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DAF 66
DAF 66
DAF 66
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DAF 66
DAF 66 Marathon Coupe
Overview
ManufacturerDAF
Production1972–1975
146,297 produced
AssemblyNetherlands: Born (DAF Born)
DesignerGiovanni Michelotti
Body and chassis
ClassSmall family car (C)
Body style2-door sedan
3-door estate
2-door coupé
LayoutFR layout
Powertrain
Engine
TransmissionVariomatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase2,250 mm (88.6 in)
Length3,835 mm (151.0 in)[1]
Width1,525 mm (60.0 in)[1]
Height1,448 mm (57.0 in)[1]
Kerb weight780 kg (1,720 lb)
Chronology
PredecessorDAF 55
SuccessorVolvo 66

The DAF 66 is a small family car produced by the Dutch company DAF from September 1972 to 1976. It was the successor of the DAF 55 and was itself superseded by the reworked Volvo 66. The DAF 66 was the last four-cylinder car to feature the DAF name.

The 66 was available as a 2-door saloon, a 2-door coupé, and a 3-door estate. It featured the unique Variomatic belt-driven continuously variable transmission.[2] In total 146,297 DAF 66s were built.[3]

Origins

[edit]

The 66 was an evolution of the 1967 DAF 55. Aside from a cosmetic update, the redesign featured several changes, especially a major redesign of the rear axle, suspension, and drive:

  • Powertrain
    • The 1108 cc Renault engines were reworked to have lower emissions, changing power to 53 PS (39 kW) for the normal models, and 60 PS (44 kW) for the 1100 Marathon.
  • Suspension
    • The rear suspension and Variomatic was completely redesigned, learning from DAF's experience in Formula Three racing. The Variomatic was much more robust and now incorporated a differential for smoother low speed maneuvering. The unpredictable swing axle rear suspension of the 44 and 55 was changed to a leaf sprung De Dion tube axle, which greatly improved handling and comfort.[4]
  • Braking
    • Cheaper models now featured drum brakes all around, whilst higher spec models retained the 55's front disk brake setup.
  • Bodywork
    • The complete front clip was restyled with a full-width grille, giving a boxier appearance. The rear featured narrower rear lights.

Model chronology

[edit]

The 66 was launched as a wide model range, incorporating a 2-door saloon, a 3-door estate and a 2-door 2+2 coupe. At introduction the customer could choose from 'De Luxe' (official type designation 6622 for sedans, 6632 for combis, featuring drum brakes and vinyl seats), 'Super Luxe' (Front disks and reclining cloth seats, type 6623 for sedans, 6624 for coupes, 6633 for combis) and 'Marathon' (Extra power and wider wheels, type 6625 for sedans, 6626 for coupes, 6627 for combis) trim levels.[5]

In 1973 the '1300 Marathon' replaced the original, 1.1-litre Marathon (type 6645 for sedans, 6646 for coupes, 6647 for combis). It featured a 1289 cc, 57 PS (42 kW) version of the Renault C-series inline-four engine which was used in all 66s. The 1300 Marathon was distinguishable from its lesser brethren by the foglights mounted in the grille. The interior featured a centre console with room for fitting extra gauges and high backed cloth sports seats. The less torquey but more powerful 1108 cc Marathon engine remained available as an option on all models.

In 1974 the Dutch Armed Forces commissioned DAF to build a small personnel carrier. This car, the YA 66 was an adaptation of the normal 1108 cc 66 sedan, with the most apparent change being a roofless, Jeep like body. Technically it was very similar, and as such had little to no terrain capacity. 1,201 DAF YA 66s were built. They were all decommissioned in the early 1990s and sold to the public.[5]

DAFs in the media

[edit]

A white saloon version of the DAF 66 features in the opening credit sequence of series 2 of the British made ITV detective series Van der Valk which was filmed on location in Amsterdam. Van der Valk is seen as a passenger in this sequence and the car is subsequently seen in a number of episodes.

