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2002
Chrysler Prowler

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$44,625
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Expert 2002 Chrysler Prowler review

our expert's take
Our expert's take
By
Full article
our expert's take

I can’t believe that I’m getting all misty-eyed about the demise of the Chrysler Prowler.

DaimlerChrysler announced months ago that the 2002 Prowler — which began in 1997 as the Plymouth Prowler — would be the last of the breed. Production ceased in February, and the limited-production street rod will soon be fair game for collectors of all stripes.

So, why am I sad? Why did I take a final turn in the Prowler just recently?

Was there ever a more impractical car? I can’t think of one.

The base price on the 2002 model is a hefty $44,625. For that, two people can barely squeeze into the roadster. With the cloth top up and once you fall down into the lower-than-the-bottom-door-panel seats, you know how a sardine feels after it has been pressed into a tiny can.

Want to carry anything with you? Forget it … unless you like holding that suitcase in your lap. You have maybe three inches behind the seats.

For the record, Chrysler actually lists “cargo space” in the vehicle at a laughable 1.8 cubic feet. Let me tell what that means.

When you detach the Prowler’s sweeping rear section, pull it back and then fold the cloth top into the rear “cargo” area, you have just enough room to fit a very thin briefcase into the remaining space. Believe me, that’s it.

How about comfort?

The growl from the Prowler’s high-output 3.5-liter V-6 engine rumbles through the interior cabin with all the force of a mini-tornado, and backsides feel every bump in the road thanks to the vehicle’s stiff, hot rod-like suspension.

But, of course, if you’re worrying about such trivial things as cargo space, interior room, quietness and personal comfort in a Chrysler Prowler … well, you just don’t get it.

This car has nothing to do with standard transportation. It was built to be seen. It was built for fun. It was built for the sheer enjoyment of driving a vehicle that looks like it just left the drag strip, a vehicle so aggressively styled that one wonders if it’s street-legal.

And, oh yes, it draws comments. Like nothing else.

People might whistle at you in your 2002 Thunderbird or give you a thumbs-up in your new Mini Cooper, but a Chrysler Prowler is a veritable rolling invitation for testimonials.

During one week in my test 2002 Prowler, I received numerous purchase offers, countless requests to list its specifications and even a couple of inquiries about my current marital status.

Amazing.

The bottom line is that if you have even one drop of affection for motoring in your blood, nothing feels quite as good as bringing a Prowler’s 253 horses to full song on a hot day in the capital region — top down, radio on and gleaming, exotic bodywork slicing through the air.

And now, Chrysler says enough. Bummer.

Dieter Zetsche, chief executive of the U.S.-based Chrysler Group, has insisted that he will keep Chrysler’s fiscal house in order in the future. Rolling along in my test Prowler, Zetsche’s words reminded me of the elementary school principal of my nightmares, telling us there would be no more of this recess nonsense.

I hope Chrysler doesn’t plan on ruling out all the fun. For all its financial problems in recent years, Chrysler has demonstrated a refreshing tendency to let it all hang out, introducing some of the most innovative concepts and production models seen in the United States. The Prowler was perhaps the embodiment of that damn-the-bottom-line, here’s-something-cool philosophy.

Happily, the Prowler will continue to be seen on U.S. roadways. Dedicated watchers of the collector-car industry believe it will be a hot item among collectors, restorers and customizers.

And for those of you out there who have the time and money for something utterly impractical and totally fun, the 2002 Prowler can still be had. Consider yourself incredibly fortunate if you make the investment.

Chrysler Prowler at a glance

Make/ model: 20 Chrysler Prowler

Vehicle type: Two-passenger, rear-drive roadster

Base price: $44,625 (as tested, $45,400)

Engine: 3.5-liter V-6 with 253 horsepower at 6,400 revolutions per minute and 255 foot-pounds of torque at 3,950 rpm

EPA fuel economy: 18 miles per gallon city; 23 mpg highway

Transmission: Electronic four-speed automatic with overdrive and clutchless manual-shifting option

Steering: Power rack and pinion

Brakes: Four-wheel discs with power

Suspension type: Independent with coil springs-over-shock absorber configurations front and rear; stabilizer bars front and rear.

Interior volume: 47.9 cubic feet

Trunk volume: 1.8 cubic feet

Fuel tank: 12.2 gallons

Curb weight: 2,864 pounds

Front track: 62.2 inches

Rear track: 63.5 inches

Height: 50.9 inches

Length: 165.3 inches

Wheelbase: 113.3 inches

Width: 76.5 inches

Tires: P225/45HR17 on front; P295/40HR20 on rear (extended mobility tires with run-flat capability)

Final assembly point: Detroit

2002 Chrysler Prowler review: Our expert's take
By

I can’t believe that I’m getting all misty-eyed about the demise of the Chrysler Prowler.

