Proving to be a big success in 1987, the Dodge Dakota filled an obvious niche for drivers who wanted the cargo capacity of a truck with the smoother handling of a smaller pickup. The two-door 1988 Dakota received only minor tweaks, primarily a fuel-injected engine in the 3.9 V6, though the horsepower remained at 125. The 2.2-liter, 96-hp engine in the base model remained the same.
Available in either 2WD or 4WD (V6 models only), the 1988 Dakota offered a choice of a 6.5-foot bed or 8-foot bed, with seating for two. A Sports Package for 1988, offered with the 3.9 V6 pickups, featured 15-inch wheels, fog lights, offroading lights, a leather steering wheel, remote side mirrors, and an air dam.
Drivers love the durability of the 1988 Dakota, which can take a beating and come out unscathed. The engine and powertrain seem indestructible and the exterior does not suffer from rust over time. The length of the Dakota makes it easier to maneuver around the city and in parking lots than the more unwieldy larger pickups. Most negative comments focus on the poor fuel economy (15/19 mpg) and the desire for more interior room in the form of an extended cab. The lack of engine power was also cited, with the 2.2 almost useless if you're carrying anything in the bed.
4.4 Overall rating
(11 reviews)Great truck for the money I paid for it, lot's of power and a strong 4 wheel drive.
i have this truck since 1988, i have to change the pick-up coil every 90000km the engine is original, never been overhaul, the 5 speeds transmission was change at 160000km, the differential was change at 15000km under the warranty afeter a few burnout, and again at 250000km, the yoke bolt came loose and it destroyed the gears inside, but overall i had my best years in that truck and i plan to rebuild it completely to bring it back like it was the day i bought it new. the performance was ok in first and second gear, but on the third fourth and fifth gear, it was poor, braking and handling was awsome with the heavy duty suspension and 15 inchs eagle gt tires, it took 15 years before the first rust hole on the body, and i never put any antirust on it it was a blast to drive on curvy road, and confortable ond bumpy road
It is the slowest truck on the planet. It does have a great ladder rack. It smells of old cheap american engineering. I beat the crap out of it and its fun to drive. It is as old as i am .lol
My Dakota is a great every day driver- It just has a lil 3.9 V6, black, single cab, short box, Auto. with bucket seats. Its no hot rod, but i like it and it gets the job done. Great lil truck.
i loved this truck with all my heart and if i could get another i would. i just wish i had it still and it had less miles and the radiator didnt blow up on me to work lol peace
1988 Dodge Dakota FAQs
How many 1988 Dodge Dakota vehicles in Denver, CO have no reported accidents or damage?
2 out of 2 for sale near Denver, CO have no reported accidents or damage.
What fuel types are available?
Gasoline engines are available.
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