Because DAF Cars were, by their very nature, very easy to drive, there was a danger that they may gain a "wrong" sort of reputation. Also, because the Variomatic Transmission was very
innovative and new, DAF and enthusiasts were keen to prove that the cars and the transmission could cope with competitive treatment.

During the 1960s and 70s, DAF and private individuals prepared and entered many different cars in a variety of race events. Perhaps the most famous were the London-Sydney DAF 55s, the Formula 3 race cars and the fantastic DAF 555 Rallycross cars that featured 4-wheel drive
Variomatic - very successfully.