1997 Mitsubishi Pajero Evo Is A Reminder Of The Brand’s Dakar-Dominating Days

The world Evolution, usually followed by Latin numerals, is associated with the performance variants of the Lancer. However, the rich motorsport heritage of Mitsubishi was not limited to the WRC. The Japanese company also dominated the Dakar Rally, hence this 1997 Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution homologation special which is being auctioned this week in Australia by Chrome Temple.

Mitsubishi produced a total of 2,693 examples of the Pajero Evo between 1997 and 1999 in order to satisfy the rules for the T2 production vehicle class. The pictured example is painted in Passion Red which makes it even more desirable and rare, since only 87 were built in that specification.

While it is not showroom material, the Pajero is in great shape considering it has 164,283 km (102,081 miles) in the odometer. According to the listing, the SUV was last serviced in August 2021 and comes with a full service history.

The Evo is based on the three-door variant of the second-generation Pajero that was sold between 1991 and 1999. However, the unique bodykit differentiates it from its short-wheelbase siblings. Body-colored wide fenders, off-road bumpers, side sill extensions, double foglights, a massive hood scoop, Ralliart mud flaps, and a rather distinctive rear spoiler make it clear that this is no typical Pajero. The same goes for the Recaro seats in the two-seater cabin.

What’s perhaps more important than the rally-inspired look are the modifications under the skin. The naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 MIVEC engine produced 280 hp (209 kW / 284 PS) which was a big deal for an off-roader back in the ’90s. Power was sent to all four wheels through either a manual or an automatic gearbox (this one is an auto). Other upgrades included the redesigned suspension featuring double wishbones at the front and a multilink rear axle, the wider tracks, and the quicker steering.

For the record, Mitsubishi has participated 26 times in Dakar Rally with different versions of the Pajero, gathering 12 victories with a record of seven consecutive wins between 2001 and 2007.

The new owner of this 1997 Pajero Evo will have extra bragging rights since Mitsubishi dominated the top four spots in Dakar, in both 1997 and 1998. What is interesting is that the Pajero didn’t only win the T2 category but finished first overall, showing everyone who was the boss. If you are interested in bidding for this beautiful piece of machinery you can visit Chrome Temple’s online auction that will accept offers until October 17.