New to drifting? Find the best starter drift cars with our comprehensive guide, covering popular models, key features, and budget-friendly options to get you started.
Popular Drift Car Models
When it comes to drifting, having the right car can make all the difference. But with so many models out there, it can be overwhelming to choose the perfect ride. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at some of the most popular drift car models that have made a name for themselves in the drifting community.
Nissan S13/S14/S15
The Nissan S13, S14, and S15 are some of the most iconic drift cars out there. Known for their Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) layout and high-performance capabilities, these cars have been a staple in the drifting world for decades. The S13, in particular, is often considered the holy grail of drift cars, thanks to its lightweight body and powerful engine. With its legendary status, it’s no wonder why many professional drifters choose the Nissan S13 as their go-to ride.
Toyota Corolla AE86
The Toyota Corolla AE86 is another popular drift car model that has gained a cult following among enthusiasts. This humble-looking sedan packs a punch, thanks to its lightweight body and rev-happy 3S-GE engine. The AE86’s handling and balance make it an ideal choice for beginners, while its aftermarket support and parts availability make it a tuner’s dream. Whether you’re a seasoned drifter or just starting out, the Toyota Corolla AE86 is an excellent choice for anyone looking to get into the world of drifting.
Mazda RX-7 FC3S
Last but not least, we have the Mazda RX-7 FC3S, a car that’s often overshadowed by its more popular counterparts but still packs a punch. With its high-revving rotary engine and RWD layout, the RX-7 FC3S is a force to be reckoned with on the drifting circuit. Its unique sound and handling characteristics make it a favorite among enthusiasts, while its relatively affordable price tag makes it an attractive option for those on a budget. Whether you’re looking for a thrill ride or a project car to modify and upgrade, the Mazda RX-7 FC3S is definitely worth considering.
Key Features for Beginners
When it comes to drifting, there are some essential features that beginners should look for in a car. These features will help you get started with drifting and improve your skills quickly. In this section, we’ll cover the key features that you should consider when choosing a drift car as a beginner.
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) Layout
One of the most critical features of a drift car is a Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) layout. But why is that? Well, RWD cars are more prone to oversteer, which is the backbone of drifting. When you accelerate, brake, or turn, the weight of the car shifts, and the rear wheels lose traction, causing the car to slide. A RWD layout makes it easier to initiate and control drifts, making it perfect for beginners.
Imagine you’re driving a front-wheel-drive car, and you try to take a sharp turn. The car will naturally understeer, which means the front wheels will lose traction, and the car will push outward. In a RWD car, the opposite happens. The rear wheels lose traction, and the car will rotate around a corner, making it easier to drift.
High-Power Engine Options
Having a high-power engine is essential for drifting. You need a car that can accelerate quickly and maintain high speeds to sustain a drift. A high-power engine will give you the power and control you need to initiate and maintain a drift.
Think of it like riding a bike. When you pedal, you build up speed and momentum. Similarly, in a drift car, the engine provides the power and momentum you need to initiate and sustain a drift. A high-power engine will give you the confidence you need to push your limits and improve your drifting skills.
Weight Distribution and Balance
Weight distribution and balance are critical factors in a drift car. A car with a well-balanced weight distribution will be more stable and easier to handle, making it perfect for beginners. Imagine you’re driving a car with a heavy front end and a light rear end. The car will naturally understeer, making it difficult to drift. On the other hand, a car with a balanced weight distribution will be more responsive to your inputs, making it easier to initiate and control drifts.
When choosing a drift car, look for one with a balanced weight distribution. This will make it easier to handle and more forgiving for beginners. A well-balanced car will also be more stable at high speeds, giving you the confidence you need to push your limits and improve your drifting skills.
Budget-Friendly Options
When it comes to drifting, the last thing you want to worry about is breaking the bank. Fortunately, there are some amazing budget-friendly options out there that can get you started on your drifting journey without emptying your pockets. In this section, we’ll explore three budget-friendly drift car models that are perfect for beginners.
Ford Mustang Foxbody
The Ford Mustang Foxbody is an iconic American muscle car that’s gaining popularity in the drifting scene. Its rear-wheel drive layout, lightweight body, and robust engine make it an ideal candidate for drifting. But what really sets it apart is its affordability. You can pick up a used Foxbody for under $5,000, making it an excellent entry-point for drifters on a budget. Plus, with a vast aftermarket support, you can upgrade your Foxbody to meet your drifting needs without breaking the bank.
