The First Generation Montero: A Piece of American Mitsubishi History
Introduced in the United States in the early 1980s, Mitsubishi made its mark with the Cordias, Tredias, Starions, and Trucks. However, it was the Montero SUV that truly captured the American market’s attention. A recent discovery in a Northern California car graveyard reveals one of the very first Monteros to make its way to our shores.
The Montero in question boasts a build date of October 1983 and a VIN ending in 00258, indicating that it may have been part of the initial shipment of these SUVs to arrive in the United States. This find is particularly significant, as we previously encountered one of the first Mitsubishi Trucks in a Colorado boneyard, providing us with a glimpse into the rich history of Mitsubishi in America.
This Montero stands out as a high-trim-level Sport model equipped with a manual transmission. Its initial MSRP was $10,159, equivalent to roughly $31,322 in today’s dollars. It’s fascinating to see how prices have evolved over the years, underscoring the value that this SUV brought to the market at the time.
Mitsubishi’s collaboration with Chrysler further solidified its presence in North America. The first-generation Montero eventually gained a Dodge-badged sibling known as the Raider. Although this may have caused some confusion in the future, it highlights the strong bond between the two automakers.
Under the hood, all U.S.-market Monteros between 1984 and 1988 featured the 2.6-liter Astron straight-four engine, producing 106 horsepower and 142 pound-feet of torque. This engine was a staple in various Chrysler models during the 1980s and 1990s. Starting from 1989, buyers had the option to upgrade to a 3.0-liter V6 engine, further enhancing the Montero’s performance.
What sets the Montero Sport apart is its impressive array of luxury and convenience features for its era. It boasts an AM/FM/cassette radio with digital tuning, highlighting the technological advancements of the time. However, air conditioning was an optional extra, emphasizing the SUV’s focus on comfort and refinement.
This particular Montero Sport also includes the optional power sunroof, adding an element of openness and adventure. Notably, it features an inclinometer, a unique touch that adds a sense of excitement to the driving experience. Enthusiasts, however, often insisted on having the factory Montero altimeter as well, showcasing their commitment to authenticity.
In terms of aesthetics, this Montero Sport deviates from its original silver paint, now donning a metallic green coat. Examination of the engine compartment reveals remnants of the original color, suggesting a previous repaint. Furthermore, the presence of old body filler indicates past repairs, adding to the SUV’s history and character.
With just 124,219 miles on the odometer, this Montero Sport has plenty of life left, despite finding its final resting place in a junkyard. It’s worth noting that Mitsubishi vehicles have proven to be resilient over the years, with the highest-mile Mitsubishi found in a junkyard boasting an impressive 313,560 miles.
Reflecting on the Montero’s legacy, one can’t help but imagine its invincible presence on African terrains or its exhilarating adventures on Japanese beaches. Mitsubishi undeniably earned its bragging rights with the Pajero, and the Montero helped individuals navigate the challenges of suburban life.
As we delve into the history of the first-generation Montero, we not only uncover a remarkable piece of American Mitsubishi history, but we also gain a deeper appreciation for the brand’s evolution. This SUV continues to captivate enthusiasts and serves as a testament to Mitsubishi’s commitment to delivering capable, reliable, and innovative vehicles.