2001 Dodge Dakota R/T – A Time Capsule of V8 Muscle in a Mid-Size Package
In the early 2000s, the Dodge Dakota R/T stood tall as a performance-focused outlier in a segment dominated by practicality. Where most mid-size pickups were designed purely for utility, the Dakota R/T offered something rare: a factory-built street truck with muscle car DNA. Introduced in 1998 and produced through 2003, the Dakota R/T came exclusively with a fire-breathing 5.9L Magnum V8 and rear-wheel drive, forming a niche for gearheads who wanted V8 grunt in a manageable, daily-driver size. This 2001 example, finished in factory Bright Silver Metallic (paint code PSB), is one of the most original and well-preserved survivors from that brief but bold era.
With just 43,109 actual miles, this Club Cab R/T is a standout among its peers. Powered by its original, fuel-injected 5.9L Magnum V8, this truck remains unmodified under the hood—right down to the stock exhaust manifolds and factory catalytic converter. Paired with the 46RE 4-speed automatic transmission, this Dakota delivers the smooth, torquey ride that made these trucks such sleeper legends on the street. Its aluminum driveshaft, combined with both front and rear sway bars and upgraded Edelbrock shocks, further enhances road feel and stability. According to the team at PC Classic Cars, this one “drives like new” and is “comfortable enough to drive anywhere”—a rare compliment for a performance truck now nearly a quarter-century old.
The exterior remains in original paint, showcasing Dodge’s sharp early-2000s design cues with signature painted bumpers, integrated fog lights, and aggressive 17” OE alloy wheels wrapped in 255/55 tires. Minor age marks noted by the dealership—such as light curb rash—do little to detract from the overall condition. The truck’s Rhino-lined bed and clean undercarriage only reinforce the impression of thoughtful, careful ownership across its two-owner lifetime, all in the dry state of Texas.
Inside, this Dakota is a time capsule of early-2000s performance truck style. The original black interior presents impressively well, featuring bucket seats, a center console, and a factory tachometer. The overhead info console, power windows and locks, cruise control, tilt steering, and rear defroster round out the convenience features. Modern touches include a Pioneer head unit with CD, FM/AM, USB, and Aux capabilities. The A/C blows cold, and all factory systems—including lighting, gauges, and radio—were verified operational during PC Classic Cars’ pre-sale inspection.
A deep dive into the CarFax history reveals a remarkably well-documented life. This Dakota R/T has enjoyed regular servicing since new, with 26 service history records and consistent mileage updates validating the odometer. Owned since 2004 by its second long-term caretaker, the truck averaged less than 850 miles per year for over two decades—a testament to how cherished this vehicle was. Records show attention to maintenance items like timing belt, water pump, A/C service, coolant system flush, and even brake overhauls, reinforcing its road-ready status.
Underneath, everything is stock, solid, and original, right down to the rack and pinion power steering and 9.25” rear axle. Inspection notes confirm the drivetrain and suspension components are original, and while some minor age-related corrosion is noted, it’s minimal and typical for the era. The truck’s factory performance pedigree and originality have been carefully preserved across all mechanical systems.
The 2001 Dodge Dakota R/T represents a special moment in Dodge’s performance history—a time when muscle could be found not just in Challengers and Chargers, but also in trucks with attitude and a V8 growl. This exceptionally low-mileage, Bright Silver Metallic example offers a rare opportunity to appreciate that era exactly as it was, down to the original paint and matching-numbers Magnum V8.
About PC Classic Cars
PC Classic Cars in Sherman, Texas, is known for curating an outstanding collection of vintage and collector vehicles. Their reputation is built on trust, knowledge, and a genuine passion for classic rides—making them a go-to destination for enthusiasts seeking well-preserved automotive legends.