The Pope drives a Ferrari

In COCKPIT's automotive culture, we love to share stories that unite cars and people.

One of these stories could be the title of a movie, but it's a most surprising reality: the Pope drives a Ferrari.

Don't worry, there's nothing diabolical about this story, just a good feeling.

This story begins where the Ferrari Enzo story was supposed to end. In keeping with tradition, initial plans for the Enzo called for a production run of 349 units, one less than market demand. Demand quickly grew, and it was ultimately decided to produce 399 units. Except... a 400th unit was indeed produced, but never put on sale. Indeed, Luca di Montezemolo, then head of the famous Italian automaker, decided to donate it to the Vatican and Pope John Paul II in January 2005.

A Ferrari for Charity

His Holiness John Paul II naturally thanked Ferrari for this donation, but invited them to sell it to the highest bidder and donate the entire amount raised to the victims of the terrible tsunami that had devastated Southeast Asia a few weeks earlier. The auction was scheduled for June, but sadly, the Pope passed away in April. The check was therefore presented to his successor, Benedict XVI.

Distinctive Features

The car itself was sold to the United States, where it has remained ever since. With 179 kilometers on the odometer, it has been used extremely sparingly! A few distinctive features set it apart from other Ferrari Enzos, starting with its "Scuderia Red" color, inspired by Formula 1 Ferraris.

Also noteworthy are the carbon fiber rear spoiler, the "Daytona" seats, and, above all, the plaque located in the trunk, which bears the handwritten phrase of Luca di Montezemolo: "Questa Enzo unica nella storia della Ferrari quale segno della solidarietà per chi soffre ispirata da un Grande Papa, Giovanni Paolo II." For those who don't speak the language of Dante, this translates to: "This unique Enzo in the history of Ferrari is a sign of solidarity with those who suffer, inspired by a Great Pope, John Paul II."

A Historic Ferrari

Sold at RM Sotheby's sumptuous auction in Monterey, California, this Enzo fetched a bid of $6,050,000, or over €5.44 million. More than just a Ferrari, the bidder acquired a little piece of history...

However, this story is not new, as the Pope has already been spotted driving a Ferrari during his travels. It just goes to show that old demons are never far away...

1988 Maranello |Ferrari Mondial 8 Cabriolet

especially since Lamborghini followed by offering Pope Francis a Huracan, also sold at auction.