Pajero III (V60) vs Pajero Sport I: which is better?
Mitsubishi Pajero III (V60) (1999–2006) vs Mitsubishi Pajero Sport I (1996–2008): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
Mitsubishi Pajero III (V60)Specifications
| Mitsubishi Pajero III (V60) | Mitsubishi Pajero Sport I | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 1999–2006 | 1996–2008 |
| Body | SUV | SUV |
| Fuel | petrol | petrol |
| Engines | 3.0 V6 | 3.0 V6 |
| Power, up to | 177 hp | 177 hp |
| Torque, up to | 255 Nm | 255 Nm |
| Gearbox | automatic | automatic |
| Drive | all-wheel drive | all-wheel drive |
| Length | 4 795 mm | 4 620 mm |
| Width | 1 875 mm | 1 775 mm |
| Height | 1 855 mm | 1 730 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 780 mm | 2 725 mm |
| Ground clearance | 235 mm | — |
| Fuel tank | 90 L | 74 L |
| KZ tax 2026 (car under 10 years) | ≈ 42 425 ₸ | ≈ 42 425 ₸ |
The better value is highlighted in green.
Pros, cons and common problems
Mitsubishi Pajero III (V60)
Pros
- All-wheel-drive versions available
- Conventional automatic, no robotized gearbox or CVT
- High ground clearance: 235 mm
- Large fuel tank: 90 L
Cons
- Mitsubishi 6G72/6G75 (V6) engine: oil consumption (piston rings)
- Mitsubishi V4A51/V5A51 (INVECS-II) automatic: shocks as the valve body wears
Engine (Mitsubishi 6G72/6G75 (V6)): oil consumption (rings); timing belt and water pump wear.
Gearbox (Mitsubishi V4A51/V5A51 automatic (INVECS-II)): shocks when the valve body wears; overheating when wheels spin and with a heavy trailer.
Mitsubishi Pajero Sport I
Pros
- All-wheel-drive versions available
- Conventional automatic, no robotized gearbox or CVT
- Large fuel tank: 74 L
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Mitsubishi 6G72/6G75 (V6) engine: oil consumption (piston rings)
Engine (Mitsubishi 6G72/6G75 (V6)): oil consumption (rings); timing belt and water pump wear.
Which one to choose
- Pajero III (V60) — if you care more about: wheelbase, fuel tank.
The condition of a specific car matters more than the model: check the service history and get the engine and gearbox inspected before buying.
FAQ
Which is more powerful: Pajero III (V60) or Pajero Sport I?
Pajero III (V60): up to 177 hp, Pajero Sport I: up to 177 hp.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: Pajero III (V60) — about 42 425 ₸, Pajero Sport I — about 42 425 ₸ (base engine). A 0.7 factor applies to cars aged 10–20 years and 0.5 to cars over 20.