Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution 1997
General description :
Model History
The Mitsubishi Pajero, known as the Shogun in the UK, is a Sport Utility Vehicle that first launched in 1982. With roots tracing back to the 1934 PX33 prototype, the first generation of Pajero was unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show in 1981; the fourth generation is still in production today. Modified versions of the Pajero are noted for having won the Dakar Rally 15 times.
A redesigned second generation Pajero debuted in January 1991. Just about everything was new and further enhanced. It also saw the introduction of Super Select 4WD (SS4), multimode ABS, and electronic shock absorbers. SS4 was groundbreaking in the sense that it combined the advantages of part-time and full-time four-wheel drive with four available options: 2H (high-range rear-wheel drive), 4H (high-range full-time four-wheel drive), 4HLc (high-range four-wheel drive with locked centre differential) and 4LLc (low-range four-wheel drive with locked centre differential). Another advantage of this second generation system is that it gave the driver the ability to switch between two-wheel drive and full-time four-wheel drive at speeds up to 62 mph. Multimode ABS was equally innovative. This meant that the ABS would be fully functional in all modes of SS4, as braking with a locked centre differential requires completely different braking parameters.
The Pajero Evolution was introduced in October 1997 and was developed in response to new entry requirements for the Dakar Rally's T2 Class. The Evolution came standard with a 3.5-litre 24-valve DOHC V6 that featured Mitsubishi Innovative Valve Timing and Electronic Lift Control system (MIVEC). A new dual plenum variable intake helped increase power, and a new independent rear suspension made the ride even smoother. A grand total of 2,500 were manufactured for homologation purposes. They could be ordered in either Sofia White, Passion Red, or metallic Satellite Silver.
Mitsubishi not only dominated the T2 class with this car, they dominated the whole Dakar Rally. Paj-Evos took the top three spots in 1998, beating even the supposedly faster T3 class cars. They covered over 10,000km in 18 days, and finished five hours before the next competitor. Pajeros have won nearly half of all the Dakar Rallies with 15 wins overall.
Equipment
Satellite Silver Metallic paintwork, Recaro cloth upholstery, 5-Speed manual transmission, Super Select 4WD system, Rear spoiler with side airdams, Aluminium skid plate, Four-wheel independent suspension (ARMIE), Privacy glass, Automatic air conditioning, Leather-trimmed steering wheel, Carbon-effect interior trim, Electrically adjustable door mirrors, ABS, Front SRS airbags, Ralliart mud flaps, MPH speedometer, Spare wheel, Toolkit.
Exterior
One of only 500 manuals produced, this gleaming example is finished in Satellite Silver metallic. Full of character with vents and bulges the bodywork presents in stunning condition all round, entirely free from any unsightly chips, scratches, or scuffs. In March this year the car was treated to an extensive cosmetic refresh to a very high standard, the work including a full re-spray with fully refurbished trims and all-new body kit rubbers. The fresh paintwork now exhibits a deep glassy shine and uniform colour across every panel for a superb factory finish.
VIEWINGS WELCOME BY APPOINTMENT ONLY /// ADDITIONAL PHOTOS AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST
Interior
Equipped with attractive Recaro seats the interior of the Paj-Evo has a rugged yet pleasant aesthetic. The unmarked seats are upholstered in hardwearing cloth, the steering wheel is trimmed in leather, and the dash fascia is finished with carbon-effect trim, all in fantastic order. The rear seats are in equally fine condition and can fold forward twice to create a huge rear load space. The boot area is also particularly fresh. In-car entertainment is provided by a Kenwood CD player/monitor.
ENGINE & TRANSMISSION
The Evo is powered by the 6G74 3.5-litre V6. The 24-valve DOHC engine features Mitsubishi’s Innovative Valve Timing and Electronic Lift Control (MIVEC), which varies the timing of the intake and exhaust camshafts to increase the power and torque output over a broad engine speed range.
The engine bay of this example is in good original order without appearing overly dressed. Out on the road the car performs superbly, the slick manual gearbox a real pleasure to operate. The Super Select 4WD system also works just as it should, combining the advantages of part-time and full-time four-wheel drive with four additional drive options.
