The Renault A1M 707 is a 1,397 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1985 and 1992. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) with 8 valves and a carburetted fuel system. This engine, part of the Cléon — Fonte family, was designed for simplicity and ease of maintenance in compact city cars.
Fitted to models such as the Super 5 and Express, the A1M 707 was engineered for economical, reliable urban transport. Emissions compliance for its produ…
Production years 1985–1992 meet pre-Euro emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8592).
The Renault A1M 707 is a 1,397 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact city cars (1985-1992). It combines a simple SOHC 8-valve design with a carburettor to deliver dependable, economical performance. Designed for the pre-Euro regulatory era, it prioritizes mechanical simplicity and serviceability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,397 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 75.0 mm × 79.0 mm | |
Power output | 47–55 kW (64–75 PS) | |
Torque | 100–110 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
Fuel system | Single-barrel carburettor (Solex or Weber) | |
Emissions standard | Pre-Euro | |
Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | None | |
Timing system | Chain-driven | |
Oil type | SAE 15W-40 mineral oil | |
Dry weight | 105 kg |
The Renault A1M 707 was used across Renault's Super 5 platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the Express van variant-creating minor interchange considerations. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The A1M 707's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear, with elevated incidence in engines subjected to infrequent oil changes. Renault internal service data indicates this is a common cause for workshop visits after 100,000 km, while owner reports frequently cite associated chain rattle. Regular oil changes and preventative tensioner replacement make long-term reliability excellent.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1985-1992) and aggregated European owner workshop data (1995-2010). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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The A1M 707 is renowned for its mechanical simplicity and robustness. Its primary weakness is the timing chain tensioner, which can wear if oil changes are neglected. With regular maintenance, particularly timely oil changes and preventative tensioner replacement, it can easily surpass 200,000 km. Its simple carburetted design makes it easy and inexpensive to repair.
The most frequent issues are timing chain tensioner wear causing rattle, carburettor problems (clogging, leaks, adjustment), distributor and ignition system wear (cap, rotor, points), and cooling system leaks (hoses, water pump). These are well-documented in Renault service information and are typical of engines of this era.
This 1.4L petrol engine was primarily used in the Renault Super 5 (1985-1990) and the Renault Express van (1986-1992). It was typically badged as the 1.4 in base models or 1.4 GTL/TSE in higher-spec variants.
Yes, within limits. Common upgrades include fitting a performance carburettor (e.g., Weber 32/34 DFT), a free-flow exhaust manifold, and a high-performance air filter. These can yield modest power gains. More significant power increases require internal modifications like a higher compression ratio or a camshaft upgrade, which are less common due to the engine's age.
Good for its time and technology. In a Renault Super 5, you can expect real-world figures of 7.0-8.5 L/100km (33-40 mpg UK) on a mixed cycle. Highway driving can see consumption drop to around 6.0 L/100km (47 mpg UK). Fuel economy is heavily influenced by the condition of the carburettor.
No. The A1M 707 is a non-interference engine. If the timing chain were to break or jump, the pistons will not contact the valves. This means the engine will simply stop running without causing catastrophic internal damage, making it much more forgiving than interference designs.
Renault originally specified SAE 15W-40 mineral oil for the A1M 707. This is suitable for the engine's older design and metallurgy. While modern semi-synthetic oils can be used, a quality mineral oil meeting API SF/CC specifications is perfectly adequate and often recommended for vintage engines to prevent seal swelling.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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RENAULT Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
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