Renault KJ
Renault's 'coal scuttle' answer to the Citroën Type C.
- Power
- 15 bhp
- Top speed
- 37 mph
- Est. value
- $9k–$25k
About the Renault KJ
Introduced at the 1922 Paris Motor Show, the Renault KJ was designed by Louis Renault to compete in the burgeoning 'petite voiture' market against the Citroën Type C and Peugeot Quadrilette. It is instantly recognisable by its 'coal scuttle' bonnet, a design necessitated by placing the radiator behind the engine, which also featured prominent cooling gills on the sides. The KJ was a significant step toward mass-market accessibility for Renault, featuring a simple 951cc four-cylinder engine and a three-speed manual gearbox. Though production was brief before it evolved into the KJ1 and later the NN, it remains a charming representative of early interwar French motoring.
Renault KJ specs
The Renault KJ produces 15 bhp (11 kW). It has a top speed of 37 mph (60 km/h).
| Make | Renault |
|---|---|
| Model | KJ |
| Trim | 1.0 |
| Years | 1923–1924 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Torpedo |
| Country | France |
| Engine | 0.95-litre inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 951 cc (1.0 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 15 bhp (11 kW) at 2,000 rpm |
| Top speed | 37 mph (60 km/h) |
| Transmission | 3-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 850 kg (1,874 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 18 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Renault KJ worth?
A typical Renault KJ is estimated to be worth $8,500 – $25,000 (about £6,300 – £19,000).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Renault KJ rarity in CarSpot
The Renault KJ is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 25 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Renault KJ fun facts
- The KJ's distinctive 'coal scuttle' bonnet was replaced by the 'alligator' style bonnet on the updated KJ1 variant later in production.
- A four-door Torpedo version of the Renault KJ was famously used as Walter Donovan's staff car in the film Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.
- Early models only featured brakes on the rear wheels, a common but precarious standard for light cars of the early 1920s.