£30k - Golf R Estate or B9 S4 Avant

[JackReacher]

I'm thinking of getting into a quick compact estate. I was originally looking at nearly new Golf R estates for £25-30k, but looks like I could get a 3 year old S4 for similar money from Audi approved. They seem to offer similar performance figures and practicality.

I suspect the S4 is a "nicer thing" with better build, but the worry is that it won't be as fun to drive, and that it will simply feel like a fast A4. It does have rarity on it's side compared to the Golf and will probably depreciate less.

The Golf R seems incredibly popular (for the right and wrong reasons), but it would be a newer car with newer tech, and possibly better/sharper to drive?

Am I right in saying the S4 has a 8 speed ZF gearbox which is better than the 7 speed DSG?

Does anyone have experience of both cars and how they compare? The other consideration is a F31 340i touring.

[anonymous-user]

The Golf is a much better drive handling wise - the S4 is very capable but you are a bit insulated from what’s happening. On the upside the Audi is far more refined (ride, NVH etc) and a much nicer place to sit. Plus the boot makes it very practical (we have a dog).

PS the B9 RS4 is a cracker....

[JackReacher]

Discombobulate said:

The Golf is a much better drive handling wise - the S4 is very capable but you are a bit insulated from what’s happening. On the upside the Audi is far more refined (ride, NVH etc) and a much nicer place to sit. Plus the boot makes it very practical (we have a dog).

PS the B9 RS4 is a cracker....

Thanks, sadly I'd need an extra £20k for the RS4!