Drifting has exploded in popularity, evolving from underground street events to a globally recognized motorsport. What many aspiring drivers discover is that you don’t need a monstrously powerful, heavily modified machine to start sliding. Unlike straight-line speed contests, drifting emphasizes car control, finesse, and style. While horsepower helps, the best drift cars prioritize balance, responsiveness, and driver skill above all else. The beauty of drifting lies in its accessibility; a well-sorted older car can often out-perform a brand-new powerhouse in the hands of a skilled driver. The key is spending time behind the wheel, honing your technique, and understanding your car’s behavior at the limit.
However, starting with the right platform is crucial. While a classic Toyota Corolla AE86 can dance sideways with the best of them, so can a modern Ford Mustang GT. The point is, the foundation matters. So, if you’re wondering What Are Good Drift Cars, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s break down the essential characteristics and explore some top vehicle choices to get you started on your drifting journey.
The Hallmarks of a Great Drift Car
To achieve that satisfying, controlled slide, certain car characteristics are non-negotiable. For sustained, stylish drifts, you need a specific recipe: a balanced chassis to maintain composure, a low center of gravity to minimize rollovers, and crucially, rear-wheel drive (RWD) to break traction at the rear wheels. Beyond these fundamentals, a manual e-brake is essential for initiating and controlling drifts, offering precise, driver-controlled rear wheel lockup. A manual transmission provides maximum control over gear selection and engine revs, vital for managing wheel spin and maintaining drift angle. Finally, a limited-slip differential (LSD) is paramount. While it can be added aftermarket, starting with a car that has one or is easily upgradable is a significant advantage. An LSD ensures power is distributed to both rear wheels, maximizing traction when needed and making controlled slides more predictable.
Beyond the mechanical aspects, driver comfort and practicality play a role. Investing in a good quality racing seat is highly recommended to keep you firmly planted during aggressive maneuvers, enhancing car control and driver confidence. Choosing a common car model with robust aftermarket support is also a smart move. Parts availability and readily available modifications will be essential for maintenance and upgrades as you progress. Trying to convert a front-wheel-drive car to rear-wheel drive, for instance, is generally more trouble and expense than it’s worth, and significantly limits parts availability and tuning options.
Remember, as drifting legend Chris Forsberg emphasizes, seat time is the ultimate teacher. Don’t get bogged down in chasing expensive upgrades like aggressive drift angle kits, high-performance tires, or massive horsepower right away. Focus on mastering the fundamentals with a capable base car. Learn to control slides, maintain drift angle, and transition smoothly. Only once you’ve truly mastered your current setup should you start exploring advanced modifications and increased power. Building a solid foundation of driving skill is far more valuable than throwing money at upgrades before you can effectively utilize them. A 1000-horsepower engine is useless if you can’t control a slide in a lower-powered car. Start simple, practice relentlessly, and progressively enhance your car as your skills evolve.
Top 10 Cool Drift Cars: Rear-Wheel Drive Machines Ready to Slide
With the essential drift car characteristics in mind, let’s explore ten fantastic options that offer a blend of factory capability, upgrade potential, and sideways fun. These cars are chosen for their inherent drift-friendliness right out of the box, but also with an eye towards future modifications and performance enhancements. We’re looking at vehicles that can provide immediate drifting thrills and grow with your skills as you progress. While all of our top picks are rear-wheel drive, we’ll touch on all-wheel-drive systems with drift modes later in this article.
1. Ford Mustang
The Ford Mustang is a perennial favorite in the drifting world, and for good reason. From classic Fox-body Mustangs to the latest models, they offer a potent combination of power, rear-wheel drive, and robust aftermarket support. Whether you’re inspired by Formula Drift champions like Vaughn Gittin Jr. and Adam LZ, who campaign purpose-built Mustang RTR drift machines, or you’re looking for an affordable entry point, the Mustang delivers. For beginners, an older, less pristine Mustang is an excellent choice. It can handle the inevitable bumps and bruises of learning without breaking the bank, and parts are readily available and budget-friendly.
