For car enthusiasts who value a dynamic driving experience, rear wheel drive (RWD) automobiles remain highly desirable. While all-wheel drive and front-wheel drive configurations have their merits, RWD provides a unique balance and feel that many drivers crave, especially those passionate about performance and handling. Contrary to popular belief, enjoying the benefits of RWD doesn’t necessarily require breaking the bank. There are still compelling and affordable options available on the market that deliver the joy of rear-wheel drive without compromising on modern features. If you’re on the hunt for a vehicle that connects you to the road and offers engaging driving dynamics without exceeding a reasonable budget, exploring the realm of Rear Wheel Drive Automobiles is a great starting point. Many models offer a blend of classic driving thrills and contemporary amenities at surprisingly accessible price points.
Fiat 124 Spider: Italian Flair Meets Open-Top Fun
The 2019 Fiat 124 Spider stands out as one of the most affordable rear wheel drive automobiles, merging Italian design with an exhilarating open-air driving experience. This roadster surprises with its comprehensive standard features even at the entry-level trim. Drivers will appreciate the inclusion of a rearview camera, a user-friendly 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, and HD radio – all standard. Power comes from a lively turbocharged engine that delivers a spirited 164 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, channeled through a crisp six-speed manual transmission with a short-throw shifter for engaging gear changes.
Beyond its features and performance, the Fiat 124 Spider’s defining characteristic is its convertible top. Offering the quintessential roadster experience, the easily retractable soft top allows drivers to immerse themselves in open-air motoring. Completing the package are stylish LED taillights and dual exhaust outlets, making the Fiat 124 Spider a compelling and affordable entry into rear wheel drive automobiles. With a starting price under $25,000, it’s an accessible option for those seeking RWD thrills.
Chevrolet Camaro: American Muscle Heritage on a Budget
For enthusiasts of American muscle cars, the 2019 Chevrolet Camaro offers an affordable gateway into rear wheel drive automobiles with a strong heritage. This iconic model delivers thrilling performance without a hefty price tag. Powering the base Camaro is a potent 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, producing an impressive 275 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a standard six-speed manual transmission, the Camaro provides an engaging and visceral driving experience synonymous with muscle car tradition.
Despite its affordability, the Camaro doesn’t skimp on modern technology. Standard features include mobile Wi-Fi hotspot capability, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay integration, ensuring connectivity and entertainment on the go. These tech features are often absent even in more expensive luxury vehicles, highlighting the Camaro’s value proposition within the realm of rear wheel drive automobiles. While the convertible version commands a higher price, the Camaro coupe remains a budget-friendly option for experiencing rear-wheel drive performance.
Mazda MX-5 Miata: Lightweight Roadster Perfection
The 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata continues its legacy as a benchmark for affordable rear wheel drive automobiles, especially in the roadster category. Sharing some components with the Fiat 124 Spider, the Miata distinguishes itself with Mazda’s signature engineering and driving philosophy. Under the hood is a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, tuned for responsiveness and delivering 181 horsepower. While producing slightly less torque than the Fiat, the Miata’s engine is known for its rev-happy nature and engaging character.
Like the Fiat, the Miata features a standard cloth convertible top and a six-speed manual transmission, emphasizing driver engagement. Mazda elevates the standard features with LED headlights and a six-speaker audio system with mobile app integration. Priced slightly higher than the 124 Spider, the MX-5 Miata remains an incredibly accessible and celebrated choice for those seeking pure and affordable rear wheel drive automobiles with a focus on handling and driving pleasure.
Subaru BRZ: Precision Handling and Sport-Tuned Dynamics
Developed in collaboration with Toyota, the 2019 Subaru BRZ is another compelling option in the affordable rear wheel drive automobiles segment. This sports coupe prioritizes handling and driver engagement, offering a balanced and responsive chassis. The BRZ is powered by a 205-horsepower four-cylinder engine, notable for its flat “boxer” design which contributes to a lower center of gravity, enhancing the car’s agility and cornering prowess. A standard six-speed manual transmission further emphasizes the sporty driving experience.
Complementing its engine and drivetrain, the BRZ features a sport-tuned suspension as standard, further sharpening its handling capabilities. Standard equipment also includes LED headlights, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a touchscreen infotainment system. With a starting price competitive in its class, the Subaru BRZ delivers a focused and affordable rear wheel drive automobiles experience for driving enthusiasts.
