What is this little guy?

[lenspointer]

I don’t remember one being in a ‘99 I had. This is an ‘02. Stout, and it’s only on one side.

[KBH22102]

Anchor for car seat strap; you should also see a leather loop on the top of the passenger side seat leather to thread the strap through to the anchor.

[lenspointer]

So it is a family car.

[robb1887]

Exactly.

Thought I've never understood the rhyme or reason on who got this.

Mine doesnt have it and is a 2000, Bergy's Silver also 2000 Coupe did. Though I don't know his production month. Mine was pretty early.

[lenspointer]

I need a car seat, a convincingly life-like infant doll (maybe one that moves around a little bit) and a “baby on board” suction cup sign.

[robb1887]

HOV2 here you come!

[MartyBtoo]

Most HOV lanes that require 3 or more occupants usually have an exception for 2 seaters with 2 people in them. Might be worth checking with your local jurisdiction.