Drive On: Pope Benedict had near-new popemobile

In resigning, Pope Benedict XVI is going to leave behind many perks. Here's one: a luxury car with the best view of just about any vehicle on the road.

It, of course, is Benedict's new Popemobile, delivered late last year by the Mercedes-Benz, the German luxury maker. The pope is perched in a glass-enclosed seat high atop the driver so all the world can see him -- and he can see them.

As personally delivered to the pontiff by Dieter Zetsche, chairman of Mercedes' parent Daimler, the latest popemobile is a modified M Class crossover in papel white.

The new popemobile, in which Benedict has logged so few miles since it was delivered, gives him a better view than ever. It has larger glass panels, an illuminated roof liner and a built-in throne that bears the embroidered coat of arms of the Holy Father.