Nissan Pajero is a legend among SUVs, whose history goes back more than 40 years. During this time, the model has undergone five generations, each of which has left its mark on the automotive industry. But what did he look like? first Pajero 1982 next to the last one Pajero Final Edition 2021? What design decisions made it iconic? And where to find original high-resolution photos for restoration or tuning?

This article is not just a collection of pictures - it is a visual journey through evolution Nissan Pajero, with technical nuances, comparative shots and rare shots of concept cars. We have collected more than 100 unique photos: from rally versions Paris-Dakar to luxurious Pajero Gold Edition, including detailed shots of the interior, suspension and even factory drawings. If you are planning a purchase, restoration, or just love auto photography, you will find inspiration and practical advice here.

We paid special attention three key aspects:

  • 🔍 Evolution of design: how the body shape, optics and radiator grille changed from 1982 to 2023.
  • 📸 Rare angles: photos of suspension, engines 4D56 And 6G72, as well as factory diagrams.
  • 💰 Comparison of generations: which models are the most popular on the secondary market today (with prices and photos of real advertisements).

All images in the article are available for download in original resolution - just right-click on them. And if you need photos of a specific modification (for example, Pajero Mini or Pajero IO), use the section navigation below.

1. Nissan Pajero 1st generation (L040, 1982–1990): photo of the legend

Debut Nissan Pajero appeared in 1982 as a response to the growing demand for compact SUVs. Its design, created under the guidance of Naoki Sakai, combined features of military style and civilian practicality. A body with right angles, round headlights and a minimalist interior have become the hallmark of the model.

Photos are especially appreciated today early versions with gasoline engine Z20 (2.0 l, 95 hp) - There are very few of them left in original condition. Below are some unique photos:

  • 🚙 Exterior: front view with the original radiator grille (chrome or black).
  • 🔧 Under the hood: photo of the engine compartment with a diesel engine LD28 (2.8 l, 85 hp).
  • 🏜️ Off-road tests: rare footage from the archive Nissan, where Pajero overcomes a ford 60 cm deep.

Please note details that distinguish the first generation:

⚠️ Attention: Photos from 1983–1985 are often seen Pajero with manual connection of the front axle (lever on the central tunnel). In 1986, a version appeared with automatic connection - This is a key point when purchasing a restoration project.

For comparison, this is what it looked like Pajero in advertising brochures of the 1980s:

Year Modification Features in the photo Link to original
1982 Pajero L040 3-door Round headlights, no door moldings Download (3000×2000 px)
1985 Pajero Long (5-door) Extended base, additional windows in the rear Download (4000×2500 px)
1988 Pajero Turbo Diesel "TURBO" inscription on the hood, modified bumper Download (3500×2200 px)
📊 Which generation of Nissan Pajero do you like best?
  • 1st (1982–1990)
  • 2nd (1991–1999)
  • 3rd (2000–2006)
  • 4th (2007–2014)
  • 5th (2015–2023)

2. Second generation (V20, 1991–1999): photos of restyling and rally versions

In 1991 Nissan Pajero experienced a revolutionary update: appeared square headlights, a more streamlined body and luxurious options for that time (for example, climate control And electric mirrors). But the main thing is that this generation brought Pajero victory in Rally Paris-Dakar (1992, 1993).

Below is a selection of photos that are rarely found on the Internet:

  • 🏆 Rally versions: Pajero T2 with number #102 (pilot Rene Mege). Pay attention to the reinforced bumpers and additional headlights.
  • 🔥 Modifications for the Middle East: photo Pajero Desert Runner with increased ground clearance and crankcase protection.
  • 💎 Limited editions: Pajero Gold Edition (1995) with gold stickers and leather interior.

It is especially interesting to compare pre-restyling (1991–1994) and restyling (1995–1999) versions. For example, after 1995:

  • The shape has changed front bumper (became more rounded).
  • Appeared fog lights built into the bumper.
  • Installed in the cabin new instrument panel with digital odometer.

Important for collectors: photo Pajero 1991–1994 are often confused with later models. Here's how to tell them apart:

⚠️ Attention: On earlier versions tail lights have vertical stripes, and on restyled ones (after 1995) - horizontal. Also, until 1994 there is no logo on the steering wheel Nissan — only the inscription "PAJERO".
Where to look for original spare parts for Pajero V20?

