The Deacon's Bench
A Philadelphia car salesman will be rolling like Pope Francis after winning a special Fiat 500L the pontiff used during his historic visit to the United States last year during an auction at the Philadelphia International Auto Show.
Michael Chapman, owner of Chapman Ford in Northeast Philadelphia, placed the winning bid of $82,000 to buy one of the pope’s four-door compact at auction Friday night. The car retails for $19,495.
People had the opportunity to bid in person or online. Archdiocesan spokesman Ken Gavin said more than 19 bidders participated the auction. He did not say how many bids were cast.
The proceeds will benefit the Archdiocese of Philadelphia’s special education schools.
Chapman plans to display the car at his dealership for now.
Photo: Getty Images
Ad-Free & Subscriber Log-In