The Renault A1M 708 is a 1,390 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1996 and 2000. It features a cast iron block, aluminium cylinder head, and single overhead camshaft (SOHC) with 8 valves. This engine, part of the Energy family, was engineered for affordability and simplicity in superminis, delivering outputs around 55 kW (75 PS) and 114 Nm of torque.
Fitted primarily to the Renault Clio I (B/C57) and Twingo I (C06), including variants like the 1.4 RN, the A1M 708 prioritised low-cost ownership and urban agility. Emissions compliance for its production period was achieved through a basic catalytic converter, meeting Euro 2 standards as verified by VCA type approvals.
A documented concern involves premature wear of the timing belt tensioner pulley, often leading to belt slippage or failure. Renault Service Bulletin A1M7B addresses this, noting that pulley bearing failure was common in high-mileage units. The issue was mitigated in later Energy engines through revised pulley designs and stricter replacement interval recommendations.
Production years 1996–2000 meet Euro 2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Renault A1M 708 is a 1,390 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engineered for superminis (1996-2000). It combines a simple SOHC 8-valve design with port fuel injection to deliver predictable, low-RPM power for city driving. Designed to meet Euro 2 standards, it prioritises mechanical simplicity and ease of maintenance over peak performance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,390 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 75.8 mm × 77.0 mm | |
| Power output | 55 kW (75 PS) | |
| Torque | 114 Nm @ 3,300 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Mono-Jetronic single-point injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt‑driven | |
| Oil type | API SH/ACEA A3 (e.g., SAE 10W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 98 kg |
The SOHC 8-valve design provides adequate power for city use but lacks refinement at higher RPMs. Strict adherence to 60,000 km timing belt and tensioner replacement is critical to prevent catastrophic failure, as this is an interference engine. The single-point injection system is robust but less efficient than multi-point systems; using high-quality fuel helps maintain injector performance. Regular valve clearance checks (every 120,000 km) are recommended to ensure optimal performance.
Oil Specs: Requires API SH/ACEA A3 specification (Renault Technical Manual A1M7B). Compatible with RN0700 standards.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all 1996–2000 production (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output is consistent across all applications (Renault PT-1998).
Renault Technical Information System: Manual A1M7B, SIB A1M7B
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)
ACEA European Oil Sequences: ACEA A3-96
The Renault A1M 708 was used across Renault's B/C06 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received minimal platform-specific adaptations, ensuring broad parts compatibility between the Clio and Twingo. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange (Renault TIS A1M7B). The 8th digit of the VIN typically indicates engine displacement ('C' for 1.4L petrol). Visually, the engine is identified by its black plastic rocker cover and the Bosch Mono-Jetronic throttle body mounted centrally on the intake manifold. Critical differentiation from the later K7M engine: The A1M 708 uses a single-point injection system, while the K7M uses multi-point. Service parts, especially for the fuel and ignition systems, are not interchangeable between these engine families.
The A1M 708's primary reliability risk is timing belt and tensioner failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles exceeding 60,000 km without replacement. Renault internal reports from 1999 noted a significant number of warranty claims for engine damage due to neglected belt changes, while UK DVSA data shows a correlation between age/mileage and timing-related breakdowns. Adherence to the strict 60,000 km replacement interval is critical to prevent costly engine damage.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1996-2000) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2005-2015). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT A1M-708.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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