Nissan 240SX S14/S15
The Nissan 240SX S14 and S15 are staple models in the drifting community, and for good reason. These cars are designed for handling and agility, making them perfect for beginners. Their rear-wheel drive layout, combined with a lightweight body and a powerful engine, make them a blast to drive on the track. The best part? You can find a used S14 or S15 for under $10,000, making them an affordable option for those just starting out.
Toyota Chaser JZX100
The Toyota Chaser JZX100 is a Japanese import that’s gaining popularity in the drifting scene. Its rear-wheel drive layout, powerful 1JZ-GTE engine, and sleek design make it a drifters dream. But what really sets it apart is its affordability. You can pick up a used JZX100 for under $8,000, making it an excellent option for those on a budget. Plus, with a growing aftermarket support, you can upgrade your JZX100 to meet your drifting needs without breaking the bank.
Easy to Modify and Upgrade
One of the most crucial factors to consider when choosing a drift car is how easily it can be modified and upgraded. After all, drifiting is all about pushing your car to its limits and beyond, and that requires a vehicle that can handle a wide range of tweaks and adjustments. So, what makes a drift car easy to modify and upgrade?
Aftermarket Support and Parts
When it comes to modifying your drift car, having access to a wide range of aftermarket parts is essential. Imagine being able to swap out your car’s stock exhaust system for a high-performance one that unleashes an extra 50 horsepower. Or, picture being able to upgrade your suspension to a coilover setup that provides unparalleled handling and control. With a drift car that has strong aftermarket support, these upgrades become a reality, allowing you to tailor your vehicle to your specific drifting needs.
Tuner-Friendly Engine and Chassis
Another key factor in a drift car’s modifiability is its engine and chassis design. A tuner-friendly engine is one that is easy to work with, with features such as easily accessible components, a simple engine management system, and plenty of room for upgrades like turbochargers and intercoolers. Similarly, a chassis that is designed with modification in mind will have features like reinforced mounting points, easy-to-remove body panels, and a robust suspension system that can handle the stresses of drifting.
Bolt-On Upgrades for Drifting
Finally, a drift car that is easy to modify and upgrade should have a range of bolt-on upgrades available that can be installed with minimal fuss and hassle. These might include items like performance air filters, lightweight wheels, and adjustable coilovers. With these types of upgrades, you can quickly and easily make significant improvements to your car’s performance, without having to undertake a major overhaul. By having access to these types of upgrades, you can continually refine and improve your drifting skills, without getting bogged down in complex and time-consuming modifications.
Handling and Performance
Drifting is not just about style and showmanship; it’s also about precision, control, and raw speed. As a beginner, getting the handling and performance of your drift car just right is crucial. In this section, we’ll explore the essential upgrades you need to make to take your drifting skills to the next level.
Suspension Upgrades for Drifting
Imagine trying to drift with a car that’s riding on clouds. Sounds fun, right? But, in reality, it’s a recipe for disaster. A soft suspension setup will make your car wallow and sway, making it impossible to control. To achieve the precision and stability needed for drifting, you need stiffer springs, sturdier shocks, and more responsive steering. Think of it like a dance: the suspension is the music, and the car is the dancer. When the two are in harmony, magic happens.
Upgrading your suspension will allow you to fine-tune your car’s handling, cornering ability, and responsiveness. This includes installing stiffer coilovers, adjustable shocks, and upgraded sway bars. The result? A car that’s more agile, more responsive, and more willing to obey your every command.
Brake Upgrades for Better Stopping
Let’s face it: drifting is all about pushing the limits of speed and control. But, to do that, you need to be able to stop on a dime. Upgrading your brakes is crucial for drifting, as it allows you to slow down quickly and maintain control when entering a turn or correcting a slide.
Imagine being able to brake later, apex earlier, and carry more speed through the turn. That’s what a high-performance braking system can do for you. Upgrades like high-friction brake pads, drilled rotors, and stainless steel brake lines will give you the confidence to push harder and brake later, allowing you to improve your lap times and overall performance.
Tire Selection for Grip and Control
Tires are the unsung heroes of drifting. They’re the sole (pun intended) point of contact between your car and the road, and they play a critical role in determining how well you can grip, slide, and control your car.
Choosing the right tires for drifting is a delicate balance between grip, durability, and cost. You need tires that provide enough grip to corner aggressively, but not so much that they kill the slide. You need tires that can withstand the heat and abuse of drifting, but won’t break the bank.
From soft-compound tires like the Falken Azenis to hard-compound tires like the Toyo Proxes, the choices are endless. Ultimately, the right tire for you will depend on your driving style, the conditions you’ll be drifting in, and your budget. But one thing’s for sure: with the right tires, you’ll be able to grip, slide, and control your car like a pro.