DAF 55. 1968–72 (prod. 153,263). 2-door saloon, 3-door estate, 2-door coupé. F/R, 1108 cm³ (I4 OHV). Addressing concerns about the flat-twin’s refinement, DAF installed the water-cooled Renault Cléon engine. Similar to 44, but longer front end to incorporate the radiator, and larger rear lights. Torsion-bar suspension up front, swing axle at rear retained. Coupé introduced in 1968, Combi added later in the year. Successful (17th overall) in the 1968 London–Sydney Marathon, inspiring the introduction of a tuned, sporting option package, with ‘Marathon’ decals and uprated suspension; power increased to 65 PS, with top speed of 168 km/h (33 km/h faster). Range revised in 1969. Marathon became a factory model in 1971, with engine not quite as powerful as earlier special (now 63 PS) and no changes to front suspension. Coupé gained pillared doors from 1971 due to leaks and noisy cabins. Marathon Coupé from October 1971.

Manufacturing location: Born, Limburg, Netherlands

Marque: DAF | Successor: DAF 66