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 production period was primarily achieved through basic exhaust after-treatment, meeting pre-Euro standards applicable at the time.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, which can lead to chain slack and potential timing jump. This issue, referenced in Renault Technical Note A1M7A, is often linked to infrequent oil changes causing sludge buildup. Later production runs saw revised tensioner materials to improve durability.
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 simple SOHC design provides predictable, low-maintenance performance ideal for city driving but requires regular 10,000 km oil changes to prevent sludge buildup that can clog the timing chain tensioner. SAE 15W-40 mineral oil is specified for its compatibility with the older engine seals and metallurgy. The carburettor requires periodic adjustment and cleaning for optimal running. Pre-emptive replacement of the timing chain tensioner is recommended for high-mileage engines to prevent chain slack and potential valve/piston contact, per Renault Technical Note A1M7A.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 15W-40 mineral oil specification (Renault Owner's Manual). API SF/CC is the underlying standard.
Emissions: Pre-Euro certification applies to all 1985–1992 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8592).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output varies by application and carburettor type (Renault TIS Doc. A1M-03).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A1M-01, A1M-02, A1M-03
Renault Service Information Bulletin (SIB) A1M7A
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8592)
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.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat machined surface on the front face of the cylinder block, near the timing cover (Renault TIS A1M-01). The engine is visually identifiable by its cast-iron block, aluminium rocker cover, and prominent single-barrel carburettor mounted on the intake manifold. Critical differentiation from later A2M engines: The A1M 707 uses a timing chain, while the A2M switched to a timing belt. Service parts, particularly for the timing system and carburettor, are specific to the A1M 707 build.
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.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT A1M-707.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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RENAULT Official Site
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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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