Rare Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution Heads to Auction with Dakar Rally HeritageA rare 1998 Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution, one of the most distinctive SUVs ever produced by the Japanese automaker, is attracting attention as it heads toward the final days of an online auction.Finished in Satellite Silver Metallic with a black interior, the right-hand-drive sport utility vehicle is a Japanese-market example currently titled and located in Texas. The odometer displays approximately 236,000 kilometers, which equates to roughly 146,700 miles. Bidding has reached $12,000 with several days remaining before the auction concludes on June 8.The Pajero Evolution occupies a unique place in Mitsubishi's history. Introduced in 1997 to satisfy Dakar Rally homologation requirements, the model was far more than a cosmetic upgrade. Engineers extensively revised the standard Pajero platform, incorporating a factory wide-body design, independent rear suspension, a quicker steering rack, and specially developed cylinder heads. The effort was aimed at creating a road-going vehicle closely related to Mitsubishi's competition machines.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe strategy proved successful on the world stage. In 1998, Pajero race vehicles secured the top three finishing positions in the Dakar Rally, further cementing the model's reputation among off-road enthusiasts. Production of the street-legal Pajero Evolution remained limited, with most estimates placing total output at approximately 2,500 units.Power comes from a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing about 276 horsepower and 257 pound-feet of torque. The engine is paired with a five-speed automatic transmission and a two-speed transfer case, allowing power to be directed to either the rear wheels or all four wheels depending on driving conditions.Factory equipment includes front and rear Torsen limited-slip differentials, a locking center differential, an Evolution-specific body kit, a fender-mounted mirror, Recaro front sport seats, automatic climate control, and power-operated windows, locks, and mirrors. Carbon fiber-look interior trim further distinguishes the cabin.The vehicle has also received a number of aftermarket upgrades. Mechanical modifications include twin Rancho RS9000XL shocks mounted on each axle, a GruppeM air intake system, an aftermarket muffler, aluminum skid plates, and upgraded horns. Exterior changes feature 16-inch Work Deerfield wheels, LED taillights, chrome mirror covers, customized exterior trim, a painted engine cover, and gold-finished brake calipers. Inside, additions include a wooden shift knob, aftermarket pedal covers, a carbon fiber-look parking brake handle, a dashcam, and a Japanese ETC card reader.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe seller notes several cosmetic and age-related flaws, including chips and scratches around the exterior, wear on the seats and interior trim, a cracked center armrest, and a missing head unit.Included with the sale are two keys and Japanese export documentation. The seller is representing the vehicle on behalf of its owner, who reportedly purchased it in February 2025 and has driven it approximately 400 miles since taking ownership.With its direct connection to one of the world's most demanding motorsport events, limited production numbers, and specialized engineering, the Pajero Evolution continues to stand out as one of the most collectible performance SUVs of its era.https://carsandbids.com/auctions/3ylO45Go/1998-mitsubishi-pajero-evolution⚡️ Read the full article on MotoriousSign up for the Motorious Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
