• Nissan 240SX
• BMW E36
• Nissan Skyline R33
• Mazda RX-8
• Honda Civic
• Mazda MX-5 Miata (Eunos)
• Lexus SC (Toyota Soarer)
• Lexus IS (Toyota Altezza)
• Nissan 350Z (Z33)
• Toyota GT86 (BRZ, FRS)
• Honda S2000
• Ford Mustang
• Subaru WRX STI
• Volkswagen Golf GTI
• Volkswagen Beetle

In a hurry? Then watch our best project cars roundup

You don’t have to be going through a midlife crisis to feel the need for a project car. Owning one can be one of the most enjoyable, yet tough, decisions you’re likely to make.

Whether you just want to strip the car back to a bare shell and start from scratch or create a budget street weapon, this guide will undoubtedly help with your decision.

Sure, chances are it’s probably not going to be the wisest financial choice you’ve ever made, but you can’t put a price tag on the amount of enjoyment you can get out of cheap project cars.

Often, you can sell them for what you paid, in fact, some of our choices are already increasing in value, so it could well be the perfect time to snap one up as a future investment before they continue to escalate further.

Initial considerations for best project cars

We highly recommend considering some important factors before you decide which car you’d like to go with, especially if this is your first project car adventure.

First, consider what body style you want. Are you interested in trucks? Or would you have a sports coupe instead? Do you want to spend time figuring out a fancy dual-clutch transmission? Or would you rather put affordability first and settle on a manual gearbox?

Will the car be daily driven? Or are you one of those tuners who strictly purchase sports cars just to take them out on track days? In the case of a daily driver, the mods you make will most likely need to be done over the evenings and weekends. On the other hand, you can perform sports car modifications anytime you see fit.

If you’re lucky enough to have storage space then this is obviously not a concern and you can leave the car on axle stands for a few days or weeks without worry when carrying out upgrades/maintenance/repairs.

Are spares easily available and within your budget? Now, there are heaps of alternative project cars you could potentially go with outside of our recommendations, but we’ve already considered the fact that most parts for these cars are available on the used market for relatively reasonable prices.

If you’re considering something super rare that’s likely to break every other week and cost you a fortune in impossible to source parts, it’s probably going to end up being more frustrating than enjoyable. So, we recommend you choose a platform that has good aftermarket support and plenty of aftermarket parts to choose from.

Should I look for a high-powered car?

Is the car going to provide enough power for your current plans? Is the engine even running? You’ll need to think about which upgrades are planned further down the line and what potential upgrades and engine swaps are available for that specific car.

We’ve noticed that budgets rarely work with these things, but it’s always good to have a rough idea in mind.

If drifting is your aim, you’re obviously going to need to be looking at the rear-wheel-drive platforms in our guide. It’s always easy to want to buy something with huge power to begin with, but lower powered cars can be heaps of fun too, so they’re definitely worth considering.

And do not forget, you’ll have to spend a fair chunk of money for some suspension upgrades and a heavy-duty set of brakes too!

Thankfully, you can enjoy what high-powered cars have to offer without having to spend a penny from the comfort of your computer with games such as Drift Hunters and Madalin Stunt Cars 3.

Think outside the box

Sure, you’re probably already thinking along the lines of, “Drift car? Simple, I’ll get a 240SX!” However, remember that this is what others are thinking too, and this is where ‘drift’ or ‘scene’ tax comes into play, and you’ll probably end up being screwed over on prices for parts.

And of course, the size of your engine bay is the only limiting factor for the endless amount of engine swap options out there.

With that being said, it’ll undoubtedly be worth it if you have your heart set on a specific selection that you’ve always dreamed of owning. We’ve made some pretty questionable choices in our time but we don’t have any regrets!

You’re on Drifted, so chances are you’re set on something Rear Wheel Drive. However, don’t completely rule out Front Wheel Drive cars too, these can be heaps of fun, especially if you’re looking for something cheap. A great-handling, cheap FWD on a tight and twisty track would provide great bang for your buck.

Before we begin, check out what Donut Media’s opinion of the best tuner cars for under $10k to give you some initial ideas!

Now, let’s take a look at our budget project cars

Remember, project cars don’t have to be the absolute best cars on the market, nor does it have to be what your buddies think is cool. Find something YOU like, pour a s**tload load of blood, sweat, and tears into it, and it’ll soon win over your heart. (Or become your worst enemy, but we’ll hope for the best!)

Best Project Cars #1 – Nissan 240SX (S13, 180SX)

• Model year: 1989-1999
• Engine size: 2.4L
• Power output: 1989-1990 – 140 bhp (100 kW) | 1991-1994 – 155 bhp (116 kW)
• Drivetrain configuration: RWD

Our comment: Yeah, you knew it was coming! It’s been hugely popular since it rose to fame in the ’90s, and the 240SX is certainly no exception now. Due to their cult following and age/drifting taking its toll, the 240SX has undoubtedly risen in price over time. Reasonably priced models can still be had, but be prepared for it to be a little more of a project than you perhaps planned.

If you have a choice, we recommend going with the KA24DE which has more power out of the box, and far more tuning potential. Many owners choose to swap out the engine for an SR20DET, which it actually left the factory with on the JDM equivalent (180SX).

If power is your aim, then you may feel a little riskier and want to opt for a Skyline RB25 or RB26 replacement for something a little different!

As you’ve probably guessed, the 240SX is an incredibly capable lightweight chassis with great handling for drifting and will undoubtedly make a great platform for a project if you’ve got the cash. If you want to know more about why we recommend 240SX’s so highly, make sure you check out our ‘Why the Nissan 240SX is the best drift car’ guide.

If you feel like the 240SX is the ideal project for you, and maybe have a little more money to splash, we highly recommend checking out S14’s!

CarThrottle Review: “The chassis, the chassis is where this car shines. Now I am not going to talk about the drift potential of this vehicle. The internet will tell 1000 times its great for drifting and it will tell you 1000 more times. The car is tossable into corners. It can really carry a lot of speed through sweepers and tight twisties. The steering is fast, transmission is tight, pedals in the perfect spot and a chassis that communicates really makes this a fun car to carve in.”

“I genuinely feel like people who buy this JUST for drifting are missing out. Not that doing that is a bad thing but SO many people look at this vehicle like its god given talent was drifting that they miss out on the other great things this car can achieve. You S-chassis owners that don’t, try some canyon carving, autocross or track, you guys are really missing out. This car has plenty more on its resume than its drifting career.”

– Read the full review

Best Project Cars #2 – BMW E36

• Model year: 1990-2000
• Engine size: 1.8L-2.8L
• Power output: 73 kW (98 bhp) to 142 kW (190 bhp)
• Drivetrain configuration: RWD

Our comment: The German legend has arrived. Known throughout America and Europe as one of the best budget drift cars, the BMW E36 has definitely earned its place on our list. In Europe, E36’s generally out-number most other cars at drift days, and with parts easily sourced and common, they’re becoming a great alternative to the more expensive JDM cars.

Their popularity in the US has also risen quickly in recent years, with companies such as Pandem modernizing it with their Rocket Bunny kits to keep the stance (and brave drift) scene happy.

There are several different models of the E36, but a few basic mods will allow even the lowest power ones to go sideways. We highly recommend these for some cheap, great handling fun!

With E46’s more affordable than ever, these are also a fantastic option if you fancy something a little more modern. If you like the old-school look, E30’s have to be a sure temptation. We always love M3’s, but we also know first hand the cost involved with owning them, so proceed with caution if they tickle your fancy!

Motortrend Review: “The E36 generation BMW 3 Series Coupes has a quite a few highs, the odd low and a whole heap of appeal. There are some rough examples around and buying a well-serviced car that’s been kept as close to standard trim as possible is a wise move.”

– Read the full review

Best Project Cars #3 – Nissan Skyline R33

• Model year: 1993-1998
• Engine size: 2.0L-2.5L
• Power output: 96 kW (128 bhp) to 184 kW (247 bhp)
• Drivetrain configuration: RWD

Our comment: Nissan Skyline R32 and R34 prices have shot through the roof in recent years, even for the lesser models. Luckily, if you’re after a Skyline, the R33 has remained relatively affordable during that time.

It’s certainly not the cheapest option on our list, but it’s a whole lot of car for the money. We expect that these will eventually creep up in value like their siblings too, even if they are the ugly duckling of the bunch.

With up to 250hp available from the RB engine in stock form, they also take extremely well to upgrades with some simple bolt-on modifications to squeeze the extra horses out.

Weighing in at 1,360kg, these certainly aren’t the lightest of our choices, but strip out the interior and some handling mods and we have no doubt it’ll keep you grinning ear to ear around the track.

Autospeed Review: “The RB25DET is undoubtedly one of the best single turbo engines we’ve ever sat behind. Off-boost torque is strong, but get some load on above about 3000 rpm and she’s a real rocket. Torque holds strong until close to the 7000 rpm redline.”

“The R33 is quite a large car – but its chassis is very well suited to an urban chuck-about. Tromp it a little early exiting a corner the back end squats, cork-screws a little and then eases to the side oh-so progressively. It’s so sublime you don’t always realize that it’s happening.”

– Read the full review

Best Project Cars #4 – Mazda RX-8

• Model year: 2003-2012
• Engine size: 1.3L
• Power output: 141 kW (189 bhp) to 177 kW (237 bhp)
• Drivetrain configuration: RWD

Our comment: You’re probably upset that we didn’t include the RX-7, and believe me, we wanted to. If you can get one reasonably enough, don’t even hesitate! However, we can’t ignore that RX-8 prices are plummeting while FC and FD prices rise, so we think it could well be the perfect time to land an RX8 for a project car base.

With a chassis that is comparable to the legendary FD, the RX8 provides up to 250hp weighing in at just 1,309kg.

On paper, it sounds like the perfect option, however, the reason for these being so cheap is due to the difficult to maintain rotary engines. Despite being incredible technology, they’re definitely not the most reliable engine on the market.

If you can get one cheap enough, consider adding something like an LS1, or take it back to its true heritage with a 13B turbo. This way, you’ve got an affordable AND reliable lightweight drift car!

Although the rotary powerplant can put you off, these fantstic cars happen to be a great platform for an engine swap!

Autocar Review: “First off, there’s still nothing else like an RX-8. That low, sleek coupé shape, those wacky suicide rear doors and two-rotor engine that sounds like a hoover on full chat continue to make it a unique proposition.”

“The RX-8 feels really well balanced, eager to turn in, gripping more strongly at the front and with body roll now much reduced. The back end sticks very well, but switch the DSC off and as you exit a tight bend with power on, round it comes. And that’s in the dry. But it’s all well telegraphed and easy to catch.”

– Read the full review

Best Project Cars #5 – Honda Civic

• Model year: 1991-2000
• Engine size: 1.3L-1.6L
• Power output: 52 kW (70 bhp) to 93 kW (125 bhp)
• Drivetrain configuration: FWD

Our comment: No sighing, please. You’ve probably already realized that here at Drifted, we don’t exactly claim to be Honda Civic experts. That being said, we’ve been out in some track-prepped ones and we know that these can provide a s**tload of fun for the money!

With some models weighing a mere 925kg and capable of up to 125hp before you’ve done any upgrades, these are great value for money.

If you want some cheap, reliable, high-revving front-wheel-drive fun, these are definitely worth considering!

Autocar Review: “Peak horsepower is developed at a lofty 6600 rpm. And there’s no serious penalty for turning the VTEC engine so fast, as it stays remarkably smooth right up to the point where its electronic rpm limiter steps in.”

Best Project Cars #6 – Mazda Miata (Eunos, MX5)

• Model year: 1989-2005
• Engine size: 1.6L-1.8L
• Power output: 86 kW (115 bhp), to 99 kW (133 bhp)
• Drivetrain configuration: RWD

Our comment: Cheap, cheerful and a fantastic base for a daily or a track-car alike. We love the Mazda Miata MX-5 and this throwback to British roadsters really is a unique car to throw sideways with the wind in your hair.

Miatas are certainly not the most powerful, but they’re light and can take a good old-fashioned ass-kicking without causing too much of a fuss. Coilovers and an exhaust can really transform these. If you’ve got some spare cash, you can even go down the supercharger route for maximum potential!

Roadandtrack Review: “By mixing the fun of yesterday’s roadsters with the technology of today, it marks a giant leap forward in the evolution of the sports car.”

– Read the full review

Best Project Cars #7 – Lexus SC400 (Toyota Soarer)

• Model year: 1991-2000
• Engine size: 4.0L
• Power output: 186 kW (250 bhp) to 216 kW (290 bhp)
• Drivetrain configuration: RWD

Our comment: The SC400 was $40,000 worth of car when it was first released, and now they can be had for a steal. The 290hp from the 1UZ-FE V8 isn’t to be sniffed at, but they’re not the lightest cars out there.

Whether you’re looking for a drift car, or a VIP/daily, these will fit the bill extremely well. Many owners have gone all-out with 1JZ and 2JZ swaps from the Supra for maximum tuning potential.

The Truth About Cars Review: “There is nothing quite like it!” Every enthusiast I know has that attitude towards their car. But rarely is it actually true. If you find a well preserved one with less than 150k. Buy it. If you can find an SC300 with an all too rare manual tranny in it. Call me first. I’ll buy it and be your new best friend.”

– Read the full review

Best Project Cars #8 – Lexus IS300 (Toyota Altezza)

• Model year: 1999-2005
• Engine size: 4.0L
• Power output: 186 kW (250 bhp) to 216 kW (290 bhp)
• Drivetrain configuration: RWD

Our comment: The Lexus IS300 is quickly becoming a modern-day legend. With great looks and easy tuning ability alongside the potential of plenty of convenient off-the-shelf turbo kits, the 2JZ powerplant has a huge amount of potential.

These once again are great drift, daily or VIP-style cars with a huge amount of mods available on the market. We’ve got guides to show you our favorite coilovers and exhausts specifically for the IS300, and believe me, there’s certainly no shortage of selection!

RAC Review: “If you can track down a reasonably priced IS300, it makes a very satisfying ownership proposition. The interior is well appointed, the engine is delightfully smooth and the reliability record is second to none. As one of those cars that seems to make a whole lot more sense used than new, the IS300 deserves a little recognition.”

– Read the full review

Best Project Cars #9 – Nissan 350Z (Z33)

• Model year: 2003-2008
• Engine size: 3.5L
• Power output: 214 kW (287 bhp) to 228 kW (306 bhp)
• Drivetrain configuration: RWD

Our comment: The 350Z has been popular for many years in all sorts of motorsport, and with the arrival of its younger brother, the 370Z, chances are that you’ll be able to pick one of these up at a more impressive price than ever.

With the reliable, yet underpowered, 3.5L power-lump under the hood and a bombproof gearbox, the 350Z has heaps of tuning potential and we have the perfect guides to help you find the ultimate parts for your build. Some basic mods will make this an extremely capable drift car with a lot of room to progress if you decide to go down the forced induction route later on.

Check out our wide variety of guides for the 350Z, there are simple bolt-on mods such as coilovers, exhausts and cold air intake to get you started.

Once you’ve got the car sitting and sounding nice, you may want to consider the forced induction route. If so, there’s an epic range of tried-and-tested off-the-shelf supercharger and turbo kit options to turn your 350Z into a tire-shredding monster!

If you have big bucks to spend and fancy something a little different, the 370z is a fantastic consideration too.

Evo Review: “I’ve become a massive fan of the latest-generation Z-car. I reckon it’s one of the greatest affordable performance cars of the last ten years.”

Best Project Cars #10 – Toyota GT86/Subaru BRZ/Scion FR-S

• Model year: 2012-2021
• Engine size: 2.0L
• Power output: 147kW (197 bhp) to 153 kW (205 bhp)
• Drivetrain configuration: RWD

Our comment: GT86, BRZ, FR-S, whatever you want to call it! It’s undoubtedly one of the best cars of this decade and prices on the earlier models are now becoming more affordable than ever.

Based on the original AE86, this stunning creation really does tick so many boxes. It may not have a huge amount of power from the factory, but the lightweight with skinny-tire combination makes it insanely fun to drive.

If you do fancy giving it an extra kick up the a**, we’ve got our GT86 turbo and supercharger guides to keep you happy!

For those of you that want to keep it simple and do some basic modifications, make sure you check out our exhaust, coilover guides!

We highly recommend the AE86 as a project car, but unfortunately, prices are soaring. If you’re able to pick one up at a bargain price, don’t even hesitate as it’ll undoubtedly be a great investment!

Top Gear Review: “The simplest and most exciting Toyota in years is also a real pleasure to drive. It says a lot that Toyota took a whole five years to update the GT86, and kept the changes so light when it did. This is a fundamentally great car that may not look or feel especially modern, but that’s sort of the point.”

– Read the full review

Best Project Cars #11 – Honda S2000

• Model year: 1999-2009
• Engine size: 2.0L
• Power output: 177kW (237 bhp) to 184 kW (247 bhp)
• Drivetrain configuration: RWD

Our comment: The S2000 doesn’t typically spring to mind when thinking of project cars, but we think it has heaps of future potential. Prices are starting to get lower and for some of you it will be an affordable consideration

Honda created the S2K to mark the company’s 50th anniversary, and it was certainly lived up to expectations. Think of it as a high-revving modern-day Miata on steroids. Once again, these have a huge variety of off-the-shelf parts if you feel the need for more than 247hp!

If you have the balls to whack a turbocharger on this lightweight chassis, you’ll definitely want to take a look at our turbo and supercharger guides to keep you happy!

For those of you that want to keep it simple and do some basic modifications, make sure you check out our coilover and exhaust guides.

Top Gear Review: “You rev until you think pistons are going to burst through the bonnet, before grabbing the next gear via the utterly, utterly superb manual shift. One of the best I’ve ever used. Perhaps the best.”

– Read the full review

Best Project Cars #12 – Subaru WRX STI

• Model year: 1992-2021
• Engine size: 2.0-2.5L
• Power output: 184 kW (247 bhp) to 231 kW (310 bhp)
• Drivetrain configuration: AWD

Our comment: We get it, some of you guys aren’t that much into drifting. Well, then let us present you our next choice – a multiple-time WRC championship-winning rally car!

From the beginning, Subaru’s main goal with the WRX STI was to conquer the world of rallying. And to say that they achieved their goal would be an understatement. Powered by Subaru’s legendary boxer engine, this AWD saloon won the WRC constructors title 3 times.

This is one of the most popular tuner car platforms in the world, and you’ll find plenty of “Subie” aficionados no matter where you go. Oh, and did we mention that it can comfortably carry your whole family?

If you decide to go for a WRX STI, there are a few well-known reliability issues that you should keep an eye out for. And we have one more request – Please don’t start vaping!

Car And Driver Review: “The STI is the mightiest and most aggressive WRX, but also the noisiest, stiffest-riding, and rawest.”

– Read the full review

Best Project Cars #13 – Volkswagen Golf GTI

• Model year: 1976-Present
• Engine size: 1.6-2.0L
• Power output: 82 kW (110 bhp) to 180 kW (241 bhp)
• Drivetrain configuration: FWD

Our comment: Let’s take a break from the Japanese stuff and head to Germany for our next entry. The Golf GTI makes a great family car, and an even greater project car if you decide to go crazy with the modifications.

As of 2023, there have been 8 generations of the Golf GTI. You can pick up an early-generation model for cheap, strip out the interior, and have a great, lightweight hatchback to take to the track.

If you have some more cash to spend, you can splash out on an R32 or a modern Golf R, which will give sportscar-beating levels of performance with just a few bolt-ons.

CarWow Review: “The Golf GTI is a great all-rounder – fast enough to be great fun, sensible enough to drive every day comfortably. But the Golf R is even faster”

– Read the full review

Best Project Cars #14 – Volkswagen Beetle

• Model year: 1938-2003
• Engine size: 1.1-1.6L
• Power output: 16kW (22 bhp) to 84 kW (115 bhp)
• Drivetrain configuration: RWD

Our comment: We know your thoughts, but hear us out! Rear engine, RWD, air-cooled – the VW Beetle is effectively a budget Porsche 911.

Jokes aside, if you are serious about picking up a project car for the cheap, there are few better options than this venerable “people’s car” Although it came with a mind-blowingly slow motor from the factory, there are plenty of modifications available to give this little car some get up and go.

If you are crazy enough, you can do some wild engine swaps with the Beetle as well. Everything from Subaru EJs to Honda’s K-series motors has found its way to the engine bay of this affordable family car.

RAC Review: “You’ll either love or hate the ‘new’ Volkswagen Beetle. Some will celebrate it as an icon brought up to date, whilst others will feel it’s a sad pastiche of a best-forgotten relic and a Golf in drag. Whatever way you look at it, the Beetle is here, it’s sold rather well and it’s great fun to own”

– Read the full review

Best Project Cars #15 – Ford Mustang

• Model year: 1985-Present
• Engine size: 2.3-5.0L
• Power output: 220 hp (Foxbody) to 412 hp (Ford Mustang GT)
• Drivetrain configuration: RWD

Our comment: When the Ford Mustang isn’t busy trying to run over spectators, it can make a pretty damn good project car!

Although many of you may have gotten bored of seeing Mustangs over the years and feel they’ve somewhat lost their appeal, why not use that to your advantage?

Let’s face it, the best project cars are those that are easy to source parts for, preferably with adequate power already under the hood, and the Mustang ticks both of those boxes.

Although there’s no shortage of Mustangs waiting to be transformed into tire-shredding monsters in the US, you may still be able to pick up a bargain elsewhere.

With the early Foxbody versions pushing out 220 hp in stock form, the Mustang GT can also be found with ever-impressive price tags.

If possible, we’d be hunting down a 5.0L V8 GT, with a great power-to-value output of 412 hp, and a 0-60 time of 4.6 seconds.

With drivers such as Chelsea DeNofa and Diego Higa keeping Mustang’s in the drifting limelight, there’s no question that the chassis is more than capable when it comes to being thrown sideways at the track.

Although Ford has achieved a whopping 760 hp from the 2020 GT500 in stock form, we doubt you’ll be finding one of those on a budget just yet.

CarandDriver Review: “The Mustang GT accelerates with a sound and fury that imported sports coupes cannot match.”

– Read the full review

We normally decide our winner here…

This time, all our choices are winners for different reasons.

We’ve selected these cars from literally thousands of possibilities, and we’ve tried to give a wide variety of price ranges and choices. Admittedly, they may be a little drift biased, but what else would you expect from Drifted?

We have no doubt that whichever car you select, you’re most likely going to have a rollercoaster ride at some point during your ownership, but as long as you see the project through, we have no doubt it’ll be worth every minute you put into it.

Project cars have a special place in the hearts of car enthusiasts, and it’ll open up a whole realm of possibilities as you begin to build the car, take it to meets and take it to the track. We hope you manage to build the car of your dreams and make new friends that last a lifetime.

Thank you for reading our best budget project cars guide

We hope that you’re now confident in choosing the right car to satisfy your inner urges!

Photography credits

We would like to thank the following sources for the use of their images:

• Fitment Industries

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The post 12 Best Budget Project Cars first appeared on Drifted.com.

• Our RC drift cars winners
• Ready-to-Run vs kit vs chassis – the differences explained
• Ready-to-Run RC drift cars
• RC drift car kits
• RC drift car chassis

In a hurry? Here is our RC Drift Car summary

RC Drift Car Kit Choice	Ready-to-Run Choice	RC Drift Car Chassis Choice
HPI RS4 Sport 3 4WD Drift Car Kit	MST RMX 2.5 RTR Drift Car Kit	Usukani D3T 1/8 RC Drift Tricycle Chassis Kit
Buy Now	Buy Now	Buy Now

Our ready-to-run RC drift car choice

Whether you’re just getting started with RC drifting and want an excellent ready-to-go car right out of the box or you’re not interested in building a kit, the MST RMX 2.5 offers the ultimate opportunity.

MST RMX 2.5 RTR Drift Car Kit

Our choice for the ready-to-run RC Drift Cars is the MST RMX 2.5 RTR Drift Car Kit

With their upgraded brushless ready-to-run radio control car, high speeds can be achieved from this incredible value-for-money MST RTR kit.

With the insane choice of bodies, from Liberty Walk Mustangs to Toyota GR Supra‘s, you’ll struggle to find a better-looking ride.

Our RC drift car kit choice

Having stood the test of time, the HPI Sport 3 doesn’t feature the latest, cutting-edge technology. Instead, you get a highly-regarded platform with incredible durability that has stood the test of time.

HPI RS4 Sport 3 4WD Drift Car Kit

Our favorite is the Worthouse S15, which comes with interchangeable vinyl, allowing you to drift as three-time FD Champion James Deane or his teammate, Piotr Wiecek!

Our choice for the RC Drift Car Kit choice is the HPI RS4 Sport 3 4WD Drift Car Kit

For someone not looking to spend huge bucks on their RC drift car immediately, this kit presents a p

erfect opportunity for beginners looking for some simple fun without breaking the bank.

Our RC drift car chassis choice

Now, admittedly this is a controversial winner since the Yokomo YD-2 is technically a more refined and superior quality kit (although they are becoming hard to find).

Usukani D3T 1/8 RC Drift Tricycle Chassis Kit

Our choice for the RC drift car chassis is the Usukani D3T Drift Tricycle Chassis

Is there anything more JDM then a completely bonkers tricycle RC drift car? You are spoilt for choice with complex chassis kits but for pure fun factor, we absolutely love the Usuakni D3T drift trike!

Introduction to RC drift cars

As much as we love real-life drifting, we’re never going to deny that it’s an expensive hobby.

Not only do you have to worry about maintenance and repairs on your drift car, but tires and fuel need to be a serious consideration, too.

That’s before you’ve even considered the endless list of upgrades and modifications that you want to do to make the car competitive.

Once you’ve built the car of your dreams, you then need to consider the costs of getting to and from events, then when it gets more serious, the cost of racing equipment.

