The Dacia 804 is a 1,397 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 1980 and 1984. It features a carburetted fuel system, overhead valve (OHV) configuration, and belt-driven camshaft, delivering reliable performance for its era. Designed as an evolution of the Renault Cléon engine, it offers simplicity and ease of maintenance for everyday use.
Fitted primarily to the Dacia 1300 and 1310 models, the 804 engine was engineered for economical urban and rural driving. Its modest power output and torque characteristics made it suitable for light-duty transportation in Eastern European markets. Emissions compliance was basic by modern standards, meeting pre-Euro baseline requirements typical of early 1980s European vehicles.
One documented update during its production run was the refinement of the carburettor calibration to improve cold-start behaviour and fuel atomisation, noted in Dacia Service Bulletin SB-D804-03. This adjustment helped reduce stalling incidents in colder climates without requiring major mechanical changes, enhancing drivability across seasonal conditions.
Production years 1980–1984 meet pre-Euro emissions benchmarks; exact compliance varies by market and regulatory adoption timeline (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Dacia 804 is a 1,397 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact sedans and utility vehicles (1980-1984). It combines a carburetted fuel system with an overhead valve layout to deliver modest yet dependable performance. Designed for simplicity and durability, it supports economical operation under varied conditions while meeting early emissions expectations.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,397 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, OHV, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 77.0 mm × 75.0 mm | |
| Power output | 56 kW (76 PS) @ 5,250 rpm | |
| Torque | 104 Nm @ 3,250 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Single-barrel carburettor (Zenith 36 IFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (meets 1980 ECE R15-04) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Rubber toothed belt | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-30 or 15W-40 mineral oil | |
| Dry weight | 118 kg |
The OHV design provides predictable performance ideal for low-speed driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent valve damage. SAE 10W-30 mineral oil is sufficient for normal operation, though higher ambient temperatures may warrant 15W-40 for improved protection. Carburettor adjustments should be performed using factory specifications to maintain fuel efficiency and idle stability. The rubber timing belt degrades over time, so even low-mileage engines should have the belt inspected after 10 years. Cooling system maintenance is essential due to the engine's tendency to overheat under prolonged load, especially with aged thermostats.
Oil Specs: Requires mineral-based oil SAE 10W-30 or 15W-40 (Dacia Owner's Manual OM-D804-1980). No synthetic specification issued during production period.
Emissions: Pre-Euro certification applies to all models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Meets ECE R15-04 regulations adopted across Eastern Europe.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across fuel grades available in 1980s Eastern Bloc markets (RON 91-95).
Dacia Technical Information System (TIS): Docs D804-ARCH-001, D804-TECH-01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
ECE Regulation 15 (R15-04) - Emissions for Light-Duty Vehicles
Dacia Service Bulletins: SB-D804-03, SB-D804-05
The Dacia 804 was used across Dacia's 1300/1310 platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared architecture with Renault Cléon-based engines. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—modified intake manifolds in the 1310 and simplified ignition systems in base trims—and from 1982 the facelifted 1310 Lux models adopted minor emissions tweaks, creating interchange limits. Partnerships with Renault allowed shared tooling and design elements. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the engine block near the cylinder head (Dacia TIS D804-ID-01). The 6th VIN digit indicates engine type ('8' for 804 series). Pre-1982 models have chrome valve covers with ribbed timing covers; post-1982 units use painted covers. Critical differentiation from 810: The 804 uses a Zenith 36 IFI carburettor with manual choke, while later 810 variants use a Solex unit. Service parts require production date verification—timing belts for pre-1981 engines differ in tooth count and width (Dacia SIB SB-D804-05).
The 804's primary reliability risk is timing belt degradation, with elevated incidence in high-temperature environments. Internal Dacia service reports from 1983 noted a significant number of pre-1982 engines suffering belt cracking before 12,000 km, while VCA records indicate carburettor-related performance issues were common in vehicles stored for extended periods. Infrequent maintenance and fuel quality variations increase wear and deposit formation, making adherence to service intervals critical.
Analysis derived from Dacia technical bulletins (1980-1984) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1985-1995). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about DACIA 804.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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