Think I've hit the nail on what's next

[Mr_Sukebe]

Prime requirements are 4 doors, modicum of space, good all rounder, £13k to spend.

After looking and considering a LOT of options, looks like it'll be a saloon 330i sport auto. Logic is this, needs to have some space, but be small enough to not intimidate my gf when she parks it. I've compared the 5 series to the 3, and whilst the 5 has a more opulent interior, I also prefer the lighter weight of the 3.
For the Audi boys, well I've never liked them, and wanted something rwd. Had a look in a couple of Mercs, didn't really do it for me. Diesel is not on the agenda, gf doesn't like the fact that at standstill, feels like London taxi.
In some ways I'd like a manual, but find the BM clutches a little heavy for continued use in traffic jams in London.

Had a good look around a nice blue one today, mmmmm, yummy.

Having said that, got back to my home last night and took the MX5 for some fast food, made the BM feel like a lard bucket with no feedback. So I'll be keeping it for a little while longer, until I NEED to change it.

 

[Chabsy]

I feel the with a bigger engine like the 330 an auto works better, i drove a manual 320 then had a go in an auto 330, plus the auto will also work in tip mode.

The only thing i didnt like was the is bugger all space between the brake an throttle peddle, ive only got size 10.5 feet too.

Just seen this on PH

http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/118441.htm

 

[Bes]

Aye the 330i is a good choice... The auto box is pretty good as far as auto boxes go, but in my opinion, considering the premium the autos sell for, and the performance loss/ efficiency loss, and the potential horrendous cost to fix/ replace, the manual would be the one I would go for.

Edit: That one on PistonHeads is a bargain!!!

 

[Rhyzz]

You've probably picked the best all-rounder there, although the S500 has way more toys, more powerful and aint that much longer

 

[Mr_Sukebe]

You've probably picked the best all-rounder there, although the S500 has way more toys, more powerful and aint that much longer

My g/f was uncomfortable parking the E39 we tried, which is one of the reasons it was blown out of the water. Shame in some ways, as it clearly has the edge in a number of areas on the E46. As such, the S class really isn't going to hack it as it's even bigger.