1998 MITSUBISHI PAJERO EVOLUTION

KEY FACTS  

• This Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution is a rare Dakar homologation special 4x4, reported to be in very original condition. 
• It is powered by a 3.5-litre V6 with variable valve timing, delivering around 276bhp to all four wheels via a five-speed automatic transmission with ‘Tiptronic’ override. 
• The odometer shows 151,652 km. 
• Produced for the Japanese market, this example was first registered in February 1998, and was later imported to the UK in 2016.  
• It has had three UK keepers in total since 2016, and its current owner has been in possession of the car for six years.  

EQUIPMENT AND FEATURES  

• The Pajero Evolution was produced to homologate the most successful Dakar rally car ever made, with the model taking 12 victories from 1985 to 2007, including an impressive 1-2-3 finish in 1998, cementing its title as ‘King of the Desert’. 
• Around 2,500 road-legal examples were produced for the Japanese market, with Recaro front seats, redesigned bodywork with flared wheel arches, a wraparound rear spoiler, a scooped bonnet, revised suspension, and front and rear Torsen limited-slip differentials. 
• This Pajero Evolution is finished in a handsome shade of white over a black cloth-trimmed interior, featuring patterned seat inserts, and carbon-fibre effect trim. 
• It rides on 16-inch six-spoke alloys, which are shod in General Grabber AT3 tyres. 
• The factory specification includes a four-spoke steering wheel, electrically adjustable folding door mirrors, a heated rear screen, front and rear fog lights, a digital clock, automatic air conditioning, electric windows, and a high and low range gearbox. 
• This example has been upgraded with a Pioneer double-DIN media system with Bluetooth connectivity and DAB+ radio, as well as satellite navigation. 
• The car comes with a selection of maintenance invoices and historic MOTs.  

CONDITION  

• Please refer to photo gallery to assess exterior and interior condition. 
• Specific notes from the seller include: there are some stone chips present on the offside front wing above the trim line, while inside there is minor wear on the driver’s door trim which is approximately one centimetre in size. 
• The seller notes that the satellite navigation on the Pioneer infotainment system is not working, and the nearside mirror does not fold in; but they are otherwise not aware of any electrical or mechanical faults. 
• The car’s last MOT test was conducted on 12 November 2022 at 149,187 km, which resulted in a second-time pass with advisories for light corrosion on the coil springs and on the brake pipes (this was dealt with and protection applied), play in one of the suspension arms, and worn rear brake discs.  
• The car will be supplied with a new MOT certificate, with the test being conducted on 21 August 2023.  

SERVICE HISTORY  

• The latest service was carried out during May 2021 at 143,011 km. The work comprised of an engine oil and filter change, along with a refurbishment of the starter motor. 
• In April 2021 at 145,436 km C.Carruthers Ltd fitted new rear brake pads, and in October 2019 at 136,660 km a new steering idler unit and front lower ball joints were fitted. 
• The seller also notes that all five wheels including the spare were refurbished in July 2023, and a Cobra Protector Pro alarm and telemetric tracker are fitted.  

SUMMARY  

The Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution is a limited-production Japanese homologation special 4x4, and this car is believed to remain highly original. One of just 2,500 road-legal examples produced exclusively for the Japanese market, this car would be a rare addition to any assembly of modern classics, and a crowd-pleasing companion whether used on or off the road.  

The description of this consignment is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy. For vehicles, unless otherwise stated, potential buyers should also assume that any cherished registration may be retained by the seller. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.  

All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.