A Fox-body Mustang with the 5.0-liter V8 engine provides ample power in stock form to get sideways. As your drifting skills improve, the Mustang platform offers endless tuning options and engine swap possibilities. Many seasoned drifters have built their skills and careers starting with a basic Mustang and progressively upgrading components over time, proving the enduring appeal and upgradability of this iconic American muscle car. Starting with a Mustang means joining a vast community with extensive knowledge and resources for drifting.
2. Nissan 350Z/370Z
Any Nissan Z car is inherently fun to drift, but the 350Z and 370Z represent a sweet spot of performance, affordability, and reliability. Immortalized in The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift, the 350Z solidified its place in drift culture. These cars are remarkably capable drift machines straight from the factory, especially models equipped with the optional limited-slip differential. Early 350Zs feature the 3.5-liter VQ35DE engine, while later models and the 370Z boast the more refined and powerful VQ35HR V6, producing around 300 horsepower.
The 350Z’s balanced 53:47 front-to-rear weight distribution contributes to its natural handling prowess, making it agile and predictable when sliding. Like the Mustang, the 350Z/370Z benefits from massive aftermarket support. From turbocharger kits to engine swaps, modifications are plentiful and relatively accessible. Whether you’re looking for a reliable and capable stock drift car or a platform for extensive customization, the Nissan Z chassis delivers.
3. Lexus IS300/Toyota Altezza
The Lexus IS300, known as the Toyota Altezza in Japan, is a compelling option, particularly for those considering engine swaps down the line. While later generations offered V8 options, the first-generation IS300 is ideal as a beginner drift car due to its affordability and manageable power. Its lower price point makes it less stressful to learn in, and its balanced chassis is forgiving for new drifters.
The IS300’s engine bay is spacious and readily accepts a variety of power plants, including the popular and robust Toyota 2JZ engine. However, even in stock form, the IS300’s low weight, rear-wheel-drive layout, and balanced handling make it a capable drift car. Its slightly longer wheelbase compared to some coupes contributes to stability and predictability at the limit, making it easier to control slides. Visually, the IS300 is also appealing, often requiring minimal modifications like wheels and lowered suspension to achieve a stylish drift stance. Pre-modified IS300s built for drifting are also commonly found on the used market, offering a ready-to-slide entry point.
4. BMW 3 Series
The BMW 3 Series, across various generations, has long been a favorite platform for motorsports, including drifting. Its inherent balance, rear-wheel-drive configuration, and widespread availability make it a highly accessible and versatile choice. The E36 BMW M3 is particularly sought after for its combination of rear-wheel drive, manual transmission options, and responsive engine. However, even non-M models of the E36, E46, and even later generations offer excellent drift potential. While newer M3s and M4s boast advanced drift modes in their all-wheel-drive variants, their higher price point makes older 3 Series models more attractive for budget-conscious drifters.
While E36 and E46 M3 prices are rising due to their increasing classic status, regular 3 Series models remain relatively affordable. Focus on securing a rear-wheel-drive 3 Series with a manual transmission if possible, or factor in a transmission swap if needed. Adding a limited-slip differential is a crucial upgrade, and from there, the 3 Series platform offers a rewarding and accessible path into drifting.
5. Nissan Silvia (S-Chassis: S13, S14, S15)
The Nissan Silvia, particularly the S13, S14, and S15 chassis, represents a near-perfect drift car formula. In North America, the S13 was sold as the 240SX, famous for its pop-up headlights and tunable four-cylinder engines. These generations of Silvia were initially affordable and incredibly capable, leading to their widespread adoption in drifting.
The S-chassis cars are lightweight, well-balanced, and responsive, making them exceptionally easy to drift. Their four-cylinder engines are robust and can be tuned for significant power gains. However, the very popularity of the S-chassis in drifting has driven up prices. Clean, unmodified examples are becoming rare and expensive, while modified drift-ready versions also command a premium due to their proven capabilities. Despite the price increase, the Nissan S-chassis remains one of the most naturally gifted and easy-to-drift cars available, offering a direct and rewarding drifting experience.