The last service was carried out in 2019 at 34k miles and included replacement of the timing belt and water pump. We have just had the car fully inspected at the current mileage for the new keeper’s peace of mind. The MOT is valid until March 2021.
WHEELS, TYRES & BRAKES
The original six-spoke alloys look great in satin black, with only a handful of small curb marks to mention. The wheels are shod in a brand new set of General Grabber all-terrain tyres that we have just had fitted at the current mileage. The brakes have also been checked and are in fine operational condition, pulling the car to a halt quickly and in a straight line; the front pads were replaced at 34k miles.
History File
This low mileage example is one of just 2,500 Evos built to homologate Mitsubishi’s Dakar Rally T2-class Pajero; it is also understood to be one of only 500 produced in manual. The car was first registered in Japan in 1997 and arrived in the UK in 2002. The MPH speedo reads just 36,040 miles.
The current owner has recently spent in excess of £7,800 preparing the vehicle to his exacting standards, both mechanically and cosmetically. Over the last year or so the car has been treated to a full exterior refresh, underside treatment, major service and cambelt, four new tyres, and anything else required to bring it up to the first-rate standard in which it now presents. All in all, a fine example of the fast-appreciating and highly sought after Pajero Evolution, not to be missed with the rare manual ‘box.
http://www.4starclassics.com/for-sale/mitsubishi-pajero-evolution-manual-for-sale/
1997 Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution is listed sold on ClassicDigest in Kingsley by 4 Star Classics for £17995.
Car Facts
Car type : Car Make : Mitsubishi Model : Pajero Model Version : Evolution Engine size : 3.5 Model Year : 1997 Sub type : Pick up Location : Hampshire
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About Mitsubishi
Mitsubishi: A Journey Through History (Up to the 1980s)**1. Early Beginnings:
Foundation: Mitsubishi's roots trace back to the establishment of a shipping firm by Yataro Iwasaki in 1870.
Diversification: The company expanded into coal mining, shipbuilding, and other industries, forming the basis for the Mitsubishi Group.
**2. Automotive Ventures Begin:
Initial Automobile Production: Mitsubishi ventured into automobile manufacturing in the early 20th century.
Model-A: In 1917, Mitsubishi introduced its first production car, the Model-A, Japan's first series-production automobile.
**3. Post-War Era:
Restructuring: Following World War II, Mitsubishi faced challenges but underwent restructuring and resumed automobile production.
Jeep Production: Initially focused on producing Jeeps, Mitsubishi made significant contributions to Japan's automotive recovery.
**4. Milestone Models:
Mitsubishi 500: Introduced in 1960, the Mitsubishi 500 was a compact car that played a role in popularizing smaller vehicles in Japan.
Mitsubishi Colt 600: Released in 1962, the Colt 600 was a subcompact car contributing to Mitsubishi's expansion in the automotive market.
**5. Global Expansion and the 1970s:
Partnerships: Mitsubishi forged partnerships with international automakers, expanding its reach beyond Japan.
Galant and Lancer: Models like the Galant and Lancer gained popularity during the 1970s, showcasing Mitsubishi's commitment to innovation and performance.
**6. Technological Advancements:
Mitsubishi Astron Engine: Introduced in the 1970s, the Astron engine became a staple in Mitsubishi vehicles, known for its durability and efficiency.
**7. Pinnacle of the 1980s:
Mitsubishi Pajero: Launched in the early 1980s, the Pajero (Montero in some markets) marked Mitsubishi's entry into the SUV segment, becoming a global success.
Starion: The Starion, introduced in the mid-1980s, was a sports car that showcased Mitsubishi's performance capabilities.
**8. Mitsubishi Classic Models of the 1980s:
Mitsubishi Delica: The Delica, first introduced in the 1960s but gaining popularity in the 1980s, was a versatile van available in various configurations.
Mitsubishi Mighty Max: This compact pickup truck was known for its durability and practicality.
Mitsubishi Mirage: The Mirage, available in hatchback and sedan versions, became a popular choice for fuel efficiency and reliability.
Mitsubishi's journey through the 1980s reflects its evolution from a diversified conglomerate to a prominent player in the global automotive industry. The decade saw the introduction of iconic models that contributed to Mitsubishi's reputation for innovation and performance.