 I have owned two Dakota club cabs in the past 9 years and decided to go for a full size truck this time.  The Ford F-150 is hands down twice the truck the Dakota was.  Even in terms of  fuel economy it is much better than either Dakota ( a V-6 and a V-8).  The cab layout is good, the controls simple and intuitive.  The ride and handling are great - and QUIET! Visibility with the new side window design is superb.