Mitsubishi Shogun Mk1
The rugged 4x4 that bridged the gap between utility and luxury.
- Power
- 103 bhp
- Top speed
- 87 mph
- Est. value
- $4k–$25k
About the Mitsubishi Shogun Mk1
The first-generation Mitsubishi Shogun, known globally as the Pajero, was a revolutionary off-roader that prioritised passenger comfort alongside rugged capability. Launched in 1982, it featured independent front suspension and a refined interior that challenged the agricultural standards of contemporary 4x4s. The 2.6-litre 'Astron' engine utilised Mitsubishi's 'Silent Shaft' technology, employing twin balancer shafts to provide smoothness comparable to a six-cylinder unit. Its success on the road was mirrored by a legendary motorsport career, including an outright victory at the 1985 Paris-Dakar Rally. Today, early Mk1 examples are increasingly sought after by collectors for their honest mechanicals and iconic boxy styling.
Mitsubishi Shogun Mk1 specs
The Mitsubishi Shogun Mk1 produces 103 bhp (77 kW) and 192 Nm (142 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 87 mph (140 km/h).
| Make | Mitsubishi |
|---|---|
| Model | Shogun |
| Generation | Mk1 |
| Trim | 2.6 GLX |
| Years | 1982–1991 |
| Type | Off-road |
| Body style | SUV |
| Country | Japan |
| Original price | About $11,000 when new |
| Engine | 2.6-litre 4-cylinder |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,555 cc (2.6 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 103 bhp (77 kW) at 4,500 rpm |
| Torque | 192 Nm (142 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,000 rpm |
| Top speed | 87 mph (140 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Four-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,473 kg (3,247 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 70 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Mitsubishi Shogun Mk1 worth?
A typical Mitsubishi Shogun Mk1 is estimated to be worth $4,000 – $25,000 (about £3,000 – £19,000).
Its original price when new was about $11,000.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Mitsubishi Shogun Mk1 rarity in CarSpot
The Mitsubishi Shogun Mk1 is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 13 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Mitsubishi Shogun Mk1 fun facts
- The Shogun's 2.6-litre engine used twin counter-rotating balancer shafts to reduce vibration, a technology Mitsubishi called 'Silent Shaft'.
- Mitsubishi famously advertised the Shogun as 'at last, a middle of the Range Rover', positioning it between the basic Land Rover Series III and the luxury Range Rover.
- The first-generation Pajero platform was so successful it was later built under licence by Hyundai as the Galloper until 2003.