(SemiAC) Audi vs. Volvo

[Tihol Tiholov]

Gents, hope you'd forgive the semi-on/off-topic thread and might reply off
list, if you wish, to avoid a possible war and spreading distress.
Looking for a larg-ish wagon and am pondering btwn a 1997 850 AWD manual,
136K km and a 1999 A6 (auto) 100K km, both say maintained.  Asking prices
are close enough around $13K Can.  Never driven either and live far from
both, so I gather opinions before a long trip to test.  Any pro's and con's
(and other suggestions re: AWD wagons) will be appreciated re: reliability,
fun to drive, usable space, cost of parts, whatever else...  I'd much prefer
manual but if the Audi's auto's tough enough and responsive, won't mind it
too much.  Someone here had a Volvo with some engine issues, but I forget
who or I'd have asked.

Many thanks for everyone's opinion.
Tihol