While a number of specially built vehicles have ferried around the last few popes in papal appearances around the world, the manufacturer that provided the basis for many of them has been Mercedes-Benz. One of those specially built papal Mercedes-Benzes will make its U.S. debut next month at the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance.
Based on a 1965 Mercedes-Benz 600 Pullman landaulet, this particular popemobile includes a number of features installed especially for Pope Paul VI, including an elevated roof, a seat for the pontiff that could be raised for maximum viewing, extended doors and bulletproof glass. It remained in use at the Vatican (wearing the same SCV 1 license plate that has adorned all papal vehicles and popemobiles) through 1985, when Pope John Paul II returned it to Mercedes-Benz, which has kept it in the company’s museum collection in Stuttgart since then.
The papal Pullman will be shown at Amelia Island as part of a featured class of Mercedes-Benz 600 vehicles, put together to celebrate the 125th anniversary of the company.
“We are deeply indebted to the people at Mercedes-Benz for agreeing to send us the Pope’s personal 600,” said Bill Warner, founder and co-chairman of the concours. “It has never been seen here in the United States, and it makes a statement worthy of the Pope’s status around the world. It is an incredible vehicle and a true showcase for Mercedes-Benz workmanship and advanced technological thinking.”
The 16th annual Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance will take place March 13, with events related to the concours beginning March 11.