DaimlerChrysler announced months ago that the 2002 Prowler — which began in 1997 as the Plymouth Prowler — would be the last of the breed. Production ceased in February, and the limited-production street rod will soon be fair game for collectors of all stripes.

So, why am I sad? Why did I take a final turn in the Prowler just recently?

Was there ever a more impractical car? I can’t think of one.

The base price on the 2002 model is a hefty $44,625. For that, two people can barely squeeze into the roadster. With the cloth top up and once you fall down into the lower-than-the-bottom-door-panel seats, you know how a sardine feels after it has been pressed into a tiny can.

Want to carry anything with you? Forget it … unless you like holding that suitcase in your lap. You have maybe three inches behind the seats.

For the record, Chrysler actually lists “cargo space” in the vehicle at a laughable 1.8 cubic feet. Let me tell what that means.

When you detach the Prowler’s sweeping rear section, pull it back and then fold the cloth top into the rear “cargo” area, you have just enough room to fit a very thin briefcase into the remaining space. Believe me, that’s it.

How about comfort?

The growl from the Prowler’s high-output 3.5-liter V-6 engine rumbles through the interior cabin with all the force of a mini-tornado, and backsides feel every bump in the road thanks to the vehicle’s stiff, hot rod-like suspension.

But, of course, if you’re worrying about such trivial things as cargo space, interior room, quietness and personal comfort in a Chrysler Prowler … well, you just don’t get it.

This car has nothing to do with standard transportation. It was built to be seen. It was built for fun. It was built for the sheer enjoyment of driving a vehicle that looks like it just left the drag strip, a vehicle so aggressively styled that one wonders if it’s street-legal.

And, oh yes, it draws comments. Like nothing else.

People might whistle at you in your 2002 Thunderbird or give you a thumbs-up in your new Mini Cooper, but a Chrysler Prowler is a veritable rolling invitation for testimonials.

During one week in my test 2002 Prowler, I received numerous purchase offers, countless requests to list its specifications and even a couple of inquiries about my current marital status.

Amazing.

The bottom line is that if you have even one drop of affection for motoring in your blood, nothing feels quite as good as bringing a Prowler’s 253 horses to full song on a hot day in the capital region — top down, radio on and gleaming, exotic bodywork slicing through the air.

And now, Chrysler says enough. Bummer.

Dieter Zetsche, chief executive of the U.S.-based Chrysler Group, has insisted that he will keep Chrysler’s fiscal house in order in the future. Rolling along in my test Prowler, Zetsche’s words reminded me of the elementary school principal of my nightmares, telling us there would be no more of this recess nonsense.

I hope Chrysler doesn’t plan on ruling out all the fun. For all its financial problems in recent years, Chrysler has demonstrated a refreshing tendency to let it all hang out, introducing some of the most innovative concepts and production models seen in the United States. The Prowler was perhaps the embodiment of that damn-the-bottom-line, here’s-something-cool philosophy.

Happily, the Prowler will continue to be seen on U.S. roadways. Dedicated watchers of the collector-car industry believe it will be a hot item among collectors, restorers and customizers.

And for those of you out there who have the time and money for something utterly impractical and totally fun, the 2002 Prowler can still be had. Consider yourself incredibly fortunate if you make the investment.

Chrysler Prowler at a glance

Make/ model: 20 Chrysler Prowler

Vehicle type: Two-passenger, rear-drive roadster

Base price: $44,625 (as tested, $45,400)

Engine: 3.5-liter V-6 with 253 horsepower at 6,400 revolutions per minute and 255 foot-pounds of torque at 3,950 rpm

EPA fuel economy: 18 miles per gallon city; 23 mpg highway

Transmission: Electronic four-speed automatic with overdrive and clutchless manual-shifting option

Steering: Power rack and pinion

Brakes: Four-wheel discs with power

Suspension type: Independent with coil springs-over-shock absorber configurations front and rear; stabilizer bars front and rear.

Interior volume: 47.9 cubic feet

Trunk volume: 1.8 cubic feet

Fuel tank: 12.2 gallons

Curb weight: 2,864 pounds

Front track: 62.2 inches

Rear track: 63.5 inches

Height: 50.9 inches

Length: 165.3 inches

Wheelbase: 113.3 inches

Width: 76.5 inches

Tires: P225/45HR17 on front; P295/40HR20 on rear (extended mobility tires with run-flat capability)

Final assembly point: Detroit

Factory warranties

New car program benefits

Basic
3 years / 36,000 miles
Corrosion
5 years / 100,000 miles
Powertrain
7 years / 70,000 miles
Roadside Assistance
3 years / 36,000 miles

Certified Pre-Owned program benefits

Age / mileage
5 model years or newer / less than 75,000 miles
Basic
3 months / 3,000 miles
Dealer certification
125-point inspection

Consumer reviews

4.5 / 5
Based on 9 reviews
Write a review
Comfort 4.2
Interior 4.2
Performance 4.3
Value 4.4
Exterior 5.0
Reliability 4.3

