I have done a quick search but couldnt find the answer:

Q: Did the 1998 EL XR6 come standard with a passenger side airbag??

I am looking to purchase one that appears to have the area were the airbag was/should be filled with a crash pad not with the srs airbag imprint, so Im trying to determine if its had a prang or not?

regards, Andy!

Quick update: I have looked at numerous for sale photo's in used cars etc. It appears some early 98 El's had the dash without the airbag area installed at all. Later 98 versions appear to have the crash pad insalled but no airbag imprint...does this confirm that it was an option??? any help at all appreciated

PAB was an option on ALL EF/EL XR's.

I may be wrong.

I highly doubt anyone would replace the entire dash to install a NON PAB due to having a crash.

Most cases I've seen they just clip the cover back into place without replacing the airbag inside.
again, i doubt anyone would waste their time even doing that, cheaper to replace it from a wreck.