Chrysler Actually Constructed This Hybrid Jeep Wrangler-Plymouth Prowler Test Vehicle

“Prangler” might sound like the mascot for a line of economical potato crisps, but it serves as the designated moniker for a peculiar Plymouth Prowler prototype that Chrysler improvised back in 1994 utilizing the cabin from an early-1990s YJ Jeep Wrangler. More interestingly, they indeed dispatched it onto public roads, explaining why tangible evidence today exists of its presence in the form of this low-resolution clip that renowned automotive espionage photographer Jim Dunne captured of one parked at the roadside.

Constructed in approximately 1994 by Chrysler engineers, the Prangler is presumed to be a fusion of a nearly finalized aluminum Prowler framework and front section and an adapted Wrangler cabin serving dual purposes as an effective camouflage and insulation for all-weather assessments (given the final Prowler soft top’s infamous leaks). The test model likely operated with the production vehicle’s Chrysler LHS-sourced 3.5-liter V6 engine and a four-speed Autostick gearbox from the Dodge Intrepid.

Exceptionally peculiar circumstances. Yet, within the framework of the entire Plymouth Prowler initiative during that period, it was essentially expected. The vehicle’s entire development journey was infused with a spirit of “Why not?” that is seldom witnessed from giant corporate entities. On paper, the Prowler served as both a marketing strategy and a research platform, a flashy product Chrysler could utilize to evaluate fresh aluminum construction methods. But in the minds of its creators and technicians, it presented a unique opportunity to brainstorm in a jovial Midwestern car enthusiast manner, probably leading to a moment when Jim from the vehicle dynamics unit gazes at the Prowler’s floor panel and remarks, “Hey Rick, do you think a Wrangler cabin might fit back here…”

As a prototype vehicle, the Prangler was never intended for public view, resulting in documentation being as improvised as its unconventional body. Fewer than five are believed to have been in existence, with only two photos of them circulating online. Popular Mechanics initially printed the spy photograph of the red vehicle featured above, which a dedicated Prowler enthusiast digitized from the original magazine publication and shared online. Jalopnik similarly posted one in 2018 depicting a few proud Chrysler engineers posing with the yellow model. Without the video, the Prangler would remain a mystery.

From certain perspectives, the two halves appear entirely mismatched, akin to the result of two distinct species breeding, especially with its rudimentary bumpers and rear fenders. However, from other angles, particularly the rear three-quarter view, it almost resembles a genuine custom hot rod more than the completed version, possibly resembling what George Barris would have envisioned with a Wrangler in the past. The fact that the Prangler reflects the same expression as us when we discoveredit was a phenomenon doesn’t cause harm either—it’s delightful to cherish a vehicle that’s as entertained by its own existence as you are.

Just how many Pranglers were manufactured—and what transpired with them—is a matter of discussion. The two observed here likely met the same fate as other early Chrysler sports cars of that period. At least one, potentially two collections of the Prangler’s distinctive wheels were somehow recovered by Prowler owners as indicated by a forum post, but speculations that a complete Prangler still exists somewhere are unverified. We can only wish that they’re accurate, and someday witness its joyful little countenance with our own eyes.

Received a clue, or even the alleged survivor’s whereabouts? Drop us a message: tips@thedrive.com

h/t: Michael Klotz