The 4.7 liter V8, 5-speed manual, 4 wheel drive and 9.25" rear end gives this truck a full-size powertrain in a midsize package. The low-end torque from the V8 engine is phenomenal and sounds great to boot. The shift on the fly, two-speed transfer case is great for driving in winter, and low range allows for easy boat ramp operation if so inclined. The sport model is rather basic, with crank windows, rather uncomfortable seats, a cassette deck (no CD player), and not much room in the rear for passengers let along much cargo. It does have air conditioning though, which is a plus. MPG is below average for this class of vehicle, returning 13 in the city and 19 on the highway. I've been averaging 16 with mostly highway driving. Overall, this is a great pickup truck, and if you can find one that was well maintained, I'd recommend buying one.

Avon, New York

3.0

Great Starter Truck

The 1999 Dodge Dakota that I own is a great truck for being my first truck. Its size is great. The bed of the truck can hold everything that I have needed it to. My children can ride pretty comfortably in the back seat. The front of the truck is spacious enough that I am comfortable sitting in it without feeling as though I cannot move. I stand at 5'11 inches, so this is a huge plus! The engine itself is great. It runs really well. The only downfalls to the truck are the usual things that can go wrong with this make, and some parts are very hard to find. The basic repairs that have been needed are things like muffler repair and caliper repair. The only major issue that has been found was the heating element in the truck went out and had to be bypassed. Other than those small issues the truck itself is great. I love the look, the style and the size.