Is it possible for a leader of a global faith to embody both humility and extravagance? The life of Pope Francis, and in particular his unique relationship with automobiles, offers a compelling "yes" to this question. His choices in vehicles, ranging from everyday models to bespoke luxury cars, reveal a complex character, a dedication to his mission, and a deep connection to the world around him.
The late Pope Francis, who passed away on Easter Monday at the age of 88, lived a life that echoed his beliefs. Even his mode of transportation was carefully considered and was a reflection of his faith, his mission and the connection with everyday people. From the simplicity of a Ford Focus and a Renault 4 to the grandeur of a Lamborghini Huracn, each vehicle held a special meaning.
Here's a glimpse into the life of Pope Francis:
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jorge Mario Bergoglio |
| Born | December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina |
| Died | April 21, 2025 |
| Religious Order | Society of Jesus (Jesuits) |
| Ordination | Ordained as a priest on December 13, 1969 |
| Episcopal Consecration | Consecrated as a bishop on June 28, 1992 |
| Archbishop of Buenos Aires | 1998 2013 |
| Cardinal | Created Cardinal on February 21, 2001 |
| Papal Election | Elected Pope on March 13, 2013 |
| Pontificate | March 13, 2013 April 21, 2025 |
| Motto | Miserando atque eligendo (Having mercy and choosing) |
| Notable Actions and Initiatives | Emphasis on mercy and compassion, reform of the Curia, focus on social justice, environmental advocacy. |
| Interests | Football (soccer), tango music, literature |
| Link to Official Website | The Vatican |
The popemobile, a symbol of papal authority and security, also played a pivotal role in his public life. This specialized vehicle, designed to transport the Pope while allowing him to greet the public, evolved over time. The popemobile's history is as fascinating as the man it carries. The first popemobile dates back to 1930, given to Pope Pius XI. These vehicles were not just modes of transportation; they were platforms, and tools which allowed him to interact with the faithful.
Pope Francis's relationship with cars offers a lens through which to understand his values. He didn't need a super luxury car, so he did not use the Lamborghini Huracan, which was gifted to him. The car was built by the Lamborghini Ad Personam customization division to his unique specifications. The Pope signed the car's bonnet and handed it over to Sothebys for auction. This striking contrast is the hallmark of Pope Francis, reflecting the balance of his life between material objects and his calling.
The Lamborghini was sold in May 2018 for approximately 715,000 (around $860,000) more than triple its original price, thanks to its unique status and papal signature. The proceeds were allocated to Christian communities in Iraqs Nineveh Plains. His actions are the best example of his values. He is truly the beacon of hope to many of the worlds most desperate and marginalized people.
Before his papacy, then-Cardinal Bergoglio was known for his preference for public transport. He was observed frequently taking the bus in Buenos Aires. The fact that he preferred simple means of transport when he was a cardinal says a lot about his personality.
The pontiff has used five cars depending on the occasion. However, Pope Francis is thought to prefer more humble cars and is not a fan of enclosed cars.
Pope Francis did not drive his super luxury car. He did not keep the Lamborghini Huracan donated to him for his use. In fact, by February, which was a couple of months after the delivery of the car. Pope Francis is the head of the Catholic Church and 266th sovereign of the Vatican City State. He is the first pope of the member of the Society of Jesus. Pope, is the first from America, the first from the southern hemisphere, and the first people from outside Europe.
In 2017, Lamborghini gifted Pope Francis a $200,000 Huracan, which he blessed and added his signature on the car's hood, before auctioning it for charity. The car reflects a broader trend of automotive gifts received by the Pope. I ts not the first automotive gift pope francis has received. His holiness was gifted a Dacia Duster by the automaker in November.
The Vatican Museums' "fleet" of automobiles includes the Mercedes 300 SEL, the Fiat Campagnola linked to the assassination attempt against John Paul II in St. Peters Square in 1981, three popemobiles (Land Rover, Toyota and Mercedes 230 GE), the last Beetle produced by Volkswagen in Mexico in 2003, and the Renault 4 donated to Pope. A team of specialists from different Mercedes locations worked for almost a year with representatives from the Vatican to build a car tailored to the popes needs.
Pope Pius XI is the pope who transitioned from the carriage to the car. This vehicle was still accessorized like its carriage predecessors in the manner of a throne room.
Pope Francis's car collection is a fascinating blend of modesty and philanthropic impact, encapsulating his unique approach to papal transportation. From the simplicity of the Ford Focus and Renault 4 to the grandeur of a Lamborghini Huracn, each vehicle reflects different aspects of his mission.
The popemobile also functions as a form of security for the pope and as a physical platform to enhance his visibility and accessibility. Read on to find out more about the popemobile's nuances, features, history, and evolution.
