Modern Classics: Dodge Dakota Convertible, 1989-1991

October 15, 2009

Perhaps Chrysler could have taken a few pointers from the first attempt by Ford to combine a truck and a convertible as few vehicles were produced for the following model year. In 1990, fewer than 1000 Dakota Sport convertibles left dealer showrooms.

Dodge Dakota Convertible. Click image to enlarge

The same powerplant was utilized for 1990, however a new variant was offered by Chrysler called the Dakota SE convertible. The SE came powered by a smaller, but more fuel efficient 2.5-litre engine matched to a five-speed manual transmission.

In order to fulfill its contract requirements with Chrysler, ASC built eight additional Dakota Sport convertibles for the 1991 model year making these the rarest of the rare. No further such “rag top” models were ever produced.

Whether you like these vehicles or not, one has to admire the Chrysler brass for deciding to produce such a “boutique”-like vehicle. It was soon to be followed by the likes of the Dodge Viper and Plymouth Prowler, with one very big difference… the Dakota Sport convertible was priced so that just about anyone with a job could get into one.

Outside of the rather small market segment that would be interested in purchasing such a vehicle, the low production number was most likely due to the specific number of vehicles that were to be produced under contract by ASC.

Dodge Dakota Convertible. Click image to enlarge

Owners of these vehicles were known to complain about the fact the vinyl top did not tuck tidily behind the seats. Unless a great deal of effort was spent ensuring a neat and tidy fold, the top would impede vision through the rear view mirror.

The Dodge Dakota first appeared on the market in 1987 and was billed as the first true mid-size work truck. The Dakota Sport convertible however was anything but a work truck, instead built for top-down driving pleasure. With the attached decent sized cargo bay one had the capability to haul loads of gravel, move heavy appliances, and perhaps load some friends in the rear (clearly, I don’t recommend this) for a ride around the campground.

If you are in the market for such a vehicle, you will have to look long and hard. Due to the low production numbers, there are simply not many around, and a decent one may set you back $5,000 to $6,000 dollars. If you are looking for a rare and unique pickup, the Dodge Dakota Sport convertible is your “needle in a haystack.”

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