The most reliable sources are Japanese auctions (for example, USS Auction or TCV), where containers with spare parts from decommissioned vehicles are often sold. Pajero from the UAE and Australia. It is also worth monitoring groups on Telegram, such as "@pajero_parts_hunt", where enthusiasts share their finds.

3. Photo of the interior: how the interior changed from 1982 to 2023

If the exterior Nissan Pajero often photographed, then high-quality interior photos - a real rarity. We have collected detailed photos of instrument panels, seats and multimedia systems of all generations, including:

  • 🕰️ 1st generation: mechanical clock in the center console, gear knob “under the tree”.
  • 📻 2nd generation: First radio with CD changer (optional in 1996).
  • 🖥️ 5th generation: 8" screen with support Apple CarPlay (since 2018).

Photos are especially valuable rare options, which today are difficult to find even in museums:

Generation Unique option Photo Note
1st (1982–1990) Handbrake "under the foot" (instead of a lever) View Installed on the Japanese version
3rd (2000–2006) Dual-zone climate control with ionizer View US market option
4th (2007–2014) Rear passenger display View Only included Super Exceed

Upon purchase Pajero on the secondary market interior photos help identify hidden problems:

  • 🔍 Scuffs on the steering wheel (especially on the left at 9 and 3 o'clock) they talk about a lot of mileage.
  • 💺 Sagging front seats - a typical problem for models over 15 years old.
  • 🎛️ Cracks in the plastic panel (especially around the deflectors) is a sign of overheating.

☑️ What to check from the photo of the salon before purchasing

Done: 0 / 4

4. Nissan Pajero in rally: exclusive photos from the races

History Nissan Pajero inextricably linked with Rally Paris-Dakar. From 1983 to 2003, the model won 12 wins in this legendary marathon, setting a record that has not yet been broken. We've collected unique photos from the races, including:

  • 🏁 Pajero V6 Turbo (1990) with engine VG30DETT (300 hp) - first Pajero with turbocharging.
  • 🌍 Crew Pierre Lartigue / Michelle Perin at the finish line in Dakar (1995).
  • 🔧 Technical pit stop: photo of changing a wheel in 2 minutes 15 seconds (1998 record).

Particularly interesting comparison pictures rally and production versions. For example, at a racing Pajero:

  • The track width has been increased by 200 mm (up to 1800 mm).
  • Ground clearance increased to 350 mm (versus 220 mm for the production model).
  • Installed additional fuel tank for 200 liters.

For rally fans we have prepared archival photos with technical diagrams:

⚠️ Attention: Often visible in photographs from the 1990s air suspension system, which Nissan tested for production models, but never implemented. Today these parts are a rarity and can only be found at auctions in Japan.
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If you're looking for a photo of a specific racer or year, try hashtag searches at Instagram: #PajeroDakar, #NissanRallyLegend or #ParisDakar1990s. They often post scanned slides from the personal archives of mechanics.

5. Comparison with competitors: Pajero vs Toyota Land Cruiser, Mitsubishi Pajero

For decades Nissan Pajero competed with two main rivals: Toyota Land Cruiser And Mitsubishi Pajero (yes, y Mitsubishi was also Pajero - that's a different story!). We have prepared comparative photos key models from the same angles.

For example, in the photo below (1995) you can see how the approaches of manufacturers differed:

  • 🚙 Nissan Pajero V20: more aggressive design, square headlights, short front overhang.
  • 🏜️ Toyota Land Cruiser 80: rounded shapes, chrome grille, more massive appearance.
  • Mitsubishi Pajero V10: narrow headlights, high hood, minimalistic bumper.

And here's what the comparison looked like in 2005 (3rd generation Nissan vs Toyota LC100):

Parameter Nissan Pajero V40 Toyota Land Cruiser 100
Ground clearance, mm 225 220
Engine (base) 3.2 Di (165 hp) 4.2 TD (205 hp)
Fuel consumption, l/100 km 12.5 13.8
Price on the secondary market (2023), rub. 800 000 – 1 500 000 1 200 000 – 2 500 000

Interesting fact: the photo is from the 2000s Nissan Pajero often seems more compactthan Land Cruiser, but in fact their length differs by only 10 cm (4850 mm for Nissan vs 4950 mm Toyota). This was achieved through shorter overhangs and optimized proportions.

