Classic Car Wiki

Introduction to DAF

DAF (Van Doorne’s Automobiel Fabriek) is one of the Netherlands’ most recognized industrial names, known for producing a range of automobiles and commercial vehicles. Though today DAF Trucks is synonymous with commercial transportation, the company also had a significant, if brief, chapter in passenger car production. Between the 1950s and 1970s, DAF introduced a line of small family cars that stood out for their pioneering use of the Variomatic continuously variable transmission (CVT), a technical innovation well ahead of its time.

Origins of DAF

The Van Doorne Brothers

DAF was founded in 1928 in Eindhoven by brothers Hub and Wim van Doorne. Originally a small engineering workshop called Commanditaire Vennootschap Hub van Doorne’s Machinefabriek, the firm specialized in welding and metal fabrication. In 1932, it was renamed Van Doorne’s Aanhangwagen Fabriek (DAF) and began manufacturing trailers and military equipment.

From Trailers to Cars

After World War II, the company diversified rapidly. While it became known for commercial trucks, Hub van Doorne was passionate about passenger cars. His goal was to build a small, simple car for the masses—one that would be easy to drive and affordable. This vision would ultimately lead to the creation of the DAF car division and the company’s most revolutionary innovation: the Variomatic transmission.

Birth of the DAF Car

Introduction of the DAF 600

In 1958, DAF introduced its first passenger car: the DAF 600. This modest vehicle was revolutionary for its time. It was the first car in the world to feature a fully automatic continuously variable transmission—the Variomatic.

Powered by a small 590cc flat-twin engine, the DAF 600 offered basic but effective transport. The Variomatic eliminated the need for a conventional gearbox, using rubber belts and pulleys to maintain optimal engine performance without gear changes.

Impact of the Variomatic

The Variomatic system made driving remarkably easy, especially for people who struggled with manual gear shifting. It became a favorite among older drivers, urban commuters, and women—an audience rarely considered in car marketing at the time. The simplicity and reliability of the Variomatic earned it a loyal following and eventually made its way into every DAF car.

Notable DAF Car Models

DAF 600 (1958–1963)

The first production model, featuring rear-wheel drive and air-cooled engine. Compact and economical, the DAF 600 launched the company’s automotive reputation. It was praised for its ease of use and mechanical simplicity.

DAF 750 and Daffodil (1961–1967)

Improvements in the DAF 750 brought more power and better comfort. It was later renamed the DAF Daffodil, a charming name that became a household word in the Netherlands. The Daffodil retained the Variomatic but introduced design and trim upgrades to appeal to international markets.

DAF 33 (1967–1974)

Essentially an updated Daffodil, the DAF 33 featured more modern body styling and improved interior appointments. It was economical, reliable, and a solid performer in urban environments. It remained in production until 1974.

DAF 44 (1966–1974)

Designed by Giovanni Michelotti, the DAF 44 was a more sophisticated car with a 2-cylinder engine and upgraded Variomatic system. It was aimed at the small family segment and became one of DAF’s most successful models, combining practicality with refined European design.

DAF 55 (1967–1972)

The DAF 55 featured a water-cooled 1.1L Renault engine and offered better performance while keeping the Variomatic transmission. It became popular in the UK and other export markets. The car was also entered into rally events and demonstrated surprising durability and handling.

DAF 66 (1972–1975)

The final DAF car before the Volvo takeover, the 66 offered improved suspension and better build quality. It came in saloon, coupe, and estate versions and continued to use the Variomatic system. The DAF 66 would form the basis of the Volvo 66 following the acquisition.

DAF in Motorsports

Rallying with the Variomatic

Though DAF cars were not known for speed, they earned respect in rally circuits during the late 1960s and early 1970s. With experienced Dutch rally drivers behind the wheel, DAF models—especially the 55 and 66—proved surprisingly resilient. Their unique drivetrain allowed them to climb hills effectively without gear changes, and they performed well in snow and loose surfaces.

DAF Formula 3

DAF engineers even experimented with Formula 3 cars using a modified Variomatic system. Although not commercially successful, these efforts showcased the flexibility of CVT technology in high-performance scenarios.

Volvo Acquisition

Financial Pressures

By the early 1970s, DAF’s automotive division was struggling. Though technically innovative, the company was small compared to competitors and lacked the marketing reach to compete internationally. The cost of meeting tightening safety and emissions standards in export markets added further strain.

Volvo Steps In

In 1975, Volvo acquired DAF’s passenger car operations. The DAF 66 was slightly reworked and rebranded as the **Volvo 66**, keeping the Variomatic system but featuring Volvo safety upgrades. The collaboration marked the end of DAF-branded passenger cars, although DAF’s influence lived on in several early Volvo models.

Legacy of the Variomatic

CVT Technology Pioneer

The Variomatic system was the forerunner of modern CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) systems used in many cars today, including those from Nissan, Honda, and Toyota. While DAF’s rubber belts were eventually replaced by more advanced metal chains and hydraulics, the core concept remains unchanged.

Enduring Recognition

DAF is remembered fondly in the Netherlands and by vintage car enthusiasts worldwide. Its cars are prized for their unique engineering, quirky charm, and important place in automotive history.

DAF Trucks Today

A Commercial Powerhouse

While DAF stopped producing passenger cars in the 1970s, its truck division continued to grow. DAF Trucks, based in Eindhoven, became a global leader in commercial vehicles. It was eventually acquired by PACCAR, a U.S.-based manufacturer, in 1996 and now produces heavy-duty trucks sold across Europe and beyond.

Technological Innovation Continues

DAF Trucks maintains the company’s tradition of engineering innovation. Its current lineup includes highly advanced Euro 6-compliant trucks, electric vehicle platforms, and driver-assist technologies. Though no longer a car manufacturer, DAF’s legacy of pioneering engineering lives on in the trucking sector.

DAF Club and Preservation

DAF Owners Club

Across Europe, DAF enthusiasts keep the brand’s legacy alive through dedicated car clubs. The DAF Club Nederland and similar groups in the UK and Germany organize annual meets, offer restoration resources, and publish historical information on the marque.

Preservation Efforts

Several museums in the Netherlands, including the DAF Museum in Eindhoven, showcase the company’s history. Visitors can explore DAF’s unique designs, including working Variomatic cutaways, preserved rally cars, and concept models that never entered production.

Conclusion

Though DAF’s tenure as a passenger car manufacturer was relatively short, its impact was substantial. From the simple and charming DAF 600 to the practical and stylish DAF 66, the company built a loyal following with its commitment to innovation and simplicity. Its pioneering use of the Variomatic CVT placed DAF decades ahead of larger competitors and influenced transmission design well into the 21st century.

Today, DAF lives on through its commercial truck division and a devoted enthusiast community. For a brief but bright period, DAF offered a distinctly Dutch vision of motoring—efficient, forward-thinking, and unapologetically different.