6. Toyota GR86/Subaru BRZ/Scion FR-S
The Toyota GR86, Subaru BRZ, and Scion FR-S (first-generation models) triplets are purpose-built sports cars that excel as drift platforms. Their combination of a low center of gravity Boxer engine, rear-wheel drive, manual transmission, and lightweight construction creates an inherently drift-friendly package. The first-generation models were intentionally designed with modest power and Prius-derived skinny tires to make controlled slides accessible even with minimal throttle input and steering angle.
The current-generation GR86 and BRZ offer a slight power bump and wider tires, further enhancing their drift capabilities while retaining their approachable and forgiving nature. These cars are excellent daily drivers that can be readily driven to and from the track. Their manageable power output encourages drivers to focus on refining technique over relying on brute force. For those seeking more power later, engine swaps like the 2JZ are relatively straightforward. Both novice and experienced drifters appreciate the GR86/BRZ’s balanced handling and inherent drift-friendliness straight off the showroom floor.
7. Mazda MX-5 Miata
The Mazda MX-5 Miata, often hailed as the answer to most automotive questions, is also a fantastic drift car. Its small size, lightweight chassis, responsive handling, and playful character make it an ideal platform for learning and enjoying drifting. Whether you choose an NA, NB, NC, or ND generation Miata, each offers a rewarding and engaging drift experience. Like many cars on this list, the Miata boasts a strong aftermarket and numerous engine swap options, including V8 conversions for those craving more power.
Miatas remain relatively affordable, likely due to their enthusiastic owner base who appreciate driving pleasure over outright power and speed. The Miata’s focus on driver engagement and balanced handling makes it an exceptional tool for developing car control skills and quickly understanding the nuances of drifting. If you want to accelerate your learning curve and master the art of controlled slides, the Mazda MX-5 Miata is an outstanding choice.
8. Toyota Supra (A80)
Moving into slightly higher price brackets, the A80 Toyota Supra is an iconic drift car with legendary status. Powered by the renowned 2JZ-GTE engine, the Supra offers immense power potential and exceptional reliability even under sustained abuse. The 2JZ’s robust internals and high factory performance ceiling make it a favorite for tuners and drifters alike. The Supra’s wide track also provides excellent grip, which is crucial for controlled drifting. More grip allows for higher entry speeds and greater drift angle control, translating to more impressive smoke and spectacle.
However, A80 Supra prices have skyrocketed, making them increasingly difficult to acquire affordably. Considering the current market, a new GR Supra might even be a more accessible option than a well-maintained A80. Alternatively, consider importing a Toyota Chaser Tourer V, which shares similar performance and drift potential with its factory 1JZ-GTE engine and rear-wheel-drive platform. The Supra, in any form, remains a highly desirable and capable drift machine, offering a blend of performance and iconic style.
9. Nissan Skyline (R32, R33, R34 GTS-T)
Another Japanese icon with a devoted following, the Nissan Skyline, in GT-R form, is often out of reach and all-wheel drive. For drifting purposes, the rear-wheel-drive GTS-T variants of the R32, R33, and R34 Skylines are excellent choices. These models utilize the robust RB engine family, sharing lineage with the GT-R but sending power exclusively to the rear wheels. While the R32 is historically significant as the first of its kind, and the R34 is arguably the most visually striking and sought-after, the R33 often represents a relative value proposition due to slightly less fervent demand.
Regardless of generation, the Nissan Skyline GTS-T models offer exceptional rear-wheel-drive platforms for drifting. Their potent RB engines, combined with balanced chassis and readily available modifications, make them highly capable drift cars. Unlike the Supra, some Skyline models, particularly the R33 and R34, were also available in four-door sedan configurations, offering added practicality for carrying spare tires and gear to the track.
