is it possible that the autobox could let off smoke when i drive hard?

 

that's the only other thing i can think that's smoking under my bonnet!

 

apart from that midget i keep under there...

what does burning oil smell like?

could be a leak on the auto box if you pull the auto dip stick and smell that, it should give you an idea of the smell your looking for

Autobox oil has a very defined smell so I would think you will be able to tell if its that or engine oil, sounds like something is leaking onto the exhaust or another hot part of the engine, if you can see smoke try to see where its coming from.

where is the smoke coming from exactly?

it's coming from the drivers side of the engine. behind the engine. around near the autobox dipstick but not sure if it's there exactly!

 

i don't really want to have to drive it to see it again in case it's doing more damage! best take it to a garage!

More likely to be your rocker cover gaskets. Look down with a torch and look at them.