- Published 08/01/2025
How to Be a Drift Master: Your Guide to the Art of Drifting
Drifting is one of the most exciting and visually captivating motorsport disciplines, combining precision, control, and a lot of smoke. While professionals make it look effortless, becoming a drift master takes dedication, technical know-how, and plenty of practice. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to improve your skills, this guide will help you understand what it takes to master drifting.
What is Drifting?
Drifting involves intentionally oversteering a car, causing the rear wheels to lose traction while maintaining control through a corner. The goal is to balance speed, angle, and control, allowing the car to glide sideways. Originating in Japan in the 1970s, drifting has become an international motorsport phenomenon, with events like Formula Drift showcasing the best drivers in the world.
Step 1: Choose the Right Car
Not all cars are built for drifting. The ideal drift car offers the right mix of power, rear-wheel drive (RWD), and controllability. Popular models include the Nissan Silvia, Toyota AE86, Mazda RX-7, and BMW 3 Series.
Key features to look for:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)
: Essential for losing traction at the rear while maintaining control.Manual Transmission
: Gives you better control over power and speed.Lightweight Design
: Makes the car easier to manoeuvre during slides.Step 2: Modify Your Car
To withstand the demands of drifting, certain modifications are necessary:
Limited Slip Differential (LSD)
: Helps distribute power evenly to the rear wheels.Tyres: For steering precision, use grippy tyres at the front and lower-grip tyres at the rear for easier sliding.
Coilovers
: Adjustable suspension enhances car handling.Handbrake
: A hydraulic handbrake makes initiating drifts more effective.Step 3: Learn the Techniques
Drifting isn’t just about pulling the handbrake and sliding—it’s about precision and timing. Essential drifting techniques include:
Handbrake Drift
: Pull the handbrake to initiate a slide.Clutch Kick
: Disengage and re-engage the clutch quickly to lose traction.Feint Drift
: Steer briefly from the corner before turning sharply to unsettle the car.Power Oversteer
: Use the throttle to break traction in the rear wheels during a turn.Start slow and practice each technique until you can transition between drifts smoothly.
Step 4: Practice in a Safe Environment
Drifting is a skill that improves with practice. Always start in a controlled environment like a racetrack or private lot. Begin at low speeds to understand your car’s behaviour before progressing to faster, more aggressive drifts.
Step 5: Understand Drift Judging Criteria
If you’re looking to compete, judges typically assess your performance based on:
Angl
: The degree of oversteer achieved.Speed
: How fast you drift while maintaining control.Line
: Following the optimal racing line through a corner.Style
: The smoothness and flair of your drifts.Step 6: Prioritise Safety
Drifting can be risky, so always prioritise safety. Ensure your car is in good condition, wear proper safety gear (like a helmet), and avoid drifting on public roads. Stick to designated tracks with safety measures in place.
Step 7: Join the Drifting Community
Drifting is more than just a sport; it’s a culture. Joining local drift clubs and attending events will help you improve and connect you with other enthusiasts. You’ll gain valuable tips and insights while sharing your passion for the sport.
