The Mitsubishi Pajero II Metal Top (V2_W, V4_W) 3.5 i V6 24V, produced between 1994 and 2000, represents a significant evolution in Mitsubishi’s renowned off-road vehicle lineage. This iteration of the Pajero, primarily marketed outside of North America, solidified the model’s reputation for robust construction, capable four-wheel drive systems, and a blend of on-road comfort and off-road prowess. The “Metal Top” designation refers to the removable hardtop, offering open-air driving experiences alongside the security of a fully enclosed vehicle. The Pajero II, in its various configurations, was a mainstay in markets like Europe, Australia, and Asia, where demand for versatile SUVs was high. It served as a competitor to vehicles like the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado and Nissan Patrol.
Mitsubishi Pajero II Metal Top: A Detailed Overview
The Pajero II, launched in 1994, built upon the success of the original Pajero, offering increased refinement, improved performance, and enhanced safety features. The Metal Top variant, with its removable roof, catered to drivers seeking a more adventurous experience. While not officially sold in the United States, the Pajero II gained a cult following among enthusiasts who appreciated its build quality and off-road capabilities. The V6 engine option, as detailed here, provided a substantial power upgrade over earlier four-cylinder models, making it a compelling choice for both on and off-road driving.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Pajero II Metal Top 3.5 i V6 24V is a 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6 engine, producing 208 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 300 Nm (221.27 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3000 rpm. This engine, with its double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain and multi-port fuel injection, delivers smooth and responsive performance. The engine’s longitudinal front-engine layout contributes to balanced handling. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 9.5 seconds, while 0-60 mph is achieved in around 9 seconds. The power-to-weight ratio of 8.9 kg/Hp and torque-to-weight ratio of 6.2 kg/Nm demonstrate the engine’s ability to propel the relatively heavy SUV with reasonable agility. Fuel consumption is rated at 14.2 liters per 100 kilometers (16.6 US mpg, 19.9 UK mpg, or 7 km/l), typical for a vehicle of this size and capability from that era.
Design & Features
The Pajero II Metal Top is a three-door SUV with seating for five passengers. Its body-on-frame construction provides exceptional durability and off-road capability. The removable metal hardtop is the defining feature of this variant, allowing for open-air driving during favorable weather conditions. The vehicle’s design reflects a blend of rugged functionality and contemporary styling for the mid-1990s. Key features include a robust four-wheel drive system, hydraulic power steering, and an anti-lock braking system (ABS) for enhanced safety. The interior, while not luxurious by modern standards, offers a comfortable and practical space for passengers and cargo. Trunk space ranges from a minimum of 330 liters (11.65 cu. ft.) to a maximum of 1100 liters (38.85 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. The Pajero II’s focus was on providing a versatile vehicle capable of handling both daily commuting and challenging off-road adventures.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Pajero |
| Generation | Pajero II Metal Top (V2_W, V4_W) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.5 i V6 24V (208 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1994 |
| End of production | 2000 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 14.2 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (US mpg) | 16.6 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (UK mpg) | 19.9 UK mpg |
| Fuel consumption (km/l) | 7 km/l |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9 sec |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.9 kg/Hp |
| Hp/tonne | 112.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.2 kg/Nm |
| Nm/tonne | 162.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 208 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 59.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 3000 rpm |
| Torque (lb.-ft.) | 221.27 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 3497 cm3 |
| Engine displacement (cu. in.) | 213.4 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 93 mm |
| Cylinder Bore (in.) | 3.66 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 85.8 mm |
| Piston Stroke (in.) | 3.38 in. |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Kerb Weight | 1850 kg |
| Kerb Weight (lbs.) | 4078.55 lbs. |
| Max. weight | 2350 kg |
| Max. weight (lbs.) | 5180.86 lbs. |
| Max load | 500 kg |
| Max load (lbs.) | 1102.31 lbs. |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 330 l |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum (cu. ft.) | 11.65 cu. ft. |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1100 l |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum (cu. ft.) | 38.85 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 75 l |
| Fuel tank capacity (US gal) | 19.81 US gal |
| Fuel tank capacity (UK gal) | 16.5 UK gal |
| Length | 4145 mm |
| Length (in.) | 163.19 in. |
| Width | 1785 mm |
| Width (in.) | 70.28 in. |
| Height | 1845 mm |
| Height (in.) | 72.64 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2420 mm |
| Wheelbase (in.) | 95.28 in. |
| Front track | 1465 mm |
| Front track (in.) | 57.68 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1480 mm |
| Rear (Back) track (in.) | 58.27 in. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 265/70 R15 H |
The Mitsubishi Pajero II Metal Top 3.5 i V6 24V remains a highly regarded SUV, particularly among enthusiasts who value its combination of off-road capability, on-road comfort, and distinctive styling. Its robust construction and reliable powertrain have ensured its longevity, making it a sought-after vehicle in the used car market.
