The Renault 19 Chamade 1.8 16V, produced from 1992 to 1996, represented a performance-oriented variant within the popular Renault 19 range. Part of the L53 series, which benefited from a 1992 facelift, the Chamade was Renault’s compact sedan offering, positioned as a practical and stylish choice in the European market. This particular 1.8-liter 16-valve engine and five-speed manual transmission combination aimed to provide a more engaging driving experience than the base models, appealing to drivers seeking a balance between economy and performance. The Renault 19, as a whole, was a significant model for Renault, selling over 3 million units during its production run and establishing a strong presence in the competitive C-segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | 19 |
| Generation | 19 Chamade (L53) (facelift 1992) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.8 i 16V (136 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1992 |
| End of production | 1996 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.6 l/100 km (22.2 US mpg, 26.6 UK mpg, 9.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.3 l/100 km (37.3 US mpg, 44.8 UK mpg, 15.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.6 l/100 km (30.9 US mpg, 37.2 UK mpg, 13.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 212 km/h (131.73 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.5 kg/Hp, 117.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.2 kg/Nm, 139.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 136 Hp @ 6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 77.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 162 Nm @ 4250 rpm (119.49 lb.-ft. @ 4250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | F7P |
| Engine displacement | 1764 cm3 (107.65 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 83.5 mm (3.29 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1160 kg (2557.36 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs.) |
| Max load | 440 kg (970.03 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 |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 195/50 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Renault 19 Chamade 1.8 16V is the F7P engine, a 1.8-liter inline-four cylinder powerplant. This engine is notable for its dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) and four valves per cylinder, a configuration that allowed for improved breathing and higher revs compared to simpler engines. The F7P utilized multi-point fuel injection, delivering fuel directly to each intake port for precise control and efficient combustion. The 16-valve head, combined with a compression ratio of 10:1, contributed to the engine’s respectable 136 horsepower at 6500 rpm and 162 Nm (119.49 lb-ft) of torque at 4250 rpm. The five-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing drivers with good control over the engine’s power band. The transmission’s gear ratios were tuned to balance acceleration with fuel efficiency, offering a reasonably sporty driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.8 16V Chamade offered a noticeable step up in performance compared to the lower-spec Renault 19 models. Acceleration to 60 mph was achieved in approximately 8.1 seconds, and it could reach a top speed of 131.73 mph. While not a sports car, the engine provided ample power for everyday driving and confident overtaking maneuvers. The five-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power range, enhancing responsiveness. Compared to the 1.4-liter versions, the 1.8 felt significantly more refined and capable, though it lacked the outright punch of the later Renaultsport models. The suspension, tuned for comfort, provided a reasonably compliant ride, although it could feel slightly soft during aggressive cornering.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Renault 19 Chamade 1.8 16V typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features for its time. These included power steering, central locking, electric front windows, and an adjustable steering column. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a relatively simple but functional dashboard layout. Optional extras could include air conditioning, a sunroof, and upgraded audio systems. The Chamade trim level generally represented a mid-range offering, bridging the gap between the basic models and the more luxurious versions.
Chassis & Braking
The Renault 19 Chamade featured a front-wheel-drive layout with independent wishbone suspension at the front and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was included as standard, enhancing safety by preventing wheel lockup during hard braking. The steering utilized a rack and pinion system with hydraulic assistance, providing precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Renault 19 Chamade 1.8 16V was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its lively engine, comfortable ride, and practical interior. Compared to rivals like the Peugeot 305/306 and Citroën BX, the Renault 19 offered a compelling combination of style, performance, and value. Fuel economy was respectable for the time, averaging around 30.9 US mpg in combined driving. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the electrical system. The 1.8 16V variant offered a significant improvement over the base models in terms of performance, making it a popular choice for drivers who wanted a more engaging driving experience.
Legacy
The Renault 19 Chamade 1.8 16V remains a fondly remembered car among enthusiasts. The F7P engine is known for its durability and relatively simple maintenance requirements. Today, well-maintained examples are becoming increasingly sought after by classic car collectors. While not particularly rare, finding a rust-free and original example can be challenging. The 1.8 16V powertrain is generally considered to be a reliable unit, capable of providing years of service with proper maintenance. The Renault 19, as a whole, left a lasting impression on the European automotive landscape, and the Chamade 1.8 16V represents a particularly enjoyable and capable variant within the range.