[edit]
  • DAF 66 Saloon
    DAF 66 Saloon
  • 1975 DAF 66 Super Luxe Coupé front
    1975 DAF 66 Super Luxe Coupé front
  • 1975 DAF 66 Super Luxe Coupé rear
    1975 DAF 66 Super Luxe Coupé rear
  • DAF 66 Estate
    DAF 66 Estate
  • 1975 DAF YA 66 front
    1975 DAF YA 66 front
  • 1975 DAF YA 66 rear
    1975 DAF YA 66 rear

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

DAF 66

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The DAF 66 is a compact manufactured by the Dutch automaker from September 1972 to August 1975, serving as the successor to the and featuring innovative engineering such as the (CVT) and a De Dion rear axle for improved handling and safety. Offered in multiple body styles including a two-door sedan, three-door , two-door coupé, and commercial variants, it was powered by water-cooled inline-four engines of either 1,108 cc (producing 53 hp) or 1,289 cc (producing 57–60 hp), achieving top speeds of up to 145 km/h and fuel consumption between 7.5 and 11 liters per 100 km. Introduced amid DAF's financial challenges in the early , the 66 represented a significant update over its predecessor with enhanced safety features like self-adjusting brakes and a laminated on Marathon variants, while its rear-wheel-drive layout and spacious interior made it popular in for urban and family use. Approximately 146,297 units were produced across all variants, including special Marathon models with sportier tuning and a YA version. In 1975, following 's initial 33% investment in 1974, acquired full control of DAF's passenger division, leading to the and continued production of the model as the until 1980, with the technology influencing subsequent designs like the 300 Series. This transition marked the end of DAF's independent production era, shifting the company's focus to trucks while preserving the 66's legacy as a pioneering example of CVT integration in mainstream automobiles.

Development

Origins

DAF entered the passenger car market in the late 1950s with the introduction of the at the 1958 Amsterdam International Motor Show, marking the company's shift from truck and trailer manufacturing to producing affordable small family vehicles equipped with its innovative (CVT). This model, powered by a compact 590cc air-cooled twin-cylinder engine, emphasized ease of driving and low fuel consumption, appealing to urban buyers and establishing DAF's reputation for engineering ingenuity in the post-war European automotive landscape. By 1967, had evolved its lineup with the , a compact family car that replaced earlier models like the and adopted a more powerful 1,108cc water-cooled inline-four engine sourced from , boosting output to around 50 horsepower while retaining the transmission for seamless shifting. The offered improved performance and practicality over its predecessors, targeting the growing demand for versatile small cars suitable for European families, but it faced intensifying competition from established rivals like the and 128. In the late 1960s, encountered significant economic and market pressures, exacerbated by the 1970 financial crisis that strained the Dutch industrial sector amid global recessionary trends and rising production costs for independent automakers. These challenges, including sluggish sales and the need to modernize amid the impending , prompted to initiate development of a successor to the in the early 1970s, aiming to enhance interior space efficiency and maintain the as a core feature to differentiate in the competitive small car segment. A pivotal factor in this transition was Volvo's partial investment in DAF's passenger car operations in 1972, acquiring a 33% stake to secure and access to smaller vehicle platforms without immediate design involvement, which allowed DAF to proceed independently on the new model's core objectives of better packaging for passengers and luggage while positioning it against key European competitors. This collaboration provided crucial backing during a period of industry consolidation, enabling DAF to focus on refining its unique transmission heritage from models like the while addressing broader market demands for more efficient and spacious compact cars.

Design and Engineering

The DAF 66 employed unitary body construction, integrating the chassis and body into a single stressed structure for enhanced rigidity and reduced , which contributed to its agile handling characteristics. This design featured front suspension, providing independent wheel movement and improved ride comfort over previous DAF models. The overall measured 3.90 meters, while curb ranged from 820 to 850 kg, optimizing and maneuverability for a compact . A key engineering advancement was the adoption of a De Dion rear axle, replacing the semi-independent setup of the to deliver superior handling and stability by minimizing camber variations during cornering. This solid axle, located by trailing arms and supported by semi-elliptic leaf springs with telescopic shock absorbers, was seamlessly integrated with the rear-mounted transmission, forming a compact unit that maintained while distributing weight effectively. The design ensured friction-free operation and better traction, particularly when paired with the CVT system. The DAF 66, styled by , was powered by Renault-sourced water-cooled inline-four from introduction, with the 1,108 cc variant producing 53 PS (39 kW) and the 1,289 cc variant, introduced in 1973, producing 57 PS (42 kW), both tuned for smooth integration with the transmission and adequate performance in daily use. Central to the vehicle's engineering was the (CVT), a belt-driven system developed from DAF's longstanding commitment to seamless automatic shifting. This innovative setup used variable-diameter pulleys connected by a durable rubber belt, controlled by centrifugal forces and , to provide an infinite range of ratios without discrete gears or a pedal, allowing the to remain at peak during . A enabled smooth low-speed engagement, and the inclusion of a differential improved maneuverability, distinguishing it from earlier iterations. In terms of safety, the DAF 66 incorporated era-appropriate features such as a collapsible and padded to mitigate impact forces in collisions, though three-point seat belts were not fitted as standard across models. These elements reflected contemporary engineering priorities for occupant protection in a lightweight vehicle.