Although drifting is one of the most insanely exciting hobbies on the planet, unfortunately, it comes with a never-ending cost.

These disadvantages have birthed the concept of VR sim racing and free online drifting games, with enthusiasts building increasingly impressive drifting sim rigs so that they can get their precious seat time at a fraction of the price.

Not only is this extremely useful for training, but it also comes at a fraction of the price and inconvenience that comes with running a real car.

But, what if you’re still craving the physical art form of drifting?

Sure, gaming might tick the right boxes for some of you, but there’s always something incredibly exciting about the feeling of controlling a physical drift car, whether it’s full-sized, or in miniature scale. This is where RC drifting becomes the perfect solution.

Not only do you get to learn the basics of car control, gaining knowledge in areas like counter-steering alongside an understanding of weight shift and braking under load, but also it’s hugely entertaining in the process.

If you’re just getting started with RC drifting, our How to Drift guide will be a fantastic place to start, as it’ll give you a much deeper understanding of what the car is doing and how it’s reacting to the various inputs which allow you to master the art of drifting.

Once you’ve got to grips with the basics, you’ll want to decide which RC drift car is best for your needs, so first, let us explain the various RC drift car variations on the market.

Ready-to-run vs kit vs chassis – the differences explained

As you’ve probably noticed, we’ve broken down this guide into three different categories to allow you to choose the perfect drift car for your needs, or maybe even the lucky person you’re buying for.

Ready-to-run RC drift cars

Ready-to-run is the most self-explanatory method when it comes to RC drift cars, and often makes the ideal gift for a first-time RC drift car owner.

You buy the car that ticks the right boxes for your needs (or perhaps your kids’), have it conveniently sent to your door, remove the packaging, and immediately begin testing the boundaries once the batteries are installed and charged.

You can probably expect a few crashes to happen very shortly after!

Ready-to-run kits are the easiest, most convenient, and often the cheapest method if you’re just getting started with RC drifting. We often think of these cars as an ideal entry to the sport.

The downside of ready-to-run kits is that if you happen to have a high-speed impact and something gets broken, you’re most probably going to be left having to replace the entire car.

Therefore, if you’re looking to get serious with your RC drift car right away, or you can see this potentially becoming a long-term hobby, we’d advise that you continue reading. You’ll thank us later.

RC drift car kits

With a kit, you would typically receive the car in many parts, which you then need to construct yourself, but don’t panic; it’s not as difficult as it sounds, as you’ll have clear instructions to guide you.

I’m sure many of you would be wondering why anyone would want to do this, so we’re going to explain the advantages of a kit.

With a ready-to-run remote control cars, the chances are that if you have a severe impact, you may end up breaking some of the parts on your vehicle.

In this situation, you’re most likely going to have to either cut your losses or return your car in the hope that it’s repairable, but the chances are that’s not very likely or cost-effective.

With a kit, not only do you get to enjoy the pleasure of building the car, which you could perhaps make a family affair, but you’ll also gain an excellent understanding of how the different components of the car work – this is the perfect introduction for an aspiring mechanic.

Not only do you gain an understanding of the car and have the enjoyment of the build process, but if you were to crash your RC drift car and break one, or more components, you can assess the damage and replace the spare part(s) necessary.

The ability to fix any damage is the main advantage of a kit; instead of buying a ready-to-run car.

Once your replacement parts turn up, you’ll now know how to replace them with your newfound knowledge from building the car, and you can then enjoy many more hours of worry-free drifting (assuming your abilities have improved since the crash, of course!)

Another advantage of buying a kit is that you’ll likely want superior upgrades as your skill levels progress.

Whether that’s an improved chassis, batteries, motor, or suspension, you name it; you can upgrade everything and build the RC drift car of your dreams without having to buy EVERY part each time like you would with a ready-to-run car.

For the RC drift car enthusiast, this can make for great Birthday and Christmas present opportunities.

Are you looking to upgrade your suspension? No worries, Grandma’s got you covered this year!

We always recommend that you carefully look into the possibility that a kit may need additional components. Most kits don’t come with all of the required electrical components, for example.

RC drift car chassis

Kits and Chassis are typically very similar. The main times that we would consider buying the bare-bones chassis rather than a kit is if we couldn’t find the perfect body shell.

Sometimes, it perhaps works out cheaper to buy a chassis and a shell separately, but otherwise, we would consider opting for a kit and then keeping the shell as a spare for practicing.

Now that you’ve read our explanation of the different variations, you’re clued up when it comes to purchasing the perfect RC drift car package for your needs, so let’s take a look at the best RC drift cars on the market!

Ready-to-run RC drift cars

Here is our selection of ready-to-run RC drift cars:

MST RMX 2.5 Brushless RTR RC Drift Car

• Manufacturer: MST
• Suitable for: 14 years and up
• Configuration: RWD
• Scale ratio: 1/10th
• Value for money product rating
• Purchase link: MST RMX 2.5 RTR w/Rocket Bunny Toyota GR Supra Body (Metal Grey) (many more JDM body options available)

Our comment: The most recent ready-to-run chassis to shake up the RC drift scene came with the introduction of the MST RMX 2.5 at the start of 2023.

With the latest technology within an affordable package, it’s easy to see why many RC drift fans feel that it’s a perfect choice.

Aimed at both beginner and intermediate RC drifters, the MST RMX 2.5 will be more than capable when rubbing doors with some of the premium kits on the market.

One of the benefits of an RTR kit is that MST checks each model before it’s shipped, which means it’s perfectly calibrated and set up right out of the box. So if you notice minimal tire wear with your new purchase, don’t panic!

Although the RMX 2.5 can throw down huge, consistent angles right out of the box, it also provides two motor install locations and two servo install locations if you wish to adjust the weight distribution.

Whether you’re just getting started with RC drifting and want an excellent ready-to-go car right out of the box or you’re not interested in building a kit, the MST RMX 2.5 offers the ultimate opportunity.

With the insane choice of bodies, from Liberty Walk Mustangs to Toyota GR Supra‘s, you’ll struggle to find a better-looking ride on the market.

Manufacturer description: “This is the MST RMX 2.5 1/10 2WD Brushless RTR Drift Car. Building off of the success of the RMX 2.0 this updated version brings the next level of performance to the RMX name. With countless hours of research and development, MST has fine tuned the RMX platform for the ultimate drift experience.”

“Designed to be easy to drive for beginners but still rewarding for the experienced drifter, MST has included an updated chassis. This improved chassis offers increased traction and control along with a plethora of adjustments to fine tune your driving experience. Whether you are an experienced drifter or just getting started, the RMX 2.5 RTR gives you the performance you are looking for with looks to match!”

Features

• Two motor install options – upper or lower gravity
• Two servo install options – vertical or lateral
• Plastic high-rigidity construction
• Unique front suspension system for great steering
• The adjustable steering system with two-step Ackermann changes
• 6 degrees KPI steering upright, and -0.5 trailing axle design
• An inside rod fulcrum mount at the front upper arm features 10-step height adjustment and both side positions
• Fully-sealed dustproof bevel gearbox system
• Standard ball differential
• 5 changeable second-deceleration-ratio gear sets of 1.89-3.82 (standard 3.08)
• The fulcrum at the rear suspension upper rod is 5-step adjustable on both sides. The outer fulcrum is 4-step adjustable on both sides
• Steel CVD axle for rear transmission system
• Suitable for long and short battery
• Full great smooth metal ball connectors
• Standard realistic caliper and disc shape brake set

HSP FlyingFish Nissan Skyline GT-R RC Drift Car

• Manufacturer: HSP
• Suitable for: 14 years and up
• Configuration: 4WD
• Scale ratio: 1/10th
• Model number: 94123
• Value for money product rating
• Purchase link: Discontinued online

Our comment: If you’re looking for a bargain, then you’re going to struggle to get more for your money than the HSP FlyingFish.

Thanks to the newly upgraded RC 540 motor, this provides impressive performance and enables speeds of over 35km/h out of the box.

If you’re looking to go even faster (which isn’t necessary for learning the basics of drifting), then make sure you take a look at the higher-spec brushless version, which is capable of an incredible 60km/h!

Although this is far cheaper than the HPI equivalents above, the materials are known for being a little more fragile. However, spares are easily sourced online.

The HSP FlyingFish is a genuine bargain, and a fantastic entry to RC drifting for the money.

Manufacturer description: “You can now get your own serious RC Hobby Drift Car at an amazing price. Straight out of the box this RC car is very competitive while the fully adjustable suspension lets you fine-tune to each track spec. Mash the throttle and the new RC 540 screams into life with a massive 22% more power and 9% lighter chassis, this new RC model is seriously competitive. You will truly be astonished by the quality of this RC Drift Car for the price you are paying. Everyone will want one.”

“This latest version has an even lower center of gravity and coupled to 4 wheel shaft drive and the latest Driftech Low profile drift tires makes 4 wheel drifts easier than ever. Comes with everything except the 8 AA batteries for the transmitter.”

Features

• 100% Ready To Run
• 4-Wheel Drive System
• Shaft Drive
• Front and Rear Ball Raced Differentials
• High Discharge 2000mAh 7.2 V NiMh Battery and Charger
• Upgraded RC 540 Race Motor
• Light Weight Alloy Drive Shaft
• Light Weight Aluminium Alloy High-Intensity Upper Plate
• Front and Rear Differentials with Bevel Gears
• Full 4 Wheel A-Arm 100% independent Adjustable Suspension
• Aluminum Cap Oil Filled Adjustable Shock Absorbers
• Adjustable Height
•  Camber Adjustability
• Adjustable tilt angle
• New Even Lighter Smaller Front and Gear Boxes
• HSP Driftech Low Profile Tyres
• 3 Way Electronic Speed Controller with Brake and Reverse
• Factory Installed Servo Saver
• 2 Channel Pistol Grip Radio Factory Installed

Redcat Racing Thunder RC Drift Car

• Manufacturer: Redcat Racing
• Suitable for: 14 years and up
• Configuration: 4WD
• Scale ratio: 1/10th
• Value for money product rating
• Purchase link: Discontinued online

Our comment: The Thunder Drift from Redcat Racing is very similar to their EPX drift car above, except this car comes with the superior belt-driven method for improved performance.

Its improved belt-driven system helps all four wheels move at the same time rather than the lag which you can experience from the cheaper shaft-driven system, and is usually only found in premium RC cars.

Owners have pointed out that the belts have sometimes arrived loose and required tightening, which is an easy fix that improved the performance dramatically.

The Thunder Drift is an insane value-for-money belt-driven drift car, and although we prefer the quality of the HPI products, there’s no questioning that this is a real bargain in comparison.

Manufacturer description: “Welcome to a whole new level of drifting with the 4WD belt-driven, high-performance Thunder Drift! Quality drifting requires precision driving to consistently challenge the line between control and chaos. A combination of brushed motor and special RC drift tires allow the Thunder Drift to slide effortlessly around corners, while the high-performance belt drive system provides an edge over the typical drifter.”

“Say goodbye to gear slop with the Thunder Drift’s high-performance belt drive system. Fully adjustable for ultra-smooth acceleration, the Thunder Drift is ready to drift circles around the competition. Blue anodized aluminum threaded body oil-filled shocks allow for quick ride height adjustments. Easily direct more weight to a single wheel for precise tuning. Shock dampening can be tuned by adding different weight oils inside the shocks, or by swapping out the pistons. The Thunder Drift’s fully tunable 4-wheel independent suspension allows the driver to adjust toe angle and camber, with the turn of a wrench, to achieve the drifting setup you like.”

Features

• 1/10 scale drift car
• 4 wheel drive
• Belt driven for smooth power transfer
• Independent suspension
• Lightweight plastic chassis
• Aluminum threaded body oil-filled shocks
• Bearings throughout
• Tunable suspension
• Adjustable ride height
• Tunable shocks
• Adjustable camber angle
• Multiple shock mounting positions
• Adjustable belt tension.
• 22T RC540 Brushed electric motor
• Waterproof electronics – 40A ESC
• Responsive steering servo
• 2.4GHz radio

Exceed RC Drift Star 350Z

• Manufacturer: Exceed RC
• Suitable for: 14 years and up
• Configuration: 4WD
• Scale ratio: 1/10th
• Value for money product rating
• Purchase link: Exceed RC Drift Star 350Z

Our comment: The Exceed RC Drift Star 350Z drift car is a replica of the Nissan 350Z, and certainly looks to have been inspired by The Fast and the Furious.

Given that this has very similar specifications to the Redcat Racing EPX Drift Car, but features a brushless motor, making it the superior choice.

There’s no doubt that we prefer the look of the 350Z, so if this brushless drifter ticks the right boxes, then you really can’t go wrong.

Manufacturer description: “The EXCEED RC Electric Drift Star model represents a new generation of 1/10 scale on-road drift cars. This ready-to-run Drift Star car is electric-powered and perfect for indoor or outdoor drifting.”

“Based on our popular and durable on-road electric powered car, this drift version adds specially designed solid compound drift tires pre-mounted on high-performance wheels. Combined with a powerful programmable 45amp brushless ESC and brushless motor, this Driftstar is capable of extreme drift angles and speed.”

Features

• The new KV 3300 Brushless motor provides reliable and consistent power for high-performance drift driving
• The 2.5mm lightweight chassis provides excellent performance and durability
• An excellent differential system design provides quick access to the front or rear differential by removing only a few screws. You can now access the front and rear differential for easy maintenance
• New lightweight suspension arms deliver quick suspension response and reduce the critical sprung weight and overall weight of the car
• High-capacity battery provides long run times
• The high-quality 2.4Ghz transmitter and receiver work together to let you precisely control your car
• Four-wheel drive system
• Excellent front/rear camber and toe-in setup
• Anodized aluminum center long drive shaft
• Stable suspension arms and solid front/rear shock tower
• Oil-filled aluminum capped shocks
• Precise steering fitting delivers a quick response
• Complete ball bearings for a smooth and an efficient drive
• High-performance anti-skid drift tires, chrome-plated spoke rims and pre-mounted drift wheels

GoolRC WLtoys K989 High Speed Race Car RC Drift Car

• Manufacturer: GoolRC
• Suitable for: 14 years and up
• Configuration: 4WD
• Scale ratio: 1/28th
• Value for money product rating
• Purchase link: GoolRC WLtoys K989 High Speed RC Race Car Drift Car

Our comment: If you’re keen on the smaller style cars above, but you fancy something a little more impressive, this Ken Block-style Ford Fiesta replica could well be what you’re looking for.

With a more substantial set-up, this is ideal for the hobbyist with a smaller area to play in.

Although this car is small, it packs a serious punch and is capable of quickly achieving speeds of up to 30km/h.

Another perfect entry-level variation with a decent controller, this is perfect for the younger generation of Ken Block fans that are looking for their first RC drifter.

Manufacturer description: “The racing car is super fast, responsive, full function, and remote controlled. You can freely control the speed and direction, and perform U-shape drifts with ease.”

“Also features steering (go forward and backward, turn left and right). It is delicately manufactured, which is the standard of all hobby class vehicles.”

Features

• 2.4GHz transmitter, you’ll never get any radio interference with this electric car.
• You can enjoy drifting with the on-road anti-skid drift tires.
• High-quality PC material car shell, like a real car, with excellent flexibility, to prevent the impact of rupture.
• The speed reaches up to 30 KM/H, which makes the car race faster than others.
• The rechargeable battery is available for longer playtime, it will last up to 30 minutes.
• Metal chassis, sturdy and durable, protects the car and with longer service life.

JADA Toys Fast & Furious Brian’s Nissan Skyline GT-R (BNR34)

• Manufacturer: JADA Toys
• Suitable for: 6 years and up
• Configuration: 4WD
• Scale ratio: 1/16th
• Value for money product rating
• Purchase link:
  Fast & Furious Brian O’Conner 1/16th Nissan Skyline GT-R (BNR34) |
  Fast & Furious Han Mazda RX7 FD 1/10th scale RC drift car |
  Fast & Furious Brian O’Conner Toyota Supra 1/16th scale RC drift car

Our comment: JADA Toys have launched a range of The Fast and the Furious cars onto the RC market, which is perfect for both young and old fans of the movie.

Fans of Brian O’Conner will undoubtedly relish the opportunity to drift his R34 Skyline GT-R!

Are you stuck for the perfect Christmas or Birthday gift for your Fast and the Furious-crazy friend or relative? Look no further!

The 1/16th scale cars conveniently charge via USB and feature surprisingly impressive battery life.

These reasonably priced RC drift cars are the ultimate gift for any Fast and the Furious fan, and they’ll undoubtedly want to collect the whole range.

As you’ve probably guessed, these cars weren’t created with the serious enthusiast in mind, but they’re perfect for cheap entertainment with all the family.

Manufacturer description: “From the franchise built on speed comes Brian’s highly modified Nissan Skyline GT-R (BNR34) featuring styling cues directly from the movie! Race to the finish as this aggressively styled 1:16 scale RC vehicle features lightweight aero modifications and performance wheels!”

“Help Dom and his crew as they continue their global exploits in the unstoppable franchise built on speed! You call the shots as you lead the team on their crusade with vehicles featuring styling cues directly from the movie! Featuring a turbo Boost feature, This R/C vehicle is ready for action-packed fun!”

Features

• 2.4 GHz – fully functioning R/C
• Turbo Boost feature
• Alkaline Battery included- ready to run
• Exterior styling directly from the Fast and Furious movie
• Officially licensed and authentic movie decoration with themed packaging
• USB charging technology

HPI Racing Micro RS4 Drift Fail Crew Nissan Skyline R34 GT-R

• Manufacturer: HPI Racing
• Suitable for: 14 years and up
• Configuration: 4WD
• Scale ratio: 1/18th
• Model number: HPI120101
• Value for money product rating
• Purchase link: Discontinued

Our comment: Best known for showing off his skills at Europe’s infamous Gatebil festival, the legendary Fail Crew Nissan Skyline R34 GT-R driven by ‘Mad Max’ Tvardovsky is now available in 1/18th scale!

This pre-built, ready-to-run RC drift car from HPI Racing combines its 4WD speed belt drivetrain with a high-powered motor and double-wishbone independent front suspension to provide maximum power and control.

Utilizing HPI’s very-own 180-size motor, with electronic speed control, full-time 4WD belt drive, and a water-resistant servo, this is an excellent setup for those of you who are looking for a smaller beginner drift car.

Despite this being a ready-to-run kit, HPI has ensured that it’s one of the few which provides optional hop-up upgrades, which could be the perfect solution once you’ve got the hang of RC drifting.

Although the more commonly found RC car scale size is 1/10th, this 1/18th scale car could be the perfect answer for those of you that are looking for a smaller alternative.

Manufacturer description: “With its 4WD belt-drive system and hard tires, the Micro RS4 Drift is easy to drift on any smooth surface! Concrete, short carpet, and even tarmac or asphalt are all ideal sliding surfaces that were made for your car – you’ll feel like a real drifter with the Micro RS4!”

“With the full range of HPI custom bodies for your car, it’s easy to turn your Micro RS4 Drift car into any kind of car you can imagine! Do you fancy swapping for a snarling American muscle car, a different drift car, or even a gravel-eating rally car? All these looks and more are waiting for you! To complete the look, you can also have a look at the huge range of available custom wheels and even drift and grip tires from HPI Racing!”

Features

• Pre-Built, Ready to Run 1/18th scale racing car
• Drives just like a larger RC car!
• 4WD for maximum control and speed
• Belt drivetrain for efficient power transfer to front wheels
• Double-wishbone independent front suspension
• Coil-over inboard cantilever front shocks
• Front universal dogbones
• Front and rear differentials for maximum drivetrain efficiency
• Fully equipped with ball bearings for maximum efficiency
• SCM-2S-WP electronic speed control for total control
• 2.4GHz radio system for long-range reception, no frequency crystals needed
• 180-size motor for fast speeds and quick acceleration
• 6v 1200mAh battery for long driving times and plenty of power
• AC wall charger included for extra convenience
• 4 AA batteries included for the transmitter

HPI Racing Micro RS4 Ford Mustang RTR-X

• Manufacturer: HPI Racing
• Suitable for: 16 years and up
• Configuration: 4WD
• Scale ratio: 1/10th
• Model number: 112468
• Value for money product rating
• Purchase link: HPI Racing Micro RS4 Ford Mustang RTR-X

Our comment: The next car in our ready-to-run line-up is based on the awesome 1969 Ford Mustang RTR-X drift car.

Utilizing a one-piece molded chassis, allowed HPI to build a replica that performs like the real car. With the drivetrain tunnel molded down the middle, this provides similar handling characteristics.

They’ve also introduced a low-profile layout to ensure that all the components sit as low as possible in the chassis, allowing for a low center of gravity for optimum handling.

The RTR Mustang is quite possibly the best ready-to-run car on our list and would make the perfect entry-level RC drift car straight out of the box.

HPI has once again produced a variety of hop-up upgrades should you wish to upgrade the car to an intermediate level further down the line.

Manufacturer description: “The newest member of the HPI x Vaughn Gittin Jr. collection is here, and it’s the perfect little brother to the 1/10th scale HPI Mustang RTR-X Sprint 2 Sport and Nitro RS4 3 Evo+! This Micro RS4 is a scaled-down, 1/18th version of Vaughn’s iconic 1969 Ford Mustang RTR-X, which was designed by Vaughn in partnership with the Need For Speed crew! Vaughn is the only one who can drive the real thing, but if you want an RC replica that can fit in the palm of your hand, this is the only version you’ll be able to find!”

“The Micro Mustang RTR-X is perfect for shredding tires inside and outside, with a high-powered motor driving all four wheels and coil-over shocks providing smooth power and excellent control. This Ready To Run Micro RS4 kit features a highly detailed and scale 1969 Ford Mustang RTR-X replica body for an awesome scale look wherever you drive! Just like the 1/10th scale replica, we even include TWO SETS of wheels and tires, one for drifting and one for racing!”

Features

• Pre-Built, Ready to Run 1/18th scale racing car
• Officially licensed replica of Vaughn Gittin Jr.’s 1969 Ford Mustang RTR-X
• Drives just like a larger RC car!
• 4WD for maximum control and speed
• Belt drivetrain for efficient power transfer to front wheels
• Double-wishbone independent front suspension
• Coil-over inboard cantilever front shocks
• Front universal dogbones
• Front and rear differentials for maximum drivetrain efficiency
• Fully equipped with ball bearings for maximum efficiency
• EN-2 electronic speed control for total control
• 2.4GHz radio system for long-range reception, no frequency crystals needed
• 180-size motor for fast speeds and quick acceleration
• 6v 1200mAh battery for long driving times and plenty of power
• AC wall charger included for extra convenience
• 4 AA batteries included for the transmitter

Mostop Mini RC Drift Truck

• Manufacturer: Mostop
• Suitable for: 12 years and up
• Configuration: 4WD
• Scale ratio: 1/16th
• Value for money product rating
• Purchase link: Mostop Mini RC Drift Truck

Our comment: If you’re after a reasonably-priced entry-level drift truck, this 1/16th scale offering from Mostop may be just what you’re looking for.

With top speeds of an impressive 20 mph (30km/h), it’s certainly no slouch for its size and could be capable of causing an upset against some of the more expensive competitors.

One of the unique aspects of this buggy is that it comes with two sets of tires, making it ideal for using on-road or off-road, making it one of the most exciting prospects for those who enjoy drifting on varied terrains.

Another unique feature is the angel-eye headlamps, which have three lighting modes, and you can switch them on or off if you wish to conserve your battery life.

The 2.4GHz remote has a range of 150ft, and you can run several of these cars alongside your friends without the risk of interference.

The 1200mAh rechargeable battery enables a 20-25 minute racing time following around 3-4 hours of charging.

Although it won’t compete with the most expensive offerings on the market, this drift buggy has plenty of unique features which make it a perfect prospect for an entry-level RC drift car for a young enthusiast.

Manufacturer description: “Equipped with a double set of tires, 4 rubber racing tires and 4 smooth drift tires, you can experience drifting and racing once you own one of this drift racing car.”

“Designed with 4WD powerful motors, which provide this RC drift car with strong power and driving force to make it run fast, it’s capable of reaching speeds of up to 30+KM/H (20MPH).”

Features

• High-Speed Drifting Car – Remote control drift car can go forward, backward, turn left and right, brake, and other full-scale synchronous control functions. The speed can reach up to 30 km/H, which provides you with a faster high-speed racing experience.
• 2.4G Remote Control – 2.4 GHz high frequency assures a longer controlling distance of at least 150 feet, it can support multiplayer playing the RC cars together at the same time without interference. Automatically pairing and stable signal.
• Stable & Safe Design – Designed with great stability during racing due to the independent suspension and ESP Electronic Stability System. Overcharge and over-current protection are adopted to ensure security for playing and charging.
• Full-Scale Drift Truck – There is a proportional throttle and steering control function in the sensitive remote control system, players have conditions to control the speeds and fine-tune direction by the controller.
• Battery Life – Comes with a 7.4V 1200mAh lithium battery, 3-4 hour charging time to support 20-25 minute playing. Equipped with 2 sets of tires for replacement. 3 levels of adjustable headlamps make it cool and realistic.

RC drift car kits

Here is our selection of RC drift car kits:

HPI RS4 Sport 3 4WD RC Drift Car Kit

• Manufacturer: HPI
• Suitable for: 14 years and up
• Configuration: 4WD
• Scale ratio: 1/10th
• Value for money product rating
• Purchase link: HPI Sport 3 James Deane Nissan S15 |
  HPI Sport 3 Drift VGJR “Fun Haver” Ford Mustang |
  HPI RS4 Sport 3 Dai Yoshihara Subaru BRZ |
  HPI Sport 3 Drift BMW E30 Driftworks *NEW RELEASE 2023*

Our comment: Although the MST RMX 2.5 is the ultimate entry-level kit, the HPI Sport 3 drift offers a great, affordable, entry-level alternative.

