Dodge's entry into the light-duty pickup truck market, the 1987 Dodge Dakota fit the gap between compact pickup and full-size truck, great for carrying large loads but without the sometimes awkward handling of a bigger vehicle. In 1987, the Dakota was a two-door truck available in two wheelbase and bed sizes. The smaller 112.9-foot wheelbase featured a 6.5-foot bed, while the 123.9-foot wheelbase had an 8-foot bed. Each size was offered in base, SE, and LE trims.
Engine choices in the 1987 Dakota were either an underpowered 2.2-liter, 4-cylinder 96-hp or a 3.9-liter, 125-hp V6. A 5-speed manual was standard, but a 3-speed auto was available as an option. A four-wheel drive option could be had on the V6. Even though it was a mid-sized truck, neither engine was stellar in terms of acceleration power for the Dakota's size. Inside, the truck sat two comfortably, with plenty of leg and headroom and a convenient and easy-to-read dashboard. The Dakota also handled very easily for a pickup, featuring excellent braking capabilities.
Dakota engines seem to last forever, no matter how hard it's been tested, say many owners. The pickup is tough and durable, needing few repairs, making it an excellent cargo hauler that doubles as a personal car. Drawbacks are the extremely poor gas mileage (what do you expect from a truck?) and a weak engine if you're hauling aything uphill. The interior is also very cramped for anything more than two people.
4.1 Overall rating
(11 reviews)I have owned my dakota for 4 years now and i am in love with it. I had bought it off a family member who had had it since it was new. This thing has never left me stranded and because it is a carburated engine it is easy to work on. The 4wd works awsome in the winter.
For a 25 year old pickup with a carberated 4 cylinder with a 5 speed, I get 27 mpg in-town since a engine rebuild. I have gone over this with a fine tooth comb and have this looking and running great.
I bought this truck in South Carolina and towed it up to NY. There is not a spot of rust on it, but the clear coat on the hood and roof are rather faded. I bought P235 Goodyear Wranglers and the truck looks 10x better. it sits up higher and the white letters look nice. I have had problems with the choke and it seems to be running waaaaay too rich. ive almost stalled a few times in an intersection. the motor is underpowered for getting 12 mpg, but it seems to be running a little bit better after messing with the idle speed. all in all its a great truck.
was originally a V-6. the thing gave me more problems than any other car, but was pretty fun.
My daily driver for 2 years due to not having another vehicle, and it was surprisingly reliable. Had to be jumped maybe once or twice. It always came through in the worst of times. Not the most powerful engine but it seems like it will go forever.
1987 Dodge Dakota FAQs
How many 1987 Dodge Dakota vehicles in Huntsville, TX have no reported accidents or damage?
2 out of 2 for sale near Huntsville, TX have no reported accidents or damage.
What fuel types are available?
Gasoline engines are available.
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