Sorry to hear about the back. I'm looking for something similar and have narrowed it down to an E61 530d or Volvo V70 D5. Missed an old money spec 530d SE yesterday and still kicking myself.
I liked my e61 (sport version) but it wasn't super comfy, for a premium car, my outback is a lot better put together and premium. I did do 1000km drives without complaint though. Will drive a lot tighter than a V70. Went like stink and cruised very happily at continental speeds.
Interesting. I'm coming from an Outback (2001 H6 3.0) so your experience is especially helpful. My main conundrum with the E61 is do you go M sport? They look nice but don't want to have a crashy ride.
Sorry to hear about the back. I'm looking for something similar and have narrowed it down to an E61 530d or Volvo V70 D5. Missed an old money spec 530d SE yesterday and still kicking myself.