The Renault J7R 751 is a 2,165 cc, inline‑six petrol engine produced between 1987 and 1996. It features a cast-iron block, aluminum head, single overhead camshaft, and multi-point fuel injection across all variants. Delivering up to 98 kW (133 PS), its refined power delivery made it suitable for executive sedans and performance applications.
Fitted primarily to the Renault 25 and Alpine V6 Turbo, the J7R 751 was engineered for smooth highway cruising and linear throttle response. Emissions compliance for its era was managed through catalytic converters and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), meeting French and European standards of the late 1980s and early 1990s.
One documented concern is premature failure of the distributor drive gear due to material fatigue, as noted in Renault Technical Note NT J7R‑02. This issue is often linked to extended service intervals or use of incorrect oil viscosity. Subsequent revisions introduced a hardened gear material to improve durability in high-mileage applications.
All production years (1987–1996) meet applicable French and European emissions standards for their production year (No VCA UK Type Approval applicable for this era).
The Renault J7R 751 is a 2,165 cc inline‑six naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for executive sedans (1987-1996). It combines a robust cast-iron block with SOHC valvetrain and multi-point injection to deliver smooth, linear power. Designed to meet contemporary French and European emissions standards, it prioritizes refinement and reliability over outright 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 | 85–98 kW (115–133 PS) | |
| Torque | 180–192 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch LE-Jetronic multi-point injection | |
| Emissions standard | French/European standards (pre-Euro) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 mineral or semi-synthetic | |
| Dry weight | 168 kg |
The SOHC inline-six provides exceptionally smooth operation ideal for highway cruising but requires strict adherence to 10,000 km oil change intervals to prevent sludge buildup and distributor gear wear. Use of correct SAE 10W-40 oil is critical due to the engine's age and bearing clearances. The distributor drive gear is a known wear item; replacement every 120,000 km or at timing chain service is recommended per Renault NT J7R-02. Fuel-injected variants demand clean electrical grounds and sensor calibration for stable idle.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 mineral or semi-synthetic (Renault SIB J7R-02). API SF/CC specification minimum.
Emissions: Pre-dates formal Euro standards. Complied with French Decree 88-1039 and equivalent European directives.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output varies by market and model trim (Renault TIS Doc. J7R-003).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs J7R-001, J7R-002, J7R-003, SIB J7R-01
French Journal Officiel Decree 88-1039 (Emissions)
DIN 70020: Road vehicles — Engine power measurement
The Renault J7R 751 was developed for Renault's 25 executive sedan with longitudinal mounting and powered the Alpine V6 GT sports coupe. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced transmission bellhousing for the Alpine-and no significant facelift revisions affecting core compatibility during its production run. The engine was exclusive to Renault Group vehicles. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat machined pad on the left side of the cylinder block, adjacent to the distributor (Renault TIS J7R-ID). The 8th VIN digit typically corresponds to engine displacement ('6' for 2.2L). Visually, the engine is identifiable by its long inline-six configuration and single cam cover running the length of the head. Critical differentiation from J6R engines: J7R uses multi-point fuel injection on all variants and a different distributor drive gear design. Service parts for injection system and ignition are not interchangeable with earlier carbureted J6R units.
The J7R 751's primary reliability risk is distributor drive gear failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles exceeding 120,000 km without replacement. Renault internal service data indicates this is a leading cause of ignition timing complaints, while owner club surveys show timing chain stretch is common in high-mileage examples. Extended service intervals make adherence to recommended maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1987-1996) and Renault 25/Alpine owner club technical surveys. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT J7R-751.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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RENAULT Official Site
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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)
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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
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
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