Hi We have been advised leasing a car is less expensive than renting for longer stays (25 days in fall 2004). I would like to hear pluses and minuses, also reputable companies.
we are especially interested in an automatic so I can drive as well as my husband. Thanks your help is appreciated.

Hi Mary,
Welcome to the board. We've leased cars several times from Europe by Car in New York and have had excellent service and a cheaper price than renting. We've picked up cars twice at Malpensa and once in France. Brand new Renaults.All insurance included.

Mary We used RenaultUSA (website) to lease a 7 passenger mini-van for a 22 day trip to Tuscany in September 2002. On time, friendly knowledgable staff but they did not know a lot of English. No problems picking up or dropping off even though we had travel delays. Picked up and returned at MXP. The actual company is Renault Eurodrive I believe. Book early especially if you want an automatic. Our rental van was brand spanking new only 12 or so Kms on it! It handled very nice.

Callie S.

Thanks for your help! We contacted Europe by Car and they have a good deal on a Peugeot 206 automatic.
My new question-- Just how small is it and is the Renault clio better(about the same price)???

We have leased a car twice, both times picking it up at Malpensa. The car listed below was comfortable enough for 4 (not an automatic), which also meant that it was hard to get through some streets. The first time there were only two of us and a smaller car worked better. The same lade delivered the car to us at the airport, and she was late both times. Oh well, it is Italy, after all. No hassle at all returning it at the airport.
Europe by Car
212-581-3040
Peugot 4 door w/AC
50 days $1,649 with insurance
info@europebycar.com