Having stood the test of time, the HPI Sport 3 doesn’t feature the latest, cutting-edge technology. Instead, you get a highly-regarded platform with incredible durability that has stood the test of time.

Having released the Driftworks E30 for their 2023 update, some fantastic Formula D alternatives exist, such as Dai Yoshihara’s Subaru BRZ and Vaughn Gittin Jr’s “Fun Haver” Mustang.

Our favorite is the Worthouse S15, which comes with interchangeable vinyl, allowing you to drift as three-time FD Champion James Deane or his teammate, Piotr Wiecek!

For someone not looking to spend huge bucks on their RC drift car immediately, this kit presents a perfect opportunity for beginners looking for some simple fun without breaking the bank.

Manufacturer description: “Under the hood, this 1/10th scale Nissan is built on the popular HPI RS4 Sport 3 chassis. With full-time shaft-driven 4WD, a fully sealed drivetrain, waterproof 2.4 GHz electronics/radio gear, fully independent double wishbone suspension and adjustable oil filled shocks, you’ll be ready to shred in any condition.”

“To complete the package, this kit allows you to replicate both cars on the Worthouse drift team. Alternate stickers are included in every kit to allow you to turn your RS4 Sport 3 into a replica of James’ teammate, Piotr Wiecek!”

Features

• One-Piece Molded Chassis
• Low Profile Layout Design
• Brushless Capable Drivetrain
• Full-Time 4WD
• Sealed Center Driveshaft
• Easy Access Differentials
• 4-Gear Metal Differentials
• Adjustable Double-Wishbone Suspension
• Threaded Oil-Filled Shocks
• Double Bellcrank Steering
• Aluminum Motor Mount

Tamiya TT-02D – Various Models

• Manufacturer: Tamiya
• Suitable for: 14 years and up
• Configuration: 4WD
• Scale ratio: 1/10th
• Value for money product rating
• Purchase link:
  Tamiya TT-02D – Nismo COPPERMIX Nissan Silvia S15 |
  Tamiya TT-02D – Nissan Skyline R32 GT-R |
  Tamiya TT-02D – Nissan Skyline R33 GT-R |
  Tamiya TT-02D – Nissan Skyline R34 GT-R Z-Tune |
  Tamiya TT-02D – Nissan R35 GT-R |
  Tamiya TT-02D – Toyota Supra |
  Tamiya TT-02D – Mazda RX-7 FD |
  Tamiya TT-02D – Honda Civic SiR EG6

Our comment: Tamiya is one of the most reputable brands in the RC drift scene, and their TT-02D Drift Spec chassis is a testament to the continued fantastic quality that they’ve been launching throughout the years.

If you’re not shy when it comes to building your RC drift car, then the entry-level TT-02D kit could well be the perfect answer to your needs.

As the 24mm wide drift-spec tires provide the perfect traction, the CVA shock units combined with the 4-wheel double wishbone suspension offer the ultimate handling for drifting.

With a full ball-bearing setup, an aluminium motor heat sink, and a tuned sports motor as standard, this is the perfect introduction to your RC drift career.

As you’ve probably guessed, there’s a vast range of hop-up upgrade modifications on the market to build the ultimate ride and all the spares you could ever need if you were to crash a little too hard.

It’s no coincidence that so many enthusiasts start with the TT-02D, as it’s the perfect entry-level kit, and Tamiya provides a massive range of body shells.

Although several kits are available, they are all the same parts with different body shells, so it’s entirely your decision as to which shell is best for you.

The only downside with the TT-02D over the ready-to-run kits is that you’ll need to factor in the additional costs of buying the electronics, such as a radio, receiver, ESC, steering servo, battery, and charger.

The shells also arrive as clear plastic, which allows you to fully customize and choose any colors or stickers that you fancy.

Don’t let the additional expenses put you off this fantastic kit, though, as the TT-02D is worth every cent once you’ve got everything up and running!

Manufacturer description: “The TT-02 chassis is Tamiya’s latest entry-level 4WD full independent suspension assembly kit that offers ease of assembly and easy maintenance.”

“The TT-02D is the Drift Spec variant that includes special parts to make it a fun-to-drive drifting machine.”

Features

• Scale: 1/10
• Construction type: assembly kit
• Terrain use: on-road
• Drivetrain: 4WD
• Drive type: shaft
• Drive line: dog bone
• Differential type: gear
• Suspension: fully independent double wishbone
• Steering mechanism: bell-crank
• Shock damper: oil-filled damper
• Shock damper material: plastic
• Chassis material: plastic
• Bearings: shielded ball bearing
• Adjustable camber: fixed
• Adjustable toe angles: front only
• Adjustable ground clearance: yes
• Adjustable gear ratio: yes
• Adjustable wheelbase: yes
• Adjustable track width: yes
• Adjustable shock angle: yes

MST RMX 2.0 RWD RC Drift Car Kit

• Manufacturer: MST
• Suitable for: 14 years and up
• Configuration: RWD
• Scale ratio: 1/10th
• Value for money product rating
• Purchase link: Discontinued online

Our comment: For many, the MST RMX 2.0 RTR above will be the ideal choice for those getting started in RC drifting or looking for the most convenient and refined option straight out of the box.

However, this kit provides the perfect opportunity for those looking to create a custom RC drift car build with their own choice of electronics.

Utilizing the latest technology, we feel that the RMX 2.0, which hit the market in November 2021, provides the ultimate value for money against some of its more expensive, outdated rivals.

Whether you’re looking to buy a standalone chassis or take advantage of the discounted shells with the package deals, the RMX 2.0 has repeatedly proven an incredible platform for sliding sideways.

Although the RMX 2.0 can throw down huge, consistent angles right out of the box, it also provides two motor install locations and two servo install locations if you wish to adjust the weight distribution.

Although the kit comes in at a fantastic price, remember that you will also need to budget for the additional electronics. Once you’ve calculated this, we recommend deciding whether this or the RTR kit will better suit your needs.

Manufacturer description: “The ingenious design allows for higher drift speeds and ensures a very simple but efficient steering behavior. The chassis is extremely stiff and nearly unbreakable. The structure of the top deck with its struts ensures very good cooling of the electronic components. Extremely large and variable steering deflections by Ackermann control increase handling.”

“The motor and the steering servo can be installed in 2 different positions to adjust the center of gravity according to your needs. The RMX S is the ideal drifter for beginners and due to its variable design also suitable for professionals.”

Features

• Two motor install options – upper or lower gravity
• Two servo install options – vertical or lateral
• Plastic high-rigidity construction
• Unique front suspension system for great steering
• The adjustable steering system with two-step Ackermann changes
• 6 degrees KPI steering upright, and -0.5 trailing axle design
• The inside rod fulcrum mount at the front upper arm features 10-step height adjustment and both side positions
• Fully-sealed dustproof bevel gear box system
• Standard ball differential
• 5 changeable second-deceleration-ratio gear sets of 1.89-3.82 (standard 3.08)
• The fulcrum at the rear suspension upper rod is 5-step adjustable on both sides. The outer fulcrum is 4-step adjustable on both sides
• Steel CVD axle of the rear transmission system
• Suitable for long and short battery
• Full great smooth metal ball connectors
• Standard realistic caliper and disc shape brake set

RC drift car chassis

Here is our selection of RC drift car chassis:

Usukani D3T 1/8 RC Drift Tricycle Chassis Kit

• Manufacturer: Usukani
• Suitable for: 14 years and up
• Configuration: RWD
• Scale ratio: 1/8th
• Value for money product rating
• Purchase link: Usukani D3T 1/8 RC Drift Tricycle Kit (Tukcica Body) |
  Usukani D3T 1/8 RC Drift Tricycle Kit (Bajcica Body)

Our comment: If you’re looking for a unique RC drift car to stand out at events, or to make the perfect gift for a loved one, look no further than the epic Usuakni D3T drift trike!

Your rival competitors will be in awe as you throw down some epic lines with these well-refined three-wheelers!

Although they won’t be up to the standard of the premium offerings that companies such as Yokomo have to offer, you’ll undoubtedly walk away from every event with the crowd-pleaser award!

Manufacturer description: “The Usukani D3T 1/8 RC Drift Tricycle Chassis Kit is a special version of the TUKCICA kit with an updated BAJCICA body set included. High-quality components and attention to design make this 1/8th scale trike an exciting and responsive product.”

“The unique three-wheeled drifting platform includes two bodies for optional appearances and slick drifting style. Decide between either the original TUKCICA body shown in the video below or the alternate BAJCICA body with the covered and enclosed tricycle bed. Pick colors, paint the bodies and get drifting in style!”

Features

• Three wheels (RWD)
• Three-gear transmission seal gear case
• Rear wheel independent suspension
• Front fork two-spring shock
• Rear wheel Damping Shock Absorber
• Adjustable Front Fork angle System
• Dual spring steering buffer tie rod+
• Rims
• Ultrathin drift tries (PP/HDPE)
• Full ball bearing
• High tenacity and impact resistance Nylon
• Metal motor mount
• Metal pinion gear (Gear ratio: approx 10.77)
• Metal Spur Gear Adapter
• Stainless steel Universal Bone
• Transparent PC bodyshell

Needed to complete

It’s worth remembering that this kit doesn’t come with the following parts as default, which will need to be purchased separately, but this allows you to choose the best products for your needs:

• Transmitter
• Receiver
• Low height servo
• Gyro
• ESC
• Type 540 motor
• 7.4V 2S short lipo battery

Tamiya TB-03 VDS Drift Spec Chassis

• Manufacturer: Tamiya
• Suitable for: 14 years and up
• Configuration: 4WD
• Scale ratio: 1/10th
• Value for money product rating
• Purchase link: Tamiya TB-03 VDS Drift Spec Chassis

Our comment: If you’re not entirely new to RC drifting, and you don’t mind splashing a little extra cash for the ultimate off-the-shelf package, then Tamiya’s TB-03 VDS drift spec chassis is the perfect choice for you!

With the knowledge gained from their TA-05 VDF, Tamiya developed this top-spec chassis, which is perfectly tweaked for the ultimate drifting performance.

With a 2.5mm thick carbon lower deck, aluminum gearbox braces for the front and rear gearboxes, and an aluminum center brace to provide rigidity, the TB-03 was undoubtedly built with performance and durability in mind.

As far as quality and performance go, you’re going to struggle to find a better off-the-shelf kit than the TB-03, even if it is a little expensive and still requires a body shell, motor, and electronics to be purchased separately.

If you’re just getting started with drifting and this is a temptation, then we’d also recommend taking a look at Tamiya’s TT-02D kit above.

Manufacturer description: “Based on the shaft-driven TB-03 chassis, this drift-spec chassis incorporates a 2.5mm thick carbon lower deck, aluminum gearbox braces to hold front/rear gearboxes, and a distinctive aluminum center brace to provide rigidity toward chassis pitch.”

“The well-balanced layout has the two-piece propeller shaft along the center of the chassis with the battery pack and R/C unit positioned at chassis sides. The chassis also comes equipped with high-spec parts such as knuckle extensions, parallel steering link, and rear direct coupling to offer an exciting drift experience.”

Features

• Equipped with the TB-03’s front and rear gearboxes
• 2.5mm thick carbon fiber lower deck
• Aluminum center F/R gearbox braces which offer superior chassis strength
• The chassis layout is optimized for drifting and features a 2-piece propeller shaft along the center line of the chassis with the battery pack, motor, and R/C radio gear positioned on either side of the car
• 4-wheel double wishbone suspension is equipped with short reversible suspension arms as seen on the TB-03, TA-05 Version 2, and TRF 416,417
• TRF (Tamiya Racing Factory) Aluminum threaded shock body and Teflon piston dampers included
• A parallel geometry steering system with both left and right symmetrical steering angles offers excellent control and easier counter-steering maneuvers
• Front ball diff and rear direct coupling (spool)
• 2-piece universal propeller shaft
• Aluminum turnbuckle shafts
• Front and Rear universal shafts
• Aluminum hex wheel hubs
• Hi-torque servo saver included
• Steel diff joints for improved wear and durability

Hobbypower Alloy & Carbon RWD Drift Racing Chassis

• Manufacturer: Hobbypower
• Suitable for: 14 years and up
• Configuration: RWD
• Scale ratio: 1/10th
• Value for money product rating
• Purchase link: Hobbypower Alloy & Carbon RWD Drift Racing Chassis

Our comment: If you’re keen to buy a chassis setup, but haven’t got the money to splash out on the upper-price-bracket Tamiya TB-03 above, then fear not, as Hobbypower has the ultimate alternative for those of you looking for a fantastic chassis on a budget.

This chassis is made with premium alloy and carbon and represents incredible value for money.

Unlike the other kits in our guide, this is a rear-wheel-drive setup with the weight centered at the back, and an ultra-wide-angle steering system for maximum steering lock capabilities.

You’ll struggle to get more for your money than this RWD belt-driven car, but you will still need to consider the costs of electronics and the body shell(s).

For beginners on a budget that are keen to learn exactly how to build an RC car from the ground up, you aren’t going to get better value for money than this chassis.

Manufacturer description: “This is a Rear-wheel drive (RWD)1:10 drift kit which is very suitable for drifting beginners.”

“The kit weight centered at the back and it already comes with the ultra wide angle steering system making the beginner easier to handle and enjoy the drifting experience.”

Features

• Main Chassis, Upper Deck, Front, and Rear Shock Towers
• 2-Belt Drive System
• KIT-D4AWD Internal Gear Ratio is 1.47
• Ultra Wide Angle Universal Driveshafts (65 degrees)
• Height. Adjustable. Dampers & Full Bearing
• Wide Double-Wishbone Suspension Design
• 15 Degrees Front Caster Angle
• Adjustable Y Shaped Front Upper Suspension Arms
• Weight: 800g

Needed to complete

It’s worth remembering that this kit doesn’t come with the following parts, which will need to be purchased separately, but this allows you to choose the best products for your needs:

• 1/10 Drift Body & Paint
• Motor & ESC
• 2 Channel Radio System (minimum)
• Steering Servo
• Shorty LiPo Battery & Charger

MST FMX 2.0 “LCG” RWD RC Electric Drift Car Kit

• Manufacturer: MST
• Suitable for: 14 years and up
• Configuration: RWD
• Scale ratio: 1/10th
• Value for money product rating
• Purchase link: MST FMX 2.0 “LCG” RWD Electric Drift Car Kit

Our comment: For intermediate/advanced drifters with a bigger budget, this could be the perfect opportunity to land yourself an epic carbon fiber chassis.

An LCG (low center of gravity) aluminum motor mount is positioned 5mm lower than the previous generation, which provides increased stability and control.

The upper deck is made from carbon fiber, which looks incredible and makes it strong and lightweight.

This is an excellent choice for beginners to experienced RC enthusiasts looking for a reasonably-priced carbon fiber drift chassis with a lower-midrange price tag.

Manufacturer description: “The MST FMX 2.0 “LCG” 1/10 RWD Electric Drift Car Kit is a mid-motor, rear-wheel drive kit designed with the enthusiast in mind. Featuring high-quality carbon fiber and molded composite parts, super smooth shocks, and a plethora of tuning settings available right out of the box, this kit delivers great steering angles in a mid-motor platform that is great for both beginners and experienced enthusiasts alike.”

“This redesigned LCG aluminum motor mount lowers the center of gravity of the motor by up to 5mm than the last generation, which further increases the stability and control. The freshly designed carbon upper deck is separated from the motor mount, increasing the torsion of the car body, reducing the height of the upper deck, and more dynamic and streamlined visual looks.”

Features

• Middle motor mounts and centralized configurations
• Carbon fiber chassis with dual vertical carbon fiber upper deck
• A redesigned great front suspension system
• Adjustable Ackerman angle variation in 2 sections of the steering system
• Front steering wheel base KPI at 6 degrees. – 0.5 towing distance of axle
• Redesigned front upper arm inside seat supports 10-steps bi-side adjustments
• Full dust-proof rear gearbox with the bevel gear shaft drive
• Standard ball differential
• A variable second reduction ratio of the rear axle in a total of 6 variable range of 1.78-3.82 (standard 3.82)
• Updated carbon upper deck
• Standard equipped with a realistic car brake and caliper set

Needed to complete

It’s worth remembering that this kit doesn’t come with the following parts, which will need to be purchased separately, but this allows you to choose the best products for your needs:

• 1/10 Drift Body & Paint
• Motor & ESC
• 2 Channel Radio System (minimum)
• Steering Servo
• Shorty LiPo Battery & Charger
• Wheels & Tires

MST FXX 2.0 S RWD Electric RC Drift Car Kit

• Manufacturer: MST
• Suitable for: 14 years and up
• Configuration: RWD
• Scale ratio: 1/10th
• Value for money product rating
• Purchase link:
  MST FXX 2.0 S 1/10 RWD Drift Kit w/Clear BMW E92 Body |
  MST FXX 2.0 S 1/10 RWD Drift Kit w/Clear Vertex Toyota Soarer JZ3 Body |
  MST FXX 2.0 S 1/10 RWD Drift Kit w/Clear Lamborghini Gallardo LP56 |
  MST FXX 2.0 S 1/10 RWD Electric Drift Kit (No Body)

Our comment: Although the FXX 2.0 comes in at a higher price than the RMX 2.0, it’s likely to make for a more suitable setup for intermediate/advanced drifters looking to take their skills to the next level.

It may not have fancy carbon fiber parts, which admittedly leaves it more prone to damage, but if you’re drifting in an open space with few solid obstacles, that shouldn’t be too much of a concern.

This kit is also available without a bodyshell, but for an additional twenty bucks, we think it’s well worth going with one of the body shell kits, even if you only intend to use it as a spare, or perhaps for show.

Manufacturer description: “The MST FXX 2.0 S 1/10 RWD Electric Drift Car Kit combines the centralized chassis configuration of the FXX 2.0 KMW, with a redesigned motor forward transmission configuration and front suspension system to create an amazingly progressive driving experience.”

“This rear-wheel drive-specific design is complimented by the unique MB rear suspension system that provides increased rear geometry adjustments, allowing the suspension to better handle steep drift angles with an optimized secondary reduction ratio for improved throttle control. All of these features combined create a high-performance chassis that provides handling characteristics more like that of a 1:1 drift car.”

Features

• The front motor configuration creates a feel similar to a real drift car, for a more realistic driving experience
• CNC machined chassis with the readjusted center of gravity provides better weight distribution
• Updated motor mount, suspension, and ATK system
• The integrated steering system with redesigned aluminum alloy steering connection plate updates the geometry settings to create steep front wheel steering angles, allowing for greater drift angles
• Equipped with MB rear suspension system for increased adjustments and tuning possibilities
• Steel CVD axle for the rear transmission system
• Standard realistic caliper and disc brake set
• Full ball bearings
• Hydraulic Dampers

Needed to complete

It’s worth remembering that this kit doesn’t come with the following parts, which will need to be purchased separately, but this allows you to choose the best products for your needs:

• 1/10 Drift Body & Paint
• Motor & ESC
• 2 Channel Radio System (minimum)
• Steering Servo
• Shorty LiPo Battery & Charger
• Wheels & Tires

Yokomo YD-2E RWD RC Drift Car Kit

• Manufacturer: Yokomo
• Suitable for: 14 years and up
• Configuration: RWD
• Scale ratio: 1/10th
• Value for money product rating
• Purchase link: Yokomo YD-2E RWD Drift Car Kit (Plastic Chassis) |
  Yokomo YD-2E PLUS RWD Drift Car Kit (Graphite Chassis)

Our comment: Yokomo is arguably the highest-regarded company in the RC drift car market, but not all their products are eye-wateringly expensive!

The entry-level YD-2E chassis comes with a fantastic price tag with the plastic chassis version for those looking to get started.

However, if you’re feeling fancy, then there’s also the graphite ‘PLUS’ model alternative to choose from, which comes from the high-end ‘E’ series model.

Manufacturer description: “The Yokomo YD-2E 2WD RWD Drift Car Kit is helping to drive the RWD trend in the drift world. Featuring updated “short type” Front Suspension Arms to optimize the Ackermann setting and prevent interference with the wheels, these arms offer increased steering angle and improved overall performance. The chassis tub allows the use of standard and shorty type LiPo batteries, as well as 6-cell nickel packs.”

“The kit includes LS Rear Lower Suspension Arms as standard for more down stroke and increased grip in order to achieve both stability and speed at the same time. A 4-gear transmission positions the motor horizontally and helps to prevent torque twists. Plus, the design helps to encourage power traction, providing increased stability and acceleration during corner exit.”

Features

• 4 Gear rear transmission
• Closed gearbox
• Four-wheel independent double wishbone suspension
• Front short suspension arm
• High-performance vehicle height adjustable oil damper
• Resin-made one-piece main chassis
• Aluminum motor mounting plate
• RWD exclusive high-angle steering system
• 49mm bone rear universal shaft
• LS Rear lower suspension arm
• Large Rear Diffuser

Needed to complete

It’s worth remembering that this kit doesn’t come with the following parts, which will need to be purchased separately, but this allows you to choose the best products for your needs:

• 1/10 Drift Body & Paint
• 2-Channel radio system
• Electronic Speed Control
• 540 Motor
• Steering Servo
• 7.4V LiPo battery pack
• Compatible battery charger
• Drift car tires & Wheels
• Steering Gyro

Yokomo YD-2R Plus RWD RC Drift Car Kit

• Manufacturer: Yokomo
• Suitable for: 14 years and up
• Configuration: RWD
• Scale ratio: 1/10th
• Value for money product rating
• Purchase link: Yokomo YD-2R Plus 1/10 RWD Drift Car Kit

Our comment: The YD-2R Plus is the mid-range offering from Yokomo, which features a matte graphite double-deck chassis and a six-stage adjustable rear-mounted motor for superior weight balance.

With this layout, you’ll have additional grip in the rear, thanks to the weight being placed on the back. Combined with the aluminium shocks and towers, you’ll achieve maximum traction, which is perfect if you often drift in low-grip areas.

If you’re looking for a competitive car without having to go into the premium price bracket, the YD-2R plus is likely to offer the perfect solution.

Manufacturer description: “The Yokomo YD-2R Plus 1/10 2WD RWD Drift Car Kit was created to deliver the rear traction control needed on low-grip tracks found in drifting circles. Yokomo achieves superior rear traction with an updated rear-motor design, a layout that can maximize traction without changing the total weight of the kit.”

“In this layout, the motor is mounted on the rear overhang to distribute the load directly to rear tires, exactly where you want it on low-grip drifting tracks. Acceleration will apply the maximum load to the contact surface of the rear tires, giving them the bite they need to pull out of turns and maneuver with agility. This is a high-spec machine equipped with the popular graphite double-deck chassis, aluminum SLF oil shock, aluminum front, and rear shock towers, and much more.”

Features

• Rear motor and rear two-wheel drive
• Redesigned Integrated upper deck
• Matte graphite double-deck Chassis
• 6-stage adjustable aluminum motor mount
• 4-wheel independent double wishbone suspension
• 3 gears Rear Transmission
• Updated Sealed gearbox
• Aluminum front /rear shock tower
• Narrow scrub steering block
• Straight /short Li-po Battery compatible

Needed to complete

It’s worth remembering that this kit doesn’t come with the following parts, which will need to be purchased separately, but this allows you to choose the best products for your needs:

• 1/10 Drift Body & Paint
• 2-Channel radio system
• Electronic Speed Control
• 540 Motor
• Steering Servo
• Battery (Li-po 2-cell, shorty type)
• Compatible battery charger
• Drift car tires & Wheels

Yokomo YD-2ZX 1/10 RWD Competition RC Drift Car Kit

• Manufacturer: Yokomo
• Suitable for: 14 years and up
• Configuration: RWD
• Scale ratio: 1/10th
• Value for money product rating
• Purchase link: Discontinued online

Our comment: If you’re planning to go down the competitive route, and you’ll settle for nothing less than the best, the YD-2ZX is the ultimate premium pick.

Available in black, red, or purple, the YD-2ZX has been specifically designed with competition in mind and offers the ultimate platform to secure a spot on the podium without needing to upgrade various components.

Yokomo is the master of RC car design, and we’re confident that this flagship graphite offering will not disappoint.

Manufacturer description: “The Yokomo YD-2ZX 1/10 2WD RWD Competition Drift Car Kit has been designed to become the top model RWD drift car. Built for performance this drift chassis gives the user many features to provide a smooth and stylish experience. With the Yokomo YD-2ZX, you can drift like there’s no tomorrow.”

“This drift car features a high traction graphite chassis and double deck design. Yokomo changed the way the steering servo attaches to the chassis side, making the upper deck more flexible. This allows for a smoother steering feel without hindering the flex of the chassis. The transmission is equipped with a unique motor mount allowing for a higher motor mount and better heat dissipation. The battery can be fully moved within the chassis without hindering kinetic performance. The front bulkhead, suspension mount, shock tower, and big bore shock are made from machined aluminum for high rigidity and lower weight. These features come together to deliver a highly competitive chassis.”

Features

• Redesigned graphite main chassis & upper deck
• Vibrant Purple Anodized aluminum parts
• Graphite front bumper
• Slide rack steering system
• Aluminum special motor mount
• Aluminum shock towers
• Aluminum suspension mounts
• Aluminum lower suspension arm adapter
• Aluminum integrated front bulkhead
• Aluminum SLF Big Bore Shock
• Aluminum Gear Diff Joint
• Aluminum Hexagon Hub
• Graphite front bumper/brace
• Aluminum 3mm steering stopper
• Front/rear short suspension arms

Needed to complete

It’s worth remembering that this kit doesn’t come with the following parts, which will need to be purchased separately, but this allows you to choose the best products for your needs:

• 2-Channel radio system
• Electronic Speed Control
• 540 Motor
• Standard-size steering servo
• 7.4V LiPo “Shorty” or Stick LiPo battery pack
• LiPo-compatible battery charger
• Drift car tires & Wheels
• 200mm TC or Drift body
• Polycarbonate paint for the body

Thank you for reading our RC drift cars guide

If you enjoyed this article, then please share it with the sharing buttons at the side and the bottom of your screen.

