In the mean time, if you're looking for an "inexpensive" AutoCAD, try PROGECAD 2014 (30-day free trial). It looks almost IDENTICAL to AutoCAD, so there's absolutely ZERO learning curve, reads and writes direct DWG's (no file translation required for "compatibility" and its general performance is VERY smooth. The User interface corresponds to "Classic" , and every AutoCAD function I've been able to discover is preserved (not to say there's NOTHING I've missed...) and a couple of additional interesting functions (like WINTOPO - direct raster-to-vector conversion, and PDF-to-ACAD: vectors) are included in the program. At a cost of $500/seat, with multi-seat discounts also available, it may be a good "Home" ACAD allowing you to use the $5500 licensed AutoCAD at work, and have something at home you can LEGALLY use for MUCH of your after hours work support. Its 3D is ACIS based and pretty strong, and its components work seamlessly in true AutoCAD, too. Shades are faceted, but photo ray-traced renders are smooth, and the components cross over seamlessly. It's not PERFECT, but it IS impressive, and QUITE useful. I am NOT a distributor (this is NOT a commercial endorsement) for ProgeCAD - I'm just a favorably impressed user.
Good Luck and let us know how it goes !
-C.