Mitsubishi Pajero Gen 2 (1991–1999) The Complete SA Buyer’s Guide
Everything you need to know before buying a second-generation Pajero in South Africa — engines, specs, the blister fender story, common problems, what to check and what to pay.
The second-generation Pajero is arguably the most loved in the entire Pajero lineage. Built between 1991 and 1999, it arrived with Super Select 4WD, proper V6 power, and an iconic stance that made it one of the most capable — and most desirable — 4x4s ever sold in South Africa.
If you’re looking at a Gen 2 today, you’re shopping for a vehicle that is now over 25 years old. That age brings mechanical complexity, wear items, and a history that is impossible to fully trace. But it also brings something rare: a properly built, body-on-frame 4×4 with proven mechanical systems, a global parts network, and a passionate community of South African owners who know these machines inside out.
This guide covers everything — from the evolution of the Gen 2 through its eight-year production run, to the engines you want (and those you don’t), the common failure points to inspect, and what a fair price looks like in the 2026 South African market.
Gen 2 refers to the second-generation Mitsubishi Pajero (internally designated V20/V40 series), produced from January 1991 to 1999 in Japan and continued to approximately 2002 in some export markets. In South Africa it was sold as the Pajero GLS, GLX and Exceed. It is not to be confused with the Gen 3 (1999–2006), which shares some visual similarities with the late-production “blister fender” Gen 2.
History & Model Evolution
The Gen 2 debuted in January 1991 as a ground-up redesign of the original Pajero. Mitsubishi stretched both the SWB and LWB wheelbases, widened the track, improved the interior significantly, and — most importantly — introduced the Super Select 4WD (SS4) system, which allowed on-the-fly switching between 2H, 4H and 4L at speeds up to 100 km/h. This was an industry first and remains one of the most capable 4WD systems ever fitted to a production SUV.
The Gen 2 went through four meaningful updates during its production life:
| Year | Designation | Key Changes |
|---|---|---|
| 1991–1993 | Early Gen 2 | Launch models. 2.5TD (4D56) and 3.0 V6 (6G72). Metal-top and canvas-top SWB, High-Roof LWB. Super Select 4WD introduced. |
| 1993–1995 | Mid Gen 2 | New 4M40 2.8TD engine introduced. Multi-mode ABS debut. First SUV globally with SRS airbags. 3.5 V6 (6G74) arrives. |
| 1996–1997 | Gen 2.3 Facelift | Interior refresh, revised suspension tuning. Third-row seating available in LWB. Minor exterior updates. |
| 1998–1999 | Gen 2.5 — Blister Fender | Wider fender flares (“blister fenders”), new headlights and grille, larger bumpers, fog lights, revised interior with LCD screen. 3.5 V6 24-valve available. Most sought-after variant. |
The 1998–1999 “blister fender” models (also known as “Gen 2.5” among SA enthusiasts) command a significant premium over earlier Gen 2s — and for good reason. The wider arches allow for larger wheel and tyre combinations without rubbing, the visual upgrade is substantial, and they represent the most refined version of the platform. If budget allows, hold out for a blister fender.
Body Styles: SWB vs LWB
The Gen 2 was sold in South Africa in two wheelbase configurations, each with distinct character:
| Spec | SWB (Short Wheelbase) | LWB (Long Wheelbase) |
|---|---|---|
| Body | 3-door (metal top or canvas soft top) | 5-door wagon (mid-roof or high-roof) |
| Wheelbase | 2,420 mm | 2,725 mm |
| Seating | 5 seats | 5 seats standard, 7 with optional 3rd row |
| Off-road ability | Superior — shorter overhangs, lighter, more agile | Good — but longer overhang reduces departure angle |
| Practicality | Limited cargo space; suits 2–3 people | Excellent — full family hauler |
| Fuel tank | 75 L | 90 L |
| SA prevalence | Less common; cult status | More common; easier to find |
| Price premium | SWBs command 20–40% premium, especially blister fender | Better value per rand; more supply |
Original canvas-top SWB models are rare in SA and highly sought after. Most have had their canvas replaced or converted — always check the condition of the frame, drainage channels and body seals around the roof area. A good canvas top is expensive to replace correctly.
Engines: Which One to Buy
The Gen 2 was sold with four main engine options in South Africa. Understanding which engine is under the bonnet is arguably the single most important factor in your purchase decision.
2.8L Turbo Diesel — The Sweet Spot
Introduced in 1993, the intercooled 4M40 produces 92 kW and 300 Nm. It uses mechanical (indirect) fuel injection — meaning simpler, more bush-friendly, and easier to rebuild. Strong low-end torque, relatively frugal, and genuinely capable of very high mileage with good maintenance. This is the recommended engine for most SA buyers. Watch for timing chain guide wear, rocker cover oil leaks, and turbo condition.
