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)),[1] 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.

[2] In 1922 the 40CV was fitted with a hydraulic servo-brake system.

[4][5] A 40CV won the Monte Carlo Rally in 1925,[6] and a modified single-seater NM became well known in 1926 for being able to cover 80.5 kilometres (50 mi) at a speed of 190 km/h (118.1 mph) and broke the 24-hour record by covering 4,167.57 km (2,589.6 mi) at an average speed of 173.6 km/h (107.9 mph).

[7] Between 1920 and 1928 the Renault 40CV served as official transport for French presidents Alexandre Millerand and Gaston Doumergue, replacing a role previously filled by the Panhard 20CV.