[baege]

So I think I have finally narrowed down my next car to these 3 cars.

2014-2015 RS5

2016 F type R AWD

2011-2012 S5 4.2 manual

I have come to appreciate that the track/twisty abilities of my 981CS are lost on me. I am more about crisp throttle response, low end torque, and great sound. This is why I tried the C7 (thought it would offer more of these than my cayman). Turns out I really didn't like the C7.

The C7 experience made me realize that compact size, good visibility and overall refinement also matter to me in enjoying a car.

I have tried about 15 cars in the last 3 months, and have confirmed that I don't want a turbo car.

So I have narrowed it down to the 3 above.

My thoughts:

f type wins on looks, low end torque and overall want factor, but loses on refinement, reliability and depreciation and non-manual.

rs5 wins on reliability, refinement, engine sound and smoothness (a more refined, complex sound and feels than the ftype which sounds a little truck like) but loses on low end torque and non-manual.

the s5 4.2 offers manual and refined engine sound and feel, but loses on looks and overall want factor and is older so probably less reliable

which would you have?