2005 Mitsubishi L200 with Lexus V8 power under the hood

While “browsing” through Instagram, we came across this modified pickup and it immediately caught our attention. Knowing the US market, we knew that this model could not even be seen on the streets there, as Mitsubishi has not offered a compact pickup in the US market since 1996.

But after doing some more detailed research, we discovered that this L200 is unique in several ways.

The vehicle in the pictures belongs to Justin, who lives in the UK, near London. Since the pickup originally belonged to his family, Justin decided to make some changes and bring it back to life.

Growing up in rural areas, he realized from an early age that there was a real need for a 4x4 vehicle, and over time his passion for off-roading grew as well. His father drove a 1990 Jeep Renegade, and from there it was only a small step before the 2005 Mitsubishi L200 was transformed into this off-road-focused project.

It has a strong and rugged chassis, with old-school leaf springs at the rear and a surprisingly comfortable and luxurious driver's area. The driving position is commanding, and the ground clearance is more than adequate. The transformation included, among other things, fitting a Toyota 1UZ-FE V8, a 5-speed manual Pajero Super Select gearbox, and a 4×4 transfer case to ensure everything could work properly. We think the result is truly amazing!

In an interview, Justin spoke proudly and passionately about his vehicle and, in particular, about the process that transformed the pickup into a truck that turns heads wherever it goes.

Although during the first three years all the modifications made to the vehicle were purely out of necessity, it was only later that the idea of “more” appeared. Anyone who goes off-roading certainly knows that after every weekend trip, the vehicle needs repairs and/or improvements, right?

It was only when Justin decided to replace the slow 2.5-liter diesel four-cylinder that he started building the pickup into a combination of an overlander and a show truck.

It was not easy at all, because many of the parts he wanted simply were not available on the market. As a result, many of the metal components and bumpers were handmade by friends.

In the interview, Justin said that he loves the sound of this vehicle. Since we cannot hear it ourselves, we will take his word for it. In the UK, almost everyone seems to have a Land Rover, which is not exactly known for being particularly fast. The impact of Justin's pickup, especially when it is moving, must certainly catch many people by surprise.

With a vehicle like this, Justin goes off-roading about once a month. We would probably go every week, but we understand the lack of free time!

And now for a few more technical details about the engine: a rebuilt Lexus 1UZ-FE replacement engine, paired with a 5-speed manual Pajero Super Select gearbox and a 4x4 transfer case, along with a custom exhaust, intake and Walbro fuel pump. The oil and water cooling systems required a great deal of work to make the large V8 function properly in an engine bay originally designed for a small diesel four-cylinder.

The pickup has been lifted and features modified suspension, along with simple but effective wheels fitted with 33-inch Kumho mud tires.

Justin also worked on the exterior: custom front bumpers, a custom spare-wheel carrier, a 13,000-lb Winchmax winch with synthetic rope, and, of course, custom graphics along the sides. As for the interior, the goal was to keep the original look of the 15-year-old vehicle while making it feel as fresh as possible.

If you would like to follow Justin and see the entire transformation process, give him a follow on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/l200_v8_adventure/

We love reading stories about people who are passionate about off-roading, so if you know any interesting stories of your own, feel free to send them to us by email.