Introduction
Drifting, the art of controlled oversteer, is a motorsport that ignites the adrenaline of car enthusiasts worldwide. This exhilarating technique demands precision and power, making it a thrilling challenge for those who crave the rush of tires shredding asphalt. While any car can technically be drifted, some models are better suited to this demanding discipline than others. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the top 7 cars that are ideal for drifting, taking into account factors like power, handling, affordability, and aftermarket support.
Table of Contents
1. Nissan Silvia S13/S14/S15: The Quintessential Drift Machines
These iconic Japanese coupes are widely considered the quintessential drift cars. Their lightweight construction, powerful engines, and near-perfect weight distribution offer a balance of performance and affordability that’s hard to beat. The S13 and S14 models are particularly popular due to their abundance in the used car market, while the S15 boasts a more modern design and slightly improved handling.
Key Features:
- Agile handling due to lightweight construction
- Powerful SR20DET engine with ample tuning potential
- Near-perfect 50/50 weight distribution
- Extensive aftermarket support with readily available parts and modifications
2. Mazda MX-5 Miata (NA/NB/NC/ND): The Nimble Drift Surprise
The lightweight and nimble Miata is a surprisingly capable drift car. Its naturally-aspirated engine provides predictable power delivery, while its short wheelbase and responsive handling make it easy to control. The Miata also benefits from a large aftermarket community, offering a wide range of performance upgrades and drift-specific modifications.
Key Features:
- Large aftermarket support with drift-specific parts
- Lightweight and nimble handling
- Responsive and predictable 4-cylinder engine
- Short wheelbase for quick transitions
3. Toyota AE86 (Sprinter Trueno/Corolla GT-S): The Legendary Drift Icon
This legendary rear-wheel-drive hatchback gained fame through its starring role in the Initial D anime series. The AE86 is known for its lightweight construction, responsive handling, and iconic pop-up headlights. While not as powerful as some other options on this list, its affordability and aftermarket support make it a popular choice for beginner drifters.
Key Features:
- Lightweight and agile handling
- Responsive 4-cylinder engine with good power-to-weight ratio
- Iconic pop-up headlights and retro styling
- Large aftermarket support with drift-specific parts
4. BMW E36/E46 3 Series: The German Drift Powerhouse
These German sports sedans offer a potent combination of power, handling, and affordability. The E36 and E46 models feature a range of powerful inline-six engines, a well-balanced chassis, and a large aftermarket following. While they may require slightly more maintenance than some other options, their performance potential and driving dynamics make them a rewarding choice for experienced drifters.
Key Features:
- Spacious interior for comfortable daily driving
- Powerful inline-six engines with ample tuning potential
- Well-balanced chassis for predictable handling
- Large aftermarket support with drift-specific parts and modifications
5. Ford Mustang (Fox Body/SN95/S197): The American Muscle Drift Legend
The iconic Mustang has always been a popular choice for American muscle car enthusiasts, and its rear-wheel-drive layout and powerful V8 engines make it a capable drift car as well. The Fox Body (1979-1993) and SN95 (1994-2004) models offer a classic American muscle car experience, while the S197 (2005-2014) boasts a more modern design and improved handling.
Key Features:
- Large aftermarket support with drift-specific parts and modifications
- Powerful V8 engines with ample horsepower and torque
- Rear-wheel-drive layout for controlled oversteer
- Iconic American muscle car styling
6. Nissan 240SX (S13/S14): The North American Drift Twin
Another popular choice for drifting, the 240SX is essentially the North American version of the Silvia. It shares the same lightweight chassis, powerful engines, and near-perfect weight distribution as its Japanese counterpart, making it an excellent platform for drifting. The S13 and S14 models are particularly sought after due to their affordability and abundance in the used car market.
Key Features:
- Lightweight construction for agile handling
- Powerful SR20DET engine with ample tuning potential
- Near-perfect 50/50 weight distribution
- Extensive aftermarket support with readily available parts and modifications
7. Subaru Impreza WRX/STI: The All-Wheel-Drive Drift Challenger
These iconic Japanese rally cars offer a unique blend of all-wheel-drive performance and tunability. While not as commonly used for drifting as some other options on this list, the WRX/STI can be converted to rear-wheel-drive for dedicated drifting applications. Their powerful turbocharged engines, advanced suspension systems, and large aftermarket support make them a compelling choice for experienced drifters looking for a challenge.
Key Features:
- Powerful turbocharged engines with ample tuning potential
- Advanced all-wheel-drive system (convertible to rear-wheel-drive)
- High-performance suspension for precise handling
- Large aftermarket support with drift-specific parts and modifications
Choosing Your Drift Weapon:
Selecting the ideal drift car depends on your individual preferences, budget, and skill level. Consider the following factors when making your decision:
- Power: A powerful engine is essential for initiating and maintaining drifts. However, too much power can be overwhelming for beginners.
- Handling: A well-balanced chassis with responsive steering and predictable handling is crucial for controlled drifting.
- Affordability: Drifting can be an expensive hobby, so it’s important to consider the cost of the car itself, as well as parts, modifications, and maintenance.
- Aftermarket Support: A large aftermarket community with readily available parts and modifications can make it easier to customize your car for drifting.
Mastering the Art of Drifting:
Beyond choosing the right car, becoming a skilled drifter requires dedication, practice, and a deep understanding of the technique. Here are some key steps to help you master the art of controlled oversteer:
- Understand the Basics: Familiarize yourself with the principles of drifting, including weight transfer, throttle control, and steering inputs.
- Practice in a Safe Environment: Start by practicing in a controlled environment like an empty parking lot or a closed course.
- Start with a Beginner-Friendly Car: Choose a car that is forgiving and easy to control, like a rear-wheel-drive car with moderate power.
- Focus on Technique: Pay attention to your throttle, steering, and weight transfer inputs to develop smooth and controlled drifts.
- Seek Guidance from Experienced Drifters: Learn from professional drifters or attend drift schools to improve your skills and technique.
- Be Patient and Persistent: Drifting takes time and practice to master. If you don’t get it straight away, don’t give up.
Safety First:
Drifting is an inherently risky activity, so prioritizing safety is crucial. Always wear proper safety gear, including a helmet, HANS device, racing suit, and gloves. Choose a safe environment for practicing, and never attempt to drift on public roads.
Conclusion:
Remember, drifting is a thrilling and rewarding motorsport, but it also requires respect and responsibility. By following these guidelines and prioritizing safety, you can embark on your journey to mastering the art of controlled oversteer and experience the adrenaline rush of drifting.