Technical Specifications

Body and Chassis

The DAF 66 utilized a body construction, which integrated the and body into a single unit for enhanced structural integrity and reduced weight. The floorpan was reinforced to support the mounting of the (CVT), ensuring durability under the unique longitudinal layout. This design contributed to a ground clearance of 0.17 m (170 mm), balancing compactness with practical road usability. Key dimensions included a of 2.25 m, front track width of 1.30 m, rear track width of 1.28 m, and overall height of 1.38 m for the sedan (varying to 1.31 m for the coupé), creating a compact footprint suitable for urban and family use. These proportions delivered efficient packaging for four passengers. The De Dion rear axle served as an engineering upgrade from earlier models, improving handling stability during development. The suspension system featured independent front MacPherson struts equipped with an for responsive cornering, paired with a De Dion rear setup using coil springs and radius arms to optimize ride quality and traction. Braking comprised front disc brakes—vented starting in 1974 for better heat dissipation—and rear drums, with servo assistance standard on higher trims to aid stopping performance. Wheels were 13-inch units as standard, with optional variants, shod in 155/80 R13 tires for adequate grip and comfort.

Powertrain

The DAF 66 employed a , with the powerplant mounted longitudinally behind the rear seats to optimize space and weight distribution. This configuration contributed to the car's balanced handling characteristics while maintaining a compact footprint. The DAF 66 was powered by -sourced inline-four engines from launch, initially a 1.3 L (1289 cc) version producing 57 PS (42 kW), with a 1.1 L (1108 cc) option added in 1973 rated at 53 PS (39 kW) for normal models and up to 60 PS (44 kW) for Marathon variants, both from the Renault Cléon-Fonte family for improved emissions compliance and reliability. These overhead-valve engines featured a single for fuel delivery and required 91 RON gasoline, with no catalytic converters fitted during the DAF production run prior to Volvo's 1975 acquisition. Power was transmitted exclusively via DAF's , a fully automatic (CVT) with no manual gearbox option available. The system used a rubber belt and variable-diameter pulleys to provide seamless ratio changes, eliminating gear shifts and enhancing low-speed delivery for smoother urban driving. Fuel efficiency ranged from 7.5 to 9 liters per 100 km, depending on driving conditions, while top speeds reached 140-150 km/h across engine variants. Performance metrics reflected the modest power outputs and CVT tuning, with acceleration from 0-100 km/h taking 16-18 seconds for the 1.3-liter models, aided by the transmission's ability to maintain optimal engine revs (power in PS DIN). The 1.1-liter variant was slightly slower at around 20-24 seconds to 100 km/h, prioritizing over outright speed.

Production and Variants

Model Timeline

The DAF 66 was introduced in September 1972 as the successor to the , marking the final original passenger car design developed independently by the Dutch manufacturer. Initial production took place at DAF's facility in , , where the model was assembled with the continuously variable transmission as a standard feature across all variants. In 1973, the lineup received an engine update, enlarging the Renault-sourced inline-four from 1,108 cc to 1,289 cc for the Marathon trim, which delivered 57 hp at 5,200 rpm and improved while reducing noise levels compared to the prior version. This change applied primarily to higher-output models, with minor interior enhancements such as revised seating also introduced during the year. Production of the updated 1,300 cc Marathon continued through 1975, totaling 23,074 units for that variant. A mid-cycle refresh arrived in 1974. That year also saw the introduction of the YA 66, a militarized version built for the Dutch Forces with 1,201 units produced. Overall 66 output peaked around this period before tapering off. By early 1975, had acquired a majority stake in DAF's passenger car division, prompting the rebadging of the DAF 66 as the with only subtle modifications like updated badging and safety reinforcements. DAF-branded 66 production concluded in December 1975, with approximately 146,000 units manufactured in total during its three-year run. Late-production models featured improvements to address early quality concerns, including rust vulnerability in the underbody and chassis.