Check out our selection of the best-rated micro RC cars and RC monster trucks on the market!

RC drift cars FAQ

What’s the best RC drift car kit?

Our RC drift car kit choice is the MST RMX 2.0, providing fantastic value for money with a freshly-improved chassis, which has proven to be a hit among RC drifters.

What are the best RC drift cars?

There are three types of RC drift cars, so here are our recommendations depending on what you’re looking for: Our RTR (ready-to-run) choice is the HSP FlyingFish, and our RC drift car kit preference is the MST RMX 2.0 RWD. For those looking to build their RC drift cars from scratch, the Hobbypower RWD drift chassis offers fantastic value for money.

What’s the best 1/10 RC drift car?

Our favorite 1/10 RC drift car kit is the MST RMX 2.0, and the HSP FlyingFish is our top pick for those looking for a ready-to-run RC drift car. These picks offer exceptional value for money for those looking to get started with RC drifting.

Information and photography credits

We thank the following entities for the use of their information and photography in this article:

• Amazon
• AMain Hobbies
• eBay

The post Best RC Drift Cars Guide For 2024 first appeared on Drifted.com.

Here, you can click on a particular section within this article, otherwise, scroll down as we cover everything you need to know about Honda’s K24 engine.

• Which Cars Have the Honda K24 Engine?
• K24 Engine Specifications
• Honda K24 Tuning
• K24 Engine Swaps
• Honda K24 Forced Induction
• K24 Reliability & Common Issues
• Conclusion

Introduction to the Honda K24

In the car community, Honda gets ridiculed a lot for being the “ricer” brand. Yet, we can’t ignore the impact its cars have had in the automotive landscape. Raise your hands if you remember the very first scene from The Fast And The Furious.

Since the Honda fanboys came out in force and criticized the lack of Honda-related content at Drifted, we’ve opted for creating some in-depth guides to keep them happy.

Let’s face it. There’s nothing more challenging to deal with than an angry Honda fanboy. (Just kidding!)

For those of you that are wondering why we’ve decided to check out the Honda K24 engine, it’s because Honda’s legendary K-series engines are immensely underrated. That’s right, we said it.

While you’re huffing and puffing about FWD rice-boxes, we highly recommend that you head over to our previous guide for the K24’s younger brother, the Honda K20.

*WARNING* The K20 guide contains RX7 FD’s with Honda powerplants! Too late? Whoops.

The Beauty of the K24

Part of the beauty of Honda’s K-series is the convenience when it comes to swapping it into some of the least likely chassis imaginable.

We’d forgive you for purely thinking along the lines of cheap, FWD cars when it comes to the K-series.

However, you may well be surprised to hear that it’s not actually that challenging to swap the K24 into just about any chassis, even when it comes to some of the rarer mid-engined cars.

V8 swaps have become increasingly common throughout motorsport, mostly thanks to their (mainly) reasonable price tags alongside convenience and ease of sourcing when it comes to parts and engines.

It also, of course, falls to their impressive reliability, power potential, and ability to handle forced induction efficiently.

But, what if we told you that the Honda K24 also ticks all of these boxes?

We’re not the only one that thinks this, either, and for that reason, Speed Academy have put them head-to-head in this video:

Better Than an LS Swap?

There’s a wide range of K24 engines located under the hoods of some of the most popular cars on the market, such as Honda Accord’s and CR-V’s, and this makes them extremely convenient and cheap to source.

They’re also impressive when it comes to off-the-shelf upgrades and aftermarket support.

So, if you’re looking for extremely high power potential, a K-series swap could well begin to make a lot of sense.

As the popularity of LS swaps increases, the K-series could emerge as the superior purchase over time, with so many drifters opting for the typical V8 route.

With an ever-increasing off-the-shelf aftermarket mounting and wiring options available for the K-series, it’s undoubtedly emerging as an underdog in the engine-swap world.

So, whether you’re looking for a cheap and reliable daily driver swap, or a fully boosted race setup that’ll be able to help you smash ¼ mile records, the K24 certainly needs to be a contender to consider.

Make sure you keep your eyes peeled later on in this guide, as we’ll unveil some of the unlikely K24 swaps that we’ve come across.

A Legendary Lineage

Honda’s K24 series has birthed several of the immensely popular K-series engines over the years, and there have been more updates and variations than most enthusiasts realize.

After its initial launch in 2001, the 2.4-liter powerplant debuted in the Honda CR-V with the original K24A1 variation.

Production continues to the present day with the K24Y and K24Z variants, but they’re probably not what you’re looking for, as we’ll explain later.

The K24’s design was remarkably similar to its predecessor, the 2-liter K20.

Still, it featured some additional bonuses alongside the more significant displacement, such as an enlarged bore and stroke, friction-reducing technology, and electronically controlled ignition timing.

We’ll venture a little deeper into what changed between the many variations of the engine later in our guide.

You can either use the navigation at the top of the article to go to a specific section or continue scrolling down if you’re interested to know everything there is to know about Honda’s potent K24 engine.

Which Cars Have the Honda K24 Engine?

There have been many changes made to the K24 engine over its lifetime, and we highly recommend reading on if you’re considering which variations are going to be best for your needs, particularly if you’re looking to tap into their tuning potential.

Here is a list of cars that are powered by some form of the ever-popular Honda K24 engine series.

K24A1

2002-2009 Honda CR-V

K24A2

2002-08 Honda Accord Type-S (Japan)
2003-08 Honda Odyssey Absolute
2004-08 Acura TSX

K24A3

2003-07 Honda Accord (Japan/Europe)
2003-07 Honda Accord Euro (Australia/New Zealand)

K24A4

2003-05 Honda Accord (U.S.)
2003-08 Honda Odyssey
2003-06 Honda Element

K24A8

2006-07 Honda Accord (U.S.)
2007-11 Honda Element
2008-14 Honda Odyssey (Japan)

K24W (Earth Dreams)

2013-17 Honda Accord (U.S.)
2015-19 Honda CR-V (U.S.)

K24W4

2013-present Honda Accord (Thailand/Malaysia)
2014-present Honda Odyssey (Australia)

K24V5

2017-present Honda CR-V (Thailand)

K24V7

2016-present Acura ILX

K24W7

2015-20 Acura TLX

K24Y1

2012-16 Honda CR-V (Thailand)

K24Y2

2012-15 Honda Crosstour

K24Z1

2007-09 Honda CR-V (RE3, RE4)

K24Z2

2008-12 Honda Accord LX/LX-P (U.S.)
2016-present Proton Perdana

K24Z3

2008-12 Honda Accord LX-S/EX/EX-L (U.S.)
2009-14 Acura TSX
2008-15 Honda Accord (CP2, CS1)

K24Z4

2008-12 Honda CR-V (RE7)

K24Z5

2010-15 Honda Spirior

K24Z6

2010-11 Honda CR-V (U.S.)

2012-14 Honda CR-V (U.S.)

K24Z7

2012-15 Honda Civic Si
2013-15 Acura ILX

Honda K24 Engine Specifications

Since there are so many engines within the K24 family, we’ll give you a quick rundown of their specifications. This will help you choose the best K-Series engine for your specific needs – be it for a drift car, a show car, or an autocross champ.

In addition, we’re going to break down the main positives and negatives of their commonly-found engines too. So, let’s get started!

K24A1

The K24A1 was the first engine that Honda released within the K24 range, which featured in the 2002-09 Honda CR-V’s, and came with 160 hp and 162 lb-ft torque.

The A1 was where it all began, and it was a very similar engine to the B-series engine, with impressive low-end torque production.

Although it features impressive performance, it has a compression ratio of 9.6:1. The K24 features more durable connecting rods and superior counter-weighted crankshafts over its predecessor, the 2.0-liter K20.

When combined with the more significant displacement and with the addition of a composite two-stage intake manifold, this allowed for superior power and torque.

When talking about Honda Engines, we can’t skip over the legendary Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control system, more commonly known as VTEC (just kicked in yo!). Check out the video below to learn more about this system.

Sadly for K24A1 owners, it has no VTEC mechanism on the exhaust cam, and mostly relies on twelve valves before 2,200rpm, with the other four coming into action beyond.

The K24A1 has become one of the most popular choices for engine swaps and conversions.

Thanks to similarities between the A1 and A2, you can straight-swap the A2’s oil pump, which you’re not able to do on other K-series engines.

The K24A1 has one of the best cylinder heads, which is similar to the lucrative Type-S head, and takes kindly to being ported, which allows for an impressive amount of airflow.

Alternatively, if you’re looking for an easy swap, then the Type-S head itself is also an option.

If you’re looking for the best out-of-the-box solution from the K24, then let us introduce you to the K24A2.

K24A2

The K24A2 typically earns the title of the most impressive K24 engine out of the factory, but it’s also gained a pretty high price tag because of this, which makes other variations more tempting if you’re not shy when it comes to tuning.

Featured in the Acura TSX, alongside the Honda Oddessey and the JDM Accord Type-S, the K24A2 was capable of achieving between 197-205hp and between 164-171 lb/ft torque.

This engine was known as the K24A3 in the European and Australian markets.

For the A2, Honda opted for a significantly updated bottom-end, and the compression ratio rose to 10.5:1.

Unlike the K24A1, this time, they opted for the i-VTEC system on both the intake and the exhaust camshafts. They also applied lightweight pistons, dual balance shafts, a forged crankshaft, and re-inforced connecting rods, along with improved cams.

For the 2006-onwards Acura TSX, the K24A2 got an improved air intake duct, from 70mm to 80mm, an upgraded throttle body, from 60mm to 64mm, along with enhanced intake valves, a new intake camshaft, and an exhaust upgrade.

The outcome of this was the best performance that was achieved from the K24A2, pushing out 205 hp at 7,000 rpm and 164 lb/ft torque.

Although the power figures grew from 197-205 hp with the new improvements, torque took a slight hit, going from 171-164 lb/ft.

K24A3

The K24A3 is the same engine as the K24A2, produced for the European and Australian markets. The Honda Accord and Accord Euro models made from 2003 to 2007 carried this 2.4-liter four-cylinder inside the engine bay.

Unlike the K24A2, the K24A3 didn’t receive an upgrade in its later model years, so power remained at the initial figures of 197 hp and 171 lb/ft, with a 7,200 rpm redline.

K24A4

The K24A4 block is often the most common choice for those of you that plan on swapping out the pistons since they can often be sourced for a reasonable price thanks to their popularity.

The K24A4 was based on the A1, rather than the A2, and featured a compression ratio of 9.7:1. It provided 160 hp and 161 lb/ft torque. You can find this engine in everything from the Odyssey to the Civic Si.

Several revisions included an RAA single-stage intake manifold and revised intake and exhaust ports inside the cylinder head, which most enthusiasts agree don’t flow as well as the A1.

The primary purpose of the K24A4 production was to meet strict emissions standards. Since the power barely differs between the two, we’d say that Honda did a pretty decent job.

K24A8

The K24A8 was a slight upgrade from the K24A6, which they refined to meet an updated environmental regulation. Debuting in 2006, the K24A8 powered the Honda Element, Accord, and Odessey. The improved fuel efficiency of this version made it especially attractive for these family vehicles.

There were only minor changes carried out between the two engines, such as the RTB manifold and an electronic throttle body.

Power figures increased slightly with this minor revision, allowing for 166 hp and 161 lb/ft torque.

K24Z1

Launched in 2007 for the Honda CR-V, the K24Z1 officially replaced the K24A1. The K24Z-family’s primary aim was to meet the ever-growing emissions standards, while still trying to build on the success of the K24A.

It continues the 9.7:1 compression, and provides 166 hp and 161 lb/ft torque, with a redline of 6,500 rpm.

For this version, the oil filter is relocated, and internal changes include a forged-steel crankshaft and an internal balancer unit.

They continued to use the later 1-stage RTB intake manifold alongside an electronic drive-by-wire throttle body.

A new, denser catalytic converter has also been introduced to comply with the increasingly harsh emissions standards.

Despite its focus on emissions, the K24Z-family still provides an excellent platform tuning and engine swaps and doesn’t vary much from its predecessors.

K24Z2

The K24Z2 officially replaced the K24A8 on the production line and conformed to the highest emission standards.

Featuring a 10.5:1 compression ratio, revised fuel injectors, an integrated exhaust manifold, and an R40 intake manifold, this enabled power figures of 177 hp and 161 lb/ft torque.

K24Z3/K24Z7

The K24 once again received a significant overhaul when it came to the K24Z3 engine, which arrived with the substantially heavier second-generation Acura TSX.

While the K24Z3 for the Honda Accord had a 10.7:1 compression ratio, which produced less power and torque, it was effectively a K24Z3 with a high-flow exhaust system, capable of 190 hp and 162 lb/ft torque.

On the other hand, the 2009-14 Acura TSX K24Z3 had an improved engine with 31mm exhaust valves and a modified i-VTEC system, also providing a compression ratio of 11.0:1 and an increase to 201 hp and 172 lb/ft torque.

For the CP2 and CS1 Honda Accord models, however, it also featured the TSX’s superior engine, which was also the same as the K24Z7.

Included with the K24Z3 are chain-driven dual balance shafts, i-VTEC on intake and exhaust camshafts, lightweight pistons, uprated rods, and computer-programmed fuel injection (PGM-FI).

K24Z4/K24Z5/K24Z6

In another minor revision, Honda once again had to update the K24Z1 to conform to revised emissions standards, which meant they once again had to use a 9.7:1 compression, this time with 161 hp and 161 lb/ft torque.

The K24Z5 and K24Z6 are similar to the K24Z2, but with minor adjustments. The K24Z5 was only available in China, and the K24Z6 was later offered on Honda CR-V models sold in the United States.

Honda K24 Tuning

According to us here at Drifted.com, “affordable” and “performance” are two words that perfectly describe the Honda K24 engine.

There is a wide variety of options when it comes to tuning the K24 engine, and some incredible power figures are waiting to achieve if you’re willing to put the time and money into unleashing its potential.

Not only that but, you’ll probably need to include some blood, sweat, and tears, and plenty of swearing, too!

We already know that the K24A2 is capable of achieving 205 hp and 164 ft/lb torque out of the factory with the Acura TSX, but what if we want to aim higher?

The general recommendation to get the best basic setup with the K24 is to buy any K24A cylinder block, along with a K20A2, K20A Euro R, or KA20A Type R head.

Be warned that this only applies to the K24A series engines. The K24Z cannot be used due to the pistons making contact with the K20’s cylinder head.

Although it may seem odd to use K20 parts, they feature superior valve springs and camshafts to the K24. If you opt for this route, you’ll also want to consider replacing the K24’s water pump with the K20’s.

With race bearings, high-compression pistons, rods, studs, an uprated flywheel, fuel injectors, an ECU upgrade, and a K20A2 oil pump, you’re likely to get about 260 horsepower.

If that’s not enough, and you want to go to 300hp without looking at the forced induction route, you can do additional internal porting, along with valves, cams, an uprated throttle body, a CAI, and uprated manifolds along with a full exhaust system.

Forced Induction & Crate Engine Options

If you’re willing to go down the forced induction route, then power figures start at around 400hp and are capable of rising to some pretty incredible power figures, if you have the cash to throw at it.

Are you considering building a 500-horsepower K24 engine? This video will show you how it can be done. (Okay, perfectionists, it’s more of a K27, but you get the idea.)

If you do have the cash going spare, then there are always K24 crate engines out there to consider.

Companies such as 4 Piston Racing, offer highly-tuned turn-key K24 crate engines, with their K340 offering 340hp at 9,000 rpm, right the way through to their full drag setup, which is capable of an insane 8.94-second quarter-mile.

Sounds perfect, right? Sure, just be prepared to pay the price! 4 Piston Racing will happily sell you one of these for a hair over $11,000.

The great thing about the K24 engines is the wide variety of modifications on offer. No matter whether you’re looking for some off-the-shelf power upgrades, or a full race engine build.

They’re certainly capable of producing incredible power figures with extremely high levels of reliability when built and maintained correctly. It’s a Honda after all!

They can also make for perfect drift car engines, make sure you turn up the volume and prepare for an eargasm as we head back to 2014 to appreciate this S2000 K24 Formula Drift build:

We always highly recommend doing your research before you opt for the ideal K24 solution, but our information should certainly give you an excellent base for your future build.

Honda K24 Engine Swaps

Okay, so, this is where things get fun. We’ve all seen the Civic EG K24 swaps, and yeah, it’s convenient and all, but let’s face it, everyone and their dog has done that by now.

We’ve seen some pretty wild K24 swaps over the years, from Honda NSXs to bespoke Noble M400s. This just goes to prove what we said earlier with regards to the Honda K24 being the perfect V8 rival for just about anything, from RWD drift cars to mid-engine Time Attack weapons.

A simple Google search will reveal just how many simple K20/K24 swaps there are out there on the market, and there are several off-the-shelf packages for the Mazda Miata and Nissan 240SX owners out there.

For those of you that are considering it for your 240SX or Miata, the most common transmission for the swap would be the BMW ZF manual gearbox, which is thankfully both easily sourced and reasonably priced.

Other common K24 conversions are the likes of the Civic, but also the Toyota MR2, various Lotus’s, and also the Honda S2000.

Let’s start our crazy swap list with this ridiculous Subaru BRZ! BRZ + K24 + Gigantic turbo = This 700 hp insanity:

Since we mentioned mid-engined cars, how about another turbo-powered K24, this time in an MR2?

If MR2’s aren’t your thing, then you can surely appreciate a Supercharged 700hp, 800kg Lotus Exige turbo K24 destroying the competition at a Hillclimb event?

Or, what about the perfect sleeper? This Indonesian dude has the perfect recipe with his Honda Brio!

Finally, it doesn’t get much more awesome than this. This wheelie-popping K24-powered Toyota Tacoma destroys the competition at a drag event to collect $5,000.

Honda K24 Forced Induction

If you are planning to feed your K24 with some sweet, performance-inducing forced induction, there are plenty of choices on the market.

There’s certainly no shortage of turbocharged K24’s out there, but there’s also a decent amount of supercharged ones, too.

Thankfully, the K24 is one of the most convenient engines when it comes to forced induction, and can end up being one of the cheapest and most convenient engines to modify.

With the stock internals being capable of handling up to 4-500hp, you can see why so many people opt for the K24 when it comes to engine swaps.

With that said, forced induction does, of course, put a lot of strain on any engine, especially older ones that have perhaps not been fantastically well-cared-for.

For that reason, we’d always do a thorough tear-down to ensure you have a solid base before going through the effort of forced induction.

We’d also consider going with uprated internals to save the inevitable tears once you’ve started bouncing off the limiter later on.

Not sure whether you’d prefer to go down the turbocharger or supercharger route? We’ve answered all of the questions that are rattling around in your brain in our Turbocharger Vs Supercharger – What’s Best? article.

Honda K24 Reliability & Common Issues

The K-series is a true testament to Honda’s reliability, and a well-maintained stock engine is likely to last you hundreds of thousands of miles with minimal maintenance.

But, here at Drifted, the chances of you opting for the stock route are slim, and for a lot of you, the well-maintained aspect could well be lacking a little, too. (We’re not pointing any fingers!)

Although the engine is extremely robust and durable, it does have some minor niggles, as just about every engine we’ve ever taken a look at would.

One of the main components to fail can be the timing chain sensor, but there are solutions out there to minimize the risk. In addition, the tensioners on the timing chain are known to go bad too. If this happens, you are looking at a repair bill in the neighborhood of $700 to $1200. A small price for JDM supremacy I would say! *wink*

There are occasionally issues with leaking oil seals and excessive wear on the exhaust camshaft.

Rough engine noises can often be attributed to the incorrect use of engine oil or lack of maintenance. Lack of upkeep has also been the leading cause of rattling timing chains.

Over time, this can deteriorate the VTC gear, which would likely need replacing, especially if it’s coming from the right side of the engine.

These are mostly minor niggles, and almost always come down to improper maintenance.

So, keep on top of your servicing and don’t go crazy with modifying *cough* then the lifespan is expected to be at least 2-300,000 miles.

Honda K24 Final Thoughts

Honda’s K-series engines are certainly one of the very best value-for-money choices out there right now.

We’ve compared them to V8’s several times in this guide, but in some ways, we find them even more tempting.

V8’s have often had a tough life, they’re suffering from ever-increasing inflation due to their popularity in the motorsport world, and many of them are certainly showing signs of age. Oh, and did we mention the fuel costs?

We’re not saying that every K24 out there has had an easy life, but we’d bet that Grandma hasn’t been doing quite so many burnouts in her Accord.

If you’re looking for the best K24 engine right out of the box, then you’ll want to take a look at the K24A2.

However, given the convenience of upgrades, modifications, and matching parts between the various K-series engines, we certainly wouldn’t stress too much about making sure we got our hands the A2.

Given how kindly they also take to forced induction, they certainly have to be a consideration for those of you that are going down that route.

With the BMW gearbox conversion, it’s also an extremely convenient swap when it comes to RWD cars, and even more so for mid-engine cars. This 1000-horsepower K-swapped NSX is a perfect example of this.

Honda K24 Conclusion

Honda’s don’t always have the most favorable reputation within the tuning scene, but both the Honda K24 and the K20 certainly deserve a lot of respect, and we think there’s a good chance we may well be seeing even more of them in the years to come.

If that’s the case – we’re not complaining!

We hope that we’ve covered everything you could want to know about the fantastic Honda K24 engine in this guide.

If you’re not entirely sold on the Honda K24 just yet, then make sure you also head over to our Honda K20 guide to help you decide. You should also check out our B16 and D16 guides.

If you’re also interested in the other engines that Honda has to offer, make sure you check out our comprehensive Honda B-Series guide.

Thank you for reading our Honda K24 guide.

If you enjoyed this article, then please share it with the buttons at the side and bottom of your screen. If you’ve found this information useful, then please take a moment to share it with other Honda, or engine swap enthusiasts. We really appreciate your support.

Photography credits

We thank the following entities for the use of their photography in this article:

• kevos2k on S2KI
• Reece Mikkelson on Flickr
• Jason Hoang on Flickr
• Zac Shee on Flickr
• Tennen-Gas on Wikimedia Commons
• Hatsukari715 on Wikipedia
• Engine Swap Depot

The post Ultimate Honda K24 Guide – Everything You Need To Know first appeared on Drifted.com.

• Introduction
• Forced Induction or Engine Swap?
• Miata Engine Swap Cost
• Best Miata Engine Swap
• Conclusion

Introduction

Mazda’s Miata is a tuner’s dream, and we receive endless requests for new articles from enthusiasts looking to build the ultimate Miata – and believe us – there’s certainly no shortage of them!

We’ve compiled a selection of tuning guides to help you make the most out of your Miata, and our ultimate Miata mods guide also provides the top products that we feel are the perfect upgrades.

It’s easy to see why so many favor the Miata. Although it may get dismissed as a ‘hairdresser’s car’, an engine swap provides the perfect chance to leave the haters in your dust (or smoke) on both the twisties and the straights as you comb your way to victory.

Jokes aside, whether it be the original NA Miata or the updated NB Miata, this car provides one of the most incredible handling platforms alongside one of the most affordable price-points, making it appealing to the masses.

After its initial unveiling at the 1989 Chicago Auto Show, it was a complete game-changer in the two-seater roadster line-up, and with a showroom price of just $14,000, they were pretty damn hard to resist.

But let’s be honest, although the Miata has insane handling capabilities. Its straight-line speed leaves little to be desired.

Even if straight-line racing isn’t your thing, if you begin wanting to flick out the back end, you’ll soon realize that lower-powered variants will feel a little gutless.

Why Would You Engine Swap a Miata?

With the earlier 90-98 Mazda Miata MX-5 NA editions featuring just 115 hp from the 1.6L powerplant, it’s certainly not enough to keep the tail wagging in stock form.

Although Mazda addressed the less displacement issue with the later-added 1.8L engine with 133 hp, drifters and tuners alike will soon be lusting after more. Luckily, the Mazda MX-5 Miata offers endless possibilities for you to make it your own.

Mazda made the Miata a sensible alternative to the RX-family. However, with the complications surrounding the far more exciting rotary engine, these roadsters offer the perfect chassis to build your uniquely crazy Mazda.

Not to mention, the Miata has probably the best aftermarket part catalog in the car industry. There are even complete engine swap packages specifically designed to this fun roadster.

Want to do one of the craziest Miata engine swap builds the world has ever seen? Then, you’ve come to the right place!

Forced Induction or Engine Swap?

For some, the appeal of forced induction will understandably be a consideration.

Since we’ve already written turbocharger and supercharger kit guides, enthusiasts often ask whether forced induction or an engine swap is the better choice.

For many Miata owners, going down the forced-induction route with their already-healthy engine could well present a better choice than opting for an engine swap.

With some Miata’s reaching over 500 hp with a boosted setup, we certainly wouldn’t be ruling it out as a possibility.

Given the added complications that can come with an engine swap, a boosted setup can often be a more convenient and cheaper option.

There’s no need to buy mounts or have custom fabrication, nor do you need to think about additional elements such as electrical components.

With that said, engine swaps open up a whole new realm of possibilities and endless potential to explore.

For those who have perhaps blown your Miata engine or feel that it’s seen better days, it could be the perfect opportunity to fit an insane powerplant and build the ultimate sleeper Miata.

But, before you make your decision, you’re going to want to take a look at our next consideration.

