2000 Plymouth Prowler: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Plymouth's limited-production hot rod changes colors, gets suspension revisions for 2000, and sees its fate sealed by the phase-out of the Plymouth brand. Prowler production is to cease after the 2001 model year. This rear-wheel drive 2-seat roadster is constructed largely of aluminum, and has a manual folding cloth top with an electrically defrosted glass rear window. Plymouth builds the Prowler alongside Dodge's high-performance Viper sports car. Prowler uses the same 255 horsepower 3.5-liter aluminum block V6 that powers the Chrysler LHS and 300M. The only transmission offered is a rear-mounted automatic with Chrysler's Autostick, which allows limited manual shifting capability. Four-wheel disc brakes are standard, but antilock and traction control are unavailable. For 2000, Prowler's independent rear suspension gets softer springs and recalibrated shock absorbers intended to improve ride and handling. Prowler is available in red, black, and now silver, which replaces yellow and purple. Plymouth also will build 150 2-tone black-and-red Woodward Edition models for the 2000 model year. The standard alloy wheels are now chrome. Also new are a chrome bezel and leather boot for the shifter, a trip computer, and an automatic-dimming mirror with integral compass.

COMPETITION

This class features an interesting mix of hard-core performance models and more luxurious touring convertibles. Our Best Buys give you a little of both worlds. The Chevrolet Corvette is fast, comfortable, and reasonably affordable. Unlike previous models it doesn't beat you up with a hard ride, and it will cruise quietly at highway speeds. Our other Best Buy, the Mazda Miata, is a bare-bones roadster with few frills and average acceleration, but for weekend fun on a twisty back road it's hard to beat. If you don't mind spending a few more bucks, we recommend you take a look at the BMW Z3 and Mercedes-Benz SLK. Both are two-seat convertibles. The BMW is more sporty and the Mercedes is more luxurious. If you are interested in bang-for-the-buck our Budget Buys include the Chevrolet Camaro and Ford Mustang. At any given price or equipment level the Camaro is a faster car, but the Mustang might be a little more user-friendly as a daily driver.