Body Styles and Trims

The DAF 66 was available in four primary body configurations: a 2-door saloon as the standard offering, a 3-door estate designed for greater practicality, a 2-door coupé featuring sportier seating, and a 3-door commercial van. The saloon provided compact family transportation, while the coupé emphasized a more dynamic profile with limited rear space for two additional passengers. No or 4-door variants were produced. The van, with 1,208 units produced, was oriented toward light commercial use. The estate model included folding rear seats to expand capacity to approximately 1,200 liters, making it suitable for larger loads compared to the saloon's more modest trunk. All body styles shared the same underlying platform but differed in rear design, with the estate extending the roofline for added utility. Production distribution favored the saloon at around 71 percent of total output, followed by the estate at 20 percent and the coupé at 9 percent, reflecting market preferences for everyday versatility over specialized forms. Trim levels consisted of the entry-level De Luxe, mid-range Super Luxe, and top-tier Marathon, each available across the body styles. The De Luxe featured basic skai (faux leather) seats, a standard , rubber floor mats, and front brakes without power assistance, prioritizing affordability. The Super Luxe upgraded to an imitation wood , fabric reclining "sleeping" seats, full carpeting, and front disc for improved comfort and braking. The Marathon represented the premium option with an enhanced 1.3-liter engine pairing, double body stripes, optional spotlights, a laminated , self-adjusting , and 13-inch steel rims. Interior features across trims included a safety-oriented with a soft bumper edge and a CVT transmission indicator light to monitor the system. Standard equipment comprised a for control, while options like a radio and sliding were available on higher trims such as the Super Luxe and Marathon. The estate specifically offered folding rear seats for versatile cargo arrangements, and all models included basic storage in the center console on Marathon variants. Exterior options varied by trim, with higher levels like the Super Luxe and Marathon offering two-tone schemes for added visual appeal. From , bumpers incorporated overriders for enhanced protection, a subtle update applied across the lineup. was exclusive to the Marathon, complementing its sportier positioning.

Reception and Legacy

Market Performance

The DAF 66 achieved moderate commercial success during its production run from 1972 to 1975, with a total of 141,915 units manufactured at the DAF factory in Born, . Approximately one-quarter of these vehicles were sold domestically in the , reflecting DAF's strong home market position, while the remainder were exported primarily to neighboring European countries including the , , and . The model's pricing positioned it competitively within the small segment, comparable to contemporaries like the , though the innovative (CVT) contributed to elevated maintenance expenses over time. Market reception was mixed, with the DAF 66 earning praise for its effortless driving experience and generous interior space, attributes largely attributed to the smooth operation of the CVT and the car's De Dion rear axle setup. However, it faced criticism for underpowered engine options—ranging from 47 to 55 horsepower—which struggled with the vehicle's weight, as well as concerns over build quality, including susceptibility to corrosion and mechanical reliability issues like transmission failures after high mileage. The 1973 oil crisis inadvertently enhanced the model's appeal by underscoring the fuel efficiency advantages of the CVT, which optimized engine performance across varying speeds and helped mitigate fuel shortages in Europe. Commercial challenges limited the DAF 66's broader penetration, particularly its restricted dealer network beyond the countries, which hampered service and parts availability in export markets. Intense competition from front-wheel-drive alternatives, such as the , further pressured sales, as these rivals offered more conventional engineering and better adaptability to evolving consumer preferences for compact, maneuverable vehicles. Following Volvo's acquisition of DAF's passenger car division in 1975, production transitioned to the rebadged , which continued until 1980 and added 106,137 units to the lineage, bringing the combined total to approximately 248,052 vehicles. This extension not only stabilized the model's commercial viability but also bolstered DAF's enduring legacy through Volvo's expanded distribution and refinements.

