Is there a V8 Dodge Dakota?
Yes. The Dodge Dakota was offered with V8 engines in several years and trims, including a high-performance variant, and later models used a 4.7-liter V8.
A quick overview of V8 options across the Dakota’s history
The Dakota’s powertrain options included both V6 and V8 configurations. The most notable V8 offerings appeared in certain generations and trims, culminating in a sporty R/T model and later widespread availability of the 4.7L Magnum V8. Below is a concise guide to the main V8 choices that appeared on the Dakota over its production life.
- The 5.2L Magnum V8 (318 cubic inches) commonly appeared on early Dakotas in the 1990s, giving buyers a more capable V8 option alongside the standard V6.
- The 5.9L Magnum V8 (360 cubic inches) was used in the Dodge Dakota R/T, a high-performance variant produced roughly around 2000–2003, delivering stronger acceleration and towing capability.
- The 4.7L Magnum V8 became available in the Dakota in the late 1990s/early 2000s and remained a primary V8 option through the later years, extending into the 2011 end of the model run. This engine provided a balance of power and efficiency for most trims.
In general, the Dakota did not offer a Hemi option, and the bulk of V8 power came from the Magnum family. For enthusiasts, the R/T badge remains the most well-known V8-powered Dakota variant, while the 4.7L V8 offered a more common, widely available V8 path in the mid-2000s.
Notable V8 variants and what they meant for buyers
The Dodge Dakota R/T stands out as the peak performance model within the lineup, featuring a larger V8 and sport-oriented hardware. Beyond the R/T, the 4.7L Magnum V8 provided a practical uplift for those who needed more torque for hauling or trailering, without stepping up to larger-displacement engines.
- Dodge Dakota R/T (early 2000s): High-performance V8 option, typically the 5.9L Magnum V8, with enhanced suspension and styling.
- Standard to mid-range Dakotas (2000s): Availability of the 4.7L Magnum V8 across multiple trims, offering stronger performance than the base V6.
Note: Production of the Dakota ended in 2011, and there have been no new factory Dakota pickups since then. For buyers seeking V8 power today, the market consists of used examples rather than new models.
What to look for if you’re shopping a V8 Dodge Dakota
When evaluating a used Dakota with a V8, consider these practical tips to avoid common issues and find a solid truck that still performs well.
- Check maintenance records for timing components and V8-specific wear items, such as ignition and fuel-system parts.
- Inspect the exhaust for leaks and listen for unusual knocking or lifter noise, which can indicate valve or cam concerns in older Magnum V8s.
- Look for signs of heavy towing or off-road use, which can stress the rear suspension, drivetrain, and cooling system.
- Verify transmission condition, especially in older units, as V8 Dakota models can transmit higher torque demands.
In summary, a V8 Dodge Dakota exists in several forms across its production span, with the R/T as the standout performance variant and the 4.7L Magnum V8 serving as the more common mid-generation option. If you’re in the used market, you’ll encounter these V8s primarily in mid-1990s to early-2010s Dakotas.
Summary
The Dodge Dakota did offer V8 power across its lifespan, most memorably in the Dodge Dakota R/T with a 5.9L Magnum V8, and subsequently with the widely used 4.7L Magnum V8. Early models also offered a 5.2L V8 option, providing a spectrum of V8 choices for buyers. The Dakota line concluded in 2011, so any V8 Dakota today would be a used purchase rather than a new model.
How much horsepower does a 2000 Dodge Dakota 4.7 L V8 have?
235 horsepower
Like its pickup truck cousin, it too garners the 4.7-liter V8, but only on the 4X4. Output is the same 235 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque.
Does Dodge Dakota have a V8?
The Dakota was larger than the compact pickups from Ford and Chevrolet, the Ford Ranger and Chevrolet S-10, and was smaller than full-sized pickups such as Dodge's own Ram. It used body-on-frame construction and a leaf spring/live axle rear end and was the first mid-size pickup with an optional V8 engine.
What Dodge truck has a V8?
2026 Ram 1500
The 2026 Ram 1500 now offers three engines: a standard-output inline-six, a high-output inline-six and a V8. Of the three, the V8 has the lowest power and torque, sitting at 395 ponies and 410 lb-ft of torque.
How much horsepower does a 2005 Dodge Dakota 4.7 L V8 have?
230 horsepower
But now Dodge offers not one but two 4.7-liter V8s, our test truck's standard output V8 with 230 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, and available in SLT or Laramie trim, a high-output version from the Jeep Grand Cherokee with over 250 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque. Power comes on quickly at launch.
