Model Car Mitsubishi 4x4 white number 206 - Paris-Dakar 1998 (1st edition)
Echelle: 1/43ème
Edition N°1: 1998
Pilotes: J.P. Fontenay / G. Picard
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Discover this white Mitsubishi 4x4 number 206, a faithful reproduction of the vehicle that made its mark in the 1998 edition of the legendary Paris-Dakar. This collectible piece captures the very essence of the Saharan adventure, with its immaculate white livery and distinctive number 206.
This miniature represents much more than just a model: it embodies the spirit of conquest that fueled the Fontenay-Picard crew during this memorable edition of the world's most prestigious rally-raid.
Features of the miniature
- Model: Mitsubishi 4x4 Paris-Dakar 1998
- Brand: Mitsubishi
- Year: 1998
- Scale: 1/43
- Color: White
- Race Number: 206
- Drivers: J.P. Fontenay / G. Picard
- Protective case included: Yes
The Mitsubishi Pajero in competition
The Mitsubishi Pajero rally-raid version represented in 1998 the culmination of decades of Japanese experience in off-road vehicles. Specially prepared to face the rigors of the Paris-Dakar, this 4x4 featured significant technical modifications: reinforced chassis, long-travel suspensions, additional fuel tanks, and cutting-edge navigation equipment.
The racing version of the Pajero was distinguished by its legendary robustness and unwavering reliability. Equipped with a supercharged V6 engine producing over 280 horsepower, it offered the perfect compromise between power and endurance necessary to cross the vast Saharan expanses. Its Super Select 4WD system allowed drivers to instantly adapt to the most varied terrains.
The 1998 Paris-Dakar edition was particularly competitive, with fierce rivalry between Japanese and European manufacturers. The Mitsubishi number 206 of Fontenay-Picard was part of this technological battle, representing Japanese expertise against formidable desert rivals.
Mitsubishi Motors and the rally-raid adventure
By 1998, Mitsubishi Motors already possessed a well-established reputation in the world of rally-raid. Since the early 1980s, the three-diamond brand had solidified its place as an essential reference on African tracks, accumulating victories and creating an exceptional sporting legend.
Mitsubishi's commitment to this extreme discipline was based on a clear philosophy: demonstrate the reliability of its production vehicles by subjecting them to the most challenging conditions imaginable. This marketing strategy proved particularly successful, as competitive successes significantly enhanced the brand image and civilian sales of the Pajero worldwide.
The 1990s marked the peak of Japanese domination in Dakar, with experienced crews and perfectly choreographed race logistics. The expertise gained during these African campaigns directly influenced the development of production models, creating a virtuous synergy between competition and commerce.
The epic of Paris-Dakar 1998
The 1998 edition of Paris-Dakar will remain etched in memory as one of the most fiercely contested in modern rally history. That year, the route took competitors from Granada in Spain to Dakar in Senegal, crossing landscapes of striking diversity: the Andalusian mountains, the Moroccan desert, the Mauritanian dunes, and the Senegalese tracks.
The Fontenay-Picard crew driving the Mitsubishi 206 perfectly embodied the amateur spirit that characterized this legendary event. Experienced driver Jean-Pierre Fontenay teamed up with Gilles Picard to attempt the Saharan adventure in a category where consistency often prevailed over pure speed. Their white Pajero represented months of meticulous preparation and savings to accomplish a dream shared by thousands of enthusiasts.
This 1998 edition also marked a pivotal time for Paris-Dakar, faced with growing security and logistical challenges. The organization led by Hubert Auriol and his team had to constantly adapt the route to regional geopolitical realities while preserving the very essence of this extraordinary human adventure.
The Mitsubishi number 206 thus symbolizes a golden age of rally-raid, when individual adventure still mingled with manufacturing ambitions, creating the unique alchemy that made the magic of Dakar. Every kilometer traveled in the desert represented a victory against the elements and machines, a lesson in humility against the vastness of the Sahara.
Complete your miniature collection
This Mitsubishi Paris-Dakar 1998 naturally finds its place alongside other iconic vehicles of the Saharan adventure. It fits perfectly into a collection dedicated to the Paris-Dakar rally, harmoniously dialoguing with other heroes of the dunes and African tracks.
Passionate collectors of 4x4 vehicles will particularly appreciate this faithful reproduction of an authentic desert adventurer. Its refined finish and technical details make it an ideal complement to thematic collections dedicated to race cars and rally vehicles.
This miniature will enchant both nostalgics of the Dakar epic and lovers of fine Japanese machines, making it a prized piece to enrich a collection dedicated to 1990s automobiles or Mitsubishi models. Its historical authenticity and rarity make it a valuable investment for any discerning collector.
Même marque : Mitsubishi
Frequently Asked Questions
How to understand the scales of miniatures?
Scale indicates the reduction ratio between the real car and the miniature. For example, at 1:43 scale, each centimeter on the miniature corresponds to 43 centimeters on the real vehicle.
Concretely, a 1/18 scale Ferrari model is approximately 25-30 cm long, while in 1/43 scale it measures approximately 10 cm.
What scales are available?
Our model cars are mainly offered in 1/43, 1/24, 1/18 and 1/87 (HO) scales. The scale is always indicated in the product sheet.
The smaller the second number, the larger the model car (e.g. 1/18 is larger than 1/43).
Does the model car come with protection?
Yes, each model car is systematically delivered in its protective box. This box preserves the collectible value and protects your model car from dust and shocks.
How is my package protected during transport?
We package each order with the utmost care: bubble wrap, appropriate cushioning, and polystyrene. Your model car is perfectly secure during its journey.
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