I've gone to the dark side - for real this time!
 

Evening all,

It wasn't so long ago that I was contemplating going back to an RS6 less than a year after I sold mine, especially as I saw Coxy's lovely looking one for sale.

However I'm not exactly sure how it happened but I take delivery of a brand new M140i next month....

But I still don't know whether to spec the (admittedly great but a £1,600 option) 8sp auto or go for a manual which I've yet to find one to try! My commute is next to non existent so when I drive it it'll be for fun not a mundane drag through traffic! Which would you guys go for?

Also, anyone want a well looked after A8!? Should probably sell it before new car arrives!

that ought to go somewhat. 335bhp in such a small car. RS2 territory. The auto is faster than the manual, but I'd probably go manual myself. Plus saves nearly 2k

Yeah it's a bit of a goer! Same 0-60 as my old RS6 (before it was played with!). Auto definitely quicker but manual has it's plus points:

Auto:
Faster to 60 (actually most speeds)!
Smoother
8 ratios with a much longer final drive
linked directly to drive mode (eco pro, comfort & sport)
Makes interior look more modern
Less work in traffic
No clutch to replace

Manual:
More engaging
£1,600 cheaper (though only £1k cheaper after lower tax on auto taken into account for five years)
Lighter
Less to go wrong

Still don't know which to choose (ordered auto but can change to manual for another week or so!)

Spent six hours yesterday travelling just 160 miles..... Auto has won!

I'd do the auto route... a friend has the M3 with auto box... it really imressed me. Have fun with your new toy.

Bought an automatic three years ago for our main car. Never looked back since. And to be honest, it’s only those journeys that begin at stupid AM that you find yourself avoiding some kind of congestion.

That's what clinched it for me. Even on my tiny 3 mile work commute I can be in traffic for 5-10 minutes to travel the first 300 yards, something I'd forgotten about thanks to cycling in this lovely weather of ours!

So auto is definitely ticked and staying so. All I really need to do now is sell my hulking great A8 - any takers.....