Ford Mustang: Iconic Power and Accessible Performance
The 2019 Ford Mustang continues its legacy as an icon of American performance and an accessible entry point into rear wheel drive automobiles. While positioned slightly above the Camaro in price, the Mustang offers a compelling blend of power and features in its base configuration. The entry-level Mustang boasts a turbocharged 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine, producing a robust 310 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque, exceeding the output of some competitors. This engine provides strong performance and a thrilling driving experience expected from a Mustang.
Standard features on the Mustang include LED headlights, signature LED lighting accents, and sequential LED taillights, enhancing its visual appeal. To maximize the driving experience, Ford equips the Mustang with a standard six-speed manual transmission and a limited-slip differential, ensuring power is effectively transferred to the rear wheels. The Ford Mustang remains a strong contender in the affordable rear wheel drive automobiles market, blending heritage with modern performance.
Toyota 86: A Twin Spirit of Driving Engagement
Sharing its platform and development with the Subaru BRZ, the 2019 Toyota 86 offers a very similar driving experience in the realm of affordable rear wheel drive automobiles. Priced slightly above the BRZ, the Toyota 86 shares the same 205-horsepower engine and six-speed manual transmission, along with an equally sporty and aerodynamic design. The 86 prioritizes driving dynamics and offers a direct connection to the road.
Inside, the Toyota 86 features sport seats and a sport-tuned suspension, reinforcing its performance-oriented nature. For serious driving enthusiasts, the stability control system includes a dedicated “Track” mode, allowing for a more permissive driving experience on closed courses. Standard features include LED headlights, a 7-inch infotainment touchscreen, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel, making the Toyota 86 a well-equipped and affordable option for rear wheel drive automobiles.
Dodge Challenger: Retro Muscle with Modern Amenities
The 2019 Dodge Challenger brings a distinct flavor to the affordable rear wheel drive automobiles category, embodying retro muscle car styling with modern features. While slightly more expensive than the Camaro and Mustang, the Challenger offers unique advantages. The base Challenger is powered by a naturally aspirated 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 305 horsepower, exceeding the base Camaro’s output. This engine delivers strong performance in a classic muscle car package.
The Challenger’s standard infotainment system includes a 7-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, features not standard on the base Mustang. Like many affordable rear wheel drive automobiles focused on driver engagement, the Challenger offers an available six-speed manual transmission, although not with the base engine. LED accent lights and daytime running lights are also standard, completing the Challenger’s muscular and feature-rich offering.
Dodge Charger: Four-Door Muscle for the Family
Dodge expands its presence in the affordable rear wheel drive automobiles segment with the 2019 Dodge Charger, a four-door muscle car that combines performance with practicality. The Charger offers rear-wheel drive excitement in a family-friendly sedan format. It features a 292-horsepower V6 engine and a dual-exhaust system, hinting at its performance capabilities.
What sets the Charger apart is its spaciousness. As a full-size sedan, it offers generous rear legroom and a large trunk, making it significantly more practical than smaller sports coupes. For drivers needing both performance and passenger/cargo space, the Dodge Charger presents a unique and affordable option within the realm of rear wheel drive automobiles.
Nissan 370Z: A Timeless Sports Car Experience
The 2019 Nissan 370Z represents an old-school approach to affordable rear wheel drive automobiles, offering a purist sports car experience. While it hasn’t seen major changes in recent years, the 370Z continues to deliver the performance and driving feel that Z cars are known for. It boasts a potent 3.7-liter V6 engine, the largest standard engine in this affordable RWD group, producing 332 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque. A standard six-speed manual transmission is, of course, part of the package for maximum driver control.
The Nissan 370Z’s design remains striking, and it comes standard with high-intensity discharge headlamps and LED daytime running lights. For those seeking a classic, no-frills sports car experience with rear-wheel drive at an accessible price, the Nissan 370Z remains a compelling choice among affordable rear wheel drive automobiles.
Kia Stinger: A Modern Hatchback with RWD Dynamism
The 2019 Kia Stinger is a relatively new entrant that has quickly gained recognition as a standout in the affordable rear wheel drive automobiles market. This sporty hatchback offers a blend of performance, practicality, and premium features at an attractive price point. The base Stinger features a 255-horsepower turbocharged engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Standard features are generous, including a 7-inch touchscreen, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Stinger’s cabin is surprisingly upscale, with leather-trimmed seats, heated front seats, and dual-zone climate control as standard. Its hatchback design provides practical cargo space, making the Kia Stinger a versatile and compelling option for affordable rear wheel drive automobiles, blending sportiness with everyday usability.
