Well, the Ranger, Chevy S10/Sonoma, and Dodge Dakota are all mid-size trucks. The Ram, C1500, and F150 are all Full sized trucks. The full sized trucks usually have V8's, and ONLY the Dakota can be found with a V8. So, if you absolutly have to have a V8, you probably are stuck with a full sized truck.
So, which brand? Which year? If you are into a NEW truck, I'd suggest a Chevy. If into a 1997 or newer, I'd suggest Ford. If OLDER than 1994, Dodge is OUT. As of 2001, the big 3 trucks all had similar miles/gallon for their V8s (5.2 Dodge, 4.6 Ford, and 4.8? Chevy). As for reliability, I'd have to say that older Chevys aren't up to it. I like the new Chevs, but I think they are going to suck mechanically once they age. The Ford 4.6 engine is BULLET PROOF. No issues there. Same with the Dodge 5.2.
As for looks - thats personal. I hate the look of a lowered Chev. The Ford looks great, and I've never seen a Dodge all lowered, but I don't think I'd like it. Overall for looks, the Ford looks good in street format. Especially with a short cab, short stepside box.
Think of performance mods too - there are TONNES of parts out there for the Mustang, which uses the 4.6 engine. Any mustang engine/powertrain part will work on the F150 engine. I don't think you can say the same for Chev or Dodge. Chev only has the Vette and Camaro for sports cars, and I don't believe any parts can change over. Same with Dodge - their only sports car is the Viper, and I'm positive nothing from the Viper will work on a Ram.
Lastly, think of your comfort - the Fords ride like sedans. When testing out trucks with my dad, both the Chev and the Dodge rode alot rougher than the Ford. If I was choosing a work truck for hauling stuff, I probably wouldn't go Ford, but Dodge. But since you only want the truck for the street scene - GO Ford
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