To indicate the differences between the first and second generation cars, different numbers and letters are used. The names of all cars belonging to the first generation begin with "J11" or "S11". This number is followed by a number that refers to the installed engine.
The names of the second generation models begin with "J63". And also followed by a number that refers to the installed engine. The specifications give values for individual models.
Various model names have been used over the years, from 2000 GTS and 2000 TSE for petrol models and Turbo D or Turbo DX for diesel models in early years, 2000-1 (1986), TXE (since 1988) to the latest names "RN", "RT" and "RXE" since 1992.
The cars are equipped with four engines, varying in design and size. The 1995 cc engine is either a carburettor (J6R) or fuel-injected (J7R). The 2165 cc engine is probably the longest of the engines installed, is designated "J7T" and is equipped with a fuel injection system. The 2848 cc V6 engine is designated "Z7W" and is a modification of the V6 engine previously installed in Renault cars. This engine is equipped with a fuel injection system.
The names used by Renault are not just letters and numbers, they have a specific meaning that is not known to most people. The names provide explanations about the type of engine design (first letter), valve control and fuel preparation method (figure) and engine volume (last letter). Below are some examples:
2.1 The manufacturer's plate of early models is located in the wheel well on the right side of the engine compartment.
1. Body and engine type; 2 = Carburetor; 5 = Diesel; 6 = Injection; 7 = Unleaded petrol; 2. Basic model; 3. Serial number; 4. Manufacturer; T = Romorantine; K = Dieppe; A Manufacturer's name; In the European registration number; From Chassis number; D Gross vehicle weight; E Gross vehicle weight with trailer; F Maximum permissible load on the front axle; G Maximum permissible load on the rear axle; With the launch of the new series of cars, not only the nameplate but also its location has changed. It is located on the right side of the middle door pillar (see illustration 2.2).
J Aluminum alloy cylinder block with overhead camshaft.
6 With two-stage carburetor
7 With fuel injection
8 Diesel engine with fuel injection in the pre-camera
R Engine capacity between 1951 and 2050 cm³
S Engine capacity between 2051 and 2150 cm³
T Engine capacity between 2151 and 2300 cm³
Engines with the designation "Z" have the following meanings:
- Z Aluminum alloy cylinder block with V6 arrangement.
- 7 Fuel injection
- W Engine capacity between 2751 and 3000 cm³
Despite the differences between individual engines, gearboxes are also not the same for different models, so always specify the chassis number and engine number when purchasing parts. Engines are marked with a Renault type number, use this to identify a particular model.
2.2 Nameplate on models produced since 1992 (second generation)
A Manufacturer's name; In the European registration number; With French registration number; D Chassis number; E Maximum permissible vehicle load; F Maximum permissible load of a vehicle with a trailer; G Maximum permissible load on the front axle; H Maximum permissible load on the rear axle; 1 Vehicle type; 2 Gearbox device; 3 Technical equipment; 4 Installation by special order; 5 Upholstery number; 6 Paint coating number; 7 Level of equipment; 8 Manufacturer's serial number