The Renault J6R 760 is a 2,165 cc, inline‑six petrol engine produced between 1985 and 1996. It features a cast iron block, aluminium head, SOHC valvetrain, and twin-barrel carburettor or fuel injection depending on variant. This engine was designed for smooth power delivery in Renault's executive models, producing outputs between 95–140 PS and 160–180 Nm of torque.
Fitted primarily to the Renault 25 and Alpine V6 GT/GTA, the J6R 760 was engineered for refined cruising and relaxed performance. Emissions compliance for its era was managed through basic engine management and exhaust systems, meeting prevailing French and European standards of the late 1980s and early 1990s.
One documented concern is premature failure of the water pump and associated gaskets, potentially leading to coolant loss and overheating. This issue, referenced in Renault Technical Note ME 02 89, is often linked to material fatigue in the pump housing. The engine received minor updates during its production run, including revised cylinder head gaskets to address early sealing issues.
Production years 1985–1996 meet applicable French/European emissions standards for their model year (UTAC Type Approval Ref: UTAC/85/760).
The Renault J6R 760 is a 2,165 cc inline‑six petrol engine engineered for executive sedans and coupes (1985-1996). It combines a robust cast iron block with a single overhead camshaft to deliver smooth, linear power delivery. Designed to meet prevailing European emissions standards of its era, it prioritised refinement and durability over peak efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,165 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑6, SOHC, 12‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 78.0 mm × 78.0 mm | |
| Power output | 95–140 PS (70–103 kW) | |
| Torque | 160–180 Nm @ 3,500–4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Solex 35-40 Z1 carburettor or Bosch L-Jetronic | |
| Emissions standard | Prevailing French/European standards (pre-Euro) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.0:1 (carb) / 9.5:1 (injection) | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (mineral or semi-synthetic) | |
| Dry weight | 185 kg |
The inline-six layout provides inherent smoothness ideal for highway cruising but requires diligent maintenance of the timing chain and water pump. Using a quality 10W-40 oil and adhering to 10,000 km service intervals is critical to prevent sludge buildup and premature wear. The carburetted versions are sensitive to fuel quality and require periodic tuning. Bosch L-Jetronic systems are generally robust but rely on clean electrical grounds. The water pump, located at the front of the engine, is a known wear item; proactive replacement is advised around 120,000 km to prevent coolant-related engine damage per Renault Technical Note ME 02 89.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 mineral or semi-synthetic oil (Renault Service Manual Vol. 1). API SF/CC or equivalent specification recommended.
Emissions: Meets pre-Euro standards applicable in France/Europe for 1985-1996 model years (UTAC Type Approval Ref: UTAC/85/760).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Higher outputs (140 PS) apply to fuel-injected GTA models (Renault Group PT-1990).
Renault Technical Information System: Notes ME 01 85, ME 02 89, ME 03 87
Renault Service Manuals (Volumes 1 & 3)
UTAC Type Approval Database (Ref: UTAC/85/760)
Renault Group Product Technical Specifications (PT-1990)
The Renault J6R 760 was used across Renault's R25 platform with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-different intake manifolds and engine mounts for the Alpine V6-creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat boss on the left-hand side of the engine block, just below the cylinder head (Renault Tech Note ME 01 85). The full code for this variant is "J6R 760". Carburetted engines have a large Solex carburettor atop the intake manifold, while fuel-injected versions feature a Bosch air flow meter and injector rail. The engine in the Alpine V6 has a distinctive red valve cover. Critical differentiation from the earlier Z7X engine: J6R has a taller deck height and a different bellhousing pattern.
The J6R 760's primary reliability risk is cooling system failure, particularly water pump and gasket leaks. Renault internal service data indicated a high incidence of water pump replacement by 100,000 km. Extended periods of inactivity or infrequent coolant changes accelerate corrosion and seal degradation, making proactive maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1985-1996) and UTAC failure statistics (1990-2000). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT J6R-760.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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