1996 Mitsubishi Pajero VIN Verification

INTRODUCTION

The 1996 Mitsubishi Pajero is a robust and versatile SUV, part of the Pajero series renowned for its off-road capabilities and durability. Popular in various global markets under different names such as the Montero in the United States and the Shogun in the United Kingdom, the 1996 model is part of the second generation that emphasized improved comfort and advanced features.

HISTORY & ORIGINS

Mitsubishi introduced the Pajero in 1982, focusing on creating a capable off-road vehicle that could also offer comfortable on-road performance. By its second generation starting in 1991, the Pajero was well-established as a durable SUV capable of handling both urban environments and rugged terrain. The 1996 model continued this legacy with enhancements that boosted both performance and passenger comfort.

ENGINE & PERFORMANCE OPTIONS

The 1996 Pajero was available with several engine options, catering to different markets and preferences:

• 2.5-liter Turbo Diesel: Offered economic fuel consumption and adequate torque for heavy-duty tasks.
• 3.0-liter V6 Gasoline: Provided more power for a smoother on-road and off-road driving experience.
• 3.5-liter V6 Gasoline: Top-of-the-line engine offering the best performance in power and speed. These engines were paired with either a manual or an automatic transmission, providing versatility in driving dynamics.

DESIGN & FEATURES

The Pajero’s design in 1996 featured a rugged yet stylish exterior with a spacious and comfortable interior:

• Body Styles: Available in both three-door (short wheelbase) and five-door (long wheelbase) versions.
• Interior Amenities: Included features like air conditioning, a quality sound system, and optional leather upholstery, which emphasized comfort alongside functionality.

TRIM LEVELS & VARIANTS

The 1996 model year offered various trims that included different levels of luxury and convenience:

• Base Model: Standard features suitable for general use.
• GLX: More comfort features and improved interior elements.
• Exceed: High-end trim with all available luxury options, including enhanced safety features and premium materials.

SAFETY & TECHNOLOGY

For its time, the 1996 Pajero included several safety features:

• Airbags: Driver (and sometimes passenger) airbags were available depending on the trim.
• ABS: Anti-lock Braking System available on higher trims to help maintain control under hard braking.
• Enhanced Chassis: Designed to improve vehicle stability and passenger protection during off-road driving.

FUEL ECONOMY & EFFICIENCY

Fuel efficiency varied by engine choice:

• 2.5-liter Turbo Diesel: Offered the best fuel economy, suitable for long-distance and off-road driving.
• Petrol Engines: Consumed more fuel, reflecting their higher power output and performance capabilities.

MARKET COMPARISON

In 1996, the Mitsubishi Pajero competed against SUVs like the Toyota Land Cruiser, Nissan Patrol, and the Land Rover Discovery. It was particularly noted for its balance of price, performance, and off-road capability, making it a popular choice in competitive markets.

PRICING

Originally, pricing for the 1996 Pajero varied widely based on market, trim level, and included options. Today, prices in the used market depend significantly on the vehicle’s condition, mileage, and location.

NOTABLE AWARDS & ACCOLADES

The Pajero line has garnered various awards throughout its production, particularly for its performance in the Dakar Rally, where it has won multiple times, highlighting its durability and strength in extreme conditions.

This comprehensive look at the 1996 Mitsubishi Pajero showcases its standing as a durable and capable SUV, well-suited for both adventure seekers and families needing a reliable vehicle.