The Renault C3G 710 is a 1,239 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1985 and 1996. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) and two valves per cylinder, delivering modest outputs suitable for city cars. Its simple, robust design prioritised ease of maintenance and cost-effective operation for everyday urban mobility.
Fitted primarily to the Renault 5 (Super 5) and early Clio I models, the C3G 710 was engineered for economical, reliable transportation rather than performance. Emissions compliance for its era was managed through a carburettor or basic fuel injection systems, meeting applicable national standards prior to the widespread adoption of Euro norms.
One documented concern is wear in the distributor drive gear, which can lead to ignition timing faults and misfires. This issue, referenced in Renault Technical Note MEC 0245, is often attributed to material fatigue under high mileage. Later production runs saw revisions to improve component durability before the engine was phased out.
Production predates formal Euro emissions standards; compliance based on national regulations in force during 1985–1996 (VCA UK Type Approval data for equivalent period).
The Renault C3G 710 is a 1,239 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks (1985-1996). It combines a simple SOHC valvetrain with carburetion or basic fuel injection to deliver adequate power for city driving. Designed for reliability and economy, it reflects pre-Euro emissions control technology.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,239 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 71.0 mm × 78.0 mm | |
| Power output | 44–55 kW (60–75 PS) | |
| Torque | 95–105 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Carburettor or Single-point injection | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (National Standards) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | Mineral 15W‑40 or 10W‑40 | |
| Dry weight | 95 kg |
The SOHC design offers simplicity but limits high-RPM power; regular valve clearance checks every 30,000 km are essential. Mineral oil (15W-40) is specified due to looser tolerances; synthetic oils may cause leaks in aged seals. The chain-driven cam requires no scheduled replacement but tensioner inspection is advised at 100,000 km. Carburettor models need periodic cleaning to prevent hesitation. Distributor gear wear (per Tech Note MEC 0245) is a key longevity factor; listen for whining noises from the timing cover.
Oil Specs: Requires mineral-based 15W-40 or 10W-40 (Renault Service Manual Vol. 0). Synthetic oils not recommended for original seals.
Emissions: Pre-dates Euro standards; certified under national regulations applicable 1985-1996 (VCA Historical Database).
Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards. Output varies by model year and induction system (Renault PT-1995).
Renault Technical Information System: Docs MEC 0245, ENG-C3G
Renault Official Service Manuals (Vol. 0, 1, 2)
UK Vehicle Certification Agency Historical Approvals Archive
EEC Directive 80/1269 (Engine Power Measurement)
The Renault C3G 710 was used across Renault's Project B/C platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received minor adaptations-carburettor vs. injection variants-for different trim levels and markets, creating some parts interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat boss near the gearbox flange on the front face of the block (Renault SM Vol.1, Ch.00A). Pre-1990 models typically have a carburettor (Solex or Weber), identifiable by the air filter housing atop the engine. Post-1990 Clio variants often feature single-point injection (SPI), identified by an injector rail and throttle body. Critical differentiation from later energy engines (e.g., C3J): C3G has a distributor mounted at the rear of the cylinder head; Energy engines use distributorless ignition. Always verify part numbers against EPC using VIN, as ancillary components varied significantly.
The C3G 710's primary reliability risk is distributor drive gear failure, particularly in high-mileage examples. Renault internal reports noted this as a frequent cause of drivability complaints in vehicles exceeding 150,000 km. While generally robust, neglecting basic maintenance like valve clearances and oil changes accelerates wear on ancillary components.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1985-1996) and historical repair data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT C3G-710.
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.
