1998 Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution - 2022 Dakar Classic Finisher

Everyone knows about the Lancer Evolution and its WRC successes, but somehow Mitsubishi managed to sneak another ‘Evolution’ into their line-up - the Pajero Evolution. Mitsubishi is synonymous with their 'off the beaten track' form of racing, both literally and figuratively. Their undeniable successes in the World Rally Championship are well-documented, but their Dakar Rally successes are not to be overlooked, having taken the top trophy on 12 separate occasions with variations of the Pajero Evolution.

As an homologation special, 2,500 Pajero Evolution road cars were built in order to meet Dakar Rally’s production-based T2 class requirements. It was based on the second generation Pajero but with many features unique to the model. Equipped with a 3.5-litre 24-valve DOHC V6 6G74 engine with MIVEC and a dual-plenum variable intake producing 276bhp (‘that’ Gentleman’s Agreement figure) and 256lb/ft of torque. Actual figures suggest that the car was more likely to be pumping out north of 300bhp. It would complete 0-60mph in just eight seconds, which is not bad for a two tonne truck, and you can rest assured it will do that on whatever surface you like.

The two-door body incorporated large wheel arch flares, two fin-like rear spoilers, a bonnet scoop, Recaro seats and various other racing-inspired styling elements. Skid plates and mud flaps were included for additional off-road protection. Double wishbone independent suspension was used on the front and the rear used a multi-link independent suspension unique to the Pajero Evolution. Four-wheel drive was standard, with front and rear Torsen differentials.

Offered here is something really rather special. The car was purchased as a totally standard road-going Pajero Evo by our rallying vendor in May 2021 with the goal of competing in the gruelling Dakar Classic from 1st-14th January 2022, giving just a six month timeframe to complete the car. The Dakar Rally is one of, if not the most, brutal and toughest rallies one can compete in globally, and with a tight timeframe, the build was commenced immediately. With an engineering background and a huge level of rally experience, the car was fully and meticulously prepared for the rally using the best parts and equipment. It was built to FIA specification and regulations in order to compete, meaning the specification list is immense, and can be viewed within the history file and in the photos. To list a few of the parts fitted there are: FIA-approved seats, harnesses, bag-tank, battery cut-off, fire extinguishers, roll-cage, ally firewall, 3-part upgraded sump guard, Cooper Discoverer tyres. The list goes on and on. Conservative figures given just for the parts installed and fitted to the car in the build process comfortably surpass the £30,000 mark, excluding the labour involved or the purchase of the donor car. To build or replicate a car to be this competitive, capable, well-built, reliable and well-maintained, one would comfortably be looking at a £100,000 plus build cost.

For the 2022 Dakar Classic, the husband-and-wife team was denoted the (lucky) competition number #777 with the car not only finishing the rally, which is no easy feat, but completing it with no issues at all, a contrast to other Pajeros that were entered which struggled with mechanical issues throughout, proving a real testament to the build quality of this example.

With the Dakar Classic box ticked and the itch scratched, our vendor has tidied and refurbished the car, with an MOT valid until 14th August 2024, now seeing it as time to move the car on to focus on other rallying projects, and to enable the next custodian to enjoy this ready to go, monster road-going Dakar Classic finisher at a fraction of its build cost.