3.5L V6 Petrol — The Performance Choice
Available from 1993 onwards, producing 140–150 kW. Smooth, powerful and refined — but fuel consumption in the real world (13–16 L/100km) can be punishing. Cooling system is a known weak point: water pump failure and radiator blockages are common on high-mileage examples. The 24-valve version (from 1998) is smoother but shares the same cooling vulnerabilities. Best suited for buyers who won’t be going deep into the bush regularly.
3.0L V6 Petrol — The Early Option
The original Gen 2 engine. 104–107 kW, 12-valve SOHC or 24-valve versions. Smooth and reliable, but underpowered relative to the vehicle’s weight. Available in 12v and 24v configurations — check the valve cover for identification. Crank angle sensor failure is a known issue. Parts are widely available. Good option if you find a well-maintained low-mileage example at a fair price.
2.5L Turbo Diesel — Avoid in SA
The original Gen 2 diesel, shared with the Colt and Triton. Only 73 kW and 225 Nm — noticeably underpowered in a vehicle this size. Head gasket failure and head cracking are well-documented weaknesses, especially where overheating has occurred. Very few new examples entered SA as the 4M40 replaced it early. Avoid unless the price is exceptional and you know exactly what you’re buying.
Common Problems & Known Failure Points
Every Gen 2 Pajero has had a tough life by now. At 25–33 years old, there are specific failure areas that are almost universal — understanding them is the difference between a great buy and a money pit.
Critical Issues — Walk Away If Present
- Timing chain guide failure (4M40 diesel): The plastic timing chain guides in the 4M40 engine are known to wear and shatter. When they fail without warning, debris can destroy the engine. Listen for rattling at idle and cold start. If the service history doesn’t show a guide replacement at or before 200,000 km, budget for immediate attention.
- Structural rust on chassis rails and floor: SA’s coastal humidity and farm use creates rust in the chassis box sections, especially around the rear leaf spring mounts and under the battery tray. Probe with a screwdriver — surface rust is fine; structural rot is not.
- Engine overheating damage (V6 petrol): If a V6 has been overheated — even once — head warpage, head gasket failure and bore damage can follow. Check for white smoke, milky oil, and bubbles in the coolant overflow bottle. A compression test is non-negotiable on any V6.
- Bent or cracked chassis from off-road abuse: Particularly on SWBs used heavily off-road. Inspect the chassis from below with a torch — look for cracks around the front crossmember and wishbone mounting points.
Important Issues — Negotiate or Budget
- Cooling system wear (V6 petrol): Water pump failure, blocked radiator core, and cracked or perished hoses are near-universal on high-mileage V6 models. Budget R3,000–R6,000 for a full cooling system refresh on any V6 over 150,000 km.
- Automatic gearbox service history: The 4-speed automatic is generally robust but requires regular fluid changes. If the fluid is dark and smells burnt, or the gearbox hunts between gears, a rebuild may be needed. Budget R8,000–R18,000 for a rebuild.
- Transfer case and centre diff: Super Select 4WD systems are complex. Test all four modes — 2H, 4H, 4H-Lock, and 4L. Any grinding, clunking or failure to engage is a red flag. Front prop shaft CV joints also wear and can cause vibration.
- Rocker cover oil leaks (4M40): A very common cosmetic issue. The rocker cover gaskets harden and crack with age. Not engine-critical, but messy and an indicator of maintenance history. A new gasket set costs very little — but if the engine bay is covered in oil, question what else has been neglected.
- Electric window and central locking failure: The window regulator clips and door lock actuators fail with age. Not mechanical, but expect to spend R1,500–R4,000 sorting electrics on an older example.
- Front and rear differential pinion oil seals: Small but common leak. Oil on the differential housing beneath the pinion flange. Simple to fix but indicates the vehicle needs attention.
Standard Wear — Expected at This Age
- Suspension bushes and shock absorbers: All rubber bushes harden and crack after 20+ years. Worn shocks and bushes produce vague steering and excessive body roll. Budget R4,000–R8,000 for a full suspension refresh.
- Brake system: Check disc thickness, pad depth, and caliper condition. The brake booster hydraulic pump (on models with active ABS) can fail — expensive at R4,000+.
- Windscreen rust: A known SA issue — rust forms in the windscreen channel, especially on coastal vehicles. Check the base of the windscreen and the front door frame corners.
- Fuel tank rust and pump: Older tanks develop internal rust and the electric fuel pump eventually fails. A no-start symptom after sitting for a day often points to a dying pump. Budget R1,500–R3,500 for a new pump.
