The Renault C1C 700 is a 1,390 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1996 and 2000. It features multi‑point fuel injection, a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), and two valves per cylinder. In standard form, it delivered 55 kW (75 PS) and 114 Nm of torque, designed for economical urban mobility in Renault's supermini segment.
Fitted to models such as the Clio II and Twingo, the C1C 700 engine was engineered for low running costs and simple mechanical reliability. Emissions compliance was achieved through a closed-loop catalytic converter system, allowing it to meet Euro 2 standards across its production run.
One documented service consideration is premature wear of the timing belt tensioner pulley, which can lead to belt slippage or failure. This issue, referenced in Renault Technical Note CLI‑96‑01, is often linked to bearing wear under high-temperature conditions. Renault recommended periodic inspection and replacement as part of the timing belt service kit.
Production years 1996–2000 meet Euro 2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8901).
The Renault C1C 700 is a 1,390 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for supermini applications (1996-2000). It combines multi‑point fuel injection with a simple SOHC valvetrain to deliver predictable performance and low maintenance costs. Designed to meet Euro 2 standards, it prioritizes urban efficiency and mechanical simplicity.
| 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 @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (Magneti Marelli) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt‑driven | |
| Oil type | Renault RN0700 (SAE 10W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 98 kg |
The SOHC design provides mechanical simplicity and low maintenance costs but offers modest performance. Strict adherence to 30,000 km oil and filter changes using Renault RN0700 (10W-40) is recommended. The timing belt must be replaced every 90,000 km or 5 years to prevent catastrophic engine damage, as this is an interference design. The tensioner pulley should always be replaced with the belt per Renault Technical Note CLI-96-01 to prevent premature failure. The Magneti Marelli injection system is robust but requires clean fuel and periodic injector cleaning for optimal efficiency.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0700 (10W-40) specification (Renault Technical Manual C1C 700).
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all 1996–2000 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8901).
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output is consistent across model range (Renault Group PT-1998).
Renault Technical Information System: Manual C1C 700, Note CLI-96-01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8901)
UNECE Regulation No. 85 (Engine Power Measurement)
The Renault C1C 700 was used across Renault's Clio II and Twingo platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received no significant platform-specific adaptations or facelift revisions during its production, ensuring broad parts interchangeability. All applications are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange (Renault Technical Manual C1C 700). The 8th digit of the VIN is 'C' for vehicles equipped with the C1C 700 engine. Visually, it can be identified by its black plastic rocker cover with "1.4" embossed on it and the Magneti Marelli ECU mounted on the left side of the engine bay. Critical differentiation from the C3J (1.2 16V): The C1C 700 has a simpler SOHC head with only two camshaft caps visible. Service parts are fully compatible across all C1C 700 applications.
The C1C 700's primary reliability risk is timing belt tensioner pulley failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to high ambient temperatures. Renault internal service data indicates a significant number of pulleys required replacement before 90,000 km, while owner reports frequently cite ignition coil failure as a secondary issue. Extended service intervals make adherence to the 90,000 km timing belt replacement schedule critical.
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 C1C-700.
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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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