There were 3 of us going to Tuscany and now there's only 2. We had rented a mid-size and it would only save us about $100 to downsize to a compact. Is it worth the comfort level to keep the mid-size or will the cost of gas push that final cost too high? Thoughts on this please?

It depends upon what you are used to. I always opt for a compact. Not only is it cheaper.. gas is really a zinger when you are in Europe, but it's easier to park and navigate on little, windy country roads. If you are really attracted to the idea of a mid-size then get it but if it were me, I'd save the $100.00 and enjoy a nice meal.

"Compact" is really not a small car in today's world. If the hundred bucks means nothing to you keep the mid-size. <BR><BR>For just two of us we'd use a compact unless we were trying to impress someone ... in which case a mid-size would hardly do the trick.<BR><BR>Doubt the gas mileage difference would be as much as 5 miles/gallon equivalent ... about an extra mile per liter.

Three of us rented a compact Opal to use in Tuscany last year. It worked out fine; had good trunk space for luggage, etc. and we were not at all uncomfortable--of course, none of us is very tall. Marilyn

for our recent trip to the amalfi coast i upgraded from compact to mid-size and was very glad i did....we each had a big suitcase and a carry on and it JUST fit in the trunk...add the purchases we made and voila..i was just concerned about having luggage show in the back and the mid-size had a covered trunk. I rented through auto europe, which gave the best rate.

When I finalized my deal with AutoEurope, they upgraded me at no extra cost. You might give a call to whomever you rented from -- if you explain they may just give you the upgrade at the lower cost. I don't think the difference between an Alfa Romeo 146 and 156 is all that much in terms of gas consumption. Now, if you were talking difference between an automatic and standard....