The Popemobile, used by Pope Francis during his U.S. visit in September, sold at auction Friday for $300,000.
Miles Nadal, a Jewish businessman and philanthropist, bought the Fiat 500 Lounge Hatchback at the Charitybuzz auction.
“I look for iconic, one-of-a-kind cars, and thought this would be a cool conversation piece to have,” Nadal told ABC News. “As a Jew, I thought it was a unique opportunity to support Catholic charities and children.”
Nadal was behind MDC Partners, one of the top ad agencies in the world, and enjoys collecting cars. The Popemobile will join more than 130 cars and motorcycles in his collection.
He said he intends to take the car to Catholic schools and charities, including events by Catholic Relief Services and the Catholic Near East Welfare Association.
Cardinal Timothy Dolan of the New York Archdiocese will bless the car.
