Tall, thin and urbane, the quiet-spoken Verduyn explained the Prowler's genesis. Verduyn was not a hot rod enthusiast at the time he made the sketch, but he was looking for something that typified American design. His original concept had a retractable glass canopy and hubless wheels that were impractical for production. While visiting Pacifica, Chrysler president Robert Lutz saw the sketch hanging in Verduyn's office and immediately liked it. At this point it is not clear how far Prowler-mania will go.
Production is likely to last four or five years.
It says to the world that Chrysler is willing to take chances, have fun and give buyers the kind of vehicle never before available from a major manufacturer. 1999 Knight Ridder Inc. and may not be republished without permission.