This stylish short-wheelbase sport utility is a truly awesome cruiser, backed by a drivetrain that shares loads of parts with various domestic models.

Exterior Overview
We hate speaking with bias here at the dealership, but Mitsubishi was really on top of their game in the late 90’s, peaking with the design of the 2 door Pajero. This stylish short-wheelbase sport utility is a truly awesome cruiser, backed by a drivetrain that shares loads of parts with various domestic models. Drawing inspiration from the Pajero Evo, this 1997 Mitsu is finished in a one-off Belfast Blue and set off by an integrated brushguard, dual driving lamps, and a neat optional rear wing. There’s not much to scrutinize about the exterior condition, and some light swirls and scratches are the only defects worth noting. The good stuff doesn’t stop there, and this Mitsubishi boasts a spacious cabin with Recaro buckets, plenty of features, and refinished 16″ Method Wheels! Fresh off a recent service, this turn-key rig is offered with 102k verified and documented miles which is a breath of fresh air when shopping the domestic Montero market. With Super Select 4WD, this Pajero would make for a killer daily driver, weekend trail truck, or wonderful winter warrior! Reliable, capable, and practical, this performance-oriented 4×4 is a special Japanese Classic that absolutely steals the show.

Interior Overview
The cabin is in above-average condition and is highlighted by a set of sporty and desirable factory Recaro seats. The buckets lack any major rips, stains, or tears and are in good shape overall, save for a light nick on the driver’s leg bolster. They keep the front occupants from sloshing about the cabin when trekking through the backwoods and have extendable tight bolsters if you need to stretch out on longer road trips. The view of the road ahead is clear and the dashboard lacks any cracking or fading. Unlike earlier versions, a centrally mounted digital dual-zone automatic climate control system is standard. It’s intuitive to use and delivers cold A/C and piping hot heat for those who live in more seasonal climate zones. A Pioneer radio upgrade modernizes the center stack and works like a charm. The driver also benefits from an SRS airbag and adjustable steering column so that they may find the ideal driving position. Power windows, locks, and mirrors make daily use more enjoyable, and all work, except for the electric folding function of the side glass. The carpets are in good shape and the headliner is near mint. With the exception of the missing rear bench, it’s really hard to complain about the interior, as this allows for more cargo capacity in the rear. We even have the maintenance booklet and owner’s manuals which are included with the purchase of this vehicle.

Mechanical Overview
The body-on-frame underpinnings are ideal for longevity, and parts and servicing is shared with many vehicles stateside! Simple and sturdy, these Pajeros can take a lickin’ and keep on tickin’. The 4G64 engine is fresh off an oil and filter service and cranks over with haste. The engine idles with confidence with new spark plugs across the board as well as a fresh engine air filter, and a new valve cover gasket ensures the 2.4L stays properly lubricated. The lightweight four-banger is linked to a slick-shifting automatic gearbox that does a good job maximizing the powerplant’s powerband. The innovative part of the driveline is the selective transfer case. The driver has the ability to shift between 2WD and 4WD on the fly, at speeds of up to 62 miles per hour. If this Pajero encounters some sand or snow a locking center differential can be put to use, splitting torque between the front and rear axles. A low-range setting is also on hand, so feel free to crawl over some rocks with this truck’s short overhangs and tiny wheelbase. The suspension does well over road imperfections and can handle the rigors of daily use and abuse. The brakes feel confident with fresh pads on the rear and the steering tracks dead straight after a fresh alignment. To cap everything off, fresh Falken rubber was mounted on the Methods at all four corners. Knee deep in tread, you’ll be covered for tens of thousands of miles of fun-filled wheeling!

For the full listing and photo set, please visit https://www.japaneseclassics.com.