We're going to Ireland for 7 days, renting an automatic transmission car in Shannon and will tour the SW country. What would be a fair estimate for gas/petrol costs? We'll be driving about 820km (510mi.) Thanks in advance.
Shawn
Just driving that distance would take about 100 euros worth of gas, but you'll start out with a full tank at the rental place so you would subtract the cost of a full tank (depending on the size of the tank) from that estimate.
Shawn - Based on two trips to Ireland in which I drove about 1000 miles each trip, I'm guessing that you'll need two fill-ups at about $60 - $70 U.S each. Cars over there are very fuel efficient, with the vast majority running on diesel. If you are on a tight budget, you may want to go with a stick - you'll get better mileage, of course, but the rental cost may also be about half the cost of the automatic. In any case, have a great trip and watch out for sheep!
Click here for fuel prices in Ireland.
The April prices of €1.32 per liter for unleaded and €1.22 per liter for diesel convert to ~$6.70/gallon for unleaded and ~$6.15 per gallon for diesel.
Of course, your mileage and ultimate fuel cost will depend on the type of vehicle and the type of driving you do.
Get a diesel if you can. We got amazing mileage with our diesel last summer. I'd go along with what others have posted, budget around $150 for gas, and you'll probably be pleasantly surprised by spending a little less than that.
$7 a gallon, go with diesel if possible. Your looking at $140 in diesel, maybe $175 for gas
Despite our complaints in the US about gas prices, you will realize how spoiled we are the first time you stop for petrol.