For automotive enthusiasts who value a dynamic driving experience, rear wheel drive (RWD) has long been the preferred configuration. Often associated with sports cars and luxury vehicles, RWD offers distinct handling characteristics and a more engaging feel for drivers. However, there’s a common misconception that owning a rear wheel drive automobile requires a hefty investment. In reality, the market in 2019 presented a range of surprisingly affordable options for those seeking the classic RWD experience without breaking the bank. While the average price of a new car continues to climb, especially with the popularity of trucks and SUVs, several rear wheel drive cars remained accessible, offering both performance and modern amenities at competitive prices.
These affordable Rear Wheel Drive Automobiles deliver the quintessential performance associated with iconic sports cars, combined with the contemporary features expected in today’s vehicles. Despite their attractive price points, you won’t be sacrificing essential technology; features like Bluetooth connectivity and rearview cameras come standard on all the models highlighted below. For purists, some even offer the joy of a manual transmission, further enhancing the driver engagement that rear wheel drive is known for. Let’s explore some of the most budget-friendly rear wheel drive automobiles available in 2019, proving that you can enjoy classic driving dynamics without a premium price tag.
Top Affordable Rear Wheel Drive Cars of 2019
This list showcases some of the most compelling and cheapest rear wheel drive automobiles from the 2019 model year. These vehicles prove that you don’t need to compromise on driving pleasure or modern features when seeking an affordable RWD car.
2019 Fiat 124 Spider
The 2019 Fiat 124 Spider emerges as a delightful surprise as the most affordable rear wheel drive automobile on the market in 2019. Its affordability is even more impressive when considering the enhanced standard features included in this model year. Even the base trim now boasts a rearview camera, a user-friendly 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, and HD Radio. Powering this nimble roadster is a standard turbocharged engine, providing a spirited performance with 164 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, channeled through a crisp six-speed manual transmission featuring a short-throw shifter.
Front three quarter view of a red 2019 Fiat 124 Spider parked on a paved area with a slightly blurred green background.
Beyond its features and performance, the Fiat 124 Spider delivers the quintessential open-air driving experience with its easily retractable cloth top. Standard LED taillights and dual exhaust outlets add a touch of sporty flair, culminating in a starting price of just $24,995. The Fiat 124 Spider is a testament to the fact that affordable rear wheel drive automobiles can still offer excitement, style, and a touch of Italian charm.
2019 Chevrolet Camaro
For those seeking classic American muscle in an affordable rear wheel drive automobile, the 2019 Chevrolet Camaro is a compelling option. This iconic muscle car, in its 2019 iteration, actually became more budget-friendly, with a price reduction compared to the previous year’s model. Despite the lower price, the Camaro retains its exhilarating driving dynamics, thanks to its standard 2.0-liter turbocharged engine. This four-cylinder powerplant, when paired with the standard six-speed manual transmission, generates a robust 275 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, providing ample performance for spirited driving.
A silver 2019 Chevrolet Camaro parked at an angle showing the front and side, with trees and a building in the soft focus background.
The affordability of the Camaro coupe, starting around $25,000, doesn’t mean a compromise on modern technology. It includes standard mobile Wi-Fi hotspot capability, along with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility. These tech features are often absent even in luxury vehicles costing significantly more, highlighting the value proposition of the Camaro as an affordable rear wheel drive automobile. (It’s worth noting that the Camaro convertible, while still appealing, has a higher starting price and doesn’t fall within the cheapest rear wheel drive car category.)
2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata
The 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata shares some underlying architecture with the Fiat 124 Spider, but it carves out its own distinct identity as a supremely fun and affordable rear wheel drive automobile. A key difference lies in the Miata’s naturally aspirated 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. While smaller than some competitors, this engine delivers a responsive 181 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque. The Miata prioritizes a balanced and engaging driving experience over outright power, making it a favorite among driving purists.
A dark blue 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata convertible with the top down, driving on a winding coastal road with the ocean visible on the side.
Like the Fiat, the Miata features a standard cloth convertible top, a six-speed manual transmission, and a similar infotainment system. Mazda enhances the package with standard LED headlights and a six-speaker audio system with mobile app integration. Priced slightly higher than the Fiat 124 Spider, with an MSRP starting around $25,730, the Mazda MX-5 Miata remains an exceptionally affordable rear wheel drive automobile, renowned for its nimble handling and pure driving joy.
2019 Subaru BRZ
Developed in collaboration with Toyota, the 2019 Subaru BRZ is another standout affordable rear wheel drive automobile in the sports car segment. Sharing its platform with the Toyota 86, the BRZ offers a sleek sports car design, a standard six-speed manual transmission, and a 205-horsepower four-cylinder engine. Notably, this engine features a flat “boxer” design, contributing to a lower center of gravity and enhanced handling agility, a hallmark of rear wheel drive automobiles designed for performance.
A dark gray 2019 Subaru BRZ parked on a paved road with a forest backdrop in soft focus.
Further enhancing its handling prowess is a standard sport-tuned suspension. The BRZ also comes well-equipped with standard features such as LED headlights, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a 6.2-inch touchscreen, and an eight-speaker audio system, all included in its starting price of approximately $25,795. The Subaru BRZ and its Toyota sibling exemplify affordable rear wheel drive automobiles that prioritize engaging driving dynamics and sporty aesthetics.
