TubeNet

DG,

Having rented quite a few cars over the years and having done a good bit of cross-country driving, I strongly advise getting either a "premium level" or a SUV rental. I know its expensive, but it is really the only way you are going to be able to comfortably transport you, your passengers, and your tuba (without threatening to commit homo/tubacide). Most rental cars are for medium to small adults/children (don't be fooled by the rental car classifications-the vehicles that can seat adults 5'11"and over comfortably are the "premium" class and SUVs) and for those who don't mind sacrificing comfort to save a few bucks. That works IF you just need a way around town for a day or two...anything longer than that, it really begins to SUCK if you're a big/tall adult. Im 6'3" and 300lbs--totally enjoy my '98 caddy deville land yacht.

So spend the extra money and enjoy your road trip in comfort and peace of mind.

JJ

Rent a Kia Rondo or Dodge Journey. Problem solved.

While I wouldnt ever buy one as a day to day driver, a Dodge Charger would be quite adequate for what you are asking. I also recently rented a Buick Lucerne that would do as well....

Tubaryan12 wrote:Rent a Kia Rondo..... Problem solved.

I'll second that!

A friend of mine visiting from Australia BOUGHT a 1974 Cadillac Eldorado for his four week vacation (he called it a "holiday") from a shady car dealer outside LAX. Even buying comprehensive insurance and paying to fix a couple of major glitches, he said it was cheaper than renting a low end compact. Two days before leaving the US (from San Francisco), he was able to sell the car for more than the man in Los Angeles charged him for it. Sounds like a good deal, if you have the time.