This 1997 Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution is an eye-catching rally liveried example of the purposeful and muscular Dakar homologation special 4x4. It is powered by a 3.5-litre ‘6G74’ V6 with MIVEC variable valve timing, producing around 206kW, with selectable four-wheel drive coupled to a five-speed automatic transmission with high and low range gearing. This Pajero Evolution was imported to Australia from Japan, where it first passed compliance in February of 2022. The odometer indicates 206,371 kilometres, though it is not warranted. Build year: 1997 The Pajero Evolution was produced to homologate the most successful Dakar rally car ever made, taking 12 victories from 1985 to 2007, even managing a phenomenal 1-2-3 finish in 1998, cementing its reputation as the ‘King of the Desert’. Around 2,500 road-legal models were produced for the Japanese market. Each featured Recaro front seats, a wraparound rear spoiler, re-designed bodywork, a unique suspension system, flared wheel arches, and a scooped bonnet. This example is finished in white with a period-correct Mitsubishi Ralliart livery. The car has a black cloth-trimmed interior, featuring patterned seat inserts and punctuated by carbon-fibre trim inserts on the centre console and instrument cluster. The specification includes automatic climate control, a digital clock, a heated rear screen, fold-down rear armrests, a front seat cubby holder, and electric windows. The car is also fitted with coilover suspension, a Dakar spare wheel cover affixed to the rear door, as well as an Alpine double DIN head unit, and an aftermarket exhaust system. It is accompanied by some Japanese documentation and handbooks, a whole set of decals, and one key. Please refer to the photo gallery to assess the exterior and interior condition. Specific notes from the seller include: there is a light impact on the front bumper, it comes with stock wheels as in photos. The latest service was carried out at an indicated 205,100 km by the current owner. The work comprised of an engine oil and filter change. Prior to this, the car was serviced in February 2022, which included a routine engine oil and filter change, as well as a compliance inspection. The Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution is a rare, limited-production modern classic off-roader, built to homologate the vehicle for the Dakar Rally. One of around 2,500 units produced, this example is finished in an eye-catching period-correct Ralliart livery. Sparingly used since its last oil change, it is now ready to be enjoyed by its next owner as a capable off-roader or a fun and interesting daily driver. The description of this consignment is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. Potential buyers should view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy. Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible vehicles to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, either to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be undetectable even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork during its life. Furthermore, photographs may not reflect the true colour or full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to satisfy themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy. This includes by raising enquiries with the seller in the comments section. For vehicles, unless otherwise stated, potential buyers should also assume that any cherished registration may be retained by the seller. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details. This vehicle’s VIN has been checked against the Australian Personal Property Securities Register, and there is no security interest or other registration kind logged against the serial number. This vehicle has been checked through the Austroads NEVDIS system, and there are no markers under the written-off or stolen databases.