Cultural Impact and Successors

The DAF 66 gained visibility in 1970s European media, appearing in the British-Dutch ITV detective series (1972–1992), where a white saloon featured prominently in the opening credits of series 2 and a police variant was used in several episodes. It also appeared in the Dutch satirical TV series Van Kooten & De Bie (1974–1998) and the British crime drama (1979–1994) as an estate model. Promotional films from the era, such as DAF's 1975 showcase, emphasized the car's seamless (CVT) for effortless driving, while advertisements highlighted its ease of use for families. Today, the DAF 66 enjoys collector status, with enthusiast groups like DAF Club Nederland organizing events, restorations, and parts exchanges to maintain the surviving fleet. The DAF 66 embodied Dutch ingenuity in , particularly through its CVT—the world's first commercially viable belt-driven system in a passenger car—which provided smooth, gearless acceleration and influenced subsequent CVT implementations in vehicles from Subaru to . This innovation positioned the 66 as a symbol of progressive engineering in , prioritizing driver comfort over traditional performance. Its rear-engine layout and CVT combination delivered quirky handling traits, such as neutral and strong low-speed traction, fostering a niche appeal among drivers who valued its unconventional, forgiving road manners over sporty dynamics. After Volvo acquired DAF's passenger car operations in 1975, the DAF 66 directly evolved into the , produced from 1975 to 1980 with minor cosmetic enhancements like reinforced bumpers and revised grilles for better crash safety, while retaining the core drivetrain. This model bridged the transition, maintaining until its replacement by the front-wheel-drive Volvo 343 (later 340 series) in 1980, which debuted a new design but initially carried over the option before adopting conventional automatics. The merger integrated DAF's car division into , effectively concluding independent Dutch passenger vehicle production under the DAF badge. The DAF 66's legacy endures through thousands of preserved examples worldwide, valued for their rarity and technological prescience in transmission design. Parts availability persists via Volvo's heritage programs and aftermarket specialists, enabling restorations that highlight the Variomatic's durability. Although it had no prominent pedigree, individual DAF 66s participated in occasional 1970s rallies in the , including the ELE Rally, where their traction advantages in varied conditions were noted by competitors.

References

  1. https://en.dafclub.nl/DAF/Models/Daf-66
  2. https://www.media.volvocars.com/global/en-gb/media/pressreleases/16084
  3. https://www.automobile-catalog.com/model/daf/66.html
  4. https://en.dafclub.nl/DAF/General/History-of-DAF-cars
  5. https://www.volvocars.com/us/cars/legacy-models/66/
  6. https://www.hagerty.co.uk/articles/daf-a-potted-history-of-the-dutch-innovators/
  7. https://dyler.com/blog/185/daf-cars-turns-60-and-it-shouldn-t-be-forgotten
  8. https://www.the-low-countries.com/article/on-the-road-with-daf-a-quintessential-dutch-car/
  9. http://www.classiccars.co.uk/cars/daf/55/
  10. https://www.curbsideclassic.com/uncategorized/cc-global-daf-66-four-decades-of-dutch-continuous-variability/
  11. https://www.autonews.com/article/20060501/ANE/60428041/nedcar-s-troubled-existence/
  12. https://www.volvocars.com/at/media/press-releases/2F6DE7D78679071E/
  13. https://www.volvoclub.org.uk/history/history_70s.shtml
  14. https://driventowrite.com/2021/04/26/variomatic-for-the-people-daf-600-750-daffodil-30-31-32-33-44-55-66-77-volvo-343/
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  23. https://zeperfs.com/en/fiche10786-daf-66-1300-sl.htm
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  30. https://en.dafclub.nl/DAF/Background-information/Car-factories
  31. https://www.curbsideclassic.com/curbside-classics-european/automotive-history-other-european-deadly-sins-part-3-daf-66-or-how-to-turn-a-tulip-into-a-swede/
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  37. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ExmvHy9uZno
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  39. https://carbuzz.com/the-dutch-sedan-that-had-a-cvt-before-anyone-knew-what-it-was/
  40. https://driventowrite.com/2016/05/11/road-test-1972-daf-66-what-jenever-tastes-like/
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  42. https://www.onlycabrios.nl/en/specifications/1977-daf-66-rallye-gulf-1400/
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