10. Mazda RX-7 (FD3S)
The Mazda RX-7 FD3S is a visually stunning and dynamically gifted car, but its rotary engine requires careful consideration for drifting. The Wankel rotary engine, while unique and high-revving, can be less tolerant of sustained abuse in stock form compared to traditional piston engines. The FD3S RX-7, like the Supra and Skyline, is highly sought after, making finding an affordable drift-worthy example challenging. Mint condition RX-7s are often too valuable to risk on the track, while rough examples may require significant engine work.
A common solution is to purchase a less pristine FD3S and perform an engine swap, often with a robust V8 engine. Alternatively, the FC3S RX-7, the wedge-shaped predecessor to the FD, can be a more affordable option. Even the Mazda RX-8, while less aesthetically striking than the FD, offers a decent rear-wheel-drive platform, especially if an engine swap is planned. While the rotary engine’s unique sound and character are part of the RX-7’s appeal, its long-term durability for drifting can be a concern without significant investment or modification.
Offbeat Drift Cars: Style Points & Unexpected Slides
While our top 10 list focuses on common and reliable drift platforms, drifting also embraces style and individuality. For those seeking to stand out and earn extra style points, unconventional drift cars can be incredibly rewarding. Imagine sliding a Dodge Viper, with its V10 engine, rear-wheel drive, and raw, untamed character. The early Vipers, lacking traction control, offer a truly visceral and challenging drift experience.
The Honda S2000, typically seen on time attack circuits, is another underappreciated drift gem. Its high-revving engine, balanced chassis, and rear-wheel drive layout make it a capable and stylish drift weapon. However, both Vipers and S2000s have become coveted classics, making them less common and more expensive to dedicate to drifting.
If German engineering appeals to you, consider a Mercedes-Benz E55 AMG W211 or a BMW M5 E39, both packing powerful V8 engines and rear-wheel drive. For a truly unconventional and silent drift experience, Vaughn Gittin Jr. has demonstrated the drift potential of the electric Ford Mustang Mach-E, and Teslas can also be surprisingly capable drift machines. Beyond these, the drifting world has seen Lamborghini Murcielagos, Mazda BT-50 pickup trucks, Ford F-150s, Volvo 240 station wagons, and even Ford Transit vans sliding sideways, proving that with creativity and skill, almost any car can be a drift car. Ultimately, the “best” drift car is often the one that excites you the most and fits your budget and goals.
What Is Drift Mode? Powerslide vs. True Drift
Modern all-wheel-drive systems are increasingly sophisticated, offering not only all-weather traction but also performance-oriented features like “drift mode.” Drift mode aims to emulate the rear-wheel-drive drifting experience in an AWD car. These systems typically work by decoupling the front axle or significantly biasing power delivery to the rear wheels.
Early systems, like those in the Ford Focus RS, Volkswagen Golf R, and Audi RS3, can send a significant portion of engine output to the rear axle (up to 70% in the Focus RS, 50% in the Golf R/RS3) and even vector torque to individual rear wheels. However, these systems generally maintain some level of front-wheel drive engagement. While they facilitate controlled powerslides, they don’t fully replicate the pure rear-wheel-drive drifting dynamic.
In contrast, some manufacturers offer “true” drift modes in rear-biased AWD cars like the Mercedes-AMG C63, BMW M8, and Kia Stinger GTS. These systems can send 100% of the engine’s power to the rear wheels, effectively turning the car into a purely rear-wheel-drive vehicle when drift mode is engaged. This allows for genuine drifting, requiring the driver to manage the car as if it were solely rear-wheel drive. While impressive, even cars like the Bugatti Chiron Sport, despite their immense power and sliding ability, technically powerslide rather than truly drift due to their AWD systems maintaining front-wheel engagement.
Regardless of the technical definition, the growing prevalence of drift modes in production cars signals the increasing popularity and acceptance of drifting as a mainstream driving style. As manufacturers continue to innovate and cater to enthusiast desires, the future of drifting, both in dedicated rear-wheel-drive cars and advanced all-wheel-drive systems, looks bright. The expanding interest in drifting fuels the growth of motorsport series like Formula Drift and further cultivates the passion for sideways driving.
