The first generation of Dodge Dakota was introduced for the 1987 model year. The first generation Dakota was offered as in standard or extended cab versions, as well as notable convertible examples. The Dakota was created to be a smaller sibling to the Dodge Ram, and was offered in two or four wheel drive variants. A wide range of inline four, V6, and V8 engines were offered on the first generation Dakota, with the most notable variant being the V8 powered Shelby Dakota. Production of the first generation Dakota ended in 1996, and the model was replaced by the Second Generation Dodge Dakota.