Description
DAF 55 Coupe | 1972
Highlights:
- Dutch-built classic with Variomatic transmission
- Low mileage reading of 30,000 km
- 1100 cc engine with automatic drive
- Solid overall mechanical and cosmetic condition
- Charming unrestored interior with vintage patina
The seller offers for sale this 1972 DAF 55 Coupe, a compact Dutch classic featuring the marque’s innovative Variomatic automatic transmission system. Powered by a 1100 cc four-cylinder petrol engine, this model combines everyday drivability with an unusual engineering heritage. With a reading of 30,000 km on the odometer (not guaranteed), the car retains its original drivetrain and shows no signs of accident history or structural rust.
This example presents in coupe form with a clean and straight body. It comes with Dutch registration documents and is currently located in South-Holland, the Netherlands. The gearbox is reported to shift smoothly and the engine starts without issue, with no abnormal noises or visible smoke. The seller purchased the car from a private individual two years ago, though further history or documentation is not available. The vehicle retains its period character without modern upgrades such as power steering or disc brakes.
The exterior of the car is in solid shape for its age, with minor chips or imperfections. A small dent near the front headlamp is noted and may need repair. Apart from this, the paintwork is described as generally tidy. The interior offers a classic feel, showing expected signs of use. While no immediate repairs are necessary, there are some visible signs of ageing and wear to the upholstery and trim. The cabin retains its original charm and appears complete. Mechanically, the car is reported to be in good working condition. No leaks, service needs or mechanical faults are noted. All lights and indicators function properly.
The DAF 55 holds a unique place in automotive history as one of the first compact cars to offer a continuously variable transmission (CVT) system in the form of DAF’s proprietary Variomatic. Developed in the Netherlands, the 55 was positioned above the earlier DAF 33 and brought more power and better handling thanks to a Renault-sourced 1108 cc engine. This combination gave the 55 a higher top speed and made it more appealing to international buyers.
While the coupe version was aimed at a sportier clientele, it retained the distinctive rear-mounted Variomatic drive setup, which allowed for smooth acceleration without traditional gear changes. Unlike most cars of the era, the DAF 55 could technically reverse at full speed, a quirk of the belt-driven transmission layout. DAF’s commitment to this technology marked the company as an outlier in the automotive industry, with the Variomatic system even adapted later by Volvo in their compact models following DAF’s acquisition in the 1970s.
Though never a high-performance vehicle, the DAF 55 earned praise for its mechanical simplicity, ease of use, and comfort. It played a pivotal role in making automatic cars more accessible in Europe and is now sought after by collectors for its historical importance and unconventional design. The coupe body style adds visual appeal and rarity, particularly for those seeking a classic car with a difference. In recent years, DAF models have seen renewed interest among enthusiasts of obscure European marques and mid-century engineering.
Noted imperfections on this car include a dent near the front headlamp and minor wear throughout the bodywork. The interior shows signs of regular use and ageing but remains presentable. No corrosion or mechanical issues have been reported. The car does not currently have a valid technical inspection.
Condition of the Bodywork and Paint
4. Very Good: Small dents or scratches; may require minimal bodywork or paint correction.
Condition of the Interior
4. Very Good: Clean with minimal wear; may need minor replacements for small missing or broken parts.
Technical Condition
4. Very Good: Mechanically solid, with possible minor maintenance required.
Overall Condition
4. Very Good Condition: Shows only minimal wear and is ready to drive at any time.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
We encourage all potential bidders to inspect the vehicle before placing a bid. Please contact us by phone or email to schedule an appointment.
All auction cars offered have a reserve price. You have only won the item if the seller accepts your bid.
Price changes and errors reserved. The 14-day right of withdrawal does not apply to this auction.
This car is currently located in South-Holland, Netherlands.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has a Dutch registration. The buyer is responsible for registration in his own country and responsible for delivery and collection of any vehicle purchased at the auction.
The description of this car is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Route 66 Auctions requests a range of detail about the car from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. We strongly advise potential buyers to view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy.
Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible cars to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be hard to see even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork. Photographs may not reflect the exact true colour or exact full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to assure themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy.