2019 Ford Mustang
The 2019 Ford Mustang, an iconic nameplate in the realm of rear wheel drive automobiles, continues to offer accessible performance. With a starting price around $26,120, the Mustang positions itself competitively against rivals like the Chevrolet Camaro and Dodge Challenger. However, the entry-level Mustang distinguishes itself with a more potent engine. It boasts a turbocharged 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine that delivers an impressive 310 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque, exceeding the output of some competitors’ base engines in the affordable rear wheel drive category.
A red 2019 Ford Mustang driving on a coastal highway with the ocean and sky in the background.
Despite being classified as an affordable rear wheel drive automobile, the Mustang is far from basic. Standard features include distinctive LED headlights, LED signature lighting, and sequential LED taillights, a Mustang hallmark. To fully harness its power, Ford equips the Mustang with a standard six-speed manual transmission and a limited-slip differential, enhancing its sporty character and driver engagement.
2019 Toyota 86
As mentioned earlier, the 2019 Toyota 86 is the fraternal twin of the Subaru BRZ, sharing much of its DNA as an affordable rear wheel drive automobile focused on driving enjoyment. Starting at approximately $26,455, the 86 mirrors the BRZ’s 205-horsepower engine and six-speed manual transmission, wrapped in a similarly striking sports car design.
A bright orange 2019 Toyota 86 parked on a winding road with trees and greenery visible in the background.
Inside, the Toyota 86 features standard sport seats for both driver and passenger, reinforcing its sporty intentions. It also shares the sport-tuned suspension with the BRZ, prioritizing sharp handling. For serious driving enthusiasts, the 86’s stability control system includes a dedicated “Track” mode for enhanced performance driving. Daily usability isn’t neglected, with standard LED headlights, a 7-inch infotainment touchscreen, and a leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel rounding out the features of this affordable rear wheel drive sports car.
2019 Dodge Challenger
The 2019 Dodge Challenger occupies a unique space in the affordable rear wheel drive automobile landscape. While slightly pricier than the Camaro and Mustang, with an MSRP starting around $27,295, the Challenger offers distinct advantages. It utilizes a naturally aspirated 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 305 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, offering a noticeable horsepower advantage over a comparable Camaro.
A gray 2019 Dodge Challenger parked at an angle showcasing the front and side, with a plain light background.
The standard infotainment system in the Challenger includes a 7-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, features not standard on the base Mustang. True to its muscle car heritage and the spirit of rear wheel drive automobiles, the Challenger offers an available six-speed manual transmission for maximum driver engagement (though not with the base engine). LED accent lights and daytime running lights are also standard, adding to its visual appeal.
2019 Dodge Charger
Dodge further solidifies its presence in the affordable rear wheel drive automobile segment with the 2019 Dodge Charger. This four-door muscle car, with an MSRP starting around $28,995, provides a unique blend of performance and practicality. The Charger offers standard performance cues like a 292-horsepower V6 engine and a dual-exhaust system, aligning with the expectations of rear wheel drive enthusiasts.
A dark blue 2019 Dodge Charger parked on a paved area with a modern building and trees in the background.
What sets the Charger apart within this list is its family-friendly nature. As a full-size sedan, the Charger boasts generous rear legroom and a substantial trunk, making it a more practical choice compared to smaller sports coupes. For those needing space without sacrificing the appeal of a rear wheel drive automobile, the Dodge Charger presents a compelling option.
2019 Nissan 370Z
The 2019 Nissan 370Z represents a more traditional approach to affordable rear wheel drive automobiles. While largely unchanged in recent years, this Nissan sports car continues to embody the legacy of the Z lineage. Its standard 3.7-liter V6 engine is larger than the base engines found in many other affordable RWD cars, delivering a potent 332 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque, making it one of the most powerful options in this price range. A standard six-speed manual transmission further enhances the driver-centric experience expected from a rear wheel drive automobile.
A silver 2019 Nissan 370Z parked in front of a modern glass building with a blue sky reflection.
The 370Z’s striking exterior design, featuring standard high-intensity discharge headlamps and LED daytime running lights, adds to its sporty appeal. With a starting price around $29,990, the Nissan 370Z remains a testament to the enduring appeal of classic rear wheel drive sports cars.
2019 Kia Stinger
Rounding out the list of affordable rear wheel drive automobiles is the relatively new 2019 Kia Stinger. This critically acclaimed sport sedan, introduced the previous year, continues to gain traction in the market. The 2019 Stinger starts at approximately $32,900 and offers a compelling package of performance, features, and refinement for its price point. It’s powered by a 255-horsepower turbocharged engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
A red 2019 Kia Stinger parked on a paved road with a cityscape and bridge visible in the background.
Standard features include a 7-inch touchscreen, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and advanced driver-assistance systems like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The Stinger also boasts a surprisingly upscale cabin with leather-trimmed seating, heated front seats, and other premium touches. Its liftback design provides practical cargo space, making the Kia Stinger a versatile and affordable rear wheel drive automobile for those seeking a blend of sportiness and everyday usability.
Conclusion
The 2019 model year offered a diverse selection of affordable rear wheel drive automobiles, catering to various tastes and needs. From sporty roadsters and muscle cars to practical sedans, these vehicles demonstrate that the engaging driving dynamics of RWD are accessible to a wider range of buyers than often perceived. Whether you prioritize open-top thrills, raw power, nimble handling, or a combination of performance and practicality, the realm of affordable rear wheel drive automobiles in 2019 had something to offer. These cars prove that enjoying the classic feel of rear wheel drive doesn’t have to come with a luxury car price tag.
