DAF Daffodil 33
The DAF Daffodil holds a special place in automotive history as the first production car to feature a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Developed by the Dutch truck manufacturer DAF (Van Doorne's Automobiel Fabriek), the Variomatic system used a pair of rubber drive belts running between expanding pulleys to provide stepless, infinitely variable gear ratios. This revolutionary technology would eventually be adopted by virtually every major automaker.
The Daffodil 33 was DAF's second passenger car model, succeeding the DAF 600. It featured a flat-twin air-cooled engine of 746cc, producing 26 horsepower — modest even by 1960s standards. However, the Variomatic CVT made the car remarkably easy to drive, particularly in urban traffic. With no gear changes to worry about, the Daffodil was especially popular with drivers who found conventional manual transmissions intimidating.
A famous quirk of the Variomatic transmission was that the car could drive just as fast in reverse as it could forward, since the CVT didn't have a conventional reverse gear — instead, the belt drive simply ran in the opposite direction. This led to the legendary DAF backward-driving races, where competitors would race their cars in reverse at full speed.
The Daffodil was a commercial success in the Netherlands and sold well in other European markets. Over 128,000 were built during its production run. DAF's car division was eventually acquired by Volvo in 1975, and the Variomatic technology evolved through several generations. Today, the DAF Daffodil is a beloved classic in the Netherlands, with an active club scene and regular events.
Variomatic drive belts are the key service item — replacements are available from specialists. Check for rust in floor pans, sills, and inner wings. Air-cooled engine is simple and reliable. Bodywork parts are increasingly scarce. The De Dion rear suspension is unusual but effective. Dutch-market cars are generally better preserved. Active DAF Club provides excellent support and parts sourcing.
Built by DAF (Van Doorne's Automobiel Fabriek) in Born, Limburg. Featured the world's first production CVT (Variomatic). Air-cooled flat-twin engine. Over 128,000 units produced. The DAF car division was later acquired by Volvo, which continued developing the CVT technology.