Well I've come to tough decision. I really want a 99' 4x4 cummins and that means I've got to sell my truck. You guys have any idea from a practicality standpoint on if it would be logical?

 

Depends on what your plans are for it. Without knowing that there is no way we could provide input on the practicality of a full size diesel powered pickup over a Dakota.

 

I guess what I'm getting at is what would I lose or gain from buying the Cummins. I like to go off-road but don't do any serious towing or hauling. This truck would be my daily driver to school and work.

 

There's more options for the ram for lifting and such, but it's just about a con in every other way if you don't need to haul anything.

Price of diesel is higher,
it probably gets worse MPGs even though it's a diesel
you'd be buying a truck that's 6 years older
bigger is ok for looks but it will really be a bitch to park and maneuver compared to the Dakota.
it's louder.. the 12v sounded great but the 24v are noisy, a rachety ticky blubby kinda noise lol.
Ride is worse, an unloaded 2500 will bounce around like a mufu

I wouldn't do it, but if you need a "manlier" truck, and that's all that matters, then that's all that matters.

 

12v is nice yes but he said 99 so 24v it is :/ I'm a sucker for certain second gen rams that I see even though I would even drive one with a 360 to be honest. It has to be 4x4 though and not be a rust bucket (now that's hard to come by)

 

From what I've heard, the 98 12v is one of the best. I know how hard they are to come by but if I found a good one would it be worth it?

 

Are you expecting us to make up your mind for you? If so, then based on your previous comments regarding use, no it would not be worth it. Stick to your Dakota.

 

Whatever you feel is right will be good for you. The Dakota is a really good light duty pickup, the V8 has lots of power and the steering is good for parking lots (most pickups don't come close to the tight turns you can make with the Dak). I don't use mine for much hauling and I certainly wouldn't use it for off-roading (that's why I have my Jeep YJ). This year or early next, when I move, I'll have use of a full size pickup & intend to look for a 4x4 RAM with a Cummins & standard shift, the year or voltage doesn't matter too much, the condition & price mean everything to me. At that time, I'll sell or trade in the Dak & get the RAM - whether anyone thinks I should or not (except for my wife of course). If you have the need for a specific vehicle type and the cash to get it, then do it - the diesel RAM is a great truck in my opinion.