JDM obscurities: Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution

Every car enthusiast knows of the iconic Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution. But did you know that there was once more to Mitsubishi's Evolution range?

It comes in a much bigger package. The Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution.

Introduced in 1997, the Pajero Evo came equipped with a naturally aspirated 3.5-litre 24 valve DOHC V6. It produces 206kW (thanks to the notorious Japanese 'gentlemans agreement') and makes 348Nm of torque.

It sports a 0-100kph time of 8.5 seconds and hits a top speed of 209kph!

It also came with many other goodies over regular, mortal Pajeros such as Recaro seats, wide body kit (with some over-the-top looking aero bits), upgraded suspension, upgraded differentials, and a few other factory extras.

The Pajero Evolution was built as a homologation special to meet regulations for the Dakar Rally T2 group specifications (Cross-Country Series Production Vehicles). It went on to dominate the competition, from 1997 – 2007 it won nine events.

To this day Mitsubishi is the most successful manufacturer to compete in this Dakar class.

There were 2,500 road-going units produced over the span of only two years. Needless to say, Mitsubishi achieved their goal and made one super unusual, very rare performance 4x4.

What do you think - Is the Pajero Evo a rare JDM legend or a forgettable obscurity? Let us know in the comments.

Check out the other parts in this series:

JDM Obscurities: Toyota Comfort GT-Z
JDM Obscurities: Nismo 270R