The Renault 19 Chamade 1.7 i.e., produced from 1992 to 1996, represented a practical and affordable option within the broader Renault 19 range. The Chamade, a three-box sedan version of the popular hatchback, was primarily marketed in Europe as a budget-friendly family car. This particular 1.7-liter, 73 horsepower variant occupied a mid-range position in the lineup, offering a balance between economy and usability. It sat below the more powerful 1.8 and 2.0-liter engines, and above the base 1.4-liter models. The facelifted L53 series, introduced in 1992, brought updated styling and minor mechanical refinements to the 19 range.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | 19 |
| Generation | 19 Chamade (L53) (facelift 1992) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.7 i.e. (73 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1992 |
| End of production | 1996 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9 l/100 km (26.1 US mpg, 31.4 UK mpg, 11.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6 l/100 km (39.2 US mpg, 47.1 UK mpg, 16.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.2 l/100 km (32.7 US mpg, 39.2 UK mpg, 13.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 171 km/h (106.25 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 73 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Torque | 127 Nm @ 2750 rpm (93.67 lb.-ft. @ 2750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | F3N |
| Engine displacement | 1721 cm3 (105.02 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 83.5 mm (3.29 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Single-point injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.2 l (5.49 US qt | 4.58 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 990 kg (2182.58 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1460 kg (3218.75 lbs.) |
| Max load | 470 kg (1036.17 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 T |
| Wheel rims size | 13 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Renault 19 Chamade 1.7 i.e. was powered by the F3N engine, a 1721cc inline-four cylinder unit. This engine featured a single overhead camshaft (OHC) design and utilized a single-point fuel injection system – a relatively common setup for the early 1990s. While not as sophisticated as multi-point injection, it provided a reasonable balance of fuel efficiency and performance. The engine produced 73 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 127 Nm (93.67 lb-ft) of torque at 2750 rpm. The engine’s 9.5:1 compression ratio was typical for the era. The five-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing adequate gear spacing for everyday driving. The transmission was known for its relatively light shift feel, but wasn’t particularly sporty.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.7 i.e. Chamade offered a comfortable, if not exhilarating, driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 11.7 seconds, and top speed was approximately 106 mph. The engine felt reasonably responsive at lower speeds, making it suitable for urban driving. However, it lacked the punch of the larger 1.8 and 2.0-liter engines when overtaking or climbing hills. The five-speed manual transmission helped to keep the engine in its optimal power band, but the relatively long gearing meant that it wasn’t a particularly rev-happy engine. The Chamade’s suspension provided a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road well. Steering was light and easy, making it maneuverable in tight spaces.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.7 i.e. Chamade typically came equipped with basic amenities such as power steering, central locking, and a basic stereo system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a simple dashboard layout. Optional extras included air conditioning, electric windows, and upgraded stereo systems. The Chamade was generally positioned as a value-oriented trim level, offering essential features without the luxury of higher-spec models. The interior plastics were durable but lacked the refinement of more expensive cars.
Chassis & Braking
The Renault 19 Chamade featured a front-wheel-drive layout with independent wishbone suspension at the front and a torsion beam suspension at the rear. The front brakes were discs, while the rear brakes were drums – a common configuration for cars in this price range. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was often included as standard equipment, enhancing safety. The steering utilized a rack and pinion system with hydraulic assistance, providing a light and responsive feel. Tire size was typically 165/70 R13.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Renault 19 Chamade 1.7 i.e. was generally well-received as a practical and affordable family car. Critics praised its comfortable ride, decent fuel economy (around 32.7 US mpg combined), and relatively low running costs. However, it was often criticized for its lack of performance compared to larger-engined rivals. Compared to the 1.4-liter base model, the 1.7 i.e. offered a noticeable improvement in performance, making it a more suitable choice for drivers who frequently carried passengers or drove on highways. The 1.8 and 2.0-liter versions provided significantly more power but came at a higher price point.
Legacy
The Renault 19 Chamade 1.7 i.e. proved to be a reliable and durable car, with many examples still on the road today. The F3N engine is generally considered to be a robust unit, although regular maintenance is essential to prevent issues such as oil leaks and timing belt failure. The car’s simple mechanical design makes it relatively easy to repair and maintain. In the used car market, the 1.7 i.e. Chamade represents a budget-friendly option for those seeking a classic European sedan. Its affordability and practicality continue to appeal to a wide range of buyers.