Full Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Production years | 1991–1999 (Japan); to 2002 in export markets |
| Internal designation | V20 series (SWB), V40 series (LWB) |
| Body styles | 3-door SWB (metal top / canvas top), 5-door LWB (mid-roof / high-roof) |
| SWB wheelbase | 2,420 mm |
| LWB wheelbase | 2,725 mm |
| Engines available (SA) | 4D56 2.5TD · 4M40 2.8TD · 6G72 3.0 V6 · 6G74 3.5 V6 |
| 4WD system | Super Select 4WD (SS4) — 2H / 4H / 4H Lock / 4L |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic |
| Front suspension | Independent double wishbone, torsion bar |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle, leaf springs (SWB) / live axle, coil springs (LWB) |
| Ground clearance | 205 mm |
| Wading depth | 600 mm |
| Approach angle | 44° (SWB) / 37° (LWB) |
| Departure angle | 34° (SWB) / 28° (LWB) |
| Towing capacity | 2,500 kg (braked) |
| LWB fuel tank | 90 L |
| SWB fuel tank | 75 L |
| Notable first | First off-road 4WD globally with SRS airbag system (1993) |
4M40 2.8TD Engine — Key Figures
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,835 cc — Inline 4-cylinder |
| Injection type | Mechanical indirect injection (Bosch) |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged & intercooled |
| Power output | 92 kW @ 4,000 rpm |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 2,000 rpm |
| Timing system | Chain-driven — no belt to replace, but guides wear |
| Fuel consumption | 10–13 L/100km (real-world SA) |
| Recommended oil | 15W-40 diesel spec or 10W-40 semi-synthetic |
| Service interval | 10,000 km or 6 months |
How It Rates: Ownership Scores
Off-road capability
9 / 10
Reliability (2.8TD)
8 / 10
Parts availability SA
7.5 / 10
Daily driveability
6.5 / 10
Value for money (2026)
8 / 10
Overlanding suitability
8.8 / 10
The 20-Point Pre-Purchase Inspection
Before handing over any money, work through this checklist. Bring a torch, a screwdriver, and ideally a mechanic who knows Mitsubishi diesels.
What to Pay: 2026 SA Price Guide
The Gen 2 Pajero market in South Africa has been strengthening steadily as the “classic 4×4” appreciation trend takes hold. Blister fender models in good condition are now genuinely collectible. Prices below reflect what we’re seeing on AutoTrader, Gumtree and private sales in 2026.
Be wary of blister fender models priced over R250,000 unless they have documented low mileage, a full and verifiable service history, and a genuinely exceptional interior and mechanical condition. Some sellers are pricing based on social media hype rather than real-world value. Never skip an independent inspection on any Gen 2 over R100,000.
Who Should Buy a Gen 2 Pajero?
The second-generation Pajero is not the right vehicle for everyone. Be honest about which category you fall into:
The Gen 2 is ideal if you:
- Want serious off-road capability with a proven, globally supported 4WD system
- Have mechanical confidence or a trusted mechanic who knows older Mitsubishis
- Plan to use it for overlanding, trail driving or farm use — not primarily city commuting
- Appreciate the heritage and are buying into the Dakar Rally legacy and classic aesthetic
- Have budget for ongoing maintenance and are not expecting “buy and forget” reliability
Consider a Gen 3 or Gen 4 instead if you:
- Depend on the vehicle as your sole daily driver with minimal mechanical backup plan
- Want modern safety features (ABS, airbags across the range, stability control)
- Have a tight maintenance budget and cannot absorb a large unexpected repair
- Primarily drive in urban environments where the leaf-spring ride of the SWB will be tiring
The Gen 2 Pajero deserves its iconic status. The Super Select 4WD system is still benchmarked today, the 4M40 2.8TD diesel is one of the most mechanically straightforward engines ever fitted to a serious 4×4, and the blister fender variants are becoming genuinely collectible. At its best — a well-maintained, low-mileage 1998–1999 LWB 2.8TD — this is a vehicle that will reward you with decades more of overlanding capability for a fraction of what a modern equivalent costs.
Buy with a full pre-purchase inspection, budget R15,000–R25,000 for a maintenance sweep on any vehicle over 200,000 km, and you’ll own one of South Africa’s most capable and characterful 4x4s. The Gen 2 doesn’t just cross the Kgalagadi — it does it in style.
- History & Model Evolution
- SWB vs LWB
- Engines: Which to Buy
- Common Problems
- Full Specifications
- Ownership Ratings
- 20-Point Inspection
- 2026 Price Guide
- Who Should Buy
- Final Verdict
92 kW · 300 Nm · Chain-driven · Bush-friendly mechanical injection · capable of very high mileage with maintenance. Watch timing chain guides.