While front-wheel-drive cars are the norm from cheap manufacturers, fun is often associated with rear-wheel cars. However, some models can be very expensive, which means that people often stick to the FWD models to save a few bucks. The cheapest rear-wheel drive cars will offer you plenty of fun without breaking the bank.

The Mazda RX-8 and BMW Z3 Roadster are two of the most popular budget rear-wheel-drive cars on the market today and have similar prices. Both are older models, but they still hold some influence in the modern era due to performance. However, there are plenty more cars to look at.

To help you better understand which cars you should be looking for, we have done some research to look at a few of these cars. Keep in mind that the prices are not only for new models but also include used models with some decent mileage that would still give you a few years of driving.

Top 7 Cheapest Rear Wheel Drive Cars On The Market Today (New/Used)

With brands stretching from Japan to Germany and the influence of US manufacturers, it is hard to limit the list to only seven models. With some basic scouting, you can find hundreds of great rear-wheel-drive cars. However, these are some of the best when it comes to performance and ensuring that you will have some fun.

1. BMW Z3 Roadster

BMW is not often on any list when it comes to the cheapest cars in the world. However, the BMW Z3 Roadster went through a rough patch. A few months after release, the car struggled significantly with reliability issues; this has seen the price drop significantly over recent years. You can pick up a used version for close to $5,000 if you do a little searching.

The BMW Z3 Roadster is backed by the BMW manufacturer and comes with good engine performance. You would probably find the 1.9-liter four-cylinder model being more common than the 2.0-liter six-cylinder. Both would generate more than 130HP of power.

2. Mazda RX-8

While the Mazda RX-8 might not be the most reliable vehicle on the market today, it still does not produce many problems when you consider how people drive these vehicles. It might be one of the older Mazda models, but still delivers tons of performance and you would probably find it for less than $6,000 in good working condition.

One of the main reasons for including it is not only the performance but the overall trim of the car, which makes it look unique. It might not be the vehicle you would want for your family due to some reliability issues, but someone young would have some fun with it.

3. 2019 Fiat 124 Spider

The 2019 Fiat Spider is one of the top models from the year it was released and certainly made some impressions with the 164 HP it delivered. The vehicle has the same design as your traditional cabriolet, which means it might not be the ideal vehicle for families, and the 6-speed manual transmission is not for everyone.

However, it is one of the newer vehicles that we have on the list and with a price of about $25,000, it might be expensive. However, this is for a brand-new version. For a good-condition used model, you are looking at around $8,000.

4. Pontiac Firebird (2002)

I bet you didn’t think you would see a muscle car on this list, well surprise! The Pontiac Firebird is one of the smaller muscle cars that can do 0-60 in around 5 seconds. Compared to some of the other models on the list, it is also a reliable model on the market today.

The 2002 Firebird is powered by a 5.7-liter LS1 V8 engine, which does mean that it will be heavy on fuel consumption. However, it can deliver a staggering 308 HP. If you are into older retro shapes, this is the perfect car for you and you could find a good condition version for around $6,000.

5. 2019 Chevrolet Camaro

Chevrolet has always been known as one of the top brands when it comes to performance muscle cars and the 2019 Chevrolet Camaro is one of those cars that comes with elegance and performance. We have chosen the 2019 model since it is cheaper than the 2018 model and comes with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, which delivers around 275 HP of power.

Those interested in a modern vehicle would enjoy the fact that it features Apple Play and mobile Wi-Fi, which is included in the price. It does not have many reliability issues and aside from a few reports of the car stuck in first gear occasionally, the $31,000 vehicle is perfect for the RWD fanatics.

6. Chrysler 300

When you think of a performance RWD car, you often don’t envision a sedan vehicle. However, the Chrysler 300 is a combination of a performance vehicle and a family sedan you can use for long-distance travel. It includes a V6 engine, which delivers close to 300 HP of power into the rear tires.

If your wife is looking for a family car and you want something to have some fun with, the Chrysler 300 is the perfect compromise. Aside from a few reliability issues and being picky about you using good quality fuel, it is still a highly rated vehicle.

7. Porsche Cayman 987

There is no arguing that Porsche is one of the more luxurious and expensive brands on the market today. However, you can find a good used Porsche Cayman for around $20,000 on Craigslist. It still looks and feels like a Porsche, but it will have some mileage on the clock.

The Cayman 987 delivers around 300 HP of power, which makes it a luxurious car that offers high-quality performance. In terms of reliability, the car stands up well. With 20 years of being on the market, you can trust the reliability.

FAQ

Should I Buy A New Or Used Rear-Wheel-Drive Car

Since the budget can often be a bit tight, many people often opt for the used models. However, the new models include a service plan and would often be backed by some form of warranty. However, there are many high-quality used models available. I believe that it would all come down to your budget and what you can afford.

Is It Harder To Drive A RWD Car?

Many manufacturers move to FWD models when designing family cars. However, RWD cars are much easier to handle than their FWD counterparts, especially when turning. However, it would take some time to master the differences in the driving styles required. Traction is also limited in wet or slippery conditions.