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DAF Daffodil (1965) A feast of recognition for Guus
A story about a piece of Dutch glory. About a connection with DAF, the Dutch passenger car, built by the Dutch Automobile Factory in Eindhoven. The first model, the Daffodil, marked a pivotal moment in Dutch automotive history. As a tribute, we'll take a trip back to the beginning, to 1958, the year DAF presented its first passenger car and the Netherlands suddenly had its own car.
At the time, DAF confidently ran full-page advertisements: "At the RAI, we present a Dutch product, designed and produced by Dutch workers for the Dutch public." That was indeed more than a touch of chauvinism, but it fit the spirit of the times.
We quote again from those early DAF texts: "30 years of experience and development in vehicle construction have led to a concept that achieved technical advances far ahead of their time. Thanks to a very low price, minimal fuel consumption, and extremely low maintenance, the dream of many to own a full-fledged family car can now be fulfilled. We look forward to seeing you at the RAI!"
Relive old times
Fortunately, there are still enthusiasts in the Netherlands who keep that history alive. Guus van Eijk is a prime example. His DAF Daffodil immediately evokes the spirit of the past. Guus speaks with audible passion about his classic beauties. Besides this DAF, he also owns a small Italian car, a Fiat Topolino, and it's no coincidence that he's the chairman of the associated enthusiasts' club. His enthusiasm shines through in his voice, his demeanor, and the joy with which he talks about owning his Daffodil. He brings that same passion to his daily work as a restorer and specialist in the maintenance of special cars.
DAFFODIL is special
The DAF Daffodil, in this case a 1965 model, owes its charm not only to its friendly lines. The Variomatic system makes driving completely relaxed: no clutch pedal, no manual gear shifting, but a continuously variable automatic transmission system that operates smoothly and almost imperceptibly. The simple yet ingenious mechanism was technically advanced for its time and proved remarkably durable. Up front is the air-cooled two-cylinder DAF boxer engine, safely mounted and simple in design, exactly as Van Doorne intended. Of course, driving a Daffodil makes every trip special.
The key of satisfaction
Guus is happy to share his enthusiasm for discovering this Daffodil in Belgium. "The first and only owner was Jan de Bock from Meerdonk. He bought the car new from the Van Kasteren garage in Sint-Niklaas. A serious owner, too, because everything had been preserved: service records, invoices, original brochures, and even color charts. That's tangible love."
The car was found in an old hardware store warehouse. When it saw the light of day again, Guus said it looked like a bumper car. Rock-solid, but riddled with dents, age spots, scratches, and wrinkles. "Yet, as a restorer, I could see at a glance the charming life inside."
The find was lucky
Guus: "When we talk about luck, there's one thing we all agree on: you can never have too much. The DAF was technically sound, with a beautiful interior, but it was covered in dust and rust from its long stay in the shed."
As is customary, the mechanicals were addressed first: new brake lines, a full service, fresh oil and fluids, and various minor repairs. After a fresh coat of paint, the Hollandse Glorie was fresh, vibrant, and in excellent condition. And so, the Daffodil regained its former glory.
Van Doorne's as an employer
DAF was not only special for its cars, but also for the way the company treated its employees. The DAF press service published a monthly issue of the DAFBode, specifically for employees. It contained countless comments highlighting employee satisfaction. When the Daffodil was introduced in 1961, employees even received a set of dishes for Sinterklaas: six cups and saucers decorated with the colorful daffodil, the flower from which the Daffodil takes its name. Guus also kept this set, and it proudly stands proudly in his display case, alongside all his other documentation.
Appreciation
We truly appreciate Guus cherishing his Daffodil. Driving such a beautiful and characterful classic contributes not only to their own happiness, but also to that of others. At the same time, it's a tribute to the ingenious engineers, the enterprising entrepreneurs, and the founders of the DAF companies who gave the Netherlands a car with a unique character.
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Imagine if a Daffodil were still on the market today: a sturdy, small, economical automatic for the family in (often congested) city traffic. Then you'll see how ingenious the design (Brabant's glory!) already was back then.
It was a shame that the mediocre (ahem) marketing was the car's downfall. It was presented as an easy-to-drive car (as one journalist called it: a sissy shaker with suspenders).
The fact is that in 2025 an automatic version will be the best-selling car in the Netherlands.
A long time ago I dismantled my grandfather's for parts.
The Daffodil was the first car I drove as a young teenager. Through the meadow of my aunt and uncle's farm. Unforgettable, that first time. Awesome! I do miss the sound of those DAFs in traffic. In an old motorcycle driving license manual, I once read a warning that a motorcycle will generally "always accelerate faster than a car." Special attention had to be paid to a DAF because this car "can accelerate unusually quickly." Yeah, right, that clever stick shift!
The DAFs were very reliable and well-built cars, as were the employers! Later, under Volvo Cars, they weren't necessarily any better. Regarding the employers, I can say: the rest are pure hypocrisy, talking left and filling right!