text: First generation (1987–1996) The Dodge Dakota was developed by Chrysler as a mid-sized pickup. To keep investment low, many components were shared with existing Chrysler products and the manufacturing plant was shared with the full-size Dodge D/W series. The N-body platform was the result of operational efforts by Harold K. Sperlich, who was in charge of Chrysler's product planning in the early 1980s.
  The first generation of the Dakota was produced from 1986 through 1996 (for the 1987–1996 model years). The Dakota was the first pickup truck with rack-and-pinion steering (2WD only, and early years were available without power steering). Inline-four and V6 engines were offered along with either a five-speed manual or three-speed automatic transmission. Four-wheel drive was available only with the V6. Both 6.5- and 8-foot beds were offered.
  Additional options in first-generation trucks included:
  Lowered suspension
  15-inch chromed road wheels
  Chrome bars along the beds
  AM/FM stereo that optionally included a cassette player, CD player, or both
  Sliding rear windows
  Chromed bumpers
  5.2L V8 engine
  Infinity sound systems
  The sport package was added as a mid-year release. Exterior colors came in black, bright white, and graphic red. Available in both 2WD and 4WD, the sport option included:
  AM/FM stereo radio with cassette player
  Carpeted logo floor mats
  Center armrest bench seat
  Charcoal-silver deluxe cloth interior with fold-down armrest
  Color-keyed leather-wrapped sport steering wheel
  Deluxe wipers
  Dual remote control outside mirrors
  Floor carpet
  Gauge package
  Mopar air dam with Bosch fog lamps
  Mopar light-bar with Bosch off-road lamps (4WD only)