This is probably the last topic i need info on before i start my search for a 2nd gen Dak

What are the pros and cons for each?

Which do you prefer and why?

 

i would think a person would rather have the 5 speed. you get that extra gear for highway driving and might save on gas mileage

 

I have the 5 speed and like it. It may also depend on which motor it has. Personally, I think a standard shift gives the best performance.

 

What i am looking for is a Dodge Dakota Quad-Cab Sport 4.7L V-8 4x4

And based off the information found/listed in this thread: https://dodgeforum.com/m_1211252/tm.htm

My options are as follows:
2000 - Manual 4x4 lever, 4 speed automatic w/OD, Amber Fire or Black
2001 - Electric 4x4 ****, 4 speed automatic w/OD, Amber Fire or Black
2003 - Electric 4x4 ****, 4 speed automatic w/OD, Black
2003 - Electric 4x4 ****, 5 speed automatic w/OD, Black

 

ok this is the deal. i have a 01 quad cab 4x4 with the 4.7 and a 5 speed. it is a really rare combination but if i were you i would try to find one with a 5 speed. it makes it a lot more fun to drive and also allows you to get better mileage on the highway. (at 85mph, it turns ~2400 rpms) but the automatic is also a decent bet but has had some reliability problems. also, that 2003 that you are looking at is wrong. they didnt put the 5 speed automatic into dakotas until the third generation came out in 2005-till now. the information that you got from those people is incorrect and happens all the time. just to let you know.

 

my 02 has the 5 spd auto w/ the 4.7 v8 and its a good combination thats what i would try to find if it were possible

 

Right it wasnt standard, but it was an option.
Also here in the spec section. http://www.carsdirect.com/2003/dodge/dakota/specs

And I also verified this through PMs that the 5speed auto was available in '03. he also provided me with this info:
So i think i'll be listening to "those people", especially since one has been a Parts and Master Certified Service Manager at a dodge/chysler dealership for 10 years. just to let you know

 

I have an 04 5spd Auto, and I can also attest to the fact that there are indeed really 5 gears. As for which is better, well, the more gears the better. Really you'll only notice a difference in highway/top gear mileage. If you do a lot of that, then I would recommend the 5spd auto.

 

i have the 5 sp auto, and my dad has the 4 spd, the 5 spd shifts better IMO, than the 4 spd seems to respond better when you need to stomp on it, but thats just my opinion