1989 Dodge Dakota Shelby

The 1989 Dodge Dakota Shelby is a rare and fascinating piece of automotive history. According to the seller, this truck is number 589 of only about 1,500 built, making it one of the most limited-production Shelby vehicles ever created. It was Carroll Shelby's first rear-wheel drive vehicle in many years and his first production pickup truck, marking a unique intersection of American muscle and utilitarian design. Offered for 1989 only, the Shelby Dakota took a short-wheelbase, short-bed Sport-package Dakota and injected it with genuine Shelby DNA.

Described by the seller as a one-owner vehicle since new with a clean Carfax report available, this example is said to include its original window sticker, Shelby new-vehicle preparation inspection documents, and even a Shelby hat—touches that point to careful ownership and long-term preservation. Under the hood sits a 5.2L V8 paired with an automatic transmission, while power brakes, power steering, and air conditioning add everyday usability. The white exterior over a red/burgundy interior gives this two-door pickup a sharp, period-correct look that stands out from standard first-generation Dakotas.

From a market perspective, the Shelby Dakota has carved out a solid niche as a collectible truck with genuine auction interest. The Dodge Shelby Dakota market shows these vehicles typically trade in a broad range depending on condition and provenance, with historical sales averaging around $15,700 and top examples commanding nearly $40,000. The market also posts a strong 75% sell-through rate, reflecting consistent buyer demand. With the seller claiming low mileage and a single-owner history, this truck sits in an attractive position for collectors seeking rarity and originality.

Key characteristics that make this vehicle special:

• Extremely limited production: Approximately 1,500 examples built for the 1989 model year only
• Historic Shelby pedigree: Carroll Shelby's first rear-wheel drive vehicle in years and his first production pickup truck
• Original documentation: According to the seller, includes the original window sticker, Shelby inspection paperwork, and a clean Carfax report
• One-owner provenance: Described as owned by the same person since new
• V8 performance: 5.2L V8 engine with automatic transmission, power brakes, and power steering
• Standout styling: White over red/burgundy color scheme with Shelby-specific graphics and aggressive stance