Pictures by Gab Mendoza, Director for Events & Activities
A decent, pure & well-maintained Generation One Pajero is hard to find nowadays. Since the Generation One Pajero was introduced in the Philippine market more than 20 years ago, it has never lost it’s appeal. After all, the Pajero is “The Filipino’s Dream SUV”, having been the first mass-produced SUV in the country. When you tell people that you’re driving a Mitsubishi Pajero, most of them will say: “Wow! Pajero!”, and this applies even the ride has been more than 10 years old. The model name sticks… it stands!
Professor Rey Vargas has been a Mitsubishi lover since time in memorial. But just like every Mitsu lover, he has always dreamt of having a Pajero. His dream came to reality in 2011 when he purchased this silver sapphire – a 1989 Mitsubishi Pajero. The ride is mostly stock, and it’s just how Rey wants it. The interior is ultimately decent, given it’s age, but what stands out, is this Pajero’s ride and performance – it’s very much street worthy. The 4D56-Turbo engine of Rey’s Gen-1 never let’s him down. Since 2011, Rey and his Gen-1 have travelled more than 96,000 kilometres, and he says that they’re “going strong”.
The Pajero's 3-Gauge cluster at the centre of the dash continues to be it's trademark until today.
We just love the Generation-One's 'Retro' Gauges. They continue to stand-out until today.
A 6G Ralli-Art Galant sits at the centre of the dash. It reminds Rey that his Gen-One was a Paris-Dakar champion in it's day.
Nobody's too old for a teddy. Mark Wahlberg had "Ted" for a furry friend, and so does Rey.
Rey’s only major mods are the steering wheel and rims. The rest is perfectly stock, and Rey says that it’ll continue to be stock as he continues to keep the ride. As a matter of fact, Rey wants the tint removed to bring out more of this ride’s beauty, but given the summer heat in country, he’ll pass for now.
Just like any 20+ year old car, regular maintenance is key to having the ride in tip-top shape. And ‘Yes’, there are occasional issues with power steering, transmission, and suspension (given the quality or roads in the Philippines), but Rey mentions that the the cost to maintain is “bearable and manageable”. Thanks to Richcar, this Gen-1 doesn’t and hasn’t let Rey down. Moreover, as Rey knows that Pajero Club Philippines has always been there for mechanical, technical and aesthetical advice, he belives that the ride can last. It’s definitely a keeper!
Thanks Rey for letting us feature you ride! See you in the streets of the Metro and continue to ride proud.
