We will be going to Ireland in Septmeber (4 adults) and will be renting a car for several days. A mid-size vehicle would be best. Many of the rental companies have listed a Ford Mondeo as a mid-size. I am unfamiliar with the Mondeo as it is not sold in the U.S. - is it similar to a Taurus or more similar to the Contour? Any help would be greatly appreciated!<BR>Jan

A Mondeo will be enough room for 4 adults assuming that you do not have more than 2 large suitcases and some small pieces of hand luggage. The Mondeo is a large family car - not familiar with the US equivilant. Did the agent think that this would be appropriate for you when you booked?

Jan,<BR><BR>The Ford Mondeo IS the Ford Contour - different name and different styling, but same undercarriage/platform. So, midsize by US standards and fullsize for Europeans.<BR><BR>Hope this helps,<BR>Andre

Thanks to you both! Four or five years ago my brother had a Ford Contour, so I am somewhat familiar with the model. You are correct Andre - the luggage will be the issue! Thanks again!

A word of caution - if you plan to drive through the countryside, you should consider getting the smallest car possible that will meet your needs. Many of the roads are very narrow with tall stone walls that come right to the edge of the road. <BR><BR>Have fun,<BR>Dave

We rented the Wagon version of the Mondeo and it worked out great for 4 of us. You might pay a little more, but the hatchback made for easy luggage loading.

If you do decide on a station wagon - ask for an "estate car".

Why an "estate wagon" <BR><BR>I too am going to have to deal with this issue - Mom , Dad, Older brother & I will be in Ireland in April 2003. I am trying to figure out what size vehicle to reserve -must be AUTOMATIC . <BR><BR>On the last trip , Mom & I had a Mondeo , and there is no way all 4 of us & luggage would fit in that car, but since I will be doing ALL of the driving , I want the smallest car we will fit in.