When it comes to motorsport, few activities combine speed, skill, and spectacle like drifting. The art of sliding a car sideways around tight corners is both challenging and exhilarating, making it a popular pastime among car enthusiasts worldwide. However, mastering this art requires more than just a skilled driver—it requires the right vehicle. If you’re looking for the best drift cars, then you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll explore some of the top choices that can help you achieve that perfect drift, with a focus on performance, reliability, and modifications that can make your drifting experience a lot smoother.
The Essentials of a Drift Car
Before diving into the list of best drift cars, it’s essential to understand what makes a car suitable for drifting. At its core, drifting demands a car that has:
- Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD): Drifting is much easier to control in a car that drives the rear wheels. A front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive vehicle isn’t as suitable for the controlled skidding required in drifting.
- Powerful Engine: While you don’t need a supercar engine to drift, you need enough power to break traction and keep the car sliding. Most drift cars feature turbocharged engines or naturally aspirated units that offer a good balance between power and control.
- Suspension Upgrades: Drifting puts extreme stress on a car’s suspension, so a stiff, adjustable suspension system is vital for maintaining balance while sliding.
- Control and Handling: Drifting requires the car to be easy to control while maintaining stability at high speeds. Cars with precise steering, responsive braking, and good throttle control are key to becoming a skilled drifter.
Now that we know the basics, let’s take a look at some of the best drift cars available today.
Top Drift Car Picks for Enthusiasts
1. Nissan 240SX (S13/S14)
The Nissan 240SX, especially the S13 and S14 models, holds a special place in the hearts of drift enthusiasts. With a lightweight chassis and rear-wheel drive, the 240SX is the perfect starting point for any drift car build. Known for its balance and predictable handling, this car has become a go-to choice for both professional and amateur drifters alike.
The S13 and S14 come equipped with the SR20DET turbocharged engine, making it relatively easy to tune for drifting purposes. Parts for these models are abundant, and the aftermarket support is immense, making it easy to customize the car to suit your drifting needs. Many pro drifters, including those in the Formula Drift series, have used the Nissan 240SX due to its versatility and tuning potential.
2. Toyota Corolla AE86
The Toyota Corolla AE86 is a cult classic in the drifting community. Its lightweight design and rear-wheel drive layout make it a superb choice for precise, controlled drifts. Popularized by the “Initial D” anime series, the AE86 is synonymous with drifting in Japan, and its reputation has only grown in the drifting world.
Under the hood, the AE86 comes with a 1.6L naturally aspirated engine, which might seem underpowered compared to modern cars, but its simplicity is part of what makes it so appealing to purists. The handling is incredibly sharp, and the car’s low curb weight makes it agile in tight corners. However, while the AE86 is an excellent drift car, finding one in good condition can be challenging due to its age and popularity among collectors.
3. Ford Mustang GT (S550)
For those who prefer more power in their drift car, the Ford Mustang GT (S550) is a fantastic option. Equipped with a V8 engine and a modern, rear-wheel-drive chassis, the Mustang is an American muscle car that excels at straight-line speed and drifting. With the right suspension upgrades, the S550 Mustang is capable of putting down significant amounts of horsepower to initiate and maintain a drift.
Ford has made great strides in making the Mustang more agile in recent years, and with its 5.0L V8 engine, it’s a fantastic car for drifting enthusiasts who prefer a high-power, raw experience. The Mustang is also known for its loud exhaust note and aggressive styling, making it an eye-catching choice both on and off the track.
4. BMW M3 (E30/E46)
The BMW M3 is a legendary name in performance driving, and when it comes to drifting, it holds its own as one of the best options on the market. The E30 and E46 M3 models, in particular, are favored by many professional drifters. Both of these models feature rear-wheel drive and a naturally aspirated six-cylinder engine, offering an excellent balance of power, control, and durability.
The E30 M3 is often considered the ultimate “classic drift car” due to its iconic status and driving dynamics. Meanwhile, the E46 M3, with its more advanced suspension and technology, is a more modern take on the drift car. Both cars have a cult following and are known for their responsive handling and well-balanced chassis, making them perfect for long, controlled drifts.
5. Nissan Silvia (S15)
Another strong contender from Nissan is the Silvia S15, which is considered one of the best drift cars ever made. It’s a bit more modern than the 240SX, featuring a more refined chassis and a turbocharged SR20DET engine. The S15 provides the perfect blend of handling precision, power, and reliability, making it a favorite for many pro drifters around the world.
One of the standout features of the Silvia S15 is its ability to hold a drift for extended periods, thanks to its low weight and responsive suspension. It also comes with a variety of engine options and a sleek design, making it not only a powerhouse on the track but also an eye-catching car in the pits.
When it comes to the best drift cars, there’s no one-size-fits-all option. The car that will suit you best depends on your personal preferences, driving style, and budget. Whether you’re looking for the raw, classic charm of the Toyota AE86 or the high-powered thrills of a Ford Mustang GT, there are plenty of excellent vehicles to choose from. What makes these cars the best for drifting isn’t just their power or their aftermarket potential, but their ability to offer the driver the perfect balance of control and excitement.
Ultimately, the best drift car is the one that lets you express your driving style while offering you the tools to push your limits. By choosing the right car and making the necessary modifications, you’ll be ready to conquer any corner with style and precision. Happy drifting!