The DAF 750 was a small passenger car produced by the Dutch company Van Doorne’s Automobiel Fabriek (DAF) in the early 1960s. It was part of the company’s effort to expand beyond commercial vehicles and become a recognized player in the European car market. Introduced in 1961 as an evolution of the earlier DAF 600, the DAF 750 incorporated minor improvements while retaining the unique character and engineering that defined the brand.
One of the most distinctive features of the DAF 750 was its Variomatic transmission, an innovative continuously variable transmission (CVT) system. This mechanical marvel eliminated the need for a traditional gearbox, offering instead a belt-driven setup that adjusted seamlessly to driving conditions. As a result, the car required no clutch and had no conventional gear shifting, making it exceptionally easy to drive, especially in urban environments. The system was fully automatic and identical in concept to what is now common in many modern small cars and scooters.
Powering the DAF 750 was a 746 cc air-cooled, flat-twin engine mounted in the front and delivering power to the rear wheels. The engine produced around 30 horsepower, which was modest but sufficient for a vehicle of this size and weight. The car could reach a top speed of approximately 100 km/h (62 mph), making it suitable for city driving and occasional short-distance highway use.
Stylistically, the DAF 750 maintained the simple, upright appearance of its predecessor. It was available primarily as a two-door saloon, although estate and panel van variants were also produced. The body was compact, with clean lines and minimal ornamentation, reflecting the economic conditions and practical needs of its target market. Inside, the car offered basic amenities but was considered spacious and comfortable given its small exterior dimensions.
The DAF 750 quickly found a niche among drivers looking for an affordable, user-friendly car. It gained popularity in the Netherlands and other parts of Europe, particularly among older drivers and those new to motoring who appreciated the lack of a clutch and the ease of operation. It was marketed as a sensible, modern choice for everyday transportation.
Production of the DAF 750 continued until around 1963, when it was succeeded by more advanced models like the DAF 33. Although it was never a high-performance vehicle, the 750 played an important role in establishing DAF’s reputation for innovation and helped pave the way for further developments in automatic transmission technology. Today, surviving examples are appreciated by collectors and enthusiasts for their mechanical uniqueness and historical importance in the evolution of compact European cars.