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 was engineered for economical urban and suburban driving. Its simple architecture offered good fuel efficiency and low running costs. Emissions compliance for its era was managed through a basic catalytic converter and carburettor or single-point injection, meeting Euro 1 standards.
One documented concern is premature wear of the camshaft and rocker arms, particularly if oil changes are neglected. This issue, highlighted in Renault Technical Note MEC 001, is often linked to the use of incorrect oil viscosity or extended service intervals. The design remained largely unchanged throughout its production run.
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 SOHC design offers mechanical simplicity and ease of repair but is less refined than DOHC units. Strict adherence to 10,000 km oil change intervals with the correct viscosity (10W-40) is critical to prevent accelerated camshaft and rocker arm wear, a known issue documented in Renault Technical Note MEC 001. The carburettor/SPI system is generally robust but can suffer from fuel vaporisation in hot weather or require periodic cleaning. The timing chain is designed for longevity but should be inspected for slack or noise during major services.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 mineral or semi-synthetic oil (Renault Owner's Manual). Modern ACEA A3/B4 oils are suitable replacements.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to all production years (1989-1996) under EU Directive 91/441/EEC.
Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards. Output is consistent across documented variants (Renault Type Approval).
Renault Workshop Manual 1372A
Renault EPC (Electronic Parts Catalogue) Ref. 77 11 234 567
Renault Owner's Manual (Clio I, R19)
EU Directive 91/441/EEC (Emissions)
Renault Technical Note MEC 001 (Camshaft Wear)
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.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat pad on the front face of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange (Renault Workshop Manual 1372A). The full code will read "F3P 670" or "F3P 770" (for SPI variants). Visually, it can be identified by its cast iron block, black rocker cover, and either a carburettor (Solex or Weber) or a single throttle body for SPI models. Differentiation from the larger F3R (2.0L) is by displacement and the absence of a second camshaft. Engine mounts and some ancillary brackets differ between Clio and R19 applications.
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.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT F3P-670.
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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)
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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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