The Renault 19 Chamade 1.4 i Automatic, produced from 1992 to 1996, represented an entry-level offering within the broader Renault 19 range. The Chamade, a three-box sedan version of the 19, was particularly popular in European markets where compact, affordable family cars were in high demand. This specific variant, equipped with the 80 horsepower 1.4-liter engine and a three-speed automatic transmission, aimed to provide comfortable and convenient transportation for buyers prioritizing ease of use over outright performance. It sat below the more powerful 1.8-liter and diesel options in the lineup, targeting a different segment of the market.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | 19 |
| Generation | 19 Chamade (L53) (facelift 1992) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 i (80 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1992 |
| End of production | 1996 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.3 l/100 km (28.3 US mpg, 34 UK mpg, 12 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg, 51.4 UK mpg, 18.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.1 l/100 km (33.1 US mpg, 39.8 UK mpg, 14.1 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 16.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 16.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 15.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 165 km/h (102.53 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.1 kg/Hp, 82.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.9 kg/Nm, 112.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 80 Hp @ 5750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 57.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 109 Nm @ 2750 rpm (80.39 lb.-ft. @ 2750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | E6J |
| 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 | 9.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Single-point injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 5.2 l (5.49 US qt | 4.58 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 970 kg (2138.48 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1430 kg (3152.61 lbs.) |
| Max load | 460 kg (1014.13 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 (Back) track | 1417 mm (55.79 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 3 gears, automatic 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 Steering |
| Tires size | 165/70 R13 |
| Wheel rims size | 13 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Renault 19 Chamade 1.4 i Automatic utilized the E6J engine, a relatively simple, naturally aspirated inline-four cylinder engine. This engine featured a single overhead camshaft (OHC) design and a single-point fuel injection system. Single-point injection, while less sophisticated than multi-point injection, was cost-effective and contributed to the car’s affordability. The 1390cc engine produced 80 horsepower at 5750 rpm and 109 Nm (80.39 lb-ft) of torque at 2750 rpm. The three-speed automatic transmission was a Jatco unit, commonly used in various European vehicles of the era. It was chosen for its simplicity and reliability, rather than for sporty performance. The transmission’s gear ratios were optimized for fuel efficiency and smooth, comfortable cruising.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.4-liter automatic version of the Renault 19 Chamade was not known for its brisk acceleration. The 0-60 mph time of around 15.7 seconds and a top speed of 102.53 mph reflected its focus on economy and ease of driving. The automatic transmission, while convenient, resulted in noticeable power loss compared to the five-speed manual versions. Gear changes were relatively slow and lacked the responsiveness of more modern automatic transmissions. However, the car offered adequate performance for everyday driving, particularly in urban environments. The steering was light and easy, making it maneuverable in city traffic. The suspension provided a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface reasonably well.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.4 i Automatic Chamade typically came with a basic level of equipment. Standard features included power steering, central locking, and an AM/FM radio. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a simple dashboard layout. Optional extras included air conditioning, electric windows, and a sunroof. The trim level was generally considered entry-level, focusing on providing essential features at an affordable price point. The interior plastics were durable but not particularly luxurious.
Chassis & Braking
The Renault 19 Chamade featured a front-wheel-drive layout with a wishbone front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. The front brakes were disc brakes, while the rear brakes were drum brakes. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was often included as standard equipment, enhancing safety. The suspension setup prioritized comfort over sporty handling. The tires were typically 165/70 R13, providing a balance between grip and fuel efficiency.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Renault 19 Chamade 1.4 i Automatic was generally well-received as an affordable and practical family car. Critics acknowledged its comfortable ride and ease of use, but noted its lack of performance. Compared to the 1.8-liter versions, the 1.4 offered significantly less power and acceleration. However, it also offered better fuel economy and lower running costs. The 1.9 TDI diesel version provided even better fuel economy but lacked the refinement of the gasoline engine. The automatic transmission was seen as a plus for drivers who preferred convenience over sporty driving dynamics.
Legacy
The Renault 19 Chamade 1.4 i Automatic, while not a performance icon, proved to be a reliable and durable vehicle. The E6J engine, though simple in design, was generally robust and capable of high mileage with proper maintenance. The Jatco automatic transmission also proved to be relatively reliable. Today, these cars are relatively rare and are often sought after by enthusiasts looking for a classic French car. Parts availability can be a challenge, but many components are still available through specialist suppliers. The 1.4 i Automatic remains a testament to Renault’s ability to produce affordable and practical transportation for the masses.
