The Renault C1C 706 is a 956 cc, inline‑three petrol engine produced between 1983 and 1989. It features a cast iron block, aluminium cylinder head, and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) with two valves per cylinder. This naturally aspirated unit was engineered for compact city cars, prioritizing light weight and fuel efficiency over outright power.
Fitted primarily to the Renault 5 (B/C22) Super 5 and occasionally the Renault Express van, the C1C 706 was designed for economical urban transportation. It offered modest performance suitable for its era, focusing on low running costs for private and commercial users. Emissions compliance for its production period was met through basic carburetion systems.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing belt tensioner pulley, which can lead to belt slippage or failure if not inspected. This issue, noted in Renault's internal service documentation, is often linked to infrequent belt changes or exposure to oil leaks. The design was eventually superseded by the more powerful C3G and C3J series engines.
Production years 1983–1989 predate standardized Euro emissions regulations for passenger cars in the EU.
The Renault C1C 706 is a 956 cc inline‑three petrol engine engineered for supermini applications (1983-1989). It combines a simple SOHC, 6-valve design with a lightweight architecture to deliver adequate city performance and strong fuel economy. Designed for the pre-Euro emissions era, it prioritizes mechanical simplicity and cost-effective ownership.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 956 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑3, SOHC, 6‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 70.0 mm × 83.0 mm | |
| Power output | 33–35 kW (45–47 PS) | |
| Torque | 70–72 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Carburetor (Solex) | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro | |
| Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | SAE 15W-40 (Mineral) | |
| Dry weight | 85 kg |
The simple SOHC design provides adequate performance for city driving but requires strict 60,000 km timing belt changes to prevent catastrophic failure. Using a quality 15W-40 mineral oil is recommended. The timing belt tensioner pulley is a known wear item and should be replaced with the belt. Carbureted versions are sensitive to fuel quality and require periodic tuning. The engine's compact size makes it easy to work on, but sourcing genuine parts for this discontinued model can be challenging.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 15W-40 mineral oil specification (Renault Service Manual B22). Modern synthetic oils are acceptable but offer no significant advantage for this low-stress engine.
Emissions: Pre-Euro certification applies to all production years (1983-1989) as standardized EU emissions regulations were not in force.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output is consistent across documented variants (Renault Group PT-1987).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs TB-84-01, Service Manual B22
Renault EPC Catalogue
EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 (Historical Context)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Renault C1C 706 was used across Renault's B/C22 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-primarily different engine mounts and accessory brackets for the Renault 5 and Express variants. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, near the timing belt cover (Renault TIS Doc. B22-01). The full code "C1C 706" should be clearly visible. Visually, it can be identified by its three-cylinder configuration and single camshaft cover with a Solex carburetor on the intake manifold. Critical differentiation from the similar C1E: The C1C has a 956cc displacement (70mm bore) versus the C1E's 1.1L (72mm bore). Service parts for the cylinder head and valvetrain are generally not interchangeable between C1C and C1E engines.
The C1C 706's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure due to neglected service intervals. Renault workshop data indicates this was a frequent cause of total engine loss in high-mileage examples. The interference design means any belt failure results in severe internal damage, making adherence to the 60,000 km replacement schedule absolutely critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1983-1989) and historical workshop data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT C1C-706.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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