Description

The DAF 55 was a small family car produced by the Dutch automaker DAF between 1967 and 1972. It marked a significant advancement over the earlier DAF 44, both in terms of mechanical sophistication and market positioning. Most notably, the DAF 55 introduced a water-cooled four-cylinder engine, which greatly improved performance and driving refinement compared to the air-cooled two-cylinder units used in previous models.

At the core of the DAF 55 was a 1.1-litre inline-four engine, sourced from Renault. This engine produced approximately 50 horsepower, a substantial increase over previous DAF models. Paired with the Variomatic continuously variable transmission, the DAF 55 offered a smoother and more powerful driving experience, capable of reaching speeds of around 135 km/h (84 mph). The introduction of this engine represented a major technical step for DAF, aligning the 55 more closely with mainstream European cars in terms of performance.

The car retained DAF’s trademark Variomatic CVT system, which allowed for stepless acceleration and automatic adjustment of gear ratios. This setup continued to make DAF cars unique in the European market, offering an automatic-like driving experience in an era when most small cars used manual gearboxes. It also gave the DAF 55 excellent fuel economy and a relaxed driving style, ideal for city and suburban use.

Designed again by Giovanni Michelotti, the DAF 55 featured clean, modern styling. It was available in several body styles, including a two-door saloon, three-door estate (known as the Combi), and a sporty two-door coupé. The coupé, in particular, gave the model a youthful, stylish appeal that helped DAF broaden its customer base.

Inside, the DAF 55 offered more comfort and space than its predecessors. The interior was simple but well laid out, with improved materials and a better finish. Seating was comfortable for four adults, and the estate version provided practical cargo space, making the car a popular choice for small families.

The DAF 55 gained attention not just for its practicality but also for its success in motorsports. A specially prepared DAF 55 competed in the 1968 London–Sydney Marathon, a grueling endurance rally that helped prove the reliability and capability of the Variomatic system under extreme conditions.

Production of the DAF 55 ended in 1972, when it was replaced by the DAF 66. The 55 remains an important model in the history of the company—both for introducing more advanced mechanical components and for helping to elevate the brand’s profile across Europe.

Today, the DAF 55 is remembered fondly for its innovation, charm, and distinctive engineering. It continues to have a small but enthusiastic following among classic car collectors, particularly those who appreciate unusual drivetrains and the unique Dutch automotive story it represents.