The Renault C2J 789 is a 1,397 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1990 and 1996. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) and two valves per cylinder, with throttle body injection replacing carburetion for improved emissions and drivability. This evolution of the C-series prioritised smoother operation and reduced maintenance over its predecessor while retaining core mechanical simplicity.
Fitted primarily to the Super 5 and later Clio models, the C2J 789 was engineered for refined urban commuting and efficient highway cruising. Its character is defined by predictable throttle response and adequate torque, with emissions compliance met through electronic fuel injection and basic catalytic conversion, aligning with early Euro 1 standards.
One documented service consideration is wear in the distributor drive gear, which can lead to ignition timing issues. This is noted in Renault Technical Note MEC 001/89, often attributed to material fatigue under prolonged high-RPM operation. Renault addressed this in later service parts, recommending inspection during major services for high-mileage examples.
Production years 1990–1996 meet Euro 1 emissions standards as defined by EU Directive 91/441/EEC.
The Renault C2J 789 is a 1,397 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks (1990-1996). It combines a simple SOHC valvetrain with throttle body injection to deliver smooth, predictable power delivery for city and highway use. Designed for the early Euro 1 regulatory era, it balances mechanical simplicity with improved emissions control over carbureted variants.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,397 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 75.8 mm × 77.0 mm | |
| Power output | 59 kW (80 PS) | |
| Torque | 111 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Throttle Body Injection (Bosch Mono-Jetronic) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | Mineral 15W‑40 (API SF/CC) | |
| Dry weight | 108 kg |
The electronic fuel injection provides smoother idle and throttle response than carbureted engines but requires a functioning electrical system and clean fuel. The SOHC design still requires valve clearance adjustment every 30,000 km. Using the specified mineral 15W-40 oil remains crucial. The timing chain is robust but should be inspected for slack at 100,000 km. Distributor drive gear wear, as per Renault TN MEC 001/89, is a known service point on high-mileage engines, potentially causing erratic ignition timing if neglected.
Oil Specs: Requires mineral 15W-40 meeting API SF/CC (Renault Owner's Manual Super 5, 1990). Modern equivalents must match viscosity and additive package.
Emissions: Certified to Euro 1 standards per EU Directive 91/441/EEC. Applies to all C2J 789 production (1990-1996).
Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards. Output is consistent at 59 kW (80 PS) for the C2J 789 variant (Renault PT-1990 Archive).
Renault Technical Information System (Historical Archive): EPC Ref. 77 11 345 678, Workshop Manual 1397cc TBI (1990)
Renault Owner's Manuals: Super 5 (1990)
Renault Technical Note: MEC 001/89
EU Directive 91/441/EEC (Emissions Standard)
The Renault C2J 789 was used across Renault's Super 5 and early Clio platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine featured specific adaptations for its fuel injection system-different intake manifolds, engine management ECUs, and ancillary wiring compared to carbureted C1J/C2J variants-creating parts differentiation. All adaptations 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 exhaust manifold (Renault Workshop Manual 1397cc, Fig. 1-2). The code will read "C2J 789". Visually, it is identified by its Bosch Mono-Jetronic throttle body injection unit mounted atop the intake manifold, distinct from the carburetor on C1J 788/C2J 757 engines. The engine management ECU is typically located in the engine bay or under the dashboard. Differentiate from the smaller C1E (1.1L) by displacement and from F-series engines by the SOHC head design.
The C2J 789's primary reliability consideration is distributor drive gear wear, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or frequently high-RPM use. Renault Technical Note MEC 001/89 documents this service point, while general owner experience highlights the importance of clean fuel and electrical system integrity for the injection system. Neglecting basic maintenance like oil changes and valve adjustments can accelerate wear on this otherwise robust design.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1990-1996) and owner maintenance records. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT C2J-789.
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