1999 Plymouth Prowler With 6k Original Miles!

When manufacturers create “halo” models, the aim isn’t to sell hundreds of thousands of vehicles. They are designed to catch the public’s eye, luring potential buyers into showrooms to purchase more mundane models that generate better profits. Plymouth rode the crest of the retro wave in 1997 when it released the Prowler. Sales volumes weren’t high, but the Prowler generated plenty of media exposure. This example left the line in 1999, having led a sheltered existence that has seen it accumulate a mere 6,400 miles on its odometer. The time has come for it to find a new home, and I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Tony P. for spotting this stunning Prowler listed here on Craigslist in Willow Glen, California. The seller set their price at $36,900 for a classic that can turn as many heads today as it did in 1999.

The 1999 Sales Brochure makes interesting reading. It confirms that Plymouth offered buyers four paint colors when ordering their new Prowler. What makes that fascinating is that Prowler Purple, which in normal circumstances would be considered a premium metallic shade, was the standard color. Ordering this car in the less flamboyant Prowler Red would have cost the first owner extra cash. Previously, when writing about these classics, I have touched upon the front bumpers that weren’t on the concept car, but were mandatory on production models. I have mentioned how much more elegant the Prowler looks without the bumpers, as demonstrated by our feature car. The seller removed them, integrating turn signals into the body to comply with safety regulations. It makes the front look much cleaner, and in keeping with the design brief to create a modern tribute to a traditional Hot Rod. This Prowler presents exceptionally well, supporting the seller’s mileage claim. The paint shines like glass, and the body is laser-straight. The Black soft-top fits as tight as a drum, and since this Plymouth has spent its life in a favorable climate, its rust-free state is unsurprising. The trim is excellent, and the chromed alloy wheels are in as-new condition.

Upon its release, the Prowler faced enormous criticism for its mechanical specifications. Buyers expected a Hot Rod tribute to feature a V8 under the hood, not a V6. The transmission was the other source of angst, as Plymouth selected a rear-mounted four-speed automatic transaxle with no manual version. The 3.5-liter V6 was not the most potent kid on the block, producing 214hp and 221 ft/lbs of torque. However, things changed dramatically in 1999, when Plymouth introduced an upgraded V6, delivering 253hp and 255 ft/lbs of torque. The transformation was dramatic, with the latest offering providing more spirited acceleration and a higher top speed. This Prowler is mechanically original and has 6,400 miles on the clock. The seller has meticulously maintained this classic since Day One, with comprehensive Service Records confirming that fact and the mileage claim. It runs and drives perfectly, ready to hit the road with the new owner behind the wheel.

Plymouth wanted to ensure the Prowler was anything but ordinary, equipping it with a rather funky interior. The dash features a gauge fascia matching the exterior paint shade, but the company mounted the crucial tachometer atop the steering column. They equipped the car with leather trim, air conditioning, power windows, power locks with keyless entry, cruise control, a remote trunk release, a leather-wrapped tilt wheel, and a premium AM/FM radio/cassette player. The Prowler wasn’t cheap, so Plymouth tried to project value for money. This car’s interior is spotless, further supporting the mileage claim. There is no evidence of wear, and even the typical leather creases are almost non-existent. If Plymouth still existed, this Prowler would look at home on a showroom floor.

The 1999 model year marked the high point for the Plymouth Prowler, with 3,921 buyers handing over the cash to drive one off the showroom floor. After the marque retired in 2001, the Prowler remained on sale for another two years wearing Chrysler badges. The lack of a V8 led some to view the Prowler as a triumph of style over substance, although the engine upgrade for the 1999 model year provided a welcome performance boost. The seller’s price is at the top end of the market, though with values climbing, it could represent a reasonable long-term investment if it remains cherished and protected. I know it won’t appeal to everyone, but could you be tempted to give it a new home?