A Chrysler Prowler, now we're talking! Tell us about it...
Well, it was first introduced in 1997 and production lasted until 2002. I guess it was designed to look like those hot-rods of the Thirties. I love the retro-styling and aluminium body and chassis which help to keep it as light as possible. It's a four-speed tiptronic and has a 3.5-litre V6 with about 250 horsepower. It can do 0-100kph in 5.7 seconds.
Pretty impressive! Where did you find it?
Oh, you might find this weird, but I bought it online from eBay and had it shipped here from the US! The transaction was fairly straightforward, the seller had the car officially inspected and I had access to the reports. I put in a bid and got the car! I believe there are about ten Prowlers in the UAE but unfortunately the owners don't know each other. Maybe wheels can organise a Prowler parade!
We'll try — seeing a bunch of these together would be lovely! Tell us more... It looks great, but do you have any plans to modify it?
I have had a number of specialists approach me with ideas to modify it, but I don't find that interesting. Having said that, the car has tons of after market additions and enhancements already but none of them have changed the original styling or the retro looks which I love.
Does it drive as well as it looks?
It drives very well although visibility is not great when the top is up. It has an excellent AC but a very small boot and fuel tank.
It must get a lot of attention on the road?
Yes, it is a real head turner. On the flip side, being such a unique car, it always gives you away wherever you go. People know you were there!
It certainly is conspicuous! Do you fire it up just for special occasions?
Oh, you bet! It has never been to Deira! I am quite careful where and when I drive it. It only has less than 10,000km on the clock. It is a very unique car and it must be treated accordingly.
Where do you get it serviced and are parts pricey?
Al Futtaim is the Chrysler agent here and they service Prowlers, but I've ordered all the service manuals and diagrams just in case. I only ever needed one part when a valet parking guy broke the front bumper. Al Futtaim ordered a new one for me and the price was reasonable.
You must have many stories with this car...
Yes, and they started the day it was cleared from customs! The RTA did not have a Prowler on their system so I could not register it — until they added the model! But yes, many stories with people leaving their phone numbers for various reasons under the windscreen wiper.
Where do you like to cruise?
Jumeirah Beach Road and around JBR.
Do you drive anything else?
Yes, I have a Mercedes CL500 and an Audi S8.
What's the dream?
A Sixties Jaguar E Type. But I like the Audi R8 and the new Camaro too.
Bio
- Name: Ayman Abouseif
- Job: Managing director
- From: Egypt
- Wheels: Chrysler Prowler
- In Dubai: Since 1988
