This 1-Of-500 Guide Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution Is Being Auctioned Off In The U.S.

The 90s have been a wild time for Japanese automobiles, with a few of the most iconic autos to ever come in another country stemming from these years. One of many coolest but considerably unknown initiatives of the time was the Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution, a road-legal homologated Dakar Rally SUV, and one has popped up on the market within the U.S.

It’s value noting that the Pajero Evolution was by no means bought within the U.S., nor was it authorized to import till this 12 months. As such, this 1997 mannequin up for public sale on Vehicles & Bids is contemporary off the boat, having simply been imported from Japan within the earlier a part of the 12 months.

See Additionally: 1997 Mitsubishi Pajero Evo Is A Reminder Of The Model’s Dakar-Dominating Days

One thing else to learn about this SUV is that it’s exceedingly uncommon. Solely 2,500 examples have been ever produced from 1997 to 1999, and this one is considered one of solely about 500 of them to be fitted with a guide transmission, making it much more fascinating.

To distinguish itself from the traditional Pajero of the time, the Evo sports activities an unique physique package full with field flares, new bumpers, a brand new hood, and a rear hatch spoiler with fin-shaped endplates. Different adjustments included new 16-inch wheels, skid plates, and a brand new suspension system. Inside, there are Recaro sport seats up entrance, and the vendor has additionally added a Nardi steering wheel and a Pioneer touchscreen head unit.

Extra: Do Off-Roaders Get Any Cooler Than This Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution?

Whereas the SUV’s odometer does learn a considerably excessive 129,860 miles (208,989 km), you wouldn’t realize it by it. And fortunately, for these trying to return the Evo to inventory to protect its collector standing, the sunshine variety of modifications ensures that process gained’t be too troublesome.

Below the hood of the off-roader is a 3.5-liter V6, which is technically rated at 276 hp (280 PS / 206 kW) and 256 lb-ft (348 Nm) of torque, although that first determine was believed to be underrated as a result of horsepower-limiting “gents’s settlement” of the time. Nonetheless, that engine drives the rear or all 4 wheels through a 5-speed guide transmission and a two-speed switch case.