I use my CC (Chase Saph Preferred) when I travel overseas because there are no fees and I don't have to worry about having large amounts of cash on me.
If you're planning to drive the 4er through Germany (especially the Alps), you should read up on the laws regarding snow tires. They are legally required during certain months and there are rental options available (other ED threads have this info).
That aside, Venice is about a 5hr drive from Munich. If you hit Venice then drove across northern Italy to the French Riviera you would be able to check out some of the factories outside Bologna.
Here's one possible
route scenario.