Devised in the 1990s’ to compete in the Paris-Dakar Rally T3 Class, which was meant for mass-production models, this Mitsubishi was more than just another 4×4.
The folks over at Piston Heads apparently think as much, too, and have paid homage to one of the last true homologation specials: the Pajero Evolution.
The donor Pajero (nee Montero, Shogun) was a pretty unassuming basis, featuring a live rear axle. This was swapped out for what Mitsubishi referred to as “All Road Multi-link Independent suspension for the Evolution” (ARMIE), while adding 125mm and 110mm to the front and rear track respectively and increasing suspension travel to 240mm front and 270mm rear for true dune-conquering ability. And conquer it did, winning in 1997 and 1998.
The 280hp 3.5-litre MIVEC V6 was fed to a 5-speed INVECS automatic gearbox and a “clever” 4×4 system. The latter allows 2WD and features a high range open diff as well as locked diff at low- and high- range. This is all draped in a menacing looking exterior, replete with extra vents, JDM-style guard mirrors and a pumped body kit. You’d be hard pressed finding another SUV with as much pedigree as the Pajero Evolution.
Only 2,500 were made, with the odd example showing up for sale, like this one we found on car-from-uk for £5,000. Definitely worth snatching up if you have the chance.
By Mitchell Jones
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