The endless debate: money, cars, man-maths

[98cy7hou]

Long time lurker here after some wisdom - all opinions welcome. Currently looking for a classy, interesting new car for 10k pa commute. Not interested in tracking it, do like "spirited" driving so can't be too bargey, but also would welcome some proper comfort - ie, even SE spec e90 and B7 Audi s-lines feel nadgetey and harsh to me on roads round my way so minimal damping and huge wheels are probably off the cards. I'm not overly fussed about toys but a decent rattle-free interior which feels a bit "special" would be ideal. Looking to spend around 10k. Happy to go to local indies for proper work, basic servicing happy to do myself.

Wish list as follows:

Petrol. Absolute must.
Classy or characterful. Or both.
Quick. Not QUICK, but quick - ie, sub 6 - 150+, decent torque, c300bhp.
Anything above 20mpg tolerable.
Coupe (2+2), saloon or estate all good. No convertibles.
V8 would be lovely, creamy 6's ok, 4/5's meh
5-15 years old, nothing with mega miles (120k +)

Thinking B6 S4 but worried about ride, slightly dull looking.
Maybe early CLS 500 / 645i / 650?
Not too worried about bills but slightly more exotic options (Old maseratis, etc) prob asking for trouble. Mainstream, I guess.
Not beyond leasing, the golf r deals are interesting but...

Anything else worth thinking about?

[OneTwo]

XKR?

[jonnM]

Monaro? Bags of character, big V8 soundtrack, very comfy.

[billzeebub]

XKR

[98cy7hou]

Interesting. 370bhp. Hadn't looked at jags. Lucky to hit 20mpg tho, apparently...