Inside Pope Francis’ Holy Garage – You Won’t Believe Car #3!

By ahmed salman On Apr 22, 2025

Pope Francis passed away on April 21, 2025, at age 88, in Vatican City. He served as pope for over 12 years. Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, he was the first Latin American and Jesuit pope. He championed the poor, refugees, and the environment.

His papacy emphasized humility, compassion, and social justice. He reformed Vatican finances and governance structures. He was known as “The People’s Pope” for his approachability and empathy. His legacy continues to inspire millions around the world.

In honor of his memory, we present Pope Francis’s car collection—a reflection of his values and simplicity.

#10 Mercedes-Benz ML 430 Popemobile

The Mercedes-Benz ML 430 Popemobile debuted in 2002 for Pope John Paul II’s public appearances. The rear had a bulletproof glass enclosure with a throne-like seat for visibility and protection. Hydraulic lifts raised the seat, allowing the Pope to wave to the crowds.

It offered complete air conditioning and armor as well as being completely off-road capable. The car had reinforced tires and security upgrades hidden under a civilian exterior. It was later used by Pope Benedict XVI and occasionally by Pope Francis. It now rests in Mercedes-Benz’s official museum in Stuttgart.

#9 1964 Lincoln Papal Limousine

The 1964 Lincoln Papal Limousine was custom-built by Lehmann-Peterson for Pope Paul VI’s visit to New York in 1965. It was based on a Lincoln Continental, but it was stretched significantly for a more ceremonial look. The rear featured a raised platform and throne-like seat for visibility during parades.

It also had a glass roof and custom lighting for night events. Unlike modern Popemobiles, it wasn’t bulletproof but focused on elegance and presence. The car symbolized the Church’s effort to connect with people during the post-Vatican II era. It’s now part of the Ford Motor Company’s historical collection.

#8 2005 Ferrari Enzo

The 2005 Ferrari Enzo was a gift to Pope John Paul II, though he never drove it. Ferrari built only 400 units, making it an instant collector’s dream. It had a 6.0-liter V12 pushing 651 hp straight to the rear wheels. It went from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.6 seconds.

Pope John Paul II had it auctioned for charity instead of keeping it. He requested that it be auctioned to aid the victims of the 2004 tsunami. Initially, it sold for around $1.15 million. In 2015, it resold for $6.05 million, setting a record for an Enzo.

It was a strange but memorable mix of Italian excess and papal humility. Today, it’s still one of Ferrari’s most iconic hypercars.

#7 Mercedes-Benz G-Class (Electric Popemobile)

The electric G-Class Popemobile isn’t just ceremonial. It sends a message. Mercedes took the G 580 EQ and rebuilt it from the ground up. It runs silently on four motors and features precise low-speed control for smooth operations.

The rear features an elevated glass enclosure with a simple white throne. Pope Francis uses it to back his climate stance with visible action. It’s quiet, clean, and deliberate. A moving symbol of purpose, not luxury. If you want to read more about the Electric Popemobile, click here.

#6 Fiat 500L

Pope Francis made headlines during his 2015 U.S. visit by choosing a modest Fiat 500L for transportation. This choice stood out amidst a convoy of large SUVs, emphasizing his commitment to humility and environmental consciousness.

The 500L, a compact family car, symbolized his message of simplicity and accessibility. After the visit, the vehicle was auctioned off to support Catholic charities, raising a significant amount of funds. This act reinforced the Pope’s dedication to using his platform for philanthropic efforts.

#5 1984 Renault 4 GTL

Pope Francis received a white 1984 Renault 4 GTL in 2013, a gift from Father Renzo Zocca of Verona. The car had over 300,000 kilometers on it and symbolized the Pope’s commitment to humility and simplicity.

The Renault 4 GTL was equipped with a 1.1-liter engine producing 34 hp and was renowned for its practicality and reliability. This model was part of a lineup that sold over eight million units worldwide. The Pope’s acceptance of this modest vehicle highlighted his preference for modesty over luxury.

The Renault 4 remains an iconic symbol of functional design and accessibility.

#4 Ford Focus

Pope Francis chose a humble Ford Focus for his daily transportation within Vatican City. He spotted the dark blue 2006 model in the Vatican motor pool and requested to use it instead of the traditional limousine. This decision aligned with his commitment to simplicity and humility.

The vehicle, bearing the license plate “SCV 00919,” became a symbol of his down-to-earth approach. Notably, he once used it for a personal trip to an optician in Rome, accompanied by minimal security. The Pope’s choice of this modest car resonated with many, emphasizing his message of accessibility and modesty.

#3 Dacia Duster

In 2019, Pope received a custom Dacia Duster as a new Popemobile. Built by Renault’s Romanian team and coachbuilder Romturingia, it was tailored for papal needs. The vehicle featured a removable glass enclosure, a large sunroof, and a lowered suspension for easier access.

Inside, it had a beige interior with a specially designed rear bench seat for comfort. This choice reflected the Pope’s preference for modest, practical vehicles over luxury models. It served as a symbol of his commitment to connecting with people in a straightforward manner.

#2 Hyundai Ioniq 5

In September 2024, during his visit to Singapore, Pope Francis chose a locally assembled Hyundai Ioniq 5 as his mode of transport. The vehicle was produced at Hyundai’s Innovation Centre in Jurong, Singapore. This choice aligned with the Pope’s commitment to environmental sustainability.

The Ioniq 5 is a fully electric vehicle, reflecting his advocacy for eco-friendly transportation. The Pope was seen riding in the front passenger seat, engaging directly with the public. The car bore the Vatican’s ‘SCV 1’ license plate, signifying its official status.

This decision underscored his preference for modesty and connection over opulence.

#1 Lamborghini Huracán

In 2017, Lamborghini gifted Pope Francis a custom Huracán RWD, painted in Vatican white with gold accents. Instead of keeping it, he signed the hood and sent it to auction. The car sold for €809,375, nearly $970,000, at RM Sotheby’s in Monaco.

Proceeds supported charities aiding Iraqi Christians, trafficking victims, and African communities. This act reflected the Pope’s commitment to humility and charitable causes.

Conclusion:

Pope Francis’s car collection wasn’t about horsepower or prestige. It was a rolling reflection of his values—humility, accessibility, and purpose. From auctioning a Lamborghini to riding in a beat-up Renault 4, every vehicle told a story.

Even in matters of mobility, he chose message over luxury. His legacy lives on, not just in sermons, but in the simple cars he rode. Thanks for reading till the end. Let us know what you think in the comments below. Keep following the Arabwheels Blog for more content like this.