Miata Engine Swap Cost

For many of you, you’re likely wondering whether it’s more viable to replace your blown Miata engine or swap it out for something a little more exciting.

Since replacement Miata engines can be picked up conveniently with the asking price often falling below $2500, keeping things simple by upgrading from a 1.6 Mazda BP inline engine to 1.8L could be the most reasonably-priced possibility.

Oftentimes, you can find even better deals at the local car parts auction.

However, let’s face it, the majority of you will be here on the hunt for crazy power with intentions of building a tire-slaying Miata.

Unfortunately, engine swaps aren’t quite as convenient as Forza Horizon, and Need For Speed will have you believe, so you’re going to want to consider a few things first.

If you head to Miata owners clubs, you’ll soon see that just about every swap imaginable has been carried out, with some costing way more than others.

But, unless you’re a mechanical genius with an endless pocket of cash, you’re likely to have some limitations.

Some swaps are more common than others, and while several offerings have off-the-shelf Miata basic swap package kits for everything you could need, others will require you to do the hard work yourself.

When it comes to engine swaps, you’re going to need to consider things such as wiring, and fabrication, neither of which are simple.

What Are the Options?

One option is to hire a skilled professional to do the work – in which case; it certainly won’t be cheap, either.

So, off-the-shelf kits are going to be the best choice for those that are less skilled. Otherwise, you’ll quickly end up with a budget that’s likely to spiral out of control.

You’re also going to need to consider additional components such as the transmission if you’re searching for significant power since the earlier models are only capable of handling around 250 hp before issues are likely to arise

With this said, the cost of swaps can vary, with cheaper engines and convenient kits costing just a few thousand bucks, through to a full conversion which could potentially cost you up to $49,995 – which certainly won’t meet everyone’s Miata budget requirements!

We’re exploring a vast range of options in this guide, so the cost will depend on the swap you choose and how much labor you’re likely to need to fork out.

Projects like this are where skilled buddies can be hugely helpful – better stack up on the beers right away!

Now that you understand the positives and negatives that can come with an engine swap – let’s look at our powerplant considerations.

Best Miata Engine Swap

Although we’d love to tell everyone to fit a 1LR-GUE engine into their Miata, we’re keeping things (sort of) sensible and providing a wide range of options to consider.

Whether you’ve got a minimal budget or deep pockets, are looking for an off-the-shelf kit, or wanting to try something a little more unique, there’s something for everyone in this selection.

LSx V8 Miata Swap

It’ll come as no surprise to see that the LS-engine has made its way here.

After searching for Miata swaps, it won’t take long to be bombarded with LS-builds.

Although Flyin’ Miata used to offer an eye-watering priced drive-in, drive-out swap for the Miata, there are now many options to choose from when it comes to LS swap kits, which is why it’s become such a tempting proposition for many. Let’s be real, this is one of the most popular engine conversions in the world!

Sure, it’s not going to be the cheapest swap by any stretch of the imagination. If you want to do things properly, we expect that even for just the parts, you’re likely to need to save beyond $15,000 with a used LS-block, assuming you’re capable of doing the job yourself.

YouTuber Taylor Ray attempted to prove otherwise by attempting to keep his build under $10k, but we’ll let this video summarize how that went.

In all fairness, we expected the budget to go way beyond this. However, it proves that even when trying to prove a point to the masses, a budget LS build will be challenging.

Miata LS Swap Kits

If you’re looking for off-the-shelf kits, then there are a wide variety of options available, which all use tried and proven components.

CX Racing offers some of the cheapest LS-conversion parts on the market, and their transmission mounts, diff mounts, and swaybar spacers will help with the LS-swap puzzle.

If you’re interested in all of the bargain-priced CXRacing swap parts, make sure you check out their eBay Store.

Flyin’ Miata also offers NA, NB, and NC conversion parts.

LFX Miata swap kits are another popular choice.

V8Roadsters are another highly-regarded alternative for all your LSx swap needs, as well as MiataRoadster, and LSXEverything.

As you can see, the support for the LS-swap is insane. Although it’s not the cheapest option, it’s going to be an awesome swap for just about every motorsport discipline imaginable, from drifting through to drag racing.

Typically, LS1 and LS3 engines are the most popular, and with the potential to head down the turbocharged route, you’re certainly never going to need more power than an LS engine can provide in Miata!

The final result?

Nissan SR20DET

Nissan’s SR20DET certainly needs no introduction here at Drifted. Most commonly found under the hood of the Nissan Silvia, the SR20 has heaps of tuning potential.

It’s not unknown to see this iconic JDM legend hit breaking the 1,000 hp when it comes to upper power potential, but even in stock form with bolt-on mods, you can expect to get nearer 300 hp.

Given the SR20’s desirability in the US, since the USDM Nissan 240SX didn’t get treated to the SR, prices can often be on the higher side, which might make it a less tempting option.

However, if you have a spare SR lying around, there are convenient Miata SR20 swap kits out there for easy installation.

For our European visitors, there’s also the JapTuning SR20 swap kit.

Other potential Nissan possibilities include the RB20DET, RB25DET, and the 2UZ-FE for those keen to stick with the JDM roots.

Toyota 2JZ

While we’re on the subject of JDM, how could we possibly leave the holy grail of Japanese powerplants off our list?

Sure, the 2JZ-GTE is going to be way out of budget for most Miata builds, but the 2JZ-GE is well worth considering.

With a potential 800 hp on offer with the addition of a turbo kit, transforming the naturally aspirated 2JZ-GE with an NA-T turbo kit upgrade provides the perfect opportunity for bargain performance.

The GE engine is commonly found in the likes of the IS300, GS300, and SC300, making it far more common than its rarer 2JZ-GTE counterpart, located in the Supra and Aristo.

If this sounds tempting, make sure you also check out what the 1.5JZ could offer.

GM Ecotec

One of the more commonly found Miata swaps is the General Motors Ecotec engine.

With the 2.4L LE5, provided with models such as the Chevy Cobalt and Pontiac G5/G6 being the most popular choice, EcotecMiata produces a high-quality off-the-shelf swap kit for convenient installation.

For those that are brave enough to undertake an engine swap without the helping hand that a kit provides, the Ecotec has the potential to be one of the most reasonably-priced Miata engine swaps available.

Sure, the 200 hp/200 lb/ft torque that the Ecotec provides is nothing too crazy. Still, the smooth torque curve makes this reasonably-priced, conveniently sourced engine is understandably a tempting proposition to many.

The Ecotec is often seen as a rival contender to Honda’s K20 when it comes to Miata swaps, but it probably isn’t going to provide quite the same level of excitement, nor does “Ecotec just kicked in, yo” have the same appeal!

However, since we’ve seen excellent condition Ecotec engines popping up for sale for as little as $500, it could present the perfect budget swap opportunity if you’ve got the skills and some useful homies.

If you’re hunting more power, then the M52 supercharger can be modded to fit, and there are also turbocharging possibilities, both of which could potentially provide up to 300 hp, which is plenty to provide ear-to-ear grins in a Miata.

It is worth considering whether the swap is worthwhile for those of you with a healthy BP engine, though, since they’re capable of 220 hp with far less fuss than fitting an Ecotec powerplant.

Dodge Hellcat

If sixth-gear burnouts in a Miata are your thing – look no further!

Hellcat engines aren’t going to be within budget for everyone, but for those seeking utter ridiculousness, this 6.2L, 700 hp Miata should provide a nice dose of inspiration.

Suzuki Hayabusa

The Hayabusa became the fastest production motorcycle in 1999, with an incredible top speed of 194 mph.

The 1,299 cc inline-four motorbike engine has since found its way into several lightweight cars, and it could be the perfect match for the Miata.

Although there are a few builds that have surfaced online over the years, we feel that there’s still room for potential when it comes to building the ultimate MiataBusa.

With some twin-turbo offerings pushing out over 350 hp, these popular Mini engine swaps aren’t going to be the cheapest offering.

Still, with a potential 11,000rpm on offer, this incredibly light motorbike engine could present a perfect opportunity for a unique Miata build.

Mazda 13B

Let’s face it, deep down, we all know that a rotary Miata would be incredible, even if they’re a pain in the backside.

Admittedly, it’s typically rotary owners swapping out their rotaries, rather than tuners looking to install them, but when maintained correctly, they’re incredible engines.

The rotary’s size (along with the obvious reliability concerns) are the primary considerations with this swap.

Thankfully, Lucky7Racing also provides an off-the-shelf 13B mount kit for the Miata for those that are looking to keep their engine swap build within the Mazda heritage.

There are fewer engines that sound more incredible than a rotary out there, so if impressive redline capabilities and BRAP BRAP noises are a temptation, the rotary should be on your considerations list.

It’s not all fun and BRAPS with the rotary, though.

With the need to carry out frequent rebuilds, combined with disappointing fuel economy, they’re not going to be too tempting for many.

On a positive note, this means that rotary’s often pop up for surprisingly affordable prices, and you’re likely to be able to grab yourself a bargain 13B to build the ultimate baby RX7.

With the most ridiculous 13B builds achieving 1,300 hp, the possibilities are endless, and the noises shall be glorious!

Honda K-Series

Honda K-Series inline four swaps are hugely common in lightweight two-seaters, and you get the bonus of triggering the Honda haters by screaming ‘VTEC YO’ each time you drive your Miata. Win-win!

Both the K20 and the K24 engines are the perfect match for the Miata, fitting like a glove and keeping in-line with the Miata ethos.

Thankfully, KPower Industries offers an off-the-shelf Miata K24 swap kit.

Naturally aspirated K-series motors are capable of up to 300 hp in naturally-aspirated form and offer a potential redline of 9,000 rpm.

Given that these lightweight, high-revving engines are ideal for such a wide range of swaps, they’re often a bit more expensive than some of the offerings in this guide, but we wouldn’t expect the price to be too crazy.

With immense aftermarket support and forced induction opportunities, the K-Series is a fantastic choice that could potentially reach up to 600 hp with extensive upgrades.

Honda J-Series V6

For those looking for a V6 swap, the J-Series is often a popular choice. If you sweep through the Miata forums, you’re bound to find owners who swear by this swap.

Thankfully, as with most of the popular swaps, there’s an off-the-shelf kit to go with your Miata, and this time it’s Minitec coming up with the goods.

Since the J-Series Honda engine can be found in such a wide variety in the Honda family, engines are easily sourced and exceptionally reasonably priced.

With over 300 hp in stock form, the J-Series is similar to the Miata’s stock engine weight and provides impressive low-end torque.

Although it’s possible to have spare change from around $10,000 with this swap, you may be pushing the stock gearbox beyond its limits with 300 hp on offer, which may need to become an additional consideration.

Overall, an excellent, reasonably priced, easily sourced option, with the added bonus of annoying the Honda haters.

GM LFX V6

Another popular alternative to the above J-Series V6 is the 3.5-liter GM LFX.

Commonly found in the Chevrolet Camaro and CTS, this is another fantastic candidate for those interested in a V6 and seeking a sensible 300 hp-range with your build

V8Roadsters this time provides a whole range of off-the-shelf parts to help with the conversion, and with the commonly-found LSX being readily available, it’s a tempting prospect.

Although it’s slightly heavier than the BP engine, the additional length helps to even out the weight distribution, and despite being taller, it still fits snugly in the bay without the need to chop your hood to pieces.

Overall, it’s an excellent option, and with a 7,200 rpm redline, it fits the Miata ethos far better than some of the big-power V8 torque monsters out there.

Jaguar 3.0-liter AJ30 V6

Still want to go down the V6 route but want to be more “Bri’ish?” Fear not, Roketeer – a UK-based tuning firm has got you covered!

You might have already come across this engine swap thanks to YouTuber Alex Kersten if you are subscribers of the Car Throttle and Auto Alex channels. His Miata, which he affectionately calls “Phil” comes with this powerplant under the hood.

Rocketeer refers to this engine as the MXV6, and it is based upon the aforementioned Jaguar V6. It makes around 230 horsepower, which is more than enough to make the lightweight MX-5 plenty fast. The 220 lb-ft of torque naturally helps, too!

The base Jaguar engine was conceived when Jaguar was under the ownership of American automotive juggernaut Ford. So, it is safe to say that this is one of the most reliable engine swaps on this list.

If you are interested, Rocketeer will happily provide everything you need for a direct swap for just $7,995.

That includes everything from a carbon fiber intake manifold, the front subframe, mounting brackets, and a bespoke clutch. However, you’ll have to source the engine by yourself.

Toyota 1GZ-FE V12

You probably think we’re kidding, but nope. Our searches for unique Miata swaps turned up this beauty.

The best thing about this swap? It’s just an everyday guy that decided it’d be a good idea to whack a V12 into his Miata engine bay.

Oh, and those damn sexy headers!

We love the work and effort that’s gone into this build. As you probably guessed, it’s not the most straightforward swap out there, and we’d quite happily see this be the only one, as the work is fantastic.

Amusingly, the owner has also established that there’s still room for twin turbos in the bay, so we can’t wait to see how crazy this could get.

If you love this awesome project as much as we do, then make sure you follow That V12 Miata Bruh on YouTube.

Conclusion

There’s an incredible variety of options out there when it comes to finding the perfect engine swap for your Miata build.

Although the stock engines respond well to forced induction, we can understand the temptation to go with something more unique, with even more potential further down the line.

Since Miata’s are incredibly affordable, they provide an incredibly exciting chassis in stock form. With some off-the-shelf handling upgrades and an engine swap, they’ve got the potential to be some of the most exciting cars on the road.

There’s no end to the potential that this humble two-seater roadster has to offer, so feel free to go wild with your build.

If you’ve built a unique Miata in your own original design, and you’d love for us to feature it in this guide, then make sure you drop us a line. We’re always interested in sharing epic builds with our huge worldwide fanbase.

So, there we have it! We hope that we’ve covered everything you could want to know about the best engine swaps for your Miata in this guide.

Thank you for reading our Miata engine swap guide.

If you enjoyed this article, please share it with the buttons at the bottom of your screen. If you’ve found this information useful, then please take a moment to share it with other Miata enthusiasts. We appreciate your support.

Photography credits

We thank the following entities for the use of their photography in this article:

• dave_7 on Flickr
• Road and Track
• CXRacing

The post Ultimate Miata Engine Swap Guide first appeared on Drifted.com.

Welcome to Drift Hunters!

Drift Hunters is a free to play drifting game. Drift a selection of high-performance tuner cars on a variety of exciting tracks.

The game uses the UNITY engine which means a completely 3D world with realistic physics and a solid frame rate.

Starting with the iconic Toyota Corolla AE86 as you hit the track and improve your drifting techniques you can unlock cars including the Nissan S13, Toyota Supra, Ford Mustang, an RWB Porsche 911 and many more.

You can customize your car to your heart’s content, modifying both visual tuning and performance. Five different race circuits are at your disposal, so what are you waiting for? Turn the key!

You can play more games in the Drift Hunters series here:

Drift Hunters Tips

• Be gentle with the cursor keys; smooth is fast, fast is smooth. Balance the car with the throttle while mid-drift
• Flick the car from left to right when on long, sweeping roads to trigger the drift combo multiplier
• Tune your car, but be careful not to make it overpowered – this can make the car harder to control
• Pick tracks with long, sweeping curves to grind your points. We recommend using the City for this

Drift Hunters Cars

Here is a complete list of the cars available to play in the game:

• Toyota Trueno GT-APEX (AE86)
• Datsun 240z
• Nissan 240sx (S13)
• BMW M3 (E29)
• Mitsubishi Evolution (VIII)
• Subaru Impreza WRX
• BMW M3 (E36)
• Nissan 240sx (S14)
• Nissan Silvia Spec R (S15)
• Honda S2000 (AP1)
• Mazda RX-7 Type R (FD3S)
• BMW M3 (E46)
• Toyota GT86
• Toyota Supra (JZA80)
• BMW 1M Coupé (E82)
• Infiniti G35 Coupe
• Mercedes Benz AMG CLA Saloon (C45)
• Ford Fiesta ST (Mark VI)
• Nissan 370z Coupe
• Nissan Skyline GTR (R34)
• Lexus IS350
• Dodge Challenger Hellcat
• Ford Mustang Fastback (S550)
• BMW 335i (F30)
• Nissan GTR (R35)
• Porsche 911 GT (993)

If you would like to see more detail on each car, you can read our comprehensive Drift Hunters car list.

Drift Hunters Tracks

Drift Hunters offers ten varied and challenging tracks to drift on. The docks offers sharp turns and punishing barriers, while Tyshen offers long corners and high speed drift entries.

• Nishuri
• Stadium
• Tyshen
• Docks
• Dust
• Port
• Emashi
• Touge
• Forest
• City

Best tracks for drifting

Some tracks in Drift Hunters offer an easier path for long and continuous drifting, with Tyshen and Forest standing out as our top picks for this. If you are looking to grind credits to unlock the top tier cars, then City is definitely the place to go to get your grind on.

Touge is a one of our favorites; a real mix of low and high speed corners with a great background environment. Channel your own Keiichi Tsuchiya at the Hot Version Gunsai cirucit and get drifting!

Drift Hunters features

Here is the official feature list from the developer:

• Over 25 awesome drift cars – drive your dreams
• Detailed car tuning
• Car customization. Paint your car in any color with 4 types of paint. Change your car’s rims, paint them and stance it!
• Upgrade the performance of your car – make more skids
• 10 nice tracks for drifting, racing or just doing burnouts
• Realistic drift physics
• Collect drift points and earn money
• If you enjoy drift culture and JDM at all, be sure – Drift Hunters is for you!

Drift Hunters guides, tutorials and walkthroughs

We have created this section to collate all of our Drift Hunters guides, tutorials and walkthroughs for the game in one place:

Gameplay video

Complete beginners tutorial

New to Drift Hunters? Then our beginners tutorial is just for you! We walk through choosing and setting up your car, track selection and basic drifting techniques.

Want to ace Drift Hunters and rank with the best players out there? Then you need to check out our advanced Drift Hunters guide.

Earn money fast guide

Are you looking for the best hacks to earn unlimited money in Drift Hunters? We’ve got you covered with our Drift Hunters money guide.

High score walkthrough video

Looking for some tips on how to master Drift Hunters? Try this easy high-score Drift Hunters guide:

Please note, that this video is taken from the mobile game, but the technique still works great for this game.

Drift Hunters tuning guide

Drift Hunters offers a wide variety of tuning options from adding aftermarket parts, body kits, wheels, paint, suspension tuning and more to your car. Are you looking for the best tune in Drift Hunters?

We’ve got you covered with our Drift Hunters tuning guide. You can tune your wheel offsets, turbo lag, brake balance, front camber, ride height and more.

How to play Drift Hunters

To control your drift car’s controls while battling on the track you are going to use your keyboard’s cursor keys, spacebar controls the handbrake. You can change the camera angle by pressing the C key.

To upshift or downshift with a manual transmission use the left shift and CTRL key, respectively. Using the hand brake is useful to help you scrub off speed and control your car during drifts.

Game controls

You can use either the cursor keys or WASD to control your car’s gas, brakes and steering. Hit spacebar to grab the e-brake (handbrake).

• UP: Gas
• DOWN: Brake
• LEFT: Steer left
• RIGHT: Steer right
• SPACEBAR: Handbrake
• C: Change camera
• LEFT SHIFT: Shift up gear
• LEFT CTRL: Shift down gear

How to play Drift Hunters unblocked

Are you having trouble playing Drift Hunters at drifted.com? Sometimes colleges and workplaces will block gaming websites from their networks, this sucks as you can’t access our games. The answer is to use one of our mirrors.

We recommend heading to 180SX.club, where you can enjoy Drift Hunters unblocked and Drift Hunters 2 unblocked.

Become the ultimate Drift Hunter!

Since the launch of Drift Hunters, there have been two upgrades to the game – Drift Hunters 2 and Drift Hunters MAX.

The latest game in the series, Drift Hunters MAX, has completely overhauled the game. With Drift Hunters MAX now featuring more cars, tracks, and even a brand-new Drift Attack mode with clipping points and drift zones, there’s even the opportunity to compete against other Drift Hunters fans in the art of drifting on the live leaderboards for the first time.

Drift Hunters MAX is quickly becoming the most popular choice among the Drift Hunters franchise, and once you’ve given it a try, we’re sure you’ll agree that it’s undoubtedly the best game yet!

Enjoyed Drift Hunters but looking for more? Try these related games:

• Supra Drift 3D
• Drift Boss

Completed Drift Hunters? Then you should check out these Drift Hunters alternatives.

The post Drift Hunters first appeared on Drifted.com.

• Introduction to Drifting in Forza Horizon 4
• Best Drift Cars in Forza Horizon 4
• Conclusion

Forza Horizon 4 has deservedly earned its spot as the best selling Xbox racing game of all time, and we’re going to be looking at the best drift cars in the game, whether you’re just getting started or competing with the pros.

Turn 10 has provided the answer to every motorsport enthusiast’s dreams with this incredible, open-world driving experience.

In its first week, over 2 million copies had left the shelves, and by August 2019, over 12 million fans across the globe were enjoying tearing up the streets of the UK and throwing down their best drifting skills.

There aren’t many racing games out there that promote ‘streeto’, but Forza Horizon 4 welcomes it with open arms – and we’re certainly not complaining!

We always welcome the thrill of putting your skills to the test on the street without the real-life fear of damaging your car, potentially getting busted – or even worse, losing your license.

You’re certainly not limited to just drifting within the game; it caters to any motorsport fan, whether you’re into drag, grip, top-speed runs, or going for a simple cruise and enjoying the stunning elements that the British countryside has to offer.

Thanks to the decision from Turn 10/Playground Games to host the game in the UK, this has provided many twisty, winding roads, which make it fantastic for showing off your drift skills.

They’ve also encouraged this by placing ‘Drift Zones’ across the map, which enables you to earn Skill Points in the game, with extra bonuses on offer for exciting driving.

Now, not everyone gets behind the wheel of a car and has the ability of Keiichi Tsuchiya, so we’ve created this guide to help you find the perfect ride to help you get the most out of your drifting talent in Horizon 4.

Although it’s not quite the simulation-experience you can expect from its more intense sibling, Forza Motorsport 7, FH4 is still impressively realistic, which makes it fantastic for learning how to drift.

If you’re not looking for something quite so realistic, Madalin Stunt Cars 3 can make for a great free alternative that you can enjoy anywhere.

With the latest entry to the Forza Motorsport series just coming out, this is the perfect opportunity to improve your drifting skills before getting your hands dirty with Forza Motorsport 8 or Forza Horizon 5.

Introduction to drifting in Forza Horizon 4

Thanks to its similarities to real-world drifting, throwing your car down sideways in Horizon 4 is remarkably similar to the genuine experience.

Therefore, if you want to master drifting in Horizon 4, we highly recommend heading over to our How to Drift guide, which will provide an in-depth explanation to get you started in the basics of drifting.

Alternatively, if you feel you can relate better to an in-game tutorial, then make sure you check out this great video:

Once you’ve gained the vital knowledge when it comes to the four essential steps to carrying out the perfect drift, it’s time to get behind the wheel (or controller) and put your new-found knowledge to the test.

Those of you that aren’t entirely new to drifting won’t be surprised to hear that we’re only really interested in the rear-wheel-drive cars that the game has to offer.

Sure, there are some fantastic AWD cars in the game, and Forza rewards generously for these, but AWD drifting doesn’t tick the right boxes for us.

Truth be told, although we have our personal preferences, which we’ll be going through shortly, thanks to the in-game customization, you’ll be able to drift just about any front-engined RWD car in the game.

Sure, some will be more capable than others, but if you have a real desire to drift a particular car, then don’t be afraid to do so. There are many fantastic guides and tutorials online that’ll show you how to do so.

One particular approach we’ve found useful when it comes to tuning is the ‘ForzaTune’ app, which features on Apple’s App Store or Google’s Play Store.

ForzaTune can provide an impressive base tune, which you can tweak according to your individual needs.

Getting Started

If you’re just getting started, it may be better to learn how to drive a few of the cars in this guide first, since we’ve tried and tested each choice to ensure that they’re ideal for beginners, all the way through to advanced drifters alike.

Once you’ve got the drifting bug, you may well find that you can buy a weird as hell car and realize that you match with it well, which is where ForzaTune will undoubtedly be helpful.

We’ve seen some crazy builds during our online adventures over the years. With the combination of an excellent setup and impressive driver skills, they’ve often embarrassed the most competitive rivals.

Before we show you our Forza Horizon 4 drift car selection, let’s look at what you’ll need to do to achieve the best out of your car.

Step 1 – Pick your weapon of choice

We’ll be showing you our favorite cars shortly, and we highly recommend opting for one of these choices to begin.

Sure, some may suit your driving style better than others, and that’s the reason why we recommend going through each of them one at a time to find the perfect ride for you.

For example, some drifters prefer the rapid transitions that short-wheelbase cars have to offer, while others prefer the predictableness and stability of a longer-wheelbase car.

With beginners, although the temptation can be to jump straight into the Formula Drift/Hoonigan cars, we would go with something low-powered, to begin with, until you gain more confidence behind the wheel.

For advanced drivers, these typically provide the best in-game turn-key package, as they are well-tuned, but we would expect most drivers would need to take a little time to adapt, as they’re high-powered and often snappy.

Step 2 – Upgrades & Modifications

Assuming you’re not entirely new to the game, you would’ve undoubtedly carried out some upgrades by now.

These include:

• Engine Mods
• Brakes
• Suspension
• Drivetrain
• Wheels/Tires
• Aero

Thankfully, this is quite a bit cheaper and more convenient than real life. A simple click of the controller is often more enjoyable than the swearing and bleeding knuckles that usually comes with carrying out upgrades to your drift car.

There’s a vast array of modifications and upgrades that you’re able to carry out, even engine swaps, so you’ll want to make sure that you’ve got enough money left after buying your car.

