The Renault 19 Chamade 1.4 i, produced from 1992 to 1996, represented an entry-level offering within the broader Renault 19 range. This variant, part of the L53 series following the 1992 facelift, was primarily marketed in Europe as an affordable and practical compact sedan. It occupied the lower end of the 19 lineup, positioned below the more powerful 1.8 and 2.0-liter engine options, and served as a cost-effective alternative for buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and basic transportation. The Chamade body style, a three-box sedan, distinguished itself from the five-door hatchback also available in the 19 range.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | 19 |
| Generation | 19 Chamade (L53) (facelift 1992) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 i (60 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1992 |
| End of production | 1996 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.5 l/100 km (27.7 US mpg, 33.2 UK mpg, 11.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.3 l/100 km (44.4 US mpg, 53.3 UK mpg, 18.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg, 40.9 UK mpg, 14.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 14.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 162 km/h (100.66 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 16.1 kg/Hp, 62.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.5 kg/Nm, 105.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 60 Hp @ 4750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 43.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 102 Nm @ 3000 rpm (75.23 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | C3J |
| Engine displacement | 1390 cm3 (84.82 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75.8 mm (2.98 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 77 mm (3.03 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Single-point injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.5 l (3.7 US qt | 3.08 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 965 kg (2127.46 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1420 kg (3130.56 lbs.) |
| Max load | 455 kg (1003.1 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 463 l (16.35 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 865 l (30.55 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Length | 4248 mm (167.24 in.) |
| Width | 1696 mm (66.77 in.) |
| Height | 1412 mm (55.59 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2544 mm (100.16 in.) |
| Front track | 1426 mm (56.14 in.) |
| Rear track | 1417 mm (55.79 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic |
| Tires size | 165/70 R13 |
| Wheel rims size | 13 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Renault 19 Chamade 1.4 i was powered by the C3J engine, a 1390cc inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine featured a single-point fuel injection system, a relatively simple setup common in entry-level vehicles of the era. The C3J engine utilized a two-valve per cylinder configuration and a compression ratio of 9:1. Its modest output of 60 horsepower at 4750 rpm and 102 Nm (75.23 lb-ft) of torque at 3000 rpm was geared towards fuel economy rather than outright performance. The engine was transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle, driving the front wheels. The transmission was a standard five-speed manual gearbox, chosen for its affordability and efficiency. The engine’s design prioritized reliability and ease of maintenance, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers.
Driving Characteristics
The driving experience in the 1.4 i Chamade was characterized by its practicality and ease of use. Acceleration was modest, taking approximately 14.8 seconds to reach 100 km/h (62 mph). The five-speed manual transmission helped to keep the engine within its optimal power band, but overtaking maneuvers required careful planning. Compared to the more powerful 1.8 and 2.0-liter versions of the Renault 19, the 1.4 i felt noticeably slower and less refined. However, the lighter weight of the 1.4 i engine contributed to improved fuel economy and a more nimble feel in city driving. The gear ratios were tuned for efficiency, prioritizing lower engine speeds at highway cruising speeds. The steering, while not particularly sporty, was light and easy to use, making it well-suited for urban environments.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.4 i Chamade typically came with a basic level of equipment. Standard features generally included cloth upholstery, a simple dashboard layout, and manual windows and door locks. Power steering was often included, but air conditioning and central locking were usually optional extras. The interior was designed with practicality in mind, offering comfortable seating for five passengers and a reasonably sized trunk with 463 liters (16.35 cu. ft.) of space, expandable to 865 liters (30.55 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. Optional extras could include upgraded audio systems, alloy wheels, and metallic paint finishes.
Chassis & Braking
The Renault 19 Chamade 1.4 i utilized a relatively simple chassis design. The front suspension featured independent wishbones, while the rear suspension employed a torsion beam setup. This configuration provided a reasonable balance between ride comfort and handling. The braking system consisted of disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear wheels. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was often included as standard equipment, enhancing safety by preventing wheel lockup during hard braking. The steering was a rack and pinion system with hydraulic power assistance.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Renault 19 Chamade 1.4 i was generally well-received as an affordable and reliable compact sedan. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and practicality, but noted its lack of performance compared to higher-spec models. Compared to the 1.8 and 2.0-liter versions, the 1.4 i offered significantly lower running costs but at the expense of driving enjoyment. The 1.4 i also provided a more economical alternative to diesel-powered Renault 19s, appealing to buyers who preferred the smoother operation of a gasoline engine. Its fuel economy figures of around 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg) were competitive for its class.
Legacy
The Renault 19 Chamade 1.4 i, while not a performance icon, remains a popular choice among classic car enthusiasts and budget-conscious buyers. The C3J engine is known for its durability and relatively simple maintenance requirements. However, age-related issues such as corrosion and wear on suspension components are common. Parts availability is generally good, and the car’s straightforward design makes it relatively easy to repair. Today, the 1.4 i Chamade represents a practical and affordable entry point into classic Renault ownership, offering a glimpse into the automotive landscape of the early 1990s.
