Description
The DAF 66 Coupé Super Luxe was a stylish and more upscale variant of the DAF 66 range, introduced in the early 1970s. It combined the sleek two-door coupé body style with the highest available trim level—Super Luxe—offering a unique blend of elegance, comfort, and the signature DAF engineering.
The coupé body was designed with a sportier and more streamlined appearance compared to the saloon and estate versions. It featured a gently sloping roofline, a shorter rear overhang, and subtle design touches that gave it a more youthful and dynamic look. Despite its compact dimensions, the coupé still offered reasonable interior space for a small family or two adult passengers with additional room in the rear.
As a Super Luxe model, this version of the DAF 66 came with a number of enhancements that set it apart from the standard trim. These included higher quality upholstery, improved dashboard materials, a full set of instruments including a clock, additional chrome detailing on the exterior, and sometimes even carpeting and door armrests that were absent in lower trims. The goal was to provide a more refined and comfortable driving experience while maintaining affordability.
Under the bonnet, the DAF 66 Coupé Super Luxe was typically powered by a 1.1-litre or 1.3-litre Renault-sourced four-cylinder engine, depending on the specific year and market. This was paired with DAF’s innovative Variomatic continuously variable transmission, which delivered smooth and gearless acceleration. The CVT system, coupled with the relatively lightweight design, made the car particularly easy to drive in city traffic and suburban environments.
The coupé also benefited from the upgraded suspension system introduced with the DAF 66 line. A de Dion rear axle improved stability and handling over the earlier models, making the ride more comfortable and controlled. While not a performance car, the coupé’s lighter body and low-friction transmission gave it a surprisingly nimble character.
Production of the DAF 66 Coupé Super Luxe continued until 1975, when Volvo took over and developed the design into the Volvo 66. Today, the coupé is one of the more sought-after versions of the DAF 66 range due to its distinctive styling, rarity, and the charm of its unusual mechanical layout. Enthusiasts appreciate it as a well-balanced classic that offers both unique engineering and Dutch automotive heritage.