Abstract: An automobile rear body structure includes a pair of rear side frames extending in a direction longitudinally of a vehicle body and having respective kick-up portions, each of which extends diagonally upwardly and rearwardly to form a bridging portion in a rear wheel zone. A differential unit is disposed substantially between the kick-up portions and a fuel tank is disposed behind the differential unit. A pair of drive shafts for driving respective rear wheels extend transversely from the differential unit and are disposed substantially below the kick-up portions. A medial cross member is interposed between the differential unit and the fuel tank and extends transversely between the paired rear side frames. The cross member has opposite ends connected to the rear side frames at locations immediately behind the kick-up portions. The differential unit is secured to the cross member or a suspension cross member for carrying rear wheel suspension systems.