdrive, located at the rear and mated via a torque tube that rotated at engine speed, an arrangement similar to technology used in the C5 Corvette and Porsche 944. This car has its original driveline, Prowler Red paint and the luxurious standard interior. That included black leather upholstery, air conditioning, premium audio equipment, power windows, locks and mirrors, a floor shifter, red fascia dash panel with functional gauges, and low-profile black soft top. Aided with power steering and 4-wheel disc brakes, the Prowler rides on 20-inch rear and 17-inch front wheels, and frankly it represents one of the most unique cars to ever come from Detroit. During the course of five production seasons, fewer than 12,000 of these cars were produced. This car features the original window sticker, dealer invoice, owner’s manual and assorted peripherals. The Plymouth Prowler remains a car that truly offers both a special driving experience as well as curbside appreciation. This example, with low-mileage originality, is still a head- turner from every angle.
