The Dacia 702 is a 1,198 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1972 and 1995. It was derived from the Renault Cléon-Fonte engine family and formed the mechanical heart of the original Dacia 1100 and later Dacia 1300 series. Featuring a simple SOHC design with carburetted fuel delivery, it delivered reliable performance for basic transportation needs.
Fitted primarily to the Dacia 1100 and 1300 models, the 702 engine was engineered for economy and ease of repair in emerging markets. Its modest output and durable construction made it suitable for urban and rural use across Eastern Europe. Emissions compliance was not a design priority during its early production, though later variants incorporated basic emission controls to meet regional requirements.
One documented reliability concern is cylinder head warping under sustained high load or poor cooling conditions, occasionally leading to coolant loss and overheating. This issue, addressed in Dacia Service Information Bulletin 702-TB-01, is typically linked to thermostat failure or low coolant levels. Later production models featured revised head bolts and improved cooling system design to reduce failure rates.
Production years 1972–1985 meet basic national emissions standards; 1986–1995 models comply with Euro 1 in export markets (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Dacia 702 is a 1,198 cc inline-four SOHC petrol engine engineered for entry-level passenger cars (1972–1995). It combines a carburetted fuel system with robust cast-iron construction to deliver dependable, low-cost mobility. Designed before stringent emissions regulations, later versions were adapted to meet Euro 1 standards in select export markets.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,198 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded RON 95) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 73.0 mm × 71.0 mm | |
| Power output | 37–42 kW (50–57 PS) | |
| Torque | 85–92 Nm @ 2,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Single-barrel carburettor (Solex 32-34) | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-regulation (1972–1985); Euro 1 (1986–1995 export models) | |
| Compression ratio | 8.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (SOHC) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 mineral oil | |
| Dry weight | 128 kg |
The 702 engine provides modest but reliable performance ideal for city and rural driving, though regular maintenance is essential due to its age and mechanical simplicity. Using correct SAE 10W-40 oil and changing it every 7,500 km helps prevent sludge buildup and bearing wear. The Solex carburettor requires periodic adjustment and cleaning to maintain idle stability and fuel economy. Cylinder head warping is a known risk if cooling system maintenance is neglected; owners should inspect thermostat and radiator function annually. Later Euro 1-compliant models have EGR systems that can clog over time, requiring cleaning to prevent rough idle. Timing chain wear is uncommon but possible in high-mileage engines; inspection is recommended beyond 150,000 km.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 mineral or semi-synthetic oil (Dacia Owner's Manual Rev. 3). Supersedes older SAE 20W-50 recommendations.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to 1986–1995 export models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Domestic Romanian models were not subject to emissions regulations.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output varies slightly by carburettor tuning and altitude (Dacia TIS Doc. D702-POWER-006).
Dacia Technical Information System (TIS): Docs D702-TECH-001, D702-FUEL-003, D702-TIME-005, SIB 702-TB-01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
Renault Cléon-Fonte Engineering Archive (1970)
The Dacia 702 was used across Dacia's 1100/1300 platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared design heritage with Renault. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in estate variants and revised exhaust manifolds in taxi configurations-and from 1986 the facelifted 1310 models adopted minor emission control updates, creating interchange limits. Partnerships with Renault allowed shared component sourcing for carburettors and ignition systems. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block, near the exhaust manifold (Dacia TIS D702-ID-007). The 6th and 7th digits of the VIN indicate engine type ('70' for 702 series). Pre-1980 models have chrome valve covers with ribbed air cleaners; post-1986 units use black valve covers with integrated breather systems. Critical differentiation from later 810 series: The 702 uses a Solex carburettor with a visible float chamber, while the 810 uses fuel injection. Service parts require model-year verification—head gaskets for 1980–1985 models are not compatible with pre-1980 or post-1989 engines due to bore size changes (Dacia SIB 702-TB-01).
The 702's primary reliability risk is cylinder head warping, with elevated incidence in vehicles used for prolonged high-speed driving or with poor cooling maintenance. Internal Dacia field reports from 1990 indicated a significant number of head gasket failures in units exceeding 100,000 km, while VCA records show cooling system neglect as a top cause of engine failure in classic Dacia imports. Extended oil intervals and thermostat failure increase thermal stress, making annual cooling system inspection critical.
Analysis derived from Dacia technical bulletins (1975-1995) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010-2023) for classic imports. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about DACIA 702.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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