[Lads14]

I will be working in Italy for three years but just bought my PP in January. I love the space and engine but fearful of the narrow roads and even smaller parking places. Should I sell it and get a car over there? I know I will take a financial hit trying to sell it, especially with all the deals out there right now. And I won't be able to maintain my vehicle maintenance like we can here, much less find someone who can work on it (if necessary). Any thoughts?

 

[mcrimm]

I don't remember the roads in Italy being all that narrow. I also have no idea how much it would cost to ship a Passport to Italy. When we lived in Mexico, anything larger than a subcompact was too big. I remember having to fold my mirrors in when driving through city streets in some town.

 

[Lads14]

I don't remember the roads in Italy being all that narrow. I also have no idea how much it would cost to ship a Passport to Italy. When we lived in Mexico, anything larger than a subcompact was too big. I remember having to fold my mirrors in when driving through city streets in some town.

Shipping the car at no cost to me as employer is paying for the move, car included. Everything is smaller over there and I'm not the best at parking . Thanks for your input.

 

[mcrimm]

Perhaps negotiate with your employer to help you make up for the loss on an early sale of your Passport. I would guess you are looking at $2,500 shipping cost for an Eastern US shipping port plus whatever it would cost to get the car there. Without knowing what type of hoops you would have to jump threw over there with your Passport, you may just buy something in Italy They drive nice stuff in Europe.

 

[stevenD]

I was in Italy and Greece last summer and recall seeing some Honda's, hence there may be Honda Dealers, but if I was only going for a few years, I would not take ANY new car over there, it will get thrashed.

I'd get a car over there and sell it before you come back... I'm sure you've heard that from others...

 

[Wrascal]

To my memory I've never been to Italy - but I have had long visits to western Europe (and Asia). In my (now long ago) past experience neither continent was conducive to full size / gasoline fueled / American iron vehicles (small streets, small parking spots, high fuel costs, high maintenance & insurance costs). Also, don't forget that every time you convert your American $ paycheck to foreigh currency you take a bite.

So while it's easy for me to say - bite the bullet and lose the beloved Passport. Then once there purchase an everyday diesel fueled car (new or used) - perhaps a Fiat or VW; and equally understand that once you return stateside you'll need to dump whatever buggy you used while there. Selling a local type car (with current service) will be easier.

And beware of all those beautiful women hoping to become American citizens (from my grandmothers mid 70's warnings - a product of WW2).

 

[StevzPassport2Adventure]

I will be working in Italy for three years but just bought my PP in January. I love the space and engine but fearful of the narrow roads and even smaller parking places. Should I sell it and get a car over there? I know I will take a financial hit trying to sell it, especially with all the deals out there right now. And I won't be able to maintain my vehicle maintenance like we can here, much less find someone who can work on it (if necessary). Any thoughts?

You didn't mention if you will be working with a company or perhaps U.S. DOD/Army/Air Force or Navy. With DOD you would have a SOFA agreement so taxes and gas are cheaper than on economy.

I was DOD overseas for four tours. First two tours I bought beaters in country and had fun but no reliability. Second two tours I brought U.S. spec vehicles without issues, a Toyota Avalon and Honda Element. In Germany there were Toyota and Honda dealerships so no worries. I still purchased a secondary local vehicle for job security as maintenance and accidents can leave you without a ride.

Yes, Italy can have some very small roads but also has autostrada (highway) and lots of amazing back country roads in Dolomites to drive, perfect way to adventure in your Passport like I did all over Italy, Slovenia, Croatia and Austria in my Element.

Realistically if you will live in big city like Naples or Rome, buy something small over there. If you are DOD/State Department and will be living outside major cities, bring the Passport and have fun. Parking was never a problem, you just might walk a little farther. Again if you are DOD/State then you would have access to USPS and lots of car parts businesses ship to APO....and how much heavy duty maintenance will need to be done in first 3 years of ownership? Any Italian garage can do basics and if you bring parts, they can repair just about anything.

If it were me, I would consider bringing...but I have a lot of overseas time driving around Italy. Here is Passo di Guau....Good luck!

 

[Beachbum07]

A few things to keep in mind regarding expenses. Italy has the highest fuel cost and taxes in Europe. Registration and taxes are based on engine CC size. Also, emissions rating is factored in as well, as well as other factors.

I have a nephew that lives in the Netherlands and the emissions rating can restrict where you can drive your car. I believe the emissions ratings in Europe go from A to E. In some towns, you’ll come across signs that limit which emissions ratings are allowed. If your vehicle exceeds the maximum rating, you’ll need to park and either rent a smaller car or a bike to ride around town.

Just some things to research before deciding.

 

[StevzPassport2Adventure]

@Beachbum07, good points all, that's why it's important to know his/her situation in regards to SOFA as they wouldn't have same tax liabilities. If DOD, registration is $35 a year and they would have a contract with ESSO for cheaper gas as well and possibly USAA/Geico or other international auto insurance. His/her Passport also wouldn't have a problem meeting emission standards to allow access to all cities in Europe. The color scheme for emissions decals is based on age of vehicle and pollutants it puts out. Probably 95% of new cars today would qualify for highest rating, a green sticker.

 

[Beachbum07]

Shipping the car at no cost to me as employer is paying for the move, car included. Everything is smaller over there and I'm not the best at parking . Thanks for your input.

@Lads14 is your move due to a military relocation/transfer?

 

[Lads14]

@Lads14 is your move due to a military relocation/transfer?

To those who asked, my move is as a DoD employee being moved to Italy by the government to include my car. I will have access to all base areas and APO shipping (which is like mailing from NY to FL-no issues there).

 

[Beachbum07]

To those who asked, my move is as a DoD employee being moved to Italy by the government to include my car. I will have access to all base areas and APO shipping (which is like mailing from NY to FL-no issues there).

In that case, I would say take it with you. Although, I’ve never been to Italy, so not familiar with the roads and parking situation. You’re in a unique situation to bring your PP on the government’s dime, and enjoy it during your stay.