Helga and Ing. Heinz Hopfner are the tenants of a petrol station on a road that used to be a thoroughfare. As their clients dwindle away the deep cracks in their marriage become apparent. Hopfner becomes immersed in the study of small animals while Helga Hopfner's passion is professional dance. Her declared preference is South America with its captivating rhythms and noisy way of life. Her great dream is a trip to Caracas. Hopfner is subject to constant humilation by his wife and thus the sudden appearance of a woman who amazingly resembles his wife kindles the idea for escape. The similarity of the two women is the key to his plan. His wife is to be killed and the stranger will take her place. A 'road accident' with his wife is to be staged afterwards to give the new woman the identity of his wife. With the help of his new accomplice all the savings are to be transferred to South America. The woman, who up to then had been a prostitute, is promised a share of the money. This sophisticated plan is implemented step by step. Hopfner is in control at all times. There is only one tiny little detail he is not aware of ...