The Renault C1E 752 is a 1,397 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1985 and 1996. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) and two valves per cylinder, delivering modest power outputs suitable for compact city cars. Its simple, robust design prioritized ease of maintenance and fuel economy for everyday urban driving, with outputs ranging from 55 to 75 PS depending on the specific variant and carburettor setup.
Fitted primarily to the Renault 5 (Supercinq) and early Renault Clio models, the C1E 752 was engineered for affordability, reliability, and low running costs. Emissions compliance for its era was managed through basic engine management and exhaust systems, meeting the applicable standards of the late 1980s and early 1990s without complex after-treatment technologies.
One documented service consideration is wear in the timing belt tensioner pulley and water pump, which are often replaced together as a preventative measure. Renault service documentation recommends inspecting these components at regular intervals due to their shared failure modes. The engine's simplicity means major mechanical failures are uncommon if basic maintenance is observed.
Production years 1985–1996 predate standardized Euro emissions regulations; compliance was based on national standards of the time (French DRIRE Type Approval).
The Renault C1E 752 is a 1,397 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for supermini applications (1985-1996). It combines a simple SOHC valvetrain with carburettor fuel delivery to deliver reliable, economical performance. Designed for pre-Euro regulatory environments, it prioritizes serviceability and low-cost ownership.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,397 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 75.2 mm × 78.0 mm | |
| Power output | 55–75 PS (40–55 kW) | |
| Torque | 95–105 Nm @ 3,000–3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Single-barrel carburettor (Solex or Weber) | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (National Standards) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | Mineral 15W-40 or 10W-40 | |
| Dry weight | 95 kg |
The SOHC design offers predictable, low-stress performance ideal for city commuting but requires strict 60,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic engine failure. Mineral 15W-40 oil is recommended for its compatibility with the engine's older sealing materials. The carburettor demands periodic cleaning and adjustment to maintain optimal fuel mixture and idle stability. The water pump shares a drive pulley with the timing belt; replacing both components simultaneously during belt service is standard practice per Renault Technical Bulletin TB-90-05 to avoid premature re-failure.
Oil Specs: Requires mineral 15W-40 specification (Renault Service Manual 1397cc). Synthetic oils not recommended for early seals.
Emissions: Pre-dates Euro standards; certified under French national regulations (DRIRE Type Approval).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output varies significantly by carburettor type and state of tune (Renault PT-1990).
Renault Technical Information System: Docs TB-85-01, TB-90-05
Renault EPC (Electronic Parts Catalogue) Doc. 77 11 001 000
Renault Service Manual: 1397cc Engine (1985-1996)
French DRIRE (Direction Régionale et Interdépartementale des Routes et de l'Équipement) Type Approval Archives
The Renault C1E 752 was used across Renault's Super 5 platform with transverse mounting. This engine received minor carburettor and ignition updates throughout its production run, with the most significant change being the introduction of a catalytic converter on later models for certain markets, creating minor parts variations. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat machined surface at the front of the engine block, near the gearbox flange (Renault TIS C1E-ID). The code will read "C1E 752" followed by a serial number. Visual identification: The engine features a single carburettor (Solex 32 DIS or Weber 32 AISA) mounted centrally on the intake manifold. Early models (pre-1990) lack a catalytic converter and have a simpler exhaust manifold. Critical differentiation from the turbocharged C1J: The C1E has no turbocharger, intercooler, or associated plumbing. The distributor is mounted at the rear of the cylinder head.
The C1E 752's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure due to age or neglect, which can cause total engine destruction. Renault service data indicates a high correlation between missed belt changes and engine seizures. The carburettor's mechanical nature also makes it susceptible to gumming and wear, leading to drivability issues if not maintained. Adherence to the 60,000 km service interval is non-negotiable for long-term reliability.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1985-1996) and French MOT (Contrôle Technique) failure statistics (1990-2000). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT C1E-752.
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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
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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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.
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