Conquer Any Terrain: Experience the Legendary Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution

Forged in the Flames of Competition: The Evolution's Purpose

While the Lancer Evolution often captures the spotlight when discussing Mitsubishi's rally heritage, discerning aficionados recognize another titan of off-road prowess: the Pajero Evolution. This specialized variant was meticulously developed to dominate the production-based category of the formidable Dakar Rally, showcasing Mitsubishi's commitment to excellence in diverse rallying disciplines. Its creation was a direct response to the demanding requirements of endurance rally raids, designed to provide a robust and high-performing foundation for the company's competitive endeavors.

Beyond the Standard: Engineering for Extremes

Compared to its conventional counterpart, the Pajero Evolution underwent substantial modifications to enhance its off-road capabilities. These enhancements included a broadened track for improved stability, an extended suspension travel for superior damping over varied terrain, and independent double-wishbone suspension at all corners. Furthermore, it featured Torsen limited-slip differentials on both axles to optimize traction. A distinctive, oversized rear spoiler, seemingly disproportionate for a road car, was a deliberate design choice, necessitated by homologation rules that required the road-going version to mirror the silhouette of its racing sibling.

Heart of a Champion: Power and Performance

The core of the Evolution's formidable performance lay in its engine: Mitsubishi's 3.5-liter 6G74 V6, incorporating the innovative MIVEC variable valve timing system. Officially rated at 276 horsepower, this figure was likely understated due to Japan's prevailing 'gentleman's agreement' on power outputs at the time, suggesting a higher actual output. Power was channeled through either a five-speed manual or a five-speed automatic transmission, with the latter being the more prevalent choice among the production models, including the specific example currently available.

A Legacy of Triumph: Dakar Dominance

The comprehensive modifications paid dividends on the race track. The Pajero Evolution made a resounding debut at the 1998 Dakar Rally, securing an impressive clean sweep of the top three positions. Its competitive prowess continued into the following year, where it narrowly missed another victory, solidifying its reputation as a formidable contender in the world's most grueling rally raid.

Rare Opportunity: Acquiring a Rally Icon

Only approximately 2500 road-legal Pajero Evolutions were manufactured, fulfilling the minimum production quota for homologation. All units were originally destined for the Japanese domestic market. However, a limited number have found their way to other countries, including the UK. The specific vehicle in question, with an odometer reading of 42,500 miles, arrived in the UK in late 2015. Despite a somewhat inconsistent MOT history, recent maintenance has addressed significant issues, and the vehicle benefits from a comprehensive service record from both its Japanese and British ownership periods. This unique offering provides enthusiasts a rare chance to possess a genuine piece of motorsport history.