This is definitely no mitsubishi VIN but some local registration number. At least it wasn't recognized by the "general export" ASA, which usually also knows VINs from the APAC market (e.g. australia or malaysia). But given that NZ and AU always were a bit "special" in that they got *a lot* of special (and sometimes really awesome) models/variants, I wouldn't rule out that there were also distinct VINs for that nuber that aren't in the general export ASA database...
There should be another plate on the bonnet which has the model-, trim- and paint code. Also at least the Australian variants had the big plate on the firewall. Another place for the VIN on some markets (often only a sticker) would be the RH lower B-pillar.
If it's a 4G63 SOHC 8 valve it might be the 109HP E33 - I have one of those as a hatchback variant ("eterna" on some markets). The metal lower front and rear and black trim would also fit this "smaller" E33 variants. Only the DOHC GTI and VR4 had the large, plastic front/rear bumpers and large side trim panels.
Could you provide a picture of the engine bay? This would further simplify the identification.