This Volvo 66 (née DAF 66) rolled out of the Van Doorne’s Aanhangwagen Fabriek sometime between 1975 and 1980, after Volvo purchased DAF in 1974. It’s likely been befuddling passersby and seducing bizarre car enthusiasts (like me!) ever since. Motivated by the Renault Cléon in 1108cc or 1239cc flavors channeled through DAF’s legendary Variomatic CVT, the 66 was still as DAF as they got, although Volvo outfitted the model with such safety features as side impact beams, headrests, and a “park” function for the transmission. While DAFs have always been relatively popular in the Netherlands, they’re unheard of in the US. I know there are a few Dutch expatriates and assorted eccentrics that take undue pleasure in announcing their car’s uniqueness by driving it backwards at high speeds, but the population of DAFs in the US must be less than 100 total. Seeing this 66, which was clearly in great shape, was a real treat. And it was less than a mile away from yesterday’s Imp! Oh Ballard, you never cease to amaze me.
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