Need your help because you guys have the expertise. I have done financial research and some minimal engine/ride/performance research but I would like to hear from you.

Coming from a 2010 Camaro SS, I'm ready to get back into AWD (had a WRX with work in it that I loved). Winters in the CT area are too much for me to garage this puppy for 3-5 months.

So, here I am ready to look into an S, RS line and I have no idea what year, make, engine type I should focus on.

Would rather go used, under $50k preferable, and want a similar seat feel to my Camaro (IE: I punch it and feel it). After having an LS3 engine, a significant drop in power is not ok.

Another almost must-have is manual gearbox. I would have looked into a new RS5 as well and spent the extra money financing it, but they don't offer MANUAL?!?!

So, at this point besides an older Porsche Turbo, I have been looking at multiple RS4's and S5's of varying years with V6T and the V8. I would like to do minimal work to it. At the very most, headers -> exhaust, chip/tune, possible minor suspension. If it hit the lotto, let's supercharge that as well.

I don't care about track times, I want a car that is fun to drive, looks sleek (as they all do) and performs.


TL: DR? Which year/model/engine would you replace a Camaro SS with?

 

Used 2010/11 S5 and slap on an APR supercharger... still under $50 K. 537 HP and 443 TQ on pump gas.

The RS5 doesn't offer a manual because the auto is faster

 

I do understand that a computer can shift more efficiently and faster than I can, but I feel more comfortable and in control with a manual. I'll check out the 10/11 S5's. Thanks for the reply.

 

I love driving a manual, don't get me wrong. I'm going to have a hard time making the switch as well. I like the feeling of being connected to the car.

But if they bring the new RS3 stateside (and only offer the S-tronic) I think I can learn to love it.