The Renault F3P 670 is a 1,721 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1989 and 1996. It features a cast iron block, aluminium cylinder head, and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) with 8 valves. This robust design prioritised durability and ease of maintenance, delivering outputs around 65 kW (88 PS) and 135 Nm of torque for dependable everyday performance.
Fitted to models such as the Clio I (B/C57U), R19 (B/C53U), and Express van, the F3P 670 wa…
Production years 1989–1996 meet Euro 1 standards as per EU Directive 91/441/EEC (VCA UK Type Approval applicable for UK-market vehicles).
The Renault F3P 670 is a 1,721 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and vans (1989-1996). It combines a durable cast iron block with a simple SOHC valvetrain to deliver reliable, economical performance. Designed to meet Euro 1 emissions standards, it prioritised serviceability and low running costs.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,721 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 79.5 mm × 87.0 mm | |
Power output | 65 kW (88 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
Torque | 135 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
Fuel system | Carburettor or Single-point injection (SPI) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | None | |
Timing system | Chain-driven camshaft | |
Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (Mineral or Semi-synthetic) | |
Dry weight | Not specified in primary sources |
The Renault F3P 670 was used across Renault's Clio I and R19 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations-different intake manifolds and engine mounts-and no significant facelift revisions occurred during its production, ensuring broad interchangeability. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The F3P 670's primary reliability risk is camshaft and rocker arm wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to infrequent servicing. Renault Technical Note MEC 001 details this concern, while general owner reports frequently cite carburettor or SPI system faults as common drivability issues. Neglecting basic maintenance makes adherence to the specified oil type and change interval critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1989-1996) and general owner-reported failure patterns. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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The F3P 670 is fundamentally a robust and simple engine. Its long-term reliability heavily depends on consistent maintenance, particularly oil changes. Neglect, especially using the wrong oil, leads to camshaft wear. With proper care, these engines can easily exceed 200,000 km.
The most common issues are camshaft/rocker wear (due to poor maintenance), carburettor or SPI system faults causing drivability problems, cooling system leaks from ageing hoses and plastic parts, and ignition system component failures like distributor caps or HT leads.
The F3P 670 was primarily used in the first-generation Renault Clio (1990-1996) and the Renault 19 (1989-1996) in their base model variants (RN, RL). It was also fitted to the Renault Express and Extra vans during the same period.
Minor tuning is possible. Upgrading the carburettor or exhaust system can yield small gains. However, its SOHC 8-valve design is a significant limit. Major power increases are impractical without extensive, costly modifications that compromise reliability.
Fuel economy is reasonable for its era. Expect around 7.5-8.5 L/100km (33-38 mpg UK) in mixed driving for a Clio or R19. Real-world figures vary significantly based on driving style, condition, and whether it has a carburettor or SPI.
No. The Renault F3P 670 is a non-interference engine. If the timing chain were to fail, the pistons and valves will not collide, preventing catastrophic internal damage. This is a significant design advantage for longevity.
Renault specifies a SAE 10W-40 mineral or semi-synthetic oil. Using this correct viscosity is crucial for lubricating the camshaft and rockers. Modern ACEA A3/B4 specification oils are suitable high-quality replacements. Change every 10,000 km or 12 months.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
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