1989 Mitsubishi Pajero

Picture high altitude mountain roads, two-track dirt trails splitting through a safari field, or snow covered backroads surrounded by pine trees, sitting perfectly at the end and having conquered them all, you'll find hardcore 4 wheel drive SUVs like this, the 1989 Mitsubishi Pajero DX. With a simple but rugged construction, early Pajeros like this are built to last. A rigid steel frame with minimal electronics equates to long term reliability and a classic look that ages like wine.

Up front sits a turbocharged 4D56. Producing just under 100HP, this Pajero wont be winning many drag races, but it'll surely outlast any of the competition. Thanks to the 4D family of 2.5L inline 4s continuing production all the way from the mid 70s to 2023, parts are easily sourced and modern options for upgrades are plentiful. Connecting this power to the ground is a 5 speed manual transmission and a selectable 4WD transfer case to give the driver options to take on any terrain. With just 54,342 miles, this 4D56 has much more life to give and many more miles of road, or trails, to cover.

While back-massaging seats aren't an option, inside, you'll find the construction of seats, door cards, and other interior items consist primarily of thick and hardy vinyl upholstery that's built to last. Minimal use of adhesives or plastic clips like modern vehicles mean items like trim have held up great to the test of time. Void of any stains or tears in the fabric, you wont find wear beyond a few loose stitches. With a rugged and durable construction, comfort wasn't on the bottom of the list for Mitsubishi, climate controls are simple and offer hot heat and cold AC for any type of weather condition. Supportive seats give plenty of absorption when tackling rough terrain and the high roof provides plentiful headroom if you're needing to move about the cabin.

Outside, that classic boxy looks stands out in just the right way, with an angular and simple look that's only shared with SUVs like the Prado or G-Wagons, you'll have a vehicle that's just as capable, at a fraction of the price. The unique Two Tone Gloss White over Satin Sage is just as timeless of a look as its rectangular body and with plentiful ground clearance, off-road capabilities are nearly endless.

To keep things healthy and reliable, our in house techs have performed the regular maintenance of oil change, air and oil filter change, alignment, replaced battery, installed new light bulbs, and serviced this prime 4×4 to be ready for its next trail. Services included new tires, a timing belt service, replacement of accessory belts, replacement of valve cover gaskets, wheel bearing service, front sway bar link bushings, an oil pressure sensor seal, and replacement of leaf spring shackle bushings.

If you're on the hunt for a 4×4 that feels equally at home on pavement or dirt, look no further. Many classic Japanese 4X4 SUVs were exported to demanding regions overseas and accumulated heavy mileage early in life, making a Pajero with mileage this low a genuine rarity today. Powered by a dependable turbocharged diesel and built around a straightforward, easy-to-service design intended for long term ownership, this Pajero offers the kind of durability and composure that inspires confidence on everyday drives as well as extended trail adventures.