Makes for interesting reading Malc ,last time I drove in Europe was mid eighties took the family down to Rimini on the Adriatic on a Cosmos self drive they supplied the overnight hotels in all the countries and all we had to do was get there.Went in a then brand new Montego estate both front windows fell off thier carriers so it was very draughty in the car coming home.The best country for service was Switzerland and the worst France,drivers were the craziest in Italy coming through Milan was a suicide mission at roundabouts.By the way if you go to the States do not get out of your car if stopped by the police you will probably get shot.