would like to know if anyone might have some experience/advise of size/type of car rental for a group of 4...
last time we went it was just the 2 of us and we were fine in a compact...but would want a more comfortable back seat for seating with room for luggage in trunk.

actually planning on traveling with 8...thought 2 cars would be best. any comments?

thanks

Chip -

Models vary greatly by country - where are you going and for how long?

we will be travelling mostly in southwest and northwest Ireland.

I 'hitched' a ride last year in Mayo with two couples from Conroe, Texas in a rented Mercedes Van. It had 2 Captain's Chairs up front, a bench seat in back that easily accomodated three of us, and I believe it had a third seat that was folded down to make room for Golf Bags & Luggage. It was European 'spec:' automatic w/driver's side on the left (unlike Ireland & U.K.). I'm sure it was a 'top of the line' as far as rental cars go.

My 2-sisters & 2-cousins rented a full size Volvo (automatic) at Shannon airport & drove it up thru Mayo - also quite expensive.

We rented a Volkswagon Passat Wagon in Switzerland that was plenty big for 4 adults, luggage, and souvenirs.

either click on my screen name, or do a search for the thread: "Cheapest Irish Car Rental". Lots of useful info there, too much to rehash here.
There are 8-9 passenger mini vans offered, but they really are only suitable for six adults, with luggage. Not a fan of the two car approach, but it makes sense, in your case.

The four of us are going in June and we rented a Renault Laguna (small wagon). We are planning to bring smaller suitcases than we usually do, as we have had trouble fitting luggage for four in car trunks in the past. This is a hatchback, which should also help.