| Production | |
|---|---|
| Model Year: | 1974 |
| Production Years: | 1974 - 1975 discontinued in 1975 |
The DAF 46 sedan is a compact vehicle produced by the Dutch automotive manufacturer DAF between 1974 and 1975. As a successor in the DAF lineup, the 46 was designed to offer an efficient and practical mode of transportation with city driving in mind. This brief production run renders the DAF 46 a unique vintage model loved by classic car enthusiasts.
The DAF 46 carried forward DAF's tradition of compact, simple, and reliable cars. Though specific dimensional data such as length, width, and height for the DAF 46 is scarce, the vehicle was designed with compactness to fit the European urban environment of the 1970s. Typically, compact sedans of this era ranged approximately from 3.7 to 4.1 meters (about 12.1 to 13.5 feet) in length and around 1.5 to 1.6 meters (approximately 4.9 to 5.2 feet) in width. This made the DAF 46 easy to maneuver and park in city conditions.
In addition to its manageable size, the DAF 46 featured a practical sedan body style with seating for four to five passengers, providing everyday usability without sacrificing comfort. Its lightweight construction contributed to fuel efficiency and agile handling. The DAF 46 also featured the innovative Variomatic transmission system, a continuously variable transmission that enhanced driving smoothness, particularly beneficial in urban stop-and-go situations.
The vehicle’s design combined functional simplicity with subtle aesthetic touches typical of 1970s European cars. Although production ceased in 1975, the DAF 46 remains a cherished example of compact car engineering from the era, reflecting a balance between modest dimensions and practical transport needs.
Discover the standout features that make the 1974 DAF 46 a leader in its class
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The DAF 46 sedan produced between 1974 and 1975 features compact exterior dimensions designed for urban and suburban driving. Though exact measurements may vary slightly depending on specific configurations, the typical length is approximately 3,660 mm (144.1 inches), the width is around 1,450 mm (57.1 inches), and the height is close to 1,400 mm (55.1 inches). These proportions contributed to the DAF 46's reputation as a practical and nimble vehicle suitable for tight European streets.
The wheelbase of the DAF 46 sedan is around 2,250 mm (88.6 inches). A wheelbase of this length strikes a balance between compactness and stability, providing sufficient interior space for passengers while maintaining agility in city driving. This dimension also helps in offering a smooth ride over uneven road surfaces, although the vehicle maintains a firm suspension typical of its era, prioritizing a connected driving experience.
The curb weight of the DAF 46 is approximately 820 kg (1,808 lbs). This lightweight construction contributed to efficient fuel consumption and easy maneuverability. The relatively low weight also meant modest power was adequate for the vehicle's performance needs, making it economical in operation. However, it is essential to consider that safety features and crash protection technologies were limited in this period, reflecting the standards of the 1970s.
Yes, the DAF 46’s compact dimensions ensure that it fits comfortably into a standard single-car garage. With an approximate length of 3.66 meters (12 feet) and a width of 1.45 meters (4.75 feet), it leaves enough clearance for easy entry and exit. This makes it well-suited for urban residents or those with limited parking space, enhancing its appeal as a practical sedan option during the mid-1970s.
The DAF 46 offers a modest yet efficiently designed interior typical for small sedans of the 1970s. Its compact exterior translates to a cozy cabin that comfortably seats four passengers, with adequate legroom and headroom for the class size. While not spacious compared to modern standards, its use of space was competitive among its contemporaries, designed to maximize comfort while maintaining an overall small footprint ideal for city use.
The DAF 46 sedan is equipped with a fuel tank capacity of approximately 30 liters (7.9 US gallons), which suited the car’s economical engine and light weight for reasonable driving ranges. The trunk volume is modest, reflecting the small size of the sedan, offering around 250 liters (8.8 cubic feet) of cargo space. This trunk size provides enough room for groceries and small luggage but is not intended for heavy cargo or extensive storage needs.
The DAF 46, which succeeded the DAF 44, is slightly larger and more refined in dimensions. While the DAF 44 had a length close to 3,61 meters (142 inches) and width about 1,48 meters (58.3 inches), the DAF 46 introduced marginal increases focused on added passenger comfort and a slightly more modern profile. These subtle dimensional changes allowed the DAF 46 to offer somewhat improved roominess and stability without losing the compact characteristics valued in the original DAF 44.
Compared to similar compact European sedans from the mid-1970s, such as the Mini, Fiat 127, or Renault 5, the DAF 46 offers competitive dimensions characterized by a slightly longer wheelbase, which can translate into improved passenger comfort. Its width and height are fairly standard for the segment, making it a practical and nimble choice. While the DAF 46 was unique for its Variomatic continuously variable transmission, dimensionally it fits squarely within the small family car class prevalent across Europe at that time.
The DAF 46 is known for its unique Variomatic transmission, which was a continuously variable transmission system pioneering at the time and providing smooth, stepless gear changes. It featured a slightly more modern and aerodynamic styling compared to its predecessor, along with improvements in ride comfort and interior layout. Built between 1974 and 1975, the DAF 46 primarily served as a compact, efficient sedan aimed at urban drivers seeking reliability, economy, and ease of operation in a small package.
While the DAF 46’s compact size and unique transmission make it an interesting vintage vehicle, it may not meet all demands of modern driving conditions. Its small dimensions and light weight allow for excellent maneuverability in contemporary urban environments, but safety features, emissions standards, and performance are dated by today’s measures. Enthusiasts may appreciate its historical value and simplicity, but daily use requires awareness of its vintage limitations in size, speed, and technological advancements.
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