Although it can be tempting to download a pre-made drift tune from another gamer, which can be great for learning, as you progress in the game, you’ll undoubtedly want to carry out some changes, but unfortunately, these files are locked.

For this reason, it’s always best to learn how to upgrade the car yourself, so that you can tweak your car and make it perfect for your needs.

This fantastic tutorial will help you gain an understanding when it comes to building an excellent in-game setup:

Getting Started with the First Mods

For your first car, although it can be easy to want to upgrade everything to ‘Race’ spec, we recommend settling for around 300hp, which is plenty for a fast-road setup.

If you go chasing high power figures when you’re a beginner, you’ll most likely not have the ability to control it properly. However, lower-powered cars are much more predictable, making them ideal for getting started.

We typically go for drift suspension, weight reduction, anti-roll bars, race-spec brakes, and max out everything in the drivetrain section.

With the suspension, you’ll want it nicely slammed to ensure a low center of gravity, but make sure you don’t end up bottoming out on the bumpy British roads.

When it comes to tires, you’ll want a decent amount of grip in a lower-powered car and a lot of grip in a higher-powered car. Don’t opt for slicks (race tires), though, as they’re not ideal for drifting.

With wheels, weight is mostly irrelevant. Don’t go with anything too big, and always remember – style is essential when it comes to impressing on the streets!

Step 3 – Tuning

Tuning can be the difference between the perfect setup or an absolute disaster, which will leave you driving like your typical Mustang owner and crashing into just about everything (and everyone).

If you’ve carried out the essential upgrades, but your car isn’t drifting quite how you’d like or expect, then chances are you’re going to need to carry out some tweaks in the tuning department.

Tuning is where you’ll be adjusting the advanced setup of the car to ensure you’re reaching your true potential.

Since this is an in-depth subject, we’ll take a deeper look in a future guide. But for now, we highly recommend checking out this video on YouTube:

Step 4 – Hit the streets

Once you’ve got yourself an ideal car and carried out the necessary upgrades and tuning, you’ll be ready to hit the streets to show off your newly-acquired skills.

Don’t worry if things don’t go to plan right away; we’ve all started somewhere, and drifting often takes an insane amount of practice to master.

Just ensure that you’ve got manual transmission enabled to begin with, and once you feel confident with that, you can move on to integrating the clutch.

You may think that a clutch is pointless, but it’s a huge help when it comes to car control with drifting, whether you’re looking to kick the back end out or maintain your drift.

We recommend heading to the skid pan just outside of the festival, to begin with, where you’ll have the opportunity to master the art of car control.

Although a steering wheel setup is always the best way to enjoy racing games, some gamers find it easier to learn how to master the basics using a controller before moving onto a sim setup.

Remember to try the various camera angles if you’re struggling. Your buddy might be best with an external camera angle, where you may be more accustomed to the more realistic interior view.

Once you’ve nailed when it comes to drifting in Forza Horizon 4, we can promise that it’ll be worth the hours you invested with practicing. We don’t feel there’s a better way to enjoy a car than throwing it down sideways!

Now that you’re ready to get started – let’s take a look at what we feel are the best drift cars in Forza Horizon 4.

Best Drift Cars in Forza Horizon 4

With a huge selection of over over 700 cars in FH4, it can often become a real challenge to choose which car is going to be the ideal choice when it comes to drifting, so we’ve shortlisted some of our favorites.

Sure, we do not doubt that we’ve missed off some great cars, and thanks to Forzas’ ability to carry out RWD conversions, this provides an endless selection of possibilities when it comes to picking an ideal option, allowing you to transform the least likely vehicles into the perfect drifter.

We’ve spent many hours testing out these options, and we can guarantee that there’s a perfect platform for beginners, right the way through to advanced drifters.

For those just getting started with drifting in Horizon 4, we recommend avoiding the Hoonigan/FD cars, as these are better suited to experienced players.

Nissan Silvia (240SX/S14/S15)

This JDM legend needs no introduction. Indisputably one of, if not the, most highly-regarded drift chassis of all time – the Nissan Silvia.

Known in the US as the 240SX (S13/S14), you really can’t go wrong whether you’re opting for the S13, S14, or the S15.

The s-chassis are best-known for their impeccable handling and the more desirable, highly tunable SR20DET engine.

However, thanks to the in-game upgrades, you’ll be able to opt for alternative powerplants, such as the Nissan Skyline RB26, to achieve those colossal power goals.

If you’re lucky enough to own a 240SX in the ‘real-world’, then make sure you check out our 240SX tuning guides.

You really can’t go wrong with any Silvia generation. Although they vary slightly between the models, you will be best choosing your favorite model rather than worrying about which one technically the best chassis.

There are three Formula Drift 240SX’s to choose from, at 300,000 CR each. However, if you’re open to building your setup from scratch, then the 240SX/S14 are available for just 25,000 CR, with the S15 slightly more at 35,000 CR.

Many newcomers to the game opt for the Silvia as the perfect platform to get you started with drifting in Forza Horizon 4.

Hopefully, one day, we’ll get to witness the Nissan Silvia S16 in the game!

Nissan Fairlady (350Z/370Z)

Nissan’s 350Z has earned its place as one of the most popular cars in the US tuning scene and has proven its popularity here at Drifted, with us providing many tuning guides to our 350Z fans.

In recent years, as they become more affordable, the Nissan 370Z has also seen a surge in popularity.

If you’re stuck deciding which model will be best for your needs, then make sure you check out our 350Z vs. 370Z guide.

You can locate the 350Z in the game as its JDM name – the Fairlady Z.

At just 35,000CR for the 350Z, and 40,000CR for the 370Z, these are a real bargain, and well worth giving a try.

Although the 350Z/370Z’s are known for being slightly underpowered and also somewhat overweight, some engine upgrades (or engine swap) and weight reduction will make them a fantastic contender for the best drift cars in the game.

We recently took a look at what the future potentially has in store for the Fairlady Z, as we took an in-depth look at the all-new 400Z .

Hoonigan RX-7 FC (Twerkstallion)

Let’s face it, as drifting fans; we’ve all enjoyed seeing Hert’s Twerkstallion RX-7 over the years, so, as you can guess, we were delighted to see it introduced into the game in the Hoonigan car pack.

The Twerkstallion is a surprisingly reasonable 50,000CR; however, this pre-tuned car falls under the S1 class and isn’t an ideal choice for beginner drifters due to its high-power, short wheelbase combination.

Once you’ve got to grips with the basics of drifting, it’s one of the most rewarding cars in the game to drive and also looks and handles incredibly well without any tuning necessary.

Mazda RX-7

Although we’ve already mentioned the Twerkstallion, we didn’t want it overshadowing the stock RX-7 alternatives that the game has to offer.

With prices starting at 25,000CR for the Savanna RX-7, they go on to 250,000CR for the ‘Hard-to-Find’ GSL-SE variant.

Thankfully, the FD that we know, and love, will set you back just 35,000CR, or 30,000CR for the Spirit R Type-A.

There’s a reason that the RX-7 FD made its way into our Best Drift Cars for Beginners guide, and it’s a fantastic chassis for beginners and advanced drifters alike.

With a longer wheelbase than the FC, the RX-7 FD is going to be the best choice for beginner drifters in Forza Horizon 4.

Dodge Viper SRT10 (Formula Drift #43)

Although there are numerous Dodge Vipers in FH4, it’s Dean Kearney‘s legendary Formula Drift Viper that has specifically earned its place on our list.

Frequently known for topping the FH4 leaderboards, this car certainly isn’t the ideal choice for beginners. However, for advanced drivers that are looking to achieve maximum points, this is arguably the best pre-setup car in the game.

It’ll set you back 300,000CR, but once you’ve mastered the art of drifting and got a suitable amount of seat-time in the game, this will almost feel like pocket change, and it’ll soon reimburse itself in rewards as you begin topping the leaderboards.

Mazda MX-5 Miata

At just 25,000CR, the Mazda Miata is one of the cheapest cars out there, and it offers the perfect introduction for those of you that are looking to master short-wheelbase drifting.

You won’t need to push tremendous power through this, as it’s lightweight enough anyway, so for beginners, keep the power down and use your Miata to master the art of drifting.

Once you’ve got the hang of it, these can also make for an epic amount of top-down fun with a big-power setup.

Ford Mustang RTR

There are three RTR Mustangs in FH4, two of which are Formula Drift cars of Chelsea DeNofa, and Vaughn Gittin Jr, with the third being the ‘Spec 5/S5′ street-spec model.

All three cars will set you back a rather steep 500,000CR, so these aren’t the ideal choice for those of you just getting started.

If you’ve got the cash to splash, then they’re the typically challenging FD-spec setup, which makes for enjoyable wheelie-popping fun with their super-soft suspension setups once you get the hang of it.

Highly recommended, but you’ll most likely need to save up a little cash and ensure that you get some practice in beforehand to enjoy them to their true potential.

Nissan Skyline/GT-R

There are various Nissan Skyline models in the game, from the iconic Hakosuka to the R31, R32, R33, R34, and also the R35 GT-R.

With the R33 priced at a reasonable 37,000CR, the most expensive offering is the GT-R LM FE at 1,350,000CR, but that isn’t going to be quite so ideal for drifting.

The R34 GT-R V-Spec II is a reasonable offering at just 63,000 CR – we wish they were that fairly-priced in reality!

From the Hakosuka to the R35 GT-R, they’ve become entirely different chassis, but they’re all incredible to drift in their own right.

Although they may not be the perfect choice for beginners, once you’ve got the hang of drifting, they’ll suit intermediate or advanced drifters perfectly, but make sure you remember to opt for RWD!

BMW M3

The BMW M3 is unquestionably one of the most famous European drift cars in the US, from the E30, right the way through to the E92 and the GTS.

Prices start at just 33,000CR for the E46 M3, with the M3 GTS the most expensive at 250,000CR.

As you’ve probably guessed, all of the M3 variants make for a fantastic choice for drifting, whether you’re a beginner or a pro.

If you fancy going down a slightly different route, the BMW M4 also features in the game.

Toyota Sprinter Trueno GT Apex

Forza Horizon fans rejoiced when Toyota finally returned to Horizon 4, bringing their old school legends alongside future classics to the game.

Thanks to the twisty, flowing roads that the UK has to offer, they’re not too dissimilar to the touge mountain roads of Japan, which is where the much-loved AE86 earned its reputation.

As the Drift King Keiichi Tsuchiya’s weapon of choice, the humble AE86 has also earned itself worldwide popularity with the Initial-D series.

Although Toyota had initially removed themselves from Forza Horizon 4, they thankfully made a return with a later update, which has allowed the awesome AE86 to make a return to the game.

The AE86 is a fantastic car for beginners, but be prepared for it to set you back 250,000CR. For that reason, it’s not going to be an ideal choice for those of you that have just begun playing the game. However, if you have some cash reserves, it could be a fantastic choice.

The AE86 has become one of the most legendary drift cars in the world, and it blends perfectly with the tight and twisty B-roads in the UK for this game.

Love AE86’s as much as we do? Make sure you check out our Best AE86 Drift Builds.

Final Thoughts on Forza Horizon 4 Best Drift Car

It was extremely tough narrowing down to just a few of our favorite drift cars in Forza Horizon 4, but we’ve tried to include a wide range for you to choose.

It’s so easy to get tempted with the crazy-powered cars, but they will undoubtedly be frustrating for those of you that are just getting started.

Learning the techniques of drifting requires time and patience, but it’s ultimately hugely rewarding in the long run.

Watching videos of experienced players on drifting games online can substantially improve your drifting knowledge, so we’d highly recommend doing so if you’re struggling to get the hang of it.

It can sometimes be ideal to buy a pre-built tune on the Storefront, to begin with, but it may become frustrating when you improve your skills.

You’ll likely get to the point where the car begins to hold you back, but you’re not able to tweak it to suit your specific needs.

Perhaps you want to change something simple like the tire pressures, the suspension, or the gearing, but the setup file will be locked.

For that reason, it’s always best to gain an understanding of the in-game tuning functions, and these will undoubtedly be useful to know when it comes to real-world knowledge, too.

Our recommendation is to try a variety of cars, tunes, and setups. Get some focused seat time in, and don’t feel disappointed if you end up spending hours and hours doing donuts in the practice areas to get the hang of it.

Conclusion

Practice indeed makes perfect when it comes to drifting, and there’s so much to learn and so many different scenarios that you’ll need to approach before you truly master the art.

We have faith that you’ll soon get there with the assistance of this guide. Good luck!

For those who feel like you’re running out of unique cars for drifting, we highly recommend getting your hands on the barn finds for the ultimate exclusive drifters.

Once you’ve got the garage of your dreams, why not purchase yourself the perfect houses and castles to match?

Some of these in-game cheats will help you top up the bank balance if they seem a little expensive!

Once you feel like you’ve mastered drifting in Horizon 4, why not give Forza Motorsport 7 a try? We’ve put the two head-to-head in this guide.

When you’ve got to grips with drifting in the game, make sure you then head over to our Forza Motorsport 7 Top 10 Drift Cars guide.

Want to build a drift car for Forza Horizon 4? Here’s our Forza Horizon 4 drift tune guide.

Looking to try Forza Horizon 4 on your VR rig? Then read our VR guide.

Find out how you can earn crazy amounts of credits with our Forza Horizon 4 money glitch guide.

After that, why not check out the best drift cars in Forza Horizon 5’s impressive roster of cars? You can check our Forza 4 vs Forza 5 comparison here too!

Thank you for reading our Forza Horizon 4 Best Drift Car guide.

If you enjoyed this article, then please share it with the buttons at the side and bottom of your screen. If you’ve found this information useful, then please take a moment to share it with other Forza and Xbox enthusiasts. We appreciate your support.

Photography credits

We thank the following entities for the use of their photography in this article:

• BugattiBreno on Flickr
• Enot91 on Flickr
• crash71100 on Flickr
• PixelGhostClyde on Flickr
• crash71100 on Flickr
• ZoiooGamer on YouTube
• TC9700Gaming on YouTube
• JDFERRARI on YouTube
• Forza on YouTube
• Revozport’s Uncut Gameplays on YouTube
• kuzmitchz on YouTube
• IceFolous on YouTube

The post Ultimate Forza Horizon 4 Best Drift Car Guide first appeared on Drifted.com.

• Introduction
• Drifting in Forza Horizon 5
• Best Drift Car in Forza Horizon 5
• Conclusion

Introduction

Forza Horizon 5 has proven to be the fastest-growing Horizon game in history, and it got there quicker than a Nissan GTR could cross the quarter-mile.

Having hit 3 million unique players just a few days after its official release, there are now more than 15 million players enjoying what the latest title in the Horizon franchise has to offer.

It’s not difficult to see why the game has become so popular among car and driving enthusiasts, though, since the Forza Horizon series has always sought to cater to a wide variety of racing and car fans. Rally, drag, circuit, sprint, off-road, drift. You name it – the Forza Horizon series has something for the motorsport fan in you.

However, perhaps most of Forza Horizon 5’s allure can be seen in its online gameplay, where friends can meet up and drive their favorite cars around Forza Horizon’s open-world set in beautiful scenic Mexico.

A slow and low cruise around town can be a great way to unwind from grinding in the hundreds of racing events found in Forza Horizon 5. However, at Drifted, we love the Forza Horizon series for a self-explanatory reason – Drifting!

A Better Drifting Experience

In the physics department, Forza Horizon 5 offers an arguably less realistic but more approachable drifting feel compared to Forza Horizon 4. The game’s somewhat forgiving drifting physics seeks to help players focus more on the sideways experience than the techniques required to achieve and maintain drift states.

While the drifting physics still isn’t anywhere near as strict and unforgiving as in more realistic driving simulators such as Assetto Corsa, the drifting experience in Forza Horizon 5 is impressively realistic enough to require the use of real-life drifting techniques such as the Manji.

However, we bet you’re excited to tandem-drift with friends around Mexico’s lush street environments and beautiful mountain ranges, so we’ve taken the time to come up with the best drift car in Forza Horizon 5 that will suit your drift skills and style.

Getting Started: Drifting in Forza Horizon 5

If you’re a big fan of the Forza Horizon series, you probably already have a good idea of how to drift in Forza Horizon 5. However, you may be more interested in knowing about the best drift car Forza Horizon 5 offers. Don’t worry. We’ll get to that shortly, or you can scroll past this section.

However, if Horizon 5 is your maiden voyage into the Forza Horizon series, you might want to head over to our useful guide on How to Drift or watch this short clip on how to drift by TC9700Gaming so you can get a good idea of what you can try and do to start burning rubber in Forza Horizon 5.

Of course, since Forza Horizon 5 features new and refined drift physics, you can expect a dedicated guide on How to Drift in Forza Horizon 5 from us very soon.

Despite being a more ‘casual’ racing title, Forza Horizon 5’s driving physics are no slouch – real-life drifting techniques and principles will still come in handy when learning how to drift in Forza Horizon 5.

Things to Consider

In terms of car choices for getting the most out of drifting in Forza Horizon 5, you will ideally make sure that your weapon of choice is built on a rear-wheel-drive platform.

While AWD and even FWD cars can still technically drift, these cars can’t hold a candle to RWD cars in terms of sustained tire-shredding sideways action in Forza Horizon 5.

Tuning and setup are also essential aspects to consider if your goal is to score as many points as possible around Horizon 5’s Drift Zones.

While there are a ton of free public drift setups that you can download and use in-game, most of these setups accommodate a specific player’s driving style and preferences. Hence, these setups might not necessarily equate to a better drifting experience for you.

With that in mind, we made sure to pick only the best drift cars of Forza Horizon 5 from various performance classes that work well out of the box so that beginners and experienced drifters can spend less time on setups and more time shredding rubber around Mexico.

But before we get to our picks for the best drift cars Forza Horizon 5 has to offer, here are a few things you have to consider, especially if you’re new to drifting or just new to the Forza Horizon series in general.

Step 1 – Choose Your First Car

Upon starting your career in Forza Horizon 5, you’re given a choice of three cars: Toyota GR Supra, Chevrolet C8 Corvette Stingray, and the Ford Bronco.

The Ford Bronco is out of the question unless you want to go offroad (even though it is technically capable of drifting to a certain extent), which leaves us with the Toyota GR Supra and the Chevrolet C8 Corvette Stingray.

Honestly, you can’t go wrong with either, as both these cars are RWD platforms with tons of power to spare.

On the one hand, the C8 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray instantly beats out the slightly tuned Toyota GR Supra out of the box with more power, 515-horsepower versus 433-horsepower, respectively.

On the other hand, the Toyota GR Supra offers a more forgiving drifting characteristic, thanks to its ample power and excellent chassis balance.

Whichever of these beginner cars you end up with won’t matter as much, so pick the car that resonates with your soul more. After all, your goal is to eventually move up to the best drift car Forza Horizon 5. Either of these two cars will take you anywhere very quickly.

Step 2 – Upgrades & Modifications

In Forza Horizon 4, upgrading and modifying your beginner car for increased power, acceleration, and sharper handling was a mandatory step because of how low-powered the beginner car offerings were.

Fortunately, in Forza Horizon 5, the beginner cars are already slightly tuned right from the get-go, making future upgrades less costly so you can save up quickly to acquire some of the best cars in Forza Horizon 5, which we have listed in this article.

The Perfect Drift Spec

However, to get the best drifting experience from your drift car in Forza Horizon 5, make sure that you upgrade all of the following parameters to “Drift Spec” if they aren’t already:

• Engine Mods
• Brakes
• Suspension
• Drivetrain
• Wheels & Tires
• Aero

For starters, you can skip the Engine Mods if you’re rolling around the C8 Corvette Stingray or the GR Supra – these cars already boast well over 400-horsepower from the get-go – plenty of power to go sideways around the streets of Mexico.

Instead, you’re better off spending your cash on Weight Reduction, Anti-roll bars/Chassis Reinforcement. These upgrades improve the overall responsiveness of the car’s chassis when going sideways.

You’re going to want to max out everything within the ‘Drivetrain’ parameter since upgrades such as the Clutch/Flywheel, Transmission, and Differential all influence how your car starts and holds a slide when drifting.

Don’t forget to upgrade your tires to the appropriate ‘Drift’ tires modification. This will give your car the ideal grip levels it needs for drifting.

Avoid installing Sport, Semi-slick, Race, or Race-Slick tires on your drift car, as these tires are designed for maximum traction and will hinder your car’s ability to go sideways.

Finally, make sure you upgrade your suspension to ‘Drift’ spec custom suspension as this upgrade will give your car the adjustability freedom it needs when you begin dabbling into setups and tuning, which we will touch on in Step 3.

One of the things that made the Forza Horizon series such a popular game was that Turn 10/Playground Games gave Forza fans almost everything they needed to express themselves freely through their cars in-game.

The game’s seemingly endless choice of modifications and upgrades allows for an infinite number of configurations so players can roll around the streets of Mexico, expressing their unique style.

Step 3 – Tuning

Tuning is a dark art in Forza Horizon 5 – you either get it just right or not at all.

The performance and handling improvements that upgrade your car’s components should be good enough for most casual players.

However, hardcore enthusiasts will want to extract every bit of performance they can from their cars and build their Forza Horizon 5 best drift car setup – this is where tuning comes in.

We’re currently in the process of creating a dedicated Drift Tuning Guide for Forza Horizon 5. While that’s on the way, we’re going to have to settle for this Forza Horizon 5 Drift Car Tuning Tutorial by Crilla18

Step 4 – Turn Off Driver Assists

To make the game even more approachable and cater to a larger audience, Forza Horizon 5 sought to make the driving experience as forgiving as possible so that everyone could enjoy driving in-game.

The vanguards of this goal are the in-game Driver Assists in Forza Horizon 5.

While a few of the Driver Assists work wonders for Circuit and Sprint races, for Drifting, these assists will only hinder you from achieving sustained and controlled drifts around Mexico.

With this in mind, make sure that you configure the in-game Driver Assists as follows:

These settings should give you precise control of your drifts in-game but keep the game casual enough to keep you drifting for hours. A win-win in our books!

Step 5 – Seat Time

In Forza Horizon 5, no car, upgrade, or set-up combination can magically turn you into Vaugh Gittin Jr. overnight. Like any other form of art, drifting requires diligent and intentional practice to perfect, so don’t worry about not getting into the flow of drifting right away.

A great way to get the hang of the drift physics in Forza Horizon 5 is by simply finding a wide-open spot where you can practice doing figure of eights or even something as simple as donuts.

After all, if you think about it, wide sweeping corners are just glorified figures of eights, with some donuts thrown into the mix!

Whether you’re playing Forza Horizon 5 with a wheel, gamepad, or keyboard, awesome drifts in Forza Horizon 5 can be achieved with enough practice and the right car.

Another thing you might want to consider is the type of in-game camera to use for drifting.

Although Camera POVs come down to personal preference, the Chase Camera is probably the best POV for drifting in Forza Horizon 5. It offers the widest point-of-view, so you can easily judge your braking points, apex, and the succeeding corners.

However, if you prefer the realism that the Dashboard POV provides, then, by all means, go for it!

Best Drift Car in Forza Horizon 5

The Forza Horizon series has always had an impressive roster of cars from almost every manufacturer known to man.

The guys over at Playground Games also have a habit of outdoing themselves with every iteration of the Horizon series. For example, with Forza Horizon 5, they sought to have more cars available on launch versus Forza Horizon 4 – 500 versus 460, respectively.

Through multiple free, and DLC content updates, Forza Horizon 4 ended up with a massive 750 unique licensed cars on its roster. However, it’s only a matter of time before Forza Horizon 5 catches up to that amazing number.

With over 500 different cars to choose from, surely some stand out from the rest as dedicated drift machines designed to carve mountain roads and tear up Mexican streets.

Of course, we’d love to feature every notable drift car available in Forza Horizon 5, but we wouldn’t want to burn your eyes out reading through a massive list.

However, there is probably only one thing that drift enthusiasts want to know: What are the best drift cars in Forza Horizon 5?

With that in mind, we have made a list of our favorite drift cars in Forza Horizon 5, and what the Forza community would agree to be some of the Best Drift Car Forza Horizon 5 has to offer.

We know you’ve been itching to know our picks for the best drift car Forza Horizon 5 has to offer. The wait is over. Here are our choices for the best drift cars in Forza Horizon 5.

Nissan Silvia (240SX/S14/S15)

No best drift car Forza Horizon 5 list will ever be complete without the Nissan Silva (240SX/S14/S15).

Nissan’s S-platform has withstood the test of time and continues to be the go-to drift chassis for enthusiasts and pro-drifters alike.

In Forza Horizon 5, the Nissan 240SX/S14/S15 is one of the cheapest drift cars you can get in-game but don’t let the low price fool you – a few simple mods such as stiffer suspension, drift tires, chassis reinforcements, and some engine upgrades to its reliable SR20DET are enough to take the Nissan Silvia to the next level.

The super-reliable S-chassis will remain competitive in B-class, A-class, S1-class, and even S2-class if you opt for an engine swap later on, making it not only easiest drift car Forza Horizon 5 offers for beginners, but also a very competitive chassis down the line.

Mazda RX-7

Anime fans will immediately grab this iconic 90s sports car and paint it mustard yellow as quickly as possible in Forza Horizon 5 – just like Keisuke’s yellow Mazda RX-7 in Initial D.

The rotary-powered rear-wheel-drive B Class Japanese sports car sports a very competitive chassis for time-attack and circuit racing. However, it is no slouch for drifing as well.

The Mazda RX-7’s 13B two-rotor turbocharged rotary engine churns out 280-horsepower from a tiny 1.3 liter engine. With the help of forced induction, the RX-7’s relatively tiny powerplant has enough power to light up the rear wheels for as long as your gas tank has fuel.

Its lightweight chassis and near 50-50 weight distribution help make left-to-right transitions easy when drifting in Forza Horizon 5 as well.

