Product Description
The Renault 40CV was a large car produced by the French vehicle manufacturer Renault from 1911 to 1928.
It was sold in many variations which were known by two letter names such as the CG, ES and JP. Originally launched with a 6-cylinder 7.5-litre engine (7,539 cc (460 cu in)), this was replaced by a larger 9.1-litre 9,120 cc (557 cu in) engine when the “Type HF” version of the 40CV replaced the “Type HD” version in August 1920. In 1922 the 40CV was fitted with a hydraulic servo-brake system. The 40 CV was replaced by the Renault Reinastella in 1928.
A 40CV won the Monte Carlo Rally in 1925, and a modified single-seater NM became well known in 1926 for being able to cover 50 miles (80.5 km) at a speed of 190 km/h (118.1 mph) and broke the 24-hour record by covering 4167.57 km at an average speed of 173.6 km/h (107.9 mph).
Between 1920 and 1928 the Renault 40CV served as official transport for the French president, usurping a role previously filled by the Panhard 20CV. Most noted among them was Pierre-Paul-Henri-Gaston Doumergue (1 August 1863 – 18 June 1937) who was elected the thirteenth President of France on 13 June 1924; the only Protestant to hold that office. He was widely regarded as one of the most popular French Presidents, particularly after highly controversial Alexandre Millerand, who was his predecessor. Doumergue was single when elected, and became the first President of France to marry in office. He served until 13 June 1931, and again was Prime Minister in a conservative national unity government, following the riots of 6 February 1934. This government lasted from 6 February to 8 November 1934.
