If Mitsubishi applies its ‘Evolution’ nameplate to a vehicle, you know that it is something special. Take the Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution, for example.
Much like some of the finest hot hatches and sports cars ever sold to the public, the Pajero Evolution hit the market so Mitsubishi could meet motorsport homologation requirements. In this case, it wanted to compete in the Dakar Rally with the Pajero so it went about developing and releasing a more capable version of the standard model.
It is understood that approximately 2,500 Pajero Evolution models were manufactured and of these, roughly 500 were equipped with a manual transmission. The example you’re looking at is one of the rare few imported into the United States after the 25-year-old import rule lapsed on it. It has been listed up for sale through ASG Miami and has an asking price of $52,500.
Read: 2023 Mitsubishi Pajero Sport Launches In Australia With New Features And Colors
The listing notes that this particular Mitsubishi is a right-hand drive model imported from Japan in 2022 and equipped with the available five-speed manual transmission. While limited details have been provided about its ownership history, ASG Miami says it has been driven approximately 209,000 km (~130,000 miles) and still has the original paint job.
A host of changes differentiate the Pajero Evolution from a standard model of the same period. For example, it has a distinctive bodykit with flared wheel arches, has been equipped with independent suspension at all four corners, rocks a quicker steering system, and the 3.5-liter V6 has been upped to produce 276 hp and 257 lb-ft (348 Nm) of torque. Drive is sent to all four wheels and the off-roader also has a two-speed transfer case.
While some may be put off by the vehicle’s relatively high miles, the exterior looks to be in excellent condition. Similarly, the interior also appears to have been well maintained throughout the years and still features the original Recaro seats. Interestingly, ASG tried to sell the same Pajero Evolution on Cars & Bids last year but bidding topped out at $47,500.
