The Renault C1E 715 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 a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) with two valves per cylinder. This engine, delivering 55 kW (75 PS), was engineered for economical, reliable transportation in Renault's compact vehicle range.
Fitted to models such as the Clio I (Phase 2) and Twingo I, the C1E 715 prioritised low running costs and mechanical simplicity over high performance. It was designed for urban and suburban driving, offering adequate power for its lightweight platforms. Emissions compliance for all units was achieved under Euro 2 standards through a multi-point fuel injection system and a catalytic converter.
One documented concern 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 03 A, is often attributed to bearing failure in the tensioner assembly. The design was revised for the subsequent C3J engine family introduced in 2000.
Production years 1996–2000 meet Euro 2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2345).
The Renault C1E 715 is a 1,390 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks (1996-2000). It combines a simple SOHC 8-valve design with multi-point fuel injection to deliver dependable, economical performance. Designed to meet Euro 2 standards, it represents Renault's focus on cost-effective and reliable urban mobility.
| 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 (Bosch Motronic) | |
| 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 | Not Available |
The simple SOHC design provides reliable, low-stress performance but demands strict adherence to the 60,000 km timing belt replacement interval to prevent catastrophic engine damage. Renault RN0700 (10W-40) oil is recommended for optimal engine protection. The timing belt tensioner pulley is a known wear item; symptoms include a whining or chirping noise from the front of the engine. Replacement with the revised unit per Renault Technical Note CLI 96 03 A is advised during any timing belt service.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0700 specification (Renault Service Manual C1E).
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all 1996–2000 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2345).
Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards. Output is consistent across model range (Renault Group PT-1998).
Renault Technical Information System: Service Manual C1E, Technical Note CLI 96 03 A
Renault EPC (Electronic Parts Catalogue) Ref. 77 11 201 100
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2345)
The Renault C1E 715 was used across Renault's Clio I and Twingo I platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received minimal platform-specific adaptations and was not licensed to other manufacturers. All applications are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat pad on the front face of the cylinder block, just below the cylinder head (Renault Service Manual C1E). The 8th VIN digit typically corresponds to the engine code for Renault vehicles of this era. Visually, it can be identified by its black plastic rocker cover with "Renault" branding and the lack of any turbocharger or intercooler plumbing. Critical differentiation from the later C3J 1.4: The C1E 715 has a lower power output (75 PS vs 98 PS) and uses a different cylinder head and intake manifold design. Service parts are not interchangeable.
The C1E 715's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure due to tensioner pulley wear, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained vehicles. Renault internal service data indicated a high correlation between tensioner failure and vehicles exceeding 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show ignition system faults as a common cause of MOT failures. Infrequent maintenance makes adherence to service schedules critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1996-2000) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2005-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT C1E-715.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with RENAULT or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
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
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialRENAULT documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
