8 of us will be traveling in Germany in June. Logistically, it would be easiest if we could all ride together...comfortably, though.

I'm not familiar with many of the European cars/vans, The rental car sites state that the Ford Transit can carry nine passengers.

Does anyone have any experience with the Transit? Do you think that 8 passengers and bags can fit.....comfortably?

>>The rental car sites state that the Ford Transit can carry nine passengers.<<

Yes they seat 9 passengers. But not 9 passengers (or 8 for that matter) plus all their luggage. You will have enough people space, more luggage space, and for less money renting two cars.

Agree that I would go for two full size cars to have enought room for 8 people plus luggage.

And no - the Transit will not hold the luggage for 8 people unless you are each traveling with just a gym bag.

Thanks for the insight on the Ford Transit. There's no way that I could get these "divas" to pack in duffle bags so it'll be two vehicles!

good decision

>>There's no way that I could get these "divas" to pack in duffle bags<<

Even w/ two vehicles . . . You'd do well to have them pack light. Like limiting everyone to 21 inch rollaboards or 24 inchers max. Those plus typical carry on totes will pretty much fill two trunks or two hatchbacks.

Otherwise even your two cars won't have enough luggage space for 8 'Divas'.

The Ford Transit and it's ilk are the staple of Scout groups, schools, university sports teams and archeology students.
Stuffed full of bodies and their luggage, but often also towing a trailer loaded with tents, spades, whatever.

You will undoubtedly be more comfortable in multiple vehicles, but even then luggage space will be tight.

Agree that even a full size car won;t hold a LOT of luggage for 4 people. Anything over 24" or so - plus a small - shoulder type - not backpack - carry-on won;t fit in the trunk and people may end up holding carry-ons on their lap.