Most recent

  • Best body style I’ve car I ever owned

    Styling is second to none. Car has plenty of power for 6 cylinder because it’s lightweight because of the aluminum chassis but as an owner of previous muscle cars I wish the design could have allowed a hemi. Heads turn ever time I drive it whether it’s from drivers in other cars or people on the sidewalk. Only reason I’m selling is because I want to buy a brand new car. I will miss it and the new owner will enjoy owning it.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    12 people out of 12 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • GETS LOTS OF ATTENTION!!!!!!!!!!

    great looks, drives good,collector car, not many made.I JUST HAVE TOO MANY CARS ,NEED TO SELL SOME OF THEM. . PROWLER IS LIKE NEW,new tires & battery.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    4 people out of 6 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Getting another one soon

    This car is a treat for the driving spirit. Great conversation piece. Nostalgic great eye catching sexy ride. Love the attention and compliments. Ride On
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    5 people out of 5 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Its the best car I've owned for fun value.

    It is an exceptional automobile, and a great value for the listed sales price. The color on the vehicle really pops. It captures the attention of others, whether it is on display or simply a portion of my daughter's photography essay. Its a fun car and will provide the next owner with an exceptional value and joy in ownership. It has low mileage and has been well maintained by a Certified Chrysler technician.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Most unique car ever built

    I have a 2002 which I drive occasionally. If you want to go unnoticed buy an import. At a gas station you get so much attention it's difficult to get away. Love it love it love it. ????????
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • A car like no other...

    I have owned a 1999 Black Prowler for 13 years. I now have a 5.0L V-6 Stroker in it. The stock car had a lot of pep - not a race car - it was meant to be a cruiser. It is the ultimate eye-catcher, and don't buy one if you don't feel like talking to people. At almost every stop you will have someone come over to talk about the car. 99% very positive. Some will ask you to take a picture of them & the car. I'm 6'1" tall, and weigh about 212. The car fits me like a glove. Not a lot of room, but just the right amount. It is what it is - a unique sports car. I drive for hours in it at a time on trips, and it is extremely comfortable - for me. To each his own. I'll have mine 'til I die... I like the ride. I have 149,000 on mine now.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 4.0
    2 people out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Awesome Retro Collectible

    If you like the look of a retro hot rod with updated technology, this is the car to take out on those Sunday drives or show off to your friends. Considering Chrysler only made about 11,000 of these cats, eventually this model has only one way to go. My only two complaints are the size of the trunk which is too small for a set of golf clubs and poor viability with the top up. The is responsive but a bit stiff.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Nice date until you meet the parents !

    Really psyched on buying one of these, until I drove it. You sit in a tub, at 6' tall your hitting the top, impossible to get in/out unless you are flexible. Door only opens part way. No shoulder room or place to put your hands. Can't put your hands out the window (too low in seat), ride is terrible, noise from exhaust with top down you can't talk to your passenger. Wind (5' 11") hits you in face due to the tiny windshield. Brakes were terrible, very little room for brake/gas so left foot can't stretch out. I've owned small cars and an Opel GT for a few years. Nice to drive 3 - 5 miles, that would be it.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does not recommend this car
    Comfort 1.0
    Interior 1.0
    Performance 3.0
    Value 1.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 2.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • ok car

    It was mostly Ok car to own. I loved the styling and it was a satisfying vehicle to drive. The car was a pig to drive in the rain and stopping sometimes was tricky as we have no ABS on our cars. I reccomend this car to those who would drive this car on the weekends and are not looking for a sports car. There are much bettter overall cars than the Prowler but none come with these great looks.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 3.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 3.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 2.0
    3 people out of 4 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No

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FAQ

What trim levels are available for the 2002 Chrysler Prowler?

The 2002 Chrysler Prowler is available in 1 trim level:

  • (1 style)

What is the MPG of the 2002 Chrysler Prowler?

The 2002 Chrysler Prowler offers up to 18 MPG in city driving and 23 MPG on the highway. These figures are based on EPA mileage ratings and are for comparison purposes only. The actual mileage will vary depending on vehicle options, trim level, driving conditions, driving habits, vehicle maintenance, and other factors.

Is the 2002 Chrysler Prowler reliable?

The 2002 Chrysler Prowler has an average reliability rating of 4.3 out of 5 according to cars.com consumers. Find real-world reliability insights within consumer reviews from 2002 Chrysler Prowler owners.

Is the 2002 Chrysler Prowler a good Convertible?

Below are the cars.com consumers ratings for the 2002 Chrysler Prowler. 88.9% of drivers recommend this vehicle.

4.5 / 5
Based on 9 reviews
  • Comfort: 4.2
  • Interior: 4.2
  • Performance: 4.3
  • Value: 4.4
  • Exterior: 5.0
  • Reliability: 4.3
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