I currently own a 1996 SLT, 2WD, Extended Cab, V6 with over 278,000 miles on it. The truck runs fine, I have put a lot of work into it the past year, especially since last winter (Midwest), when parts just started rusting off (tailpipe, muffler, gas line, covers for bolts for the frame). I've kept up on all scheduled oil changes and tuneups. But there are major rust issues around the back wheel wells, on the bottom of both doors, top of the cab, tailgate, and the undercarriage is covered in rust (besides the parts that I have replaced). Also, the windows like to fog up in cooler temperatures, despite the fact that the heat and window defroster settings are on. There is also a leak somewhere by the top of the windshield and cab, and every time it rains, part of the ceiling liner is wet (maybe I just need to replace windshield?). I am not in a situation financially where I can get the rust removed/replace the body anytime soon, and I am not sure it is even worth it. I have one offer for the truck, $1,000.
I have an opportunity to purchase a 2009 Dodge Dakota Big Horn Crew Cab 4x4, 4 door, V6 for around $9,000. It has 150,000 miles on it, and there are no visible signs of rust or any body damage. The interior is also very clean. I think this is would be a good and opportunity to upgrade, since the 1996 is so rusty, and the other problems listed above. I am also not sure if the frame, undercarriage, etc. will last this winter, especially since I don't have the opportunity to store it in a garage (I live in an apartment). It would be nice to not worry constantly that something is going to go wrong with my current truck, and have a reliable car for the winter. I wanted to get an outside opinion before I make my decision. Thanks for reading!

 

I am a big fan of 4x4 in areas where winter is a concern. The 09 has fewer miles, is newer, so, *should* have fewer problems, assuming it was kept up.

 

I am also a fan of 4wd in the winter...... living in northern IL and all..... and I know rust issues all too well... I also have a 96 club cab Dakota, though that is my 4wd.... mine is a 318 truck.
I love this thing, its my 3rd 318 square body club cab Dakota, only 4wd of the bunch.... I like this truck and this series of Dakotas better than my 99 and much better than the newer (still) body style
I have been window shopping newer ("to me" anyway, not necessarily by model year) Dodge trucks.....
and for my wants, intents and purposes, 1 thing stands out like a sore thumb considering the replacement you are considering.... 4 doors.... to me, that/ and teh ridiculously short bed that comes with most newer 4 door trucks would make me say not only "NO" but HE11 NO"...... I have been looking and would also like to go back to a full size.... I've alternated full size.... Dakota.....full size.... Dakota... full size..... Dakota though my last 3 trucks in a row, have been Dakotas/// besides the '85 D150, that I bought as a "resto" project to be driven in nice weather
I am having a tough time finding the newer truck I would want.... it has to be a Dodge.... no negotiation there. the rest of what I want.... Reg cab, a real 8' bed, V8, and (this is the part that makes the rest of what I listed, the hardest to find) NOT WHITE. I am in a "white rut" right now... my 96, my 99 Dakotas and my wife's 01 Durango we currently own, are all white at the moment. and I know I wont be able to get this any more if I go much "newer," but I would rather have a stick shift again.