Our 4X4 Sport model rode and handled well and the 5.2-liter Magnum V8 engine producedlots of power. The engine itself isn't the smoothest V8 we've seen, but it sounds
powerful and sure of itself. Our truck also had the 5-speed manual transmission, and
the V8 delivered so much torque that it was a challenge to keep from spinning the rear
tires, especially on wet pavement.
Throw in some tight, bumpy corners and the driver has to pay attention to keep the
rear end from trying to pass the front, particularly a driver in a hurry. That's why
we recommend matching the V8 with the automatic transmission. A V8-powered Dakota with
an automatic provides the same payload as one with a manual transmission, so power
loss is negligible and driveability is improved.
Those who opt for the 4-cyl. engine, however, will find the automatic transmission
soaks up more power than the 5-speed gearbox, which shifts smoothly and precisely. The
V6 buyer could argue the merits of either transmission.
The on-demand 4wd system features shift-on-the-fly, eliminating the need to stop for