A Rally Legend for the Road The 1998 Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution is more than just an SUV—it’s a legend forged in the brutal conditions of the Paris-Dakar Rally. Built as a homologation model for Mitsubishi’s dominant Dakar campaign, this rare machine is one of approximately 2,700 units ever produced. With aggressive styling, rally-proven engineering, and a potent powertrain, the Pajero Evolution stands apart as a unique blend of rugged capability and everyday drivability. This particular example, finished in Satellite Silver Metallic, retains its unmistakable off-road presence while offering a well-preserved and tastefully upgraded interior.
Designed for Performance and Durability Mitsubishi left nothing to chance when engineering the Pajero Evolution. It features an Evolution-specific front bumper with quad fog lights, flared fenders with cooling ducts, and dual hood scoops for improved airflow. The red Ralliart mud flaps hint at its motorsport roots, while the fender-mounted mirror and roof spoiler enhance both visibility and aerodynamics. Sitting on 16-inch six-spoke alloy wheels wrapped in Hankook Dynapro HT tires, this Pajero is ready to conquer a variety of terrains with ease. The full-size spare, mounted on the rear cargo door, ensures that adventure never has to pause.
Racing-Inspired Interior Inside, the Pajero Evolution embraces its rally heritage with Recaro front bucket seats that provide excellent support during spirited drives. The black cloth upholstery with patterned inserts complements the carbon-fiber trim, adding a sporty and purposeful aesthetic. A Kenwood Excelon head unit and aftermarket speakers enhance the in-cabin experience, while amenities such as cruise control, automatic climate control, and power windows and locks offer modern convenience. The dashboard houses additional rally-style instrumentation, including a compass and readouts for battery voltage and oil pressure. Despite a minor tear in the left-front seat, this interior remains a comfortable and functional space for both driver and passengers.
Proven Power and Advanced Drivetrain Under the hood, the Pajero Evolution is powered by a 3.5-liter 6G74 V6 with MIVEC variable valve timing. Factory-rated at 276 horsepower and 256 lb-ft of torque, this high-revving engine delivers exhilarating performance both on and off the road. Power is managed through a five-speed automatic transmission, a dual-range transfer case, a locking center differential, and limited-slip differentials at both the front and rear axles. This combination ensures exceptional traction across diverse driving conditions, whether navigating rough trails or cruising the highway. A recent timing belt replacement further solidifies this Pajero’s reliability.
A Rare Opportunity to Own a Piece of Rally History With just 99,000 kilometers (~62,000 miles) on the odometer, this Pajero Evolution has been well-preserved for its age, with only minor blemishes visible. While it cannot be registered for private use in California, its clean Montana title presents a great opportunity for enthusiasts seeking a rare and capable off-roader. Whether as a weekend adventure machine or a collector’s showpiece, this Dakar-bred SUV remains a standout in the world of high-performance off-road vehicles.
Summary:
- 1998 Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution finished in Satellite Silver Metallic
- One of approximately 2,700 examples produced for Dakar homologation
- Evolution-specific front bumper, flared fenders, hood scoops, and Ralliart mud flaps
- 3.5-liter 6G74 V6 with MIVEC variable valve timing (276 hp, 256 lb-ft)
- Five-speed automatic transmission with a dual-range transfer case
- Locking center differential and limited-slip front/rear differentials
- Recaro front seats, Kenwood Excelon head unit, and aftermarket speakers
- 99,000 kilometers (~62,000 miles) on the odometer
- Recent timing belt replacement
- Not eligible for private-party registration in California
Disclaimer: This vehicle may not meet certain emissions and registration requirements in some states. Buyers should verify compliance with local regulations before purchase.
Source: bringatrailer.com
This article was crafted with assistance from Chatgpt
