A rare and rally-bred homologation special, this Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution is an iconic Dakar-derived performance 4x4, presented here in desirable manual transmission form and finished in a lesser-seen hue. It is powered by a naturally aspirated 3.5-litre ‘6G74’ V6 with MIVEC variable valve timing, driving all four wheels via a five-speed manual gearbox. This example was originally a Japan-delivered model, which was imported to Australia, where it passed compliance in November 2022, and has been with the seller ever since as part of a private collection, though it is currently not registered. The odometer indicates 115,567 km, though this is not warranted. Build year: 1997 The Pajero Evolution was produced to homologate the most successful Dakar rally car ever made, which took 12 victories between 1985 and 2007, including an impressive 1-2-3 finish in 1998, rightly earning it the title of ‘King of the Desert’. Around 2,500 road-legal examples of the Pajero Evolution were produced exclusively for the Japanese market, with all examples featuring a steering guard, sculpted Recaro seats, redesigned bodywork with flared wheel arches, a wraparound rear spoiler, a scooped bonnet, redesigned suspension, and front and rear Torsen limited-slip differentials. It is believed that only around 600 examples left the factory with the five-speed manual transmission. This example is finished in the bold and lesser-seen shade of Passion Red, over a black cloth-trimmed interior, featuring patterned seat inserts and carbon-fibre-effect trim. It rides on a set of 16-inch machined six-spoke alloy wheels. Equipment includes a steering guard, a rear spare wheel carrier, a heated rear screen, a digital clock, automatic air conditioning, a high and low range gearbox, and electric windows. This example has been fitted with a Pioneer Carrozzeria double-DIN media system. Accompanying the vehicle are import and compliance documents, including the Japanese export certificate confirming the recorded mileage. The car is supplied with one key. Please refer to the photo gallery to assess the exterior and interior condition. Specific notes from the seller include: the car has received a full respray to return it to factory-original appearance. Slight damage is noted on the centre console. The seller states that the last maintenance was carried out in March 2026 at an indicated 115,550 km by Mechanicar, consisting of an engine oil and filter service. The seller reports general servicing during their four-year ownership. This Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution is a sought-after modern classic homologation special, developed directly from the brand’s Dakar Rally success and offered here in increasingly rare manual transmission form. With its distinctive wide-body styling, high-revving MIVEC V6, and full-time four-wheel-drive system, it represents a unique blend of off-road capability and performance heritage. This example would make a bold addition to any collection of modern classics, and a rewarding companion for enthusiasts seeking a usable and characterful piece of rally history.