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Mediterranean Car Rental - Convertible Wanted!

When searching for a rental car, I can't believe how difficult it seems to be to find a specific model or even just a class (convertible). I want to rent an affordable convertible while we're in either Spain or Italy this summer. I've been to multiple websites, tried a variety of search methods and I haven't really had much luck. To start, I want to figure out what it's going to cost me.

This may be less of an issue if money was no object and I am somewhat picky about the model of car I'm willing to book. With that said, we're willing to adjust our plans to put us in a location near a rental company that could accommodate my preference. With that said, it seems there are no rental sites out there that will allow you to search this way. Some (like Hertz) make it seem like you can book a specific car but, after much trial and error, I learned this is not the case. Example: You can pick a car model from their list of manufacturers available then, you pick a location only to find the car you picked isn't available there. With today's technology, why can they not filter the list of locations based on the car you've picked to show you the location that can actually facilitate your request?? Frustrating! I've also tried autoeurope.com and rentalcars.com with no better results. Very, very frustrating.

Our minimum preference is simply for an affordable convertible (if it gets too hot we'll put the top up otherwise we can enjoy the view and fresh air). If I had the choice, I would opt for a Mini Cooper S with a manual gearbox which I've seen listed as an option on at least the Herz site (plus I own one, which I love driving and I know would be a blast to drive their). Maybe, if money wasn't an option, my preferences would be a little different but, that's certainly not the case. Worst case scenario, I may just convince my fiance to rent a scooter with me. Would still be fun but, not our preference for what we'd like to do.

Looking for suggestions. Thank you!

Posted by
2653 posts

As a test I went on autoeurope.com and chose Florence airport in May as a pick up location, then scrolled down to select convertible – choices included Mini Cooper, BMW, Mercedes, Audi, Porsche and even a Ferrari. So it’s quite possible.

If a particular car isn't available in one location contact the agency and ask them to deliver. Anything's possible if you're willing to pay for it

Posted by
3 posts

I tried the same and only saw an Audi A3 cab as an option. I didn't think the date would make that much of a difference booking several months ahead but, I guess it does. You're right in that I may just have to call but, it would be nice if I didn't have to complete so many separate searches on the same website just to see what's available in what city.

Thanks for the help.

Posted by
7620 posts

With every rental car agency I’ve ever rented from it wil say something like,”model X, or similar.” There’s no guarantee you’ll get exactly what you reserved. You’ll get what it has on the lot when you arrive. You may get the convertible, but not the make or model. I once reserved a compact car for Scotland and was given a mini-van. There was no extry charge but that’s what it had in an automatic when I picked up my vehicle.