Rare Mitsubishi Pajero fails to find a new owner Down Under

A Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution from a limited batch of 2,700 Rally Dakar homologation vehicles has cropped up on sale in Sydney, Australia and failed to meet reserve.

The Japanese automaker produced 2,693 Pajero Evolution units for the mass market in 1997–1999. They had non-stock wheels, a widebody kit, large hood air intakes and a U-shaped spoiler at the rear end (see video). Inside, Recaro bucket seats with enhanced lateral support in the front row were the only notable addition.

A 3.5-liter V6 provided 280 PS (276 hp / 206 kW) for the homologation special, which a five-speed automatic transmission carried to all four wheels through a reduction gear.

The example on sale rolled off the assembly line in 1997. The listing points out that only 87 units were finished in Crimson Red. The odometer shows nearly 180,000 km (112,000 miles) of use, but the images suggest that the car is still in great condition both outside and inside. The seller claims it was well-maintained throughout its entire life, was repainted several years ago, and has recently undergone a round of maintenance.