arranging car rental from europe car through auto europe in north america. rates are very good with zero deductible but they are asking for, the full 2 month payment in advance, when our trip is not until this spring. Is this usual?

That is normal. It is very good at changing the contract up to a week before the beginning of the rental. I've used them for years, although I generally take the "basic" rate and have my credit card carry the CDW with no deductible.

For a 2 month rental through the U.S. connection, yes, that is normal. Just confirm cancellation policy.

If you do it through the local companies (for example, last summer I made a reservation through the Cannes branch off Antibes street directly), then, no, they take a credit card, but don't charge it. But in that instance, it was a 2 week rental, not 2 months. I don't know if that makes a difference.

I asked the credit card company about confirming that they would carry the CDW costs, but this does not apply in countries where not allowed by law. Italy being one of these.
Further discussion with AE is that prepayment guarantees the Euro>CDN rate and avoids a 3% surcharge at the counter

For Italy you also need an International Driver's Permit, a translation of your license, easily and inexpensively obtained at AAA/CAA, where they'll also take your photo.

And check into other credit cards that don't charge a fee for converting foreign currency. American Express cards are not accepted so widely as Visa and Mastercard.

It's totally normal. That way, no surprises if the exchange rate changes, as it does. I've been renting from them for years. Great company. I believe you have to cancel within 72 hours of pickup, but check.

I forgot, the "basic" rate is not available in Italy. However, I've had better rates from www.economycarrentals.com than from Autoeurope as long as the car is picked up and returned to the same location.

Are you talking about the lease buy/back programs that require a minimum of 17 days? Renault? Peugeot?

http://www.renaulteurodrive.com.au/leaseTerms.aspx

http://www.citroen-europass.com/uk/car-buy-back.asp

<< prepayment guarantees the Euro>CDN rate and avoids a 3% surcharge at the counter >>

If you don't prepay you will pay whatever rate is in effect when you pick up the car. It could be considerably more money.

Hey mjon
Glad to hear you are escaping from the cold for some Tuscan sun. Have fun!!!