From GMA NEWS:
Pope Benedict XVI has received not just one but two early high-tech Christmas gifts this year: two new Popemobiles. They are customized Mercedes-Benz M-Class vehicles fitted with the latest technology. Vatican Radio's quoted Thomas Zeeb, managing director of Mercedes-Benz Stuttgart, as saying the new Class M Popemobile includes top-of the range air-conditioning and lighting. He added the new Popemobile's design started last year, taking nine months to adapt to the needs of the Pontiff.
It's strange, isn't it? In most countries it is illegal for a head of state to except anything other than token gifts from other countries and business concerns. Yet, the head of the Vatican State and legislature blatantly accepts huge bribes from all sorts of people and institutions. What sort of an example is he setting to the too easily corrupted leaders of those third world countries where so many Roman catholics live?
Oh Mad Priest! You’re just being obtuse. Whether these were gifts or not is irrelevant. It’s important to remember that the Pope is riding in well-lit, air-conditioned cars for others. He’s kind of like Jesus that way.
Class M Popemobile? How many of the damned things does Mercedes Benz make, if they have to keep track of them by classes?
There’s also their sporty Class S&M Popemobile (whip rack comes standard).
Fiat must be feeling very left out.