The Renault C1J 760 is a 1,397 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 1985 and 1991. It was derived from the naturally aspirated C1E unit, adding a Garrett T2 turbocharger and fuel injection to create a high-performance variant for hot hatches. Featuring a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) and two valves per cylinder, it delivered outputs up to 115 PS, making it a potent engine for its era.
Fitted exclusively to the performance-oriented Renault 5 GT Turbo, the C1J 760 was engineered for spirited driving and rally homologation. Its character is defined by strong mid-range torque and a distinctive boost surge, appealing to enthusiasts. Emissions compliance for its production period was managed through basic engine management, meeting the applicable national standards of the late 1980s without complex after-treatment.
One documented service consideration is the vulnerability of the turbocharger and its associated oil feed/return lines to heat degradation and clogging, as noted in Renault Technical Bulletin TB-87-03. The engine's high specific output also places greater stress on the timing belt and head gasket, requiring more vigilant maintenance than its naturally aspirated counterpart.
Production years 1985–1991 predate standardized Euro emissions regulations; compliance was based on national standards of the time (French DRIRE Type Approval).
The Renault C1J 760 is a 1,397 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for performance superminis (1985-1991). It combines a robust SOHC valvetrain with a Garrett T2 turbocharger and Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection to deliver strong, boost-dependent performance. Designed for pre-Euro regulatory environments, it prioritizes power and driver engagement over emissions complexity.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,397 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (Garrett T2) | |
| Bore × stroke | 75.2 mm × 78.0 mm | |
| Power output | 115 PS (85 kW) | |
| Torque | 165 Nm @ 3,250 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (National Standards) | |
| Compression ratio | 8.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Garrett T2 (non-intercooled) | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | Mineral 15W-40 or 10W-40 | |
| Dry weight | 105 kg |
The turbocharger provides a strong, laggy power surge ideal for spirited driving but demands strict 40,000 km timing belt replacement intervals due to increased stress. Mineral 15W-40 oil is recommended for its compatibility with the engine's older sealing materials and to ensure adequate turbo bearing lubrication. The oil feed and return lines to the turbo are prone to clogging; inspecting and replacing them during turbo service is critical per Renault Technical Bulletin TB-87-03. The engine's 8.0:1 compression ratio makes it tolerant of lower octane fuels, though premium is recommended for optimal performance.
Oil Specs: Requires mineral 15W-40 specification (Renault Service Manual 1397cc Turbo). 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 is for the Phase 1 (non-intercooled) GT Turbo (Renault PT-1990).
Renault Technical Information System: Docs TB-85-01, TB-87-03
Renault EPC (Electronic Parts Catalogue) Doc. 77 11 001 000
Renault Service Manual: 1397cc Turbo Engine (1985-1991)
French DRIRE (Direction Régionale et Interdépartementale des Routes et de l'Équipement) Type Approval Archives
The Renault C1J 760 was used exclusively in Renault's Super 5 platform with transverse mounting. This engine received a significant update in 1987 with the introduction of an intercooler for the Phase 2 GT Turbo, creating two distinct variants with different power outputs and turbo plumbing. 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 C1J-ID). The code will read "C1J 760" followed by a serial number. Visual identification: The engine features a prominent Garrett T2 turbocharger mounted on the exhaust manifold. Phase 1 models (1985-1987) lack an intercooler, with the turbo outlet feeding directly to the throttle body. Phase 2 models (1987-1991) have a top-mounted intercooler with distinctive piping. Critical differentiation from the C1E: The C1J has a turbocharger, associated plumbing, and a distributor mounted at the rear of the cylinder head.
The C1J 760's primary reliability risk is turbocharger failure due to clogged oil feed lines or inadequate maintenance, with elevated incidence in modified or poorly serviced examples. Renault service data indicates a strong correlation between missed oil changes and turbo seizures, while the high specific output also increases the likelihood of head gasket failure if the engine is overheated. Adherence to the 40,000 km service interval is paramount for long-term survival.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1985-1991) and French MOT (Contrôle Technique) failure statistics (1990-2000). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT C1J-760.
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