In-game, max power sits at around ‘only’ 700-horsepower when fully modified. However, for the RX-7’s almost weightless chassis, that’s more than enough to shred rubber on your favorite backroads and mountain passes in Forza Horizon 5.

Mazda Miata MX-5

It’s no secret that Mazda made some sweet sports cars back in the 90s – two of their most iconic cars made it to our best drift car Forza Horizon 5 list after all!

In Forza Horizon 5, the Mazda Miata MX-5 is a short-wheelbase lightweight roadster with a relatively tiny four-cylinder engine. The D Class Roadster can be bought from the Autoshow for just 25,000 credits.

Forza Horizon veterans probably know that the humble Japanese roadster will struggle to keep the rear-wheels spinning in long sweeping corners, and they would be right.

But that’s the allure of the Mazda Miata MX-5. If you’re a beginner trying to figure out the ins and outs of drifting in Forza Horizon 5, the Miata is our pick for the best car to practice drifting within Forza Horizon 5.

The humble roadster’s ample power will teach you the skills you need to start, maintain, and finish drifts around the game’s scenic Mexican roads. At the same time, a simple rear-differential upgrade and stiffer drift-spec springs should help the MX-5 tackle left-to-right transitions easier.

Nissan Fairlady 370Z

We’re now getting into the realm of 300+ horsepower drift cars that should have no problems attacking wide and long sweeping corners.

The Nissan Fairlady 370Z’s 3.7-liter 332-horsepower V6 will have zero problems starting drifts in Forza Horizon 5. Since the V6 engine is naturally-aspirated, the powerband should be very smooth and linear – making it great for controlling drifts with the throttle.

The 370Z is definitely a step up from the three previous cars listed above. And while the 370z weighs a little bit more than those cars, a weight-reduction upgrade should be enough to help make the 370Z’s power even more useable.

Overall, the 370Z is one of our favorite drift cars for Forza Horizon 5, thanks to its predictable powerband, precise handling, good power, and affordable price.

You can grab this B Class drift classic from the Autoshow for just 40,000 credits.

Ford Mustang RTR

Jumping from the 370Z’s 332-horsepower V6 to the huge V8 in the A Class Ford Mustang RTR muscle car might seem intimidating at first but hear us out for a moment.

While the Ford Mustang RTR boasts significantly more power than the Nissan Fairlady 370Z, it also weighs quite a bit more. The extra weight should tame the animal that is the 5.0-liter Coyote V8 engine’s 460-horsepower and 420lb-ft of torque a bit.

Despite the increase in power, the Ford Mustang RTR should pretty much be similar to the 370Z handling-wise – just with more power and torque this time around.

Its linear, predictable powerband and very controllable chassis should help prepare you for what’s to come when you transition to more powerful, purpose-built drift cars on our list.

DeBerti Tacoma TRD

You’re probably shocked to see a truck make it to the list.

However, maybe the following stat lines will help you forgive us for including a Toyota workhorse on our best drift car in Forza Horizon 5 list: NASCAR V8 with 900(!) brake horsepower. Custom body and 74-degrees of steering angle earned its moniker ‘The Performance Truck.’

The power and steering angle of the DeBerti Toyota Tacoma TRD alone already screams “drift truck!”. With that much power and steering angle on tap, only your imagination is the limit when drifting the DeBerti Tacoma TRD.

Despite the mods that made this truck a drifting monstrosity, it stay true to its roots and remains one of the Best Dirt Drift Car Forza Horizon 5 for dirt drifting and rallying.

The S1 Class performance truck can be acquired for 500,000 credits from the Autoshow.

Mazda RX-7 Twerkstallion

Now we have three Mazdas filling up our best drift car in Forza Horizon 5 list. Mazda really made a name for themselves in the late 80s and early 90s, don’t you think?

However, the Mazda RX-7 Twerkstallion is a Mazda in form only. This beast has shed its old skin (engine) in favor of a modern American V8.

An engine swap that’s considered heresy for many Mazda purists, but the results speak for themselves – Twerstallion’s V8 engine produces 600-horsepower without working up a sweat.

That might not seem like much, especially when you’re coming from the DeBerti Tacoma TRD with 900-horsepower, but you’re forgetting one key factor – the Twerstallion only weighs 2866 pounds.

We all know a lightweight chassis, combined with tons of power, is the perfect recipe for unmatched sideways capability, and the Twerkstallion delivers on that front.

Your skill is the only limiting factor here. With tons of seat time in the first few drift cars we featured above, we have no doubts that you’ll easily be able to tame this drift monster with relative ease.

Ford “Hoonicorn” Mustang

Ah, the custom-built Ford Mustang made for “hooning” around.

The Ford “Hoonicorn” Mustang debuted in the series back in Forza Horizon 3 as part of a Car Pack. For Forza Horizon 4 and 5, the car returned as a standard-issue car.

Since its debut back in Forza Horizon 3, the Ford Hoonicorn Mustang GT has cemented itself time and time again as one of, if not the best drift car in the Forza Horizon series.

With at least 1400-horsepower and 1200lb-ft of torque on tap, the Hoonicorn Mustang easily makes our list as one of the best drift car in Forza Horizon 5. With that much power under the hood, we do not doubt that the Hoonicorn will spin all four wheels without a thought, making it the Best AWD Drift Car Forza Horizon 5.

We all know the deal by now – Insane amounts of power in a lightweight chassis make a great drift car. The Hoonicorn is no exception.

Formula Drift #43 Dodge Viper SRT10

The stock Dodge Viper SRT10 is already a drift monster capable of 90-degree slides in stock form.

However, the Formula Drift #43 car driven by Dean Kearny of the Bridges Racing team will make even the most seasoned drifters work up a good sweat.

1350 ground-shattering horsepower from the 8.3-liter twin-turbocharged V10 can be a handful for beginners, which is why we placed this car near the tail-end of our best drift car Forza Horizon 5 list.

If you’re thinking about slaying every drift zone known to Forza Horizon 5, get the Formula Drift #43 Dodge Viper SRT10 and slap on the AWD drivetrain upgrade for maximum control. This combination should easily make the Formula Drift #43 Dodge Viper SRT10 the best car for Drift Zones in Forza Horizon 5.

Formula Drift #34 Toyota Supra MKIV

You probably already saw this coming – the Formula Drift #43 Toyota Supra MKIV tops our list – it is our pick for the best drift car in Forza Horizon 5.

Powered by the bulletproof 2JZ straight-six engine used by multiple teams in almost every professional drift event, the Formula Drift #34 Toyota Supra MKIV makes a staggering 1035-horsepower and 920lb-ft of torque reliably by stroking the 3.0-liter 2JZ-GE to 3.4-liters and feeding it 19-lbs of boost.

The Formula Drift #34 Toyota Supra MKIV has less power than some more outrageous drift cars on this list. However, it more than makes up for it with top-tier speed, handling, and braking.

After getting a taste for the rowdy sub 1500-horsepower beasts such as the Hoonigan Ford Mustang and FD #43 Dodge Viper SRT10, you’ll find the FD #34 Toyota Supra MKIV strikes an outstanding balance between outright power and razor-sharp handling.

Scalpel-like precision and effortless speed arguably make the Formula Drift #34 Toyota Supra MKIV the best drift car in Forza Horizon 5 and best Formula drift car, too.

The Best Game for Drifting

Drifting has always been very addicting in the Forza Horizon series. However, Horizon 5 takes it to the next level, making drifting even more accessible and approachable for all types of motorsports fans.

However, even if drifting physics feels more ‘refined’ compared to the previous Horizon game, drifting still requires time and effort to get right in-game.

With that in mind, we have come up with a car list that caters to both the aspiring Forza Horizon 5 drifter and the experienced rubber-shredder. We have even taken the time to list them in a specific order – beginner-friendly ‘training-wheels’ to reverse-entry monsters, so you can find the right car for your skill level.

With hundreds of cars just waiting to be unlocked in-game, we have no doubts that you’ll find the perfect drift car for your driving style.

Updated 9th April 2024: We have just published a guide on the Forza Edition cars, so check that out.

Conclusion

As you gain even more experience drift racing in Forza Horizon 5, you might start dabbling into upgrades and tuning to fine-tune your favorite drift car to your needs. Just take your time and start changing your car’s settings in small increments to understand how each tuning parameter works. Not sure which settings you need to use? Our Horizon 5 Drift Tune Guide will provide everything you need to know.

Lastly, remember to have fun! Horizon is still a just game, after all. With enough seat time, we’re sure you’ll get the hang of drifting in Forza Horizon 5 quicker than you’d expect.

So, there we have it! We hope that we’ve covered everything you could want to know about modding the best drift car in Forza Horizon 5 in this guide.

Now that you’ve got the fastest drift car in Horizon 5, why not check out the fastest drag cars in the game?

Practice your skills at the Stadium Stunt Park in Forza Horizon 5.

You might also enjoy our in-depth Forza Horizon 5 money glitch guide here.

Looking to earn some additional credits to purchase your favorite drift cars? You can do so by having fun smashing solar panels.

Earn more Skill Points by mastering the Daredevil Skills here.

Want to find a game with a more extensive map and different modes of transport? Check out The Crew 3!

Thank you for reading our Best Drift Car Forza Horizon 5 guide

If you enjoyed this best drift car Forza Horizon 5 guide, please share it with the buttons at the bottom of your screen. If you’ve found this information useful, please take a moment to share it with other drifting and Forza Horizon 5 fans. We appreciate your support.

If you’re looking for rally cars in Forza Horizon 5, we’ve listed our top picks for you!

Does your PC Crash when you play Forza Horizon 5? We might just have the solution for you!

Photography credits

We thank the following entities for the use of their photography in this article:

• THE_PPSH

The post Best Drift Car In Forza Horizon 5 Guide first appeared on Drifted.com.

• KW Variant 3 coilovers
• Megan Racing EZII coilovers
• Fortune Auto Dreadnought coilovers
• Stance XR1 coilovers
• BC Racing RM coilovers
• Fortune Auto 510 coilovers
• ISR Performance Pro Series coilovers
• Ksport Kontrol Pro coilovers
• APEXi N1 Evolution coilovers
• TEIN Super Drift coilovers
• TEIN Street Basis Z coilovers
• Jump to winners

In a hurry? Here is our 240SX coilover summary

Budget Choice	Drifted Choice	Runner Up
ISR Performance Pro Series 240SX Coilover Kit	KW Variant 3 (V3) 240SX Coilovers	TEIN Super Drift 240SX Coilovers
Buy Now	Buy Now	Buy Now

About the Nissan 240SX

The 240SX is the USDM (US) answer to the JDM (Japanese) 180SX S13 and 200SX S14. Featuring a front-engine rear-wheel drive short wheelbase, incredibly well-balanced chassis with a bargain retail price and an ample powerplant thrown in the bay, there was no surprise that it immediately took the market by storm.

In the present day, the 240SX fastback coupe is undoubtedly one of the most popular chassis for drifting in the US, and the 180SX/200SX are equally as popular in the rest of the world.

Without a doubt, the 240SX is undisputably one of the chassis’ ever when it comes to drifting, and prices are definitely on the rise. What could have been had for several hundred bucks a few years ago is now fetching multiple thousands.

This is known in the drifting community as ‘scene tax’, where certain car model names like used 240SX’s and the cost of their parts are on a serious uptrend. Drifting is a risky sport, especially on the streets, which has strongly contributed to a steady decline in roadworthy numbers, with rarity, comes increased value.

For those of you that are lucky enough to own one, you’ve come to the right place to make your car handle better than ever. Whether you’re looking to replace your tired OEM suspension or upgrade the budget setup that the previous owner installed, this guide will help you find the perfect replacement.

Coilovers are the ultimate suspension component to ensure your car handles to its full potential, often allowing full adjustability to provide the ultimate set up for your needs, whether you’re throwing it down sideways, competing in auto-x, wanting to slam it or just looking for a daily driving setup with adjustability.

Thankfully, prices for brand new coilovers haven’t seen the same level of growth as almost all other parts on the used car market, meaning you can get your brand-new setup at fantastic value.

How to install 240sx coilovers

Check out this coilover install on a 240sx S13 by Tyler Tea.

What’s in this guide?

We’ve created this to help you find the perfect coilover suspension setup to complement your S-Chassis, whether you own the first generation (S13) or second generation (S14).

For each coilover option, we also add our own comments. In addition, we have given a Drifted rating (1-5) based on features and price. We are considering budget, mid-range and high-end coilovers in this comparison.

Let’s take a look at our 240SX coilover selection

To read more about any of these products just click on the product name or photo.

KW Variant 3 (V3) Coilovers

• Manufacturer: KW
• Levels of damping adjustment: 14
• Construction type: Twin-tube
• Spring rate front: 343lbs/in
• Spring rate rear: 400lbs/in
• Fitment: Nissan 240SX (S13, S14)
• Value for money:
• Purchase link: KW Variant 3 (V3) Nissan 240SX coilovers

Our comment: We kick off our list with what is undoubtedly the best kits you can get your hands on for the 240SX.

German suspension experts offer this fantastic setup which offers rust-proof stainless steel construction and aswell as being one of the most popular kits on the market, owners continually sing the praises of this 3-way adjustable setup.

Whether you’re looking for a drift setup, auto-x or a daily driver, the V3’s will undoubtedly be one of the best choices for you.

Manufacturer description: “State-of-the-art technology from motor sports for more performance on the road. The separate and independently adjustable rebound- and compression damping allows for an individual suspension setup for different uses and preferences.”

“The unique patented system with its two-stage valves allows a rebound damping adjustment (comfort) and a compression adjustment (driving dynamics) in the low-speed range while the high-speed range which controls the driving safety is fixed.”

Megan Racing EZII Series 240SX Coilovers

• Manufacturer: Megan Racing
• Levels of damping adjustment: 15
• Construction type: Monotube
• Spring rate front: 8kg/mm
• Spring rate rear: 6kg/mm
• Fitment: Nissan 240SX (S13, S14)
• Value for money:

Purchase links: Megan Racing EZII Series 1989-1994 (S13) 240SX coilovers |
Megan Racing EZII Series 1995-1998 (S14) 240SX coilovers

Our comment: The Megan Racing EZII kit is the most reasonably priced setup in our guide, it offers an impressive level of damping with a solid monotube construction for a very low price point. If you want a cheap kit to lower your car and replace the tired stock suspension this is a solid choice.

We have known Megan Racing to be one of the love/hate brands on the market among owners, so if you can stump up a little extra change, there are better options out there for slightly more money.

Manufacturer description: “Megan Racing EZII Series coilover system is aimed towards the more budget oriented enthusiast to offer the most basic essentials from an after-market coil-over setup, yet makes no compromises for quality and performance.”

“15 Levels of Adjustable Damper Strength, Aluminum Brackets paired with rubber inserts, Rubber Dust Covers, Adjustable Ride Height, Conservative Spring Rates, Single-Cylinder Design – monotube, All coilover damper kits come with 1 year manufacture-defect limited warranty from the date of purchase, All Hardware is Included.”

Fortune Auto Dreadnought PRO 2-Way 240SX Coilovers

• Manufacturer: Fortune Auto
• Levels of damping adjustment: 24
• Construction type: Monotube with external reservoirs
• Spring rate front: Range of options available
• Spring rate rear: Range of options available
• Fitment: Nissan 240SX (S13, S14)
• Value for money:

Purchase links: Fortune Auto Dreadnought 1989-1994 (S13) 240SX coilovers |
Fortune Auto Dreadnought 1995-1998 (S14) 240SX coilovers

Our comment: Fortune Auto have arrived to help you empty your pockets! The stunning Fortune Auto Dreadnought’s are undoubtedly at the high end of the price bracket, but if you have the money to spare we have no doubt you’ll be a happy owner.

If your 240SX is likely to spend most of its time at the track, and not so much time on the road, these will undoubtedly be a contender for you if the budget allows.

Manufacturer description: “Dreadnought PRO dampers are the foundation of a race winning suspension; designed and tested in the harshest environment possible- the race track. Offering top tier race technology and durable race proven components, Dreadnought PRO damper systems are the ultimate in performance and adjustability.”

“All systems are completely built in-house by our engineering staff in Richmond, Virginia. We insist on building bespoke suspension in order to offer some of the best quality control in the industry.”

Stance XR1 240SX Coilovers

• Manufacturer: Stance
• Levels of damping adjustment: 16
• Construction type: Monotube with external reservoirs
• Spring rate front: 8kg/mm
• Spring rate rear: 6kg/mm
• Fitment: Nissan 240SX (S13, S14)
• Value for money:

Purchase links: Stance XR1 1989-1994 (S13) 240SX coilovers |
Stance XR1 1995-1998 (S14) 240SX coilovers

Our comment: Stance brings you their flagship coilover offering, which is great for owners who are looking for minimum ride height with good adjustability while still maintaining great handling.

Despite being slightly firmer than stock, it’s not a crashy ride and if frame-laying is your thing, street comfort probably isn’t at the top of your list! With the option of swift springs available, we’d highly recommend opting for these. If you’re intending to track the car there are better options out there, but for daily driving, this is a great, affordable option.

Manufacturer description: “Suspension tuning is a sort of “black art”. Properly valving dampers is difficult to master and there are many variables and individual parts involved in making the perfect suspension. We have acquired our knowledge through our involvement in all forms of motorsports. Vehicles using our custom valved dampers have excelled in drifting, time attack, drag racing, land speed, and hill climb. Drivers at the highest level of competition need maximum traction control, and that is what our Bespoke dampers provide.”

“The XR1 is our new flagship line of coilovers. Oversized diameter shocks allow large pistons for ultimate performance and response. 16-way adjustable dampening allows the driver to tune the shocks for any conditions and handling characteristics. With huge range of adjustment that can be felt and seen, it offers serious performance for all levels of drivers. Stance XR1 coilovers are built with highest quality materials and tolerances to ensure durability and performance.”

BC Racing RM Series Coilovers

• Manufacturers: BC Racing
• Levels of damping adjustment: 30
• Construction type: Monotubeli>
• Spring rate front: 8 kg/mm
• Spring rate rear: 6 kg/mm
• Fitment: Nissan 240SX (S13, S14)
• Value for money:

Purchase links: BC Racing RM 1989-1994 (S13) 240SX coilovers |
BC Racing RM 1995-1998 (S14) 240SX coilovers

Our comment: BC Racing have continued to earn themselves a positive reputation over the years, with many satisfied owners. The RM is their mid-range offering and is great for those who use their car for daily driving and like to hit the track occasionally.

With the RM being their mid-price offering, we highly recommend checking out their budget BC Racing BR coilovers for cheap daily use and high-end BC Racing ER coilovers for a high-performance track orientated setup.

Manufacturer description: “The BC Racing RM series feature high quality damping adjustable mono-tube inverted dampers at the front or front and rear, depending on vehicle. The RM coilovers offer the majority of the features of the BR series but with the additional benefit of the inverted damper unit. Inverting the damper unit brings with it a number of advantages.”

Fortune Auto 510 240SX Coilovers

• Manufacturer: Fortune Auto
• Levels of damping adjustment: 24
• Construction type: Monotube
• Spring rate front: Range of options available
• Spring rate rear: Range of options available
• Fitment: Nissan 240SX (S13, S14)
• Value for money:

Purchase links: Fortune Auto 510 1989-1994 (S13) 240SX coilovers |
Fortune Auto 510 1995-1998 (S14) 240SX coilovers

Our comment: Fortune Auto return to our guide with another fantastic product, this time their equally colorful mid-range offering. As tempting as the Dreadnought’s are, we understand that they’re going to be out of most owners price ranges.

The 510 offers rivaled quality and advanced features of the higher-end setup at a fraction of the price. If your heart is set on Fortune Auto coilovers and the price is still too high, make sure you take a look at their S13 500 series and S14 500 series coilovers, which fall into the low-end price bracket but still maintain exceptional quality.

Manufacturer description: “Fortune Auto is proud to release the all new Generation 5 510 series dampers. The advanced suspension technology found in our new shock absorbers is derived from recent successes in World Challenge, One Lap of America, and Global Time Attack.”

“All systems are completely built in-house by our engineering staff in Richmond, Virginia. We insist on building bespoke suspension in order to offer some of the best quality control in the industry.”

ISR Performance Pro 240SX Coilovers

• Manufacturer: ISR
• Levels of damping adjustment: 32
• Construction type: Monotube
• Spring rate front: 8kg/mm
• Spring rate rear: 6kg/mm
• Fitment: Nissan 240SX (S13, S14)
• Value for money:

Purchase links: ISR Performance Pro 1989-1994 (S13) 240SX coilovers |
ISR Performance Pro 1995-1998 (S14) 240SX coilovers

Our comment: Formerly (rather awkwardly) known as ISIS, these coilovers have been a popular budget choice by owners under both brand names.

With coilovers, it’s often a case of ‘you get what you pay for’, however, for those of you that are looking for a cheap kit which will give you a good setup for the street, you’re going to struggle to find better than these for the money.

Manufacturer description: “After years of success with Basic Coilovers, ISR Performance has released a high-end line of coilovers that offer better dampening control and overall driving performance than many of their predecessors.”

“ISR coilovers are designed to deliver ultimate performance for both track racing and everyday driving, making them some of the most flexible coilovers around.”

KSport Kontrol Pro 240SX Coilovers

• Manufacturer: KSport
• Levels of damping adjustment: 36
• Construction type: Monotube
• Spring rate front: 8.7kg/mm
• Spring rate rear: 6.2kg/mm
• Fitment: Nissan 240SX (S13, S14)
• Value for money:

Purchase links: KSport Kontrol Pro 1989-1994 (S13) 240SX coilovers |
KSport Kontrol Pro 1995-1998 (S14) 240SX coilovers

Our comment: K-Sport has been in the coilover game for a long time now and have built up a decent reputation amongst owners. They are known for being on the firmer side even when fully adjusted, so if you’re looking for a soft setup, these might not be for you.

We’re not entirely sure why the price of the S13 variant is so much higher than the S14, which are $900.00. For $900.00 these are undoubtedly going to be a great consideration for the budget buyers, but we feel there’s better options out there at $1,305.00.

Manufacturer description: “Ksport Kontrol Pro Fully Adjustable Coilover Kits provide the ultimate in suspension technology for your vehicle, both on the street or at the track. 36 levels of damping adjustment allow fine tuning of the damper to suit both handling and comfort needs. The damping adjustment alters compression and rebound simultaneously, for more effective and user-friendly setup changes.”

“The Ksport Kontrol Pro Coilover system has been designed with professional road racing in mind, offering extremely high value and performance for any application.”

APEXi N1 Evolution 240SX Coilovers

• Manufacturer: APEXi
• Levels of damping adjustment: 25
• Construction type: Monotube
• Spring rate front: 9kg/mm
• Spring rate rear: 8kg/mm
• Fitment: Nissan 240SX (S13, S14)
• Value for money:

Purchase links: APEXi N1 Evolution 1989-1994 (S13) 240SX coilovers |
APEXi N1 Evolution 1995-1998 (S14) 240SX coilovers

Our comment: Stepping into the higher end of the suspension market, APEXi bring you their upper-range N1 Evolution drift-orientated coilovers. Despite the serious price tag, these are undoubtedly a fantastic choice for those who are looking for a great coilover system which is more track-orientated than street.

Unfortunately, they have priced themselves above the KW V3’s, which we feel are the strongest contender in the mid-range price bracket. Although they’re undoubtedly a great setup, we’d definitely be putting our money into the V3’s.

Manufacturer description: “The N1 Evolution is the newest generation of our track engineered flag ship N1 suspension. All N1 dampers feature large piston, monotube design using a threaded base for height adjustments without compromising shock or spring travel.”

“Every year, we gather incredible amounts of suspension data from our direct involvement in many different racing series. This specialized data goes directly into our sports parts development to provide the customer with the same cutting edge suspension technology we use on all of our race vehicles.”

TEIN Super Drift 240SX Coilovers

• Manufacturer: TEIN
• Levels of damping adjustment: 16
• Construction type: Monotube
• Spring rate front: 10kg/mm
• Spring rate rear: 8kg/mm
• Fitment: Nissan 240SX (S13, S14)
• Value for money:

Purchase links: TEIN Super Drift 1989-1994 (S13) 240SX coilovers |
TEIN Super Drift 1995-1998 (S14) 240SX coilovers

Our comment: JDM suspension experts TEIN acknowledge the demand for S-Chassis drift-specific coilover setups and release this great coilover setup to the market which provides everything you need to throw your car down sideways.

Another great thing about this setup is that is EDFC compatible. If you have a little extra money reserved, the EDFC system allows you to electronically control the damping on each coilover from inside the car without getting out your seat. This is a great idea for those that are frequently driving on the streets and heading to the track.

Manufacturer description: “TEIN’s support of competition D1 drivers and vehicles has led to the development of Super Drift dampers. Which were specifically developed for the avid drifter. Spring rates and damping force characteristics were chosen to increase car control in a drift, and to aid in initiating a slide with minimum driving inputs.”

“Full length and 16 level damping force adjustment allow suspension tuning for drivers at all skill levels. Pillow ball top mount with front camber adjustment plates are included*. EDFC compatible for quick and hassle free dampening force changes. Super Drift is the suspension of choice for all levels of drifters.”

Tein Street Basis Z 240SX Coilovers

• Manufacturer: TEIN
• Levels of damping adjustment: N/A (Fixed)
• Construction type: Twin Tube
• Spring rate front: 6kg/mm
• Spring rate rear: 4kg/mm
• Fitment: Nissan 240SX (S13, S14)
• Value for money:

Purchase links: TEIN Street Basis Z 1989-1994 (S13) 240SX coilovers |
TEIN Street Basis Z 1995-1998 (S14) 240SX coilovers

Our comment: If drifting isn’t your goal, but you’re keen to stay true to the JDM route with your 240SX build, then this bargain offering from JDM legends TEIN could provide the perfect solution for those looking for an excellent setup on a budget.

