1995 Mitsubishi Pajero, Exceed V43W

the cosmetics are fresh for being 30 years young, and this sleek sport utility is set off by a set of factory rainguards and a stylish JAOS brushguard with dual driving lamps. With any classic cruiser, perfection isn’t possible, and we wanted to note a few spots of clearcoat fade, and miscellaneous swirls, scratches, and dings throughout. Still, that may be a bit of nitpicking, as the 86k miles on the clock are verified and documented, to boot! Underpinned by an industry-leading Super Select 4WD system, this SUV has room for eight, provisions for daily driving, and the staunch Mitsubishi reliability to back it all up. Ideal as a postal route pro, dedicated daily driver, or a terrific trail toy, this Pajero is nothing short of a real Japanese Classic! A consistent theme for Mitsu during the 90’s, the cabin design is forward-thinking, easy to navigate, and capable for daily driving, even well into the 21st century. Trim packages like this Exceed boast three capable rows of seating, durable materials, and a full slate of power equipment to tie everything together. The seats are upholstered in gray cloth and set off by vinyl accents. It’s evident this example was well cared for in a prior life, as the upholstery is devoid of rips, tears, or staining. The same can be said about the condition of the headliner, which houses an expansive moonroof. Sadly, the motor has slowed over time, and it no longer opens and closes as it should. Still, that’s a bit of a luxury, and the bare necessities all work like a charm. Power windows, locks, and electric folding mirrors are all operable, and the driver can dial in cabin temperatures with an innovative digital dual zone climate control system. Cold A/C and hot heat can be funneled through all three rows of seating and controlled from the center stack, which also houses an aftermarket Pioneer headunit. The sound quality is decent for its age, and it’s linked to an external 6-disc changer so you can load in your favorite jams. The driver gains access to supplemental seat adjustability and a tilt-adjustable steering column so you can get comfortable behind a MOMO steering wheel. If you’re not lugging around a full squad of passengers, the rear bench can rapidly deploy against the d-pillars, and the middle row can flip forward to expand the cargo hold. The carpets have resisted excessive rips and staining. That’s not to say this is a perfect cabin, as we wanted to note that one of the field monitor gauges is inoperable, and some adhesive marks on the dash and cabin’s plastics. Still, it seems to be in above-average condition, and we think the next owner is bound to agree. Even the owners’ manuals are included with the sale of this mighty Mitsu! Under the hood, it’s a pleasant surprise to see Mitsubishi’s 6G72 powering this body-on-frame beast. Keen enthusiasts will know this motor is shared with our Monteros here stateside, and we’ve performed all necessary maintenance to make this 30 year old truck run like a top. For starters, an oil and filter service was performed here by our trained technicians. We also installed a new engine air filter, and flushed out all of the old coolant with new juice. New valve cover gaskets were installed to keep lubricant internal, and while we were in there we went ahead and installed a set of new spark plugs. With the maintenance performed this six pot was ready to tackle its first road test. Power is sent straight to an automatic gearbox, which benefits from a new transmission pan gasket and all new fluid. It sends power to a selective transfer case, and we replaced both rear axle seals to ensure it gets there reliably. The Super Select 4WD system is ahead of its time, and is built dang tough if you need to tackle an off road expedition with a center locking differential and low range. The suspension is in good working order and comfortable, and the same can be said for the power steering system. The disc brakes grab with ferocity, and OEM wheels come with freshly mounted and balanced Falen all-terrain rubber.