Fuchs post pretty muchs mirrors the situation in Italy. In general, based on observation and rather solid facts like the saving rate and personal debt the Italians tend to behave in a similar way when it comes to enduring/durable goods. We just manage the res publica much worse.

A big difference is the amount an Italian spends on food - then again we have good reasons for it. First it costs more in then in German stores and second it is very difficult to find another Western country in which you get such an excellent ROI on "eating out". This naturally drives demand.

P.S: Spending on durable goods has dropped in Italy a great deal since the depression started. The car market which is on level last seen sixty years ago is just the most visible sign. All in all it is a great time to buy a car if you have the money and need one.