Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution

Street version (V55W)

The road-legal version of the Pajero Evolution was produced between 1997 and 1999. It was based on the second generation Pajero but had many features unique to the model. Approximately 2693 units were produced in order to homologate the type for the Dakar Rally's production-based T2 class. It was equipped with a 3.5-litre 24-valve DOHC V6 6G74 engine with MIVEC and a dual plenum variable intake. This engine produced a claimed 275 bhp at 6500 rpm. The two-door body incorporated large fender flares, two fin-like rear spoilers, a hood scoop, and various other racing-inspired styling elements. Skid plates and mudflaps 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. 4WD was standard, with front and rear Torsen differentials.

Competition history

In January 1983, the first Pajero Evolution debuted at the Paris Dakar Rally, taking first place in 1985 at only the third attempt. Other wins followed, at events such as the Australasian Safari and Northern Forest.

With 12 victories from 1985 to 2007, it is the car that has won the Dakar Rally the most times.

Dakar victories

A Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution, driven by Andrew Cowan, finished the 1984 Paris–Alger–Dakar as the third ranked winner in overall class after covering more than 11,000 km. Mitsubishi dominated with multiple first, second and third place podium finishes until their final wins in 2007. From 2001 to 2005, with the introduction of their third generation Pajero with monocoque chassis and fully independent suspension, Mitsubishi had 5 consecutive first-place finishes and 12 of all 15 podium finishes in the same time period. Their overall record was 12 total overall wins (1st place) in the "Cars Class" and 150 stage wins (the second best being Peugeot with only 78 stage wins in comparison). Mitsubishi earned the title of ‘Most Dakar Rally Wins by A Manufacturer’ from the Guinness World Records.

References

References

1. "MITSUBISHI MOTORS - A Unique and Glorious Cross-Country Heritage". mitsubishi-motors.com.
2. Orlove, Raphael. (14 May 2015). "Meet The Mitsubishi Pajero Evo: The Last Forgotten Homologation Special".
3. Okula, Chris. (2018-08-16). "The Pajero Evo Is The Best SUV You've Never Heard of".
4. DeMuro, Doug. (October 2016). "The Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution Was the SUV Version of the Lancer Evolution".
5. "1997 Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution specifications, fuel economy, emissions, dimensions 152372".
6. "Pajero: la regina della Dakar". motori360.it.
7. "Most Dakar Rally wins by a manufacturer".