The DAF 33 was a small, economical passenger car produced by the Dutch company DAF (Van Doorne’s Automobiel Fabriek) between 1967 and 1974. It succeeded the Daffodil series and represented a more refined and modern iteration of DAF’s unique small car concept. While it retained the compact dimensions and core mechanical layout of its predecessors, the DAF 33 introduced various upgrades that improved reliability, drivability, and styling.
Like earlier DAF models, the 33 was built around the company’s signature Variomatic transmission system—a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that used a system of belts and pulleys to deliver seamless acceleration without traditional gear shifts. This made the DAF 33 exceptionally easy to drive and gave it a level of mechanical sophistication that was rare among small cars of the period. The Variomatic system also allowed the car to drive equally well in reverse, even reaching similar top speeds going backward, a quirky trait that added to its charm.
The DAF 33 was powered by an air-cooled 746 cc flat-twin engine producing around 28 to 32 horsepower, depending on the year and market. Though not a performance car, the lightweight construction and the efficiency of the Variomatic transmission gave the 33 decent acceleration for city use. It could reach a top speed of around 105 km/h (65 mph), which was adequate for most driving situations in the late 1960s and early 1970s.
Externally, the DAF 33 maintained the boxy, upright silhouette of earlier DAFs but featured cleaner lines and slightly more modern styling cues. Chrome detailing and revised lighting gave it a tidier appearance, while the body remained largely unchanged in shape from the Daffodil 32. It was offered in various body styles, including a two-door saloon, estate, and even a panel van version.
Inside, the DAF 33 was simple but functional. The dashboard was updated with clearer instruments, and the materials were marginally improved to reflect rising customer expectations. The layout was straightforward, with the emphasis on ease of use and durability. Seating was adequate for four adults, and the compact dimensions made the car particularly maneuverable in tight urban spaces.
The DAF 33 became one of the most popular models in the company’s lineup and remained in production for seven years, well into the 1970s. Its affordability, low running costs, and user-friendly nature helped it gain a loyal customer base, particularly among first-time drivers and those who valued simplicity over speed.
Today, the DAF 33 is considered a collectible oddity, appreciated for its mechanical uniqueness and vintage charm. Its place in automotive history is secure as one of the pioneers of CVT technology, and it remains a symbol of Dutch engineering ingenuity during an era of rapid automotive development in Europe.