I was in a similar situation like you prior to getting my 1st 4x4 around 2.5 years ago. Had absolutely no information and knowledge about how to maintain a big (read old) SUV. Now my experiences are:
1. If fuel consumption is your major concern, forget about getting a SUV. However, this is subjective, for example I have a hybrid vehicle as well, so if I compare that to my Pajero 2003, 3.5l petrol it's a no-brainer that I would be devastated economy wise. But I traded it with my Civic 1.6l (2005 model) which was giving me 8.5-9 km/L, Pajero didn't break the bank at 5.5 km/L with a second car to balance the fuel average.
2. Comfort wise it is a joy to drive, especially with those rains and water clogged roads in Karachi.
3. There is absolute fun to fill 8-9 people and take it for a ride.
4. It requires maintenance work, not on a daily or weekly basis, but once every 3 months or so. The total expense, however, doesn't exceed 4-5 thousand per month average in the long run.
5. No one, or hardly anyone, sells a perfectly maintained Pajero so be ready to get it fixed as per your needs and liking.
Remember these vehicles (2nd Gen Pajeros) are 25-28 years old, so get the vehicle checked by a reliable mechanic before buying it.
