Pope Benedict XVI's Mercedes ML 430

Staff Writer

Times Herald-Record

The Popemobile is not the official name; the vehicle does not have one. Pope John Paul II asked journalists to stop using the term in 2002 because he thought it sounded "undignified."

Pope Benedict XVI's visit to New York was the most highlighted news event this month. Here are the specifics on the most talked about ride.

Donna Kessler

Color: Mother of pearl

Pet name: Popemobile

Under the hood: 4.3 liter V-8 engine, 272 hp, automatic transmission

Special features: Vatican coat of arms on each door; special license plate that reads "SCV 1," an acronym for the Vatican's name in Italian and the number of the Holy Father's place in the church hierarchy; interior upholstered with a gold-trimmed white leather to match the pope's attire, windows are double-paned bullet-proof; a climate-controlled system to ensure comfort; and a full stereo system. The car can go from 0 to 60 in less than eight seconds but is specially designed for slow speeds.

Value: $511,000

Other facts: The first papal vehicle, a Nurberg 460 Pullman limousine, was made for Pope Pius XI in 1930 by Mercedes-Benz. The Popemobile is not the official name; the vehicle does not have one. Pope John Paul II asked journalists to stop using the term in 2002 because he thought it sounded "undignified."