ORIGINAL: sabby2000
well dont know for sure, but I can tell you the 4.7 wont be around in a couple years....this engine is being put out to pasture....besides, the v-6 has more HP than the 4.7 v6=250 and v8=235 if I am not mistaken.....I imagine more torque tho in the v8? and more tunable? )
Actually, the 4.7 was redesigned for 2008, so I think it will be around for some time. It's lighter, has increased compression and more power, and it supports flex fuels. The 4.7 in the Dakota is 302 hp @ 5,650 rpm & 329 lb-ft of torque @ 3,950 rpm. I agree with the OP that this engine would have made an excellent base model 'SE' instead of (or in addition to) the 3.5. However, I think the 6-speed manual would have been too much tranny for this engine, but the Dakota's 5-speed auto would have been a good combo.