Unique Mitsubishi Pajero Mini in Snoopy version made its way to the USA
Many people know the Mitsubishi Pajero, which was sold in North America as the Montero. However, not everyone is aware that its compact kei car version, the Pajero Mini, was produced in Japan. And now, one such example has recently appeared for sale in the United States. It is significantly smaller than its full-size counterpart, although the Pajero traits are instantly recognizable.
This particular vehicle is not an ordinary Pajero Mini. Listed for auction in Cookeville, Tennessee, it features the special Snoopy Edition, which can boldly be called one of the cutest kei cars of its era. The graphics are inspired by the Peanuts comic strip, which needs no introduction, and the whole model looks like a cheerful blast from the past that would be genuinely fun to drive.
Technical specifications and performance
Under the hood is a turbocharged three-cylinder engine with a displacement of 659 cc, which produced 51 horsepower back in 2000 when this model was made. Although this is far from the power of a large SUV, the vehicle is equipped with all-wheel drive, a solid rear axle, a dual-range transfer case, and a four-speed automatic transmission. So it is quite ready for light off-roading.
Design and exterior appearance
The body combines Soft White paint with silver metallic accents on the bumpers and rocker panels. Graphics depicting Snoopy adorn the hood, B-pillars, and rear quarter panels. There is also a special spare tire cover and mud flaps with Snoopy branding.
Interior and details for comic fans
The special elements continue inside the cabin. It features unique seats with Snoopy embroidery and original door panels covered with dozens of small illustrations of this character. One could argue that modern cars are too serious, and this Pajero Mini serves as the perfect antidote.
According to the listing on Bring a Trailer, the Mitsubishi was purchased in Japan by the seller last year and only recently imported to the USA.
The vehicle’s mileage is only 35,000 miles (57,000 km). The timing belt, water pump, and drive belts have been recently replaced. For those looking for a car whose second example you are unlikely to encounter, this little Pajero is a true find.
Additional context
The appearance of such a rare vehicle as the Pajero Mini Snoopy Edition in the USA is generating considerable interest among collectors and fans of Japanese kei cars. This is not just a means of transportation, but a genuine artifact of late-90s automotive culture. Its import underscores the growing popularity of compact and unusual Japanese models in the American market, where such cars become not only a mode of transport but also an object of nostalgia and style. Given its low mileage and fresh maintenance, this example has every chance of becoming the pearl of any collection.