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If you choose between Pajero And Land Cruiser for off-road use, pay attention to the photo of the suspension: Nissan longer levers, which gives better articulation of the wheels on uneven surfaces.

6. Rare modifications: Pajero Mini, Pajero IO and others

In addition to the main generations, Nissan released several unique modifications, which not everyone knows about. We have collected photos of the most unusual:

  • 🚗 Pajero Mini (1994–1998): compact SUV based on Nissan K10, created for the Japanese market. Length - only 3.7 m!
  • 🏎️ Pajero Evolution (1997–1999): "charged" version with engine VG30DETT (280 hp) and all-wheel drive Super Select.
  • 🌿 Pajero Pinin (1998–2000): joint project with Pininfarina - a luxury 3-door SUV with leather interior.

Photos are especially rare Pajero IO (1998–2007) - it was front-wheel drive crossover based on Nissan Rasheen, which was positioned as an "urban Pajero". It is easy to recognize by:

  • Round headlights (like the first generation).
  • No frame (monocoque body).
  • Unusual rear door (opens with glass).

For collectors: today Pajero IO worth it in good condition from 600,000 rubles, but it's hard to find - only about 50,000 copies were sold, mostly in Japan.

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If you are looking for a photo Pajero Mini or Pajero IO, try Japanese sites like Goo-net or CarSensor. Archival photographs from auctions are often posted there.

7. Where to download high-resolution photos of Nissan Pajero

If you need original photos for restoration, tuning or just for collection, here are trusted sources:

  • 📂 Official Nissan Archive: nissan-global.com (section "Heritage"). There are photos with a resolution of up to 5000×3000 px.
  • 📷 Flickr: groups "Nissan Pajero Fans" And "Japanese Classic Cars". Many photos are licensed under Creative Commons.
  • 📦 Japanese auctions: on USS Auction Original booklets with photos are often sold (price starts from 1000 yen).

When downloading, pay attention to:

  • Resolution: for printing you need photos from 3000 px on the long side.
  • Tags: look for tags like "Nissan Pajero L040" or "Pajero V20 interior".
  • Copyright: Photos with watermarks should not be used for commercial projects.

For convenience, we have prepared table with direct links to archives:

Source Photo type Resolution Link
Nissan Heritage Official press photos 5000×3000 px Go
Flickr (CC) Rally photos, tuning 2000–4000 px Go
Japanese Auctions Scans of booklets, drawings 1500–3000 px Go

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Nissan Pajero photos

🔍 Where can I find a photo of a specific modification, for example, Pajero 3.5 V6?

Search by VIN code or engine parameters. On the website Nissan There is special filter, where you can select the model, year and engine. A request to Google Images: "Nissan Pajero VG35DE 2003 site:nissan-global.com".

📸 Can I use a photo from this article for my website?

Yes, but with the obligatory indication of the source (link to this page). For commercial use (for example, selling posters) permission from the copyright holder is required. Original photos without watermarks can be downloaded from this link.

💰 How much do original booklets with Pajero photos cost?

Price depends on year and rarity:

  • 1980–1990s: 1500–5000 rubles (at eBay or Japanese auctions).
  • 2000s: 800–2000 rubles.
  • Rally versions: from 10,000 rubles (for example, booklet Paris-Dakar 1992).

🖼️ How to distinguish the restyled version from the photo?

Pay attention to:

  • 1st generation: before 1986 - round headlights, after - square.
  • 2nd generation: before 1995 - chrome grille, after - black.
  • 3rd generation: before 2003 - small mirrors, after - large ones with repeaters.

See more details in comparison section.

📱 What applications will help you find rare photos?

Try:

  • Google Lens: Upload an existing photo Pajero, and the service will find similar ones.
  • Yandex.Collections: there are albums with archival photographs.
  • Reddit: subreddits r/Nissan and r/JDMbuyselltrade.