Japan vs Japan — 1996 vs 1997
| Lancer Evolution VI Tommi Mäkinen Edition | Pajero Evolution | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 280 hp | 280 hp |
| Torque | 275 lb-ft | 257 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,997 cc | 3,497 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 4.4 sec | 6.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 155 mph | 124 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 12.8 sec | 15.0 sec |
| Weight | — | 4,145 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,510 mm | 2,545 mm |
| Length | 4,350 mm | 4,310 mm |
| Units Produced | 2,500 | 2,500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $90,000 | $65,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 9/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI Tommi Mäkinen Edition brings quicker acceleration, higher top speed to the table, and the 1997 Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution answers with stronger collectibility, better value. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Mitsubishi has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI Tommi Mäkinen Edition with the 1997 Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI Tommi Mäkinen Edition producing 280 hp and the 1997 Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution delivering 280 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution uses a Inline-4 Turbo DOHC 16V displacing 1,997 cc, while the Mitsubishi Pajero relies on a V6 DOHC 24V with 3,497 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI Tommi Mäkinen Edition edges ahead at 4.4 seconds versus 6.5 seconds. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1997 Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.