How many 1987 Dodge Dakotas were made?
Estimated around 100,000 Dakota pickups were produced for the 1987 model year. The exact total is not published in a single official tally, and figures vary by source.
The question touches on Dodge's launch of the Dakota in 1987, its place in the lineup, and how production is counted. This article lays out what is known from public sources and how to verify precise counts through archival records.
Context and what the numbers represent
Note: Official Chrysler/FCA materials rarely publish a model-year-by-model-year total for the Dakota, especially in a straightforward public-facing document. Automotive historians and registries often compile estimates from factory data, dealership stock, and VIN logs, which can yield slightly different totals.
- Estimated total production for the 1987 Dakota is commonly cited around 100,000 units, though some sources place the figure slightly higher or lower.
- Counting methods vary: some tallies include factory-run, dealer stock, and exports; others may exclude non-U.S. market units.
- First-generation production continued through 1991, with yearly volumes affected by market demand and manufacturing capacity; the 1987 figure serves as the baseline for subsequent years.
For those seeking greater precision, consult FCA historical archives, official production records, and VIN-based registries maintained by automotive historians or enthusiast clubs.
What sources say about public records
Most publicly accessible references acknowledge the absence of a single definitive public tally for 1987. Researchers typically rely on a combination of factory records, dealer network data, and VIN-based databases to triangulate a best estimate.
Notes on verification
To obtain a precise figure, researchers might reach out to FCA's historical services, consult period press materials, or access archival production ledgers that are not broadly published online.
Summary
Publicly available estimates place 1987 Dodge Dakota production near the 100,000-unit mark, but no universally accepted exact figure exists in freely accessible sources. The most reliable number would come from primary manufacturing records instead of secondary summaries.
What year to stay away from Dodge Dakota?
The Dodge Dakota years to avoid are primarily the 2000, 2002, 2005, and 2006 models due to widespread issues with engines, brakes, and paint. Other problematic years include 1999 and 2004, which experienced specific problems like suspension, engine, and transmission issues.
Specific years and common problems
- 2000: Suffers from engine problems, including oil pressure loss, fluctuating idle, and misfires.
- 2002: Frequently cited for brake issues, particularly brake cylinders locking up.
- 2004: Can experience transmission slipping and electrical sensor malfunctions, such as with the throttle position and crankshaft sensors.
- 2005: Known for brake problems and a high number of recalls (seven times).
- 2006: Has numerous recalls and is associated with engine, transmission, and brake problems.
- 1999: Can have suspension, engine, and brake issues.
Other considerations
- 2007-2011: These later model years are generally recommended for those seeking an automatic transmission, as the transmission quality improved significantly during this period.
- 2009-2011: Some models from this range have a recall for a potential rear axle pinion nut issue.
Is a 1987 Dodge Dakota a good truck?
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.
What motor is in a 1987 Dodge Dakota?
First generation (1987–1996)
| First generation | |
|---|---|
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | 2.2 L (135 cu in) K I4 2.5 L (152 cu in) K I4 2.5 L (150 cu in) AMC I4 3.9 L (239 cu in) LA/Magnum V6 5.2 L (318 cu in) LA/Magnum V8 |
| Transmission | 3-speed A998 automatic 4-speed A500 automatic 5-speed manual |
| Dimensions |
How much is a 1987 Dodge D150 worth today?
Typically, you can expect to pay around $12,367 for a 1987 Dodge D150 1/2 Ton in good condition with average spec. What is the highest selling price of a 1987 Dodge D150 1/2 Ton? The highest selling price of a 1987 Dodge D150 1/2 Ton at auction over the last three years was $24,200.
