e61 545 auto / S4 avant / something else

[DSharp]

Hi all, apologies for yet another what fast estate goodness car, but I'd be grateful for some input.

Current looking to spend about 6-8K on a fast estate (or possibly a special hatchback) for dog carrying duties. Only be doing ~6k per year so MPG is irrelevant, hence I'm leaning towards some V8 goodness, but happy with Turbo power instead.

Current possibilities are:
2004 e61 545 auto (would prefer manual - but how bad are the autos??)
2004 S4 Avant auto-tip
2004 Volvo v70r
2007 Subaru GB270 (just missed one!)

Or something else???

Ideally something with minimal bork-potential

Currently have a Mk4 Golf r32, but it's too small in the boot for the dog, but I think a decent sized hatch might be OK, but struggling to find anything that catches my eye.

So, what would you go for?

Thanks!!!!!

[Tuvra]

Hugely capable, especially fettled

[m17kyu]

If you look at the S4 make sure it has had timing chain tensioners done. I have just had to replace them on my car at a cost of 4k.

[anonymous-user]

Automatic E61 is great, I test drove a manual and it was weird with that clutch delay valve and very long throw on the gearbox. It took real concentration to make smooth, fast changes in it. I'd say it's a better car with the 6 speed ZF auto.

Some V70R autos really lack the punch of the manuals as they are quite heavily detuned in lower gears, FWIW. I believe later cars have a 6 speed auto rather than the old 5 speeder and are not detuned. If you're on a budget and avoiding bork I'd look at a manual T5 and a remap, but it's not really in the same class as a 545 or 550i dynamically.

[DSharp]

Cheers all, few things to think about!

Not specifically looking for an auto, would prefer the equivalent manual or tiptronic, but large bargey v8 would be OK with auto aslong as it's not too bad.

The cars mentioned are just ones that I have seen for sale currently that sparked an interest. There is an e61 545i auto at a local garage I may go to have a look at this weekend. only done 68k, FSH and up at £6.5k. Not seen too many to compare the price with, but as it's at the lower end of the budget, would leave a bit more bork-fund.