When it comes to unique chapters in Mopar history, the 1989 Dodge Shelby Dakota stands out as one of the more unusual collaborations. Shelby American, best known for muscle cars and performance coupes, surprised enthusiasts when it turned its attention to Dodge’s compact pickup. Only about 1,500 examples were built, making this truck a true limited-production collectible. Now, one of those trucks—Shelby Dakota #396—has popped up on BringATrailer, and it’s got quite the story.
A Rare Survivor with History –
This particular truck was originally sold through a Dodge dealership in California and, interestingly, never registered during its early years. It eventually surfaced from an estate in 2024, showing just 31,800 miles on the odometer. While the title reflects a “Not Actual Mileage” designation, the truck presents today as a well-kept and extensively refurbished example.
Restoration and Upgrades –
Over the past year, this Shelby Dakota has been given a new lease on life. A full repaint was completed in May 2025 for $13,500, which included a fresh spray-in bedliner, painted Shelby lettering, and a tri-coat pearlescent stripe. A replacement front valance and roll pan were also installed during the process.
Mechanically, the truck has undergone a thorough inspection from top to bottom. The 5.2-liter (318 cubic-inch) V8 has received new ignition components, fresh fluids, belts, a thermostat, and a Flowmaster Series 40 muffler. The fuel system, comprising the tank, pump, injectors, and filter, was replaced in 2024, while the air conditioning system was modernized in 2025 with R134a refrigerant. The suspension was updated with KYB dampers and Belltech lowering blocks, while a Ford 9-inch rear end with 3.50:1 gearing was installed for added durability.
Wheels, Brakes, and Interior –
The truck now rides on 18-inch × 8-inch Rev 109 Classic Series Magnum wheels wrapped in 235/50 Fullway tires. The brakes remain rear drums, which trigger ABS and brake lights on the dash since the system isn’t ABS-equipped—a common quirk with this swap.
Inside, the Dakota sports its original red cloth bench with Shelby-script charcoal inserts, capped with a new black headliner. A Bluetooth-capable JVC head unit, JVC speakers, and a powered 10-inch Seventour subwoofer provide entertainment. A plaque on the dash proudly identifies this pickup as #396 in the Shelby build sequence.
Why It Matters –
When it debuted in 1989, the Shelby Dakota was the first production V8 compact truck of its era—beating Ford and Chevy to the punch. Output was rated at 175 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque, which doesn’t sound like much today, but at the time, it was a bold move that opened the door for future performance pickups.
This particular example comes with a Shelby American Vehicle Authenticity Certificate, service records, period magazines, memorabilia, and a clean Carfax report free of accident history.
Auction Details –
The 1989 Dodge Shelby Dakota #396 is currently live on BringATrailer, with bidding scheduled to close on Sunday, August 31, at 1:39 p.m. EDT. For collectors seeking a rare, restored piece of Mopar and Shelby history, this truck presents a unique opportunity.
1989 Dodge Shelby Dakota Image Gallery:
