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Hi
my partner and I am looking at getting a mid 2000's station wagon and was hoping for a bit of guidance.
We are tossing up between:

2004-06 Subaru Legacy 3.0r - manual
2003-2007 Mazda6/Atenza 23s - prefer manual
2004-06 Audi A4 2.0

I've heard the Audi's are pretty shocking for reliability. also we would want something that could tow a horse float, hence the manual preference

Cheers

Of those you've mentioned, the Mazda6 has the best reputation for reliability, cost of maintenance and perhaps fuel economy.
However, none of these cars would be highly recommended for towing a horse float, which with a couple of horses onboard, could perhaps be up to 2,000kg, which would exceed the manufacturer's recommendation for each of these cars.
The Audi and Subaru have a braked trailer recommendation of up to 1,800kg and the Mazda is 1,500kg.

so discounting the towing capability, would you still recommend the Mazda? any other suggestions?

Yes, the Mazda would definitely be my preference in the mid-size wagen market.

Other cars to consider would be the Toyota Altezza Gita- comes in a 2L or 3L. Boot space isn't huge but both engines are very reliable and the cars being Lexus badged as well have a high level of specification. They are RWD too so much more fun to drive especially the 3L.

Another wagon that is often overlooked is the Honda Accord Euro wagon from 2003-2007. Great ride quality and heaps of room. The Mazda 6/Atenza holds its value well so these cars are likely to be cheaper