USA vs USA — 1999 vs 1957
| Prowler 3.5 V6 | Imperial Crown Virgil Exner Design | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 253 hp | 340 hp |
| Torque | 240 lb-ft | 420 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 3,518 cc | 6,767 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.6 sec | 10.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 122 mph | 120 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.0 sec | 17.0 sec |
| Weight | 2,838 lbs | 5,000 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,843 mm | 3,302 mm |
| Length | 4,147 mm | 5,791 mm |
| Units Produced | 11,702 | — |
| Original MSRP | $44,625 | $5,598 |
| Value (Excellent) | $55,000 | $85,000 |
| Collectibility | 6/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 6/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1999 Chrysler Prowler 3.5 V6 brings quicker acceleration, higher top speed, lighter weight to the table, and the 1957 Chrysler Imperial Crown Virgil Exner Design answers with more power, stronger collectibility. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Chrysler has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1999 Chrysler Prowler 3.5 V6 with the 1957 Chrysler Imperial Crown Virgil Exner Design highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1957 Chrysler Imperial Crown Virgil Exner Design holds a clear advantage in raw power with 340 hp compared to 253 hp, a 87-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Chrysler Prowler uses a V6 SOHC 24V displacing 3,518 cc, while the Chrysler Imperial Crown relies on a V8 OHV (Chrysler 392/413 Hemi/Wedge) with 6,767 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1999 Chrysler Prowler 3.5 V6 edges ahead at 6.6 seconds versus 10.0 seconds. The Chrysler Prowler carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 2162 lbs lighter. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1957 Chrysler Imperial Crown Virgil Exner Design rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.