Driving in Spain and Portugal?

[RJA]

I spent almost 3 weeks in Spain and Portugal this past summer driving a Fiat
Ducato motor home (90 HP turbodiesel manual).  I found drivers to be less
aggressive and slower than in other parts of Europe, but polite. Roads are
in good condition, weather is fantastic, it rained only once in 3 weeks
(July).  Being one of the slowest vehicles on the road, I had no opportunity
to exceed speed limits, but I don't recall every seeing any radar or even
cars pulled over for speeding.  The trip ended on a sour note when the turbo
crapped on the next to the last day (seized bearing).  We limped to a hotel
at 15-20 mph, brought the vehicle to an incompetent repair facility who
wanted to replace an air filter and a hose and keep us waiting until the
next day.  The rental agency finally agreed to bring us back to Madrid that
afternoon in a taxi.  All in all it was a blast.  One hint -- if you rent a
car, get a small one.  Roads are narrow, parking is tight.  Maneuvering in a
motor home (even the small one we had) required lots of attention for both
driver and passenger.

-- Rich A. - CT
   '93 S4
   '83 Coupe GT
   '90 200q

>I will be visiting Spain and Portugal soon.
>How strict are each country on speed enforcement on whatever they have in
>the way of rural highways?
>If pulled over does one pay there and/or offer an inducement to forget they
>saw you?