On initial inspection, you’d be forgiven for thinking that there must be a typo with the price, but we can assure you these are incredible value for money.

Although this is an entry-level kit, which doesn’t allow for adjustable damping, TEIN has used its decades of knowledge at the forefront of the suspension game to provide this out-of-the-box setup.

While you’re able to get a great setup for a bargain, the downside here is that they’re a sealed unit, which means you won’t be able to get them rebuilt further down the line.

However, since they’re a fraction of the price of most alternatives, it means you can treat yourself to a new coilover day once again in a few years if necessary!

Although this kit isn’t likely to be the best choice for the ultimate refinement from your suspension setup, it presents a perfect opportunity for those looking to dramatically improve their handling and adjust their ride height on a budget.

Manufacturer description: “STREET BASIS Z is strictly a ride height adjustable kit. This makes it a perfect setup for the daily driver looking for an increase in handling performance without compromising comfort for everyday use.”

“TEIN coilovers are built from TEIN’s direct knowledge of suspension products due to their extensive racing history. TEIN Street Basis Z Coilovers are TEIN’s entry level coilover that gives you all of the benefits of a high quality dual height adjustable coilover at an entry level price.”

Our winner

Our winner is the epic KW Variant 3 (V3) coilovers.

KW simply cannot be faulted for the price point. With the perfected German build quality combined with 3-way adjustability and rust resistant coating, you really aren’t going to get a better product for your money.

KW Variant 3 (V3) Coilovers

For those with a mid-range budget who are looking for a setup for both the road and track, look no further. KW are unquestionably up there with the very best in the suspension game, and although it may seem expensive, trust us when we say they’re actually incredible value for money.

Runner-up

TEIN has been around in the JDM tuning scene since the beginning of time, yet their products keep evolving to match the high standards we expect from them. For those of you that are planning on skidding your 240, their Super Drift Coilover Kit combined with the EDFC damping is definitely going to be an excellent choice.

TEIN Super Drift Coilover Kit

For those of you on a budget, we’d highly recommend taking a look at the ISR Performance Pro Series coilovers. At under $800, we struggle to believe you will be able to find a better coilover out there for the money.

ISR Performance Pro Series Coilover Kit

Thank you for reading our Nissan 240SX coilover guide!

If you enjoyed this article then please share it with the sharing buttons at the side and the bottom of your screen.

Additional 240SX articles

Unsure if the 240SX S13 is the perfect drift car for your needs? Check out our 7 Reasons The Nissan S13 Is The Best Drift Car article to see if we can persuade you!

Still unsure? Why not take a look at our 11 Best Budget Project Cars to see if any of these tickle your fancy?

If you’ve already got your heart set on a 240, and didn’t need any convincing, you’ll definitely want to check out our 6 Sensational 240sx S13 Drift Builds on Drifted article!

Photography credits

We thank the following entities for use of their photography in this article:

• Z1 Motorsports
• TEIN
• Enjuku Racing

The post Ultimate 240sx Coilover Guide first appeared on Drifted.com.

• BMW E36 M3
• Nissan 350Z
• Nissan Skyline R33 GTS-T
• Mazda MX-5/Miata NB
• Nissan 240sx S14
• BMW E46 M3
• Toyota JZX-90
• Nissan 180sx
• Toyota Corolla AE86
• Mazda RX-7 FD3S
• Mazda RX-8
• Mercedes C230 Kompressor
• Lexus IS200
• Infiniti G35
• Toyota GT86/BRZ/FR-S
• Ford Mustang GT

Introducing: The best beginner drift cars

With so many potential platforms to choose from when picking your first drift car, getting the perfect ride can prove a little challenging.

For just that reason, I have written this guide to provide you with the cars that myself and the Drifted team think are solid choices when it comes to choosing a beginner drift car.

Best drift cars list

New to the world of drifting?

Well then, you need to check out our drifting tips for beginners article. It is also worth having a look at our Drifting 101 guide. If you prefer things a bit more “hands on” then try a bit of sideways action with the Drift Hunters game.

Ready to start on your drifing journey? Let’s see some cars!

BMW M3 E36

The BMW M3 is the mainstay drifting car for many countries around the world, this is especially true in Europe where the number E36 and E46 models on track even outnumber the s-bodies.

With solid German engineering underpinning every aspect of the car, high performing naturally aspirated engines, and great looks it is no big surprise that this is a great drifting platform.

The E36 offered 3.0 litre straight six engines which ran through five-speed manual transmissions and limited slip differentials. In European trim the engine produced 282 bhp as standard.

E36 examples are plentiful and relatively cheap for the performance that they offer. This would be a solid, low cost entry into the drifting world and could also be a great platform for a street sleeper.

With BMW M3 prices continuing to increase in recent years, it may also be worth considering one of the modern-day 3 Series options.

Browse BMW E36 articles

• BMW E36 Coilover Guide

Nissan 350Z

The Nissan 350Z was released in 2003 to rave reviews, this car was the latest in the ‘Z’ car lineage and carried many of the traits that made the cars before it a great success with sports car fans of the period.

The 350Z was built by Nissan in the classic sports car drivetrain configuration of front engine and rear wheel drive. Oh, and did I mention its retro-inspired looks?

As standard, the cars came with a bulletproof 3.5 litre V6 engine producing 287bhp at the flywheel which was put to the tarmac through a six speed manual transmission and a limited slip differential.

These mechanical assets make the Nissan 350Z a perfect beginners drift car; a potent and tough power plant mated with a manual gearbox and a limited slip differential ensure that as you learn the ropes and increase your drifting abilities this car should see you through until you feel ready to substantially increase your car’s power level.

If you end up loving this platform there are forced induction options available for the V6 engine (depending on your budget) so the Nissan 350z could well be your perfect partner.

With the 350Z’s sibling, the 370Z, now becoming increasingly affordable, more drifting beginners than ever opting for the modern-day Z as their weapon of choice.

Wondering if you should take a 350Z or save up for a 370z? Try our 350z vs 370z guide to see which Z car is the right fit for you.

Browse Nissan 350Z articles

• 350Z Buyer’s Guide
• Ultimate 350Z Mods Guide
• 350Z Turbo kit guide
• 350Z Exhaust Guide
• 350Z Coilover Guide
• 350Z Front Bumper Guide
• 350Z LS Swap Guide
• 350Z Seat Buying Guide
• 350Z Front Lip Guide
• 350Z Rear Diffuser Guide
• 350Z Wing Guide
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• VQ35DE – Everything You Need To Know

Nissan Skyline R33 GTS-T

The Nissan Skyline is a high-performance sports coupe with a lineage going as far back and as equally impressive as the Nissan ‘Z’ cars.

The model we have picked for this guide is the R33 GTS-T, this model was built between 1993 and 1998 and offers some great features for the aspiring drifter.

The R33 GTS-T uses a 2.5 litre straight six RB25DET engine mated to an efficient turbo charger. The power is fed through a five speed manual transmission and into a limited slip differential.

This six-cylinder engine produced a healthy 280bhp from the factory and there is proven power potential of up to 400bhp with a few bolt on modifications.

As standard there is plenty of power to hone your skills plus the potential is there if you want to up the power.

There are many Skyline owner’s clubs available to help you out if you want to do your own mechanical work or face problems, which is always a bonus.

There is also very strong aftermarket support for the R33 so you can customise it to your heart’s content. A good solid choice.

If you are interested in importing your own Nissan Skyline into the US, then you best check out this article first: Why are Nissan Skylines illegal in the United States?

Mazda MX-5/Miata NB

There is a popular saying among gearheads that goes “Miata is always the answer!” The same applies here, as we believe anyone who is on the hunt for a great entry-level drift car should definitely have the MX-5 on their radar.

The MX-5 (Europe/EDM), also known as the Miata (US/USDM) and Eunos (Japan/JDM) is a classic Japanese take on the iconic drop-top sports car concept. The original model was unveiled in 1989 and went on to become one of the best-selling sports cars of all time.

The NB designation refers to the second generation of the model of this fun roadster, this version received many improvements over the original including a useful hike in power output.

We recommend the 1.8 litre option as the four-cylinder engine offers 138 bhp on tap, which is plenty for any drifter starting out.

The car offers solid and reliable mechanicals throughout and is naturally aspirated.

This means that improving the power output will be challenging without spending out on forced induction and the supporting modifications needed to run it.

Great aftermarket support and active enthusiast communities mean it should be a good platform to adopt. Prices are very reasonable. Please note: Drifted’s own Dan H’s MX-5 NA pictured, not an NB (sorry but I love Dan’s car!).

Browse Mazda Miata / MX-5 articles

• Ultimate Miata Mods Guide
• Mazda Miata Coilover Guide
• Ultimate Miata Supercharger Guide
• Ultimate Mazda Miata Exhaust Guide
• Ultimate Miata Engine Swap Guide
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• Ultimate Miata Turbo Kit Guide
• Ultimate Miata Battery Guide
• Ultimate Mazda Miata Wheel Guide
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Nissan 240sx S14

If you ask someone to imagine a drift car, we can guarantee that 9 out of 10 people will imagine the Nissan 240sx.

No drift cars list could ever be complete without at least one generation of Nissan’s 240sx being mentioned, this car (after the expensive AE86) is the recognised face of drifting with hundreds of the cars around the globe being used in both grassroots and pro levels.

We have picked the S14 variant as there are plenty still available (the S13 is becoming rarer and more sought after and therefore more valuable), they offer a solid engine package and come with great looks.

The 240sx S14 houses a 2.4 litre naturally aspirated engine that produces 155 bhp, this is fed into a five speed manual transmission and put onto the tarmac through a limited slip differential as standard.

The lightweight chassis means you do not need a lot of power to get the 240sx loose at the rear end and the natural balance will help you learn faster than with many other cars.

The aftermarket support for this platform is huge so you can pick up a standard example, learn the ropes and this car can grow with you by introducing upgraded aftermarket parts – if you want it to.

A great option for the drifting beginner, highly recommended.

Browse Nissan 240sx / 200sx articles

• Ultimate Nissan S14 Coilover Guide
• KA24DE – The Ultimate Motor Guide
• Ultimate KA24DE Turbo Kit Guide

BMW M3 E46

The BMW M3 E46 was the more powerful and better-looking younger brother of the E36. The engine performance was increased to an impressive 338 bhp out of the box with the inclusion of a new inline six-cylinder engine that has proven to be bulletproof to this day.

Everything that applies to the E36 above also applies to this car with the exception that they are on the higher end of the price range.

The E46 is a staple part of the drifting landscape with one powering Michael Essa to a Formula Drift win in recent years. If you can afford to stretch to an E46 M3 you will not be disappointed.

With prices continually increasing on the older-generation M3’s, while modern-day M3 and M4 prices drop, it may well be worth considering the latest platform if the M3 is already an option. Keep in mind that the latest G80 M3 will be the last of its kind to be offered with a manual transmission.

Browse BMW E46 articles

• BMW E46 M3 Exhaust Guide
• BMW E46 M3 Supercharger Guide
• BMW E46 Coilover Guide
• DRIFT CAR: 2JZ E46

Toyota JZX-90

Here’s a car that you might have never heard of. The Toyota Mark II has been active in the drift scene in Japan and Asia since the early nineties however in the West these JDM cars have been a rare sight on the road.

As these cars have gotten older and more affordable they are seeing their way across the ocean and are popping up on our shores in increasing numbers.

In most markets these cars are at a price point lower than the E46 M3 mentioned in this guide and they offer many benefits the beginner drifter would do well to consider.

Packing a potent and highly tuneable straight six 2.5 litre 1JZ-GTE Specs turbo charged engine the JZX-90 is not lacking for power or for tuning potential.

The transmission was a five-speed manual and it featured a limited-slip differential as standard.

This big, luxury four-door sedan offers an easy road into drifting with a well-balanced chassis and fast engine response.

If you can get one in your country, this would be my pick of the bunch for a beginner’s drift car that not only drives well, but also looks and sounds the part.

If you’re a JZX fan, make sure you check out this insane Toyota JZX-100 build from Daigo Saito.

Browse Toyota Chaser articles

• 1JZ Vs 2JZ – Which Is Best?

Nissan 180sx

The JDM Nissan 180sx is one of the icons of the drifting world. Launched back in 1989 with a potent turbocharged CA18DET under the hood, the lightweight and RWD FR platform was a hit with both mountain touge racers and track enthusiasts.

The car was equipped with a limited slip differential and it’s great natural balance made it a little easier to get the hang of the tricky drifting learning curve.

As the years went by Nissan decided to upgrade the CA18DET with their new SR20DET powerplant, this engine produced over 200bhp out the box and was tuneable up to 400bhp with just bolt-ons and tuning.

The 180sx aftermarket is one of the largest available today, with everything from aero parts, engine components and drivetrain upgrades available off the shelf.

Right now in 2023, the 180sx has appreciated in value and is a little out of reach from budget drifters. However, if you can get your hands on one, and if you take care of it, the Nissan 180sx will make both a superb road and drift car.

Browse Nissan 180sx articles

• CA18DET Vs SR20DET- Which One Is Better And Why?
• Ultimate SR20DET Turbo Guide
• Hiro’s 180sx car feature
• The Perfectionist 180sx car feature

Toyota Corolla AE86

Here we are at last, the Hachi Roku (hachi-roku meaning “eight six”), the Drift King’s trusted steed – Toyota’s mighty AE86. I had left this car out of the beginners guide so far due to the rising value of the “twincam” AE86.

These iconic drift cars are now so valuable you’d have to be very financially well-heeled, to buy one, let alone to drift it!

But really, no drift car guide is complete without the AE86 so let’s crack on…

The plucky little Toyota offers a wonderfully balanced front engine, rear-wheel-drive platform. Nestled up front is the naturally aspirated 4A-GE inline four-cylinder DOHC powerplant which develops 128bhp @ 6,600rpm. This power was put through the rear wheels with an optional limited slip differential.

Back in the eighties safety restrictions were nothing like today so manufacturers had a lot of scope to create lightweight cars. Toyota managed to keep the kerb weight to just under a ton. This light weight and solid power are a perfect recipe for a nippy little sports car.

There are plenty of tuning options, engine swaps, aero kits and parts available for the little Corolla, there are even AE86 dedicated part suppliers based in Ireland and Japan.

If you can afford one, you will love the Hachi Roku. Keiichi salutes you!

Browse Toyota Corolla AE86 articles

• Keiihci Tsuchiya’s AE86 car feature
• 7 Epic AE86 Roundup

Mazda RX-7 FD3S

The third generation of Mazda’s RX-7 line, the FD3S, is a great choice for a budding drifter. Stunning looks, great aftermarket support, potent powerplant and a finely tuned chassis make the FD3S a great choice.

The Mazda RX-7 enjoyed a long and successful career, with the model receiving numerous upgrades and improvements as it was revised for each iteration. The initial cars were called Series 6 cars (1992-1995), Series 7 cars (1996-1998) gained more power, improved engineering and revised looks.

The final Series 8 cars (1998-2002) are the most desirable, with a slew of updates covering power, interior and exterior. This culminated in the Spirit R – the ultimate RX-7.

The RX-7 uses the 13B-REW twin-rotor engine, running twin sequential turbochargers. The nature of the rotary engines means RX-7 drivers enjoy a huge powerband, the car pulling hard all the way to the redline. The downsides of this powerplant are fuel economy, heat generation and potentially “apex seal” failure.

Most RX-7’s on the market today will have already had an engine rebuild, however, I would still budget in a rebuild if you are planning on beating on the car (let’s be honest, of course you will!).

The FD3S has some excellent aftermarket support, many specialists worldwide support the platform, especially in Japan which has several dedicated RX-7 tuning houses.

The large displacement offered by the rotary engine means it will spool up turbochargers very effectively, so single turbo conversions are very common within the RX-7 community. This means the drivetrain has potential for big power.

If you can find a good one, that has been looked after and has had the right parts upgraded, it will make a fine drift car.

I ran an FD3S for a year, it was tuned with a single turbo to 350bhp and was great fun, spinning up second and third gears in the dry. The fun lasted until I needed to gas the tank up – I calculated it achieved less then 10mpg! Ouch.

Mazda RX-8

Let us take a small detour from traditional piston engines to one shaped like a Dorito. With RX-7 prices continuing to soar, yet RX-8’s popping up on the market cheaper than ever, this younger brother of the FD could be the perfect answer for those looking to get into drifting.

The RX-8’s four-seat cockpit is bedazzled with rear-opening suicide doors, making it more practical than the FD RX-7 too!

Weighing in at just 1,309kg, the RX-8 makes the perfect candidate for an engine swap further down the line if you’re like us and terrified of rotary maintenance!

If you’re brave and you’ve got deep pockets, you could even consider taking it back to its original 13B heritage.

With its sleek shape, rear suicide doors, incredible handling, and insanely cheap price tag, the Mazda RX-8 is a fantastic car that can present a real bargain.

Browse Mazda RX-8 articles

• RX-8 Turbo Kit Guide
• RX-8 Coilover Guide
• RX-8 Exhaust Guide

Mercedes C230 Kompressor (W202)

Mercedes is probably one of the last car manufacturers that you would think of when it comes to finding an ideal drift car for beginners, but let us surprise you with this entry to our list.

The W202 C Class 230 Kompressor, which in short is a supercharged 2.3 litre, 4 cylinder engine is the perfect drift car for a beginners to start with and is comes recommended by Dan from YourCar.co.uk, who is currently building one.

From the factory, it has 190 BHP and 280 LB/FT of torque from the bulletproof M111 engine that can take abuse all day long.

They were produced from 1993 to 2000 and with the predecessor being the mighty 190E. In around 2012, they could have been picked up for around £500 but have creeped up to around the £1,000 mark these days.

Manual C230 Kompressors are becoming harder to find but there are still many around and loads of spares parts available.

An alternative to the C230 could be the 2.5 turbo diesels but modified by fitting a larger turbo but this will become an expensive drift car to begin with.

Lexus IS200 / Altezza (XE10)

The Lexus IS200 (or Altezza in Japan) was one of Lexus’s most sporty cars when it was released back in 1998.

Nobuaki Katayama (lead engineer on the AE86 project) was responsible for the technical development of this car.

Nobuaki-san’s efforts paid off as the car won Japan’s prestigious “Car of the Year” honour when it was released and continued to retain the title until 1999. The car was praised for its stylish looks, luxurious cabin, high revving engine and solid handling dynamics provided by the classic FR layout.

Now, in 2020, this compact and sporty sedan is a very tempting proposition for a beginner’s drift car.

These cars are widely available in most Western markets, normally well under the USD 1k range. They come with the reliable 1G-FE BEAMS engine, a front-engine and rear-wheel-drive platform plus a limited-slip differential as standard.

Although the power output of 158 bhp and 147 lb-ft of torque isn’t going to set anybody’s hair on fire, it is plenty to allow you to break traction and learn how to get to grips with the car.

The US market was also blessed with the IS200’s bigger brother, the IS300 which came equipped with a 2JZ variant, but, as these cars are more desirable, they will command considerably more cash.

While tuning potential is limited by the naturally aspirated engine, some owner’s that wanted to keep hold of this platform have been known to add mild superchargers onto the engine, this typically brings power up to the 250-300 bhp mark.

Overall this is a great drift car for a beginner and certainly worth keeping an eye out in the local classifieds for.

However, if you can get your hands on an IS300, it’s likely to be the better choice if you’re looking to keep the car long-term, with plenty of upgrades available for the naturally-aspirated 2JZ.

Check out my favorite IS300 turbo kits, coilover kits, exhaust upgrades, and body kit options to see the potential that it has in store.

Infiniti G35 Coupe

The Infiniti G35 is the second car on our list to utilize Nissan’s potent VQ35DE engine. The G35 is an upmarket version of the 350Z platform aimed at a more “premium” target audience. Classy looks, a high-quality interior, and better components separated the G35 from it’s cheaper cousin.

The classic drift car recipe is fully represented in the G35; a powerful and high revving V6 engine, manual transmission, front engine and rear-wheel-drive layout, and a limited-slip differential (on manual models).

While the car tipped the scales a little more than the 350Z, stripping the interior of all those lovely materials makes a big difference and helps to boost performance for no cost.

And when we talk about boosting performance, the G35’s VQ35DE really is ripe for the tuning.

From off the shelf supercharger and turbocharger kits to a plethora of NA upgrades, the G35 is a platform that can grow with you as you get to grips with the art of drifting and you want more from your car.

The fact that these cars are quite plentiful in supply and are becoming very affordable is just another reason this may be the perfect beginners’ drift car.

I strongly encourage you to consider an Infiniti G35 for your first drift car.

With Infiniti G37 prices continuing to fall in recent years, it could now present the perfect opportunity to get your hands on the G35’s younger, more powerful sibling.

We’ve weighed up the positives and negatives of both platforms in our G35 vs G37 guide to help make the decision easier.

If you think the G37 may be the ideal choice, make sure you head over to our G37 mods guide to learn how you can unleash its true potential.

Browse Infiniti G35 articles

• Infiniti G35 Guide – Everything You Need To Know
• Infiniti G35 Tuning Guides
• Infiniti G35 Turbo Kit Guide
• Infiniti G35 Vs Nissan 350z – What’s Best?

Toyota GT86/Subaru BRZ/Scion FR-S

After already securing its spot as one of the best drift chassis’ ever built, the Toyobaru is finally starting to fall in price and become more affordable to beginners that are willing to spend a few extra bucks.

With stunning, modern looks, and plenty of gadgets to match, the GT86 is the perfect drift car for those looking for something more recent to enjoy.

Since Toyota recently announced the 2022 GR 86, GT86/BRZ/FR-S prices will likely continue coming down, which is excellent news for drifting fans!

With the GT86 already capturing numerous podiums in drifting competitions across the globe, there’s no question that this epic platform has insane potential.

Admittedly, it doesn’t come with a massive amount of power from the factory, but luckily for our readers, we’ve written several GT86 Tuning Guides to show you how to unleash its potential.

The GT86/BRZ/FR-S are fantastic, stylish, modern-day drift cars with an ever-dropping price tag, and we’re already eyeing them up as future candidates for our personal goals.

The reign of the GT86/BRZ/FR-S came to an end in 2021, with a brand new, slide happy successor taking its place. We’ll talk more about the car that replaced the GT86 later on in this article.

Browse Toyota GT86 articles

• GT86 Exhaust Guide
• GT86 Turbo Kit Guide
• GT86 Supercharger Guide
• GT86 Coilover Guide

Ford Mustang GT

Thanks in part to its appearance in great car movies like Bullitt and Gone In 60 Seconds, the Ford Mustang has cemented its legacy as one of the most popular vehicles on the planet.

The history of the Ford Mustang goes back to the 1960s, and it continues to thrive in the drift scene to the present day.

While the most affordable Mustang on the used car market is the Fox Body, the newer GT model can also be picked up at an affordable price for many.

That’s not all; the Mustang’s fifth-generation model, which earned an unfortunate reputation for its crowd-hunting antics, also provides a roaring V8 soundtrack at a reasonable price point, with legendary aesthetics to match.

Brazilian champion Diego Higa went on to prove what this chassis was truly capable of by taking the win in the Hyperdrive series.

Sara Haro also managed to impress on the world stage with her near-stock V6 model.

As Chelsea DeNofa and Vaughn Gittin Jr continue to prove what the wheelie-poppin’ RTR chassis has to offer in the present day in Formula Drift, there’s no doubt of the Mustang’s potential capabilities.

These are all great drift cars, but where is the 240sx S13?

So the 240sx S13, arguably the “go-to” car for many drifters.. While it has been omitted from this list, Nissan’s 240sx S13 does indeed make a great beginner’s drift car. But, as we had already included the talented 180SX it seemed a little too much of the same to include it’s stateside brother. For detailed information on the S13 check out our Nissan S13 article.

An off the wall alternative to the drift cars we have mentioned already could be this truck. The truck is a mid 90’s Nissan that shares a similar floor-plan to the 240sx and also shares the KA engine and running gear. Truck drifting yeah!

Drift car frequently asked questions (FAQ)

I originally penned this article back in 2016, and I have been updating it every year since. Since it has been live for a number of years, I have received many questions about the article, and drift cars specifically. Here is a quick Q&A summary of those questions:

What are good drift cars?

A selection of good drift cars in 2023 are: Nissan 350Z, Lexus IS300, Mazda Miata, Toyota JZX-90, BMW E46 M3, Ford Mustang GT, Scion FR-S/BRZ/GT86 and Nissan 240SX.

What are the best cheap drift cars?

The best cheap drift cars in 2023 are: Mazda Miata, Lexus IS200, Infiniti G35, BMW E36, and the Mazda RX-8. If you want to go deeper on the budget side of drift cars, we have created a comprehensive guide for cheap drift cars.

What are the best drift cars?

If budget is no issue, the best drift cars are: Toyota AE86, Mazda RX-7, Toyota JZX-100, Nissan 180SX, Nissan Silvia (S15), Nissan 370Z and the Nissan Skyline GTS-T (R33/R34).

What cars can drift?

Any front engine, rear wheel drive car can drift. The best drift cars have certain characteristics out of the box to make it easier, these include excellent weight distribution, high engine power with additional tuning potential, and a limited slip differential.

Have you considered an RC drift car?

If you are not yet old enough to get behind the wheel of that first drift car, or perhaps your living accomodation won’t support another “toy” car, then why not start your drifting journey with an RC drift car? RC drift cars offer a lot of the same thrills with a lot less of the spills. If you are looking for a drift car themed present, then a Micro RC car from our Micro RC cars guide should be right up your street.

Thank you for reading my article article. If you enjoyed it, please share it using the social buttons.

If you’re leaning more into Trucks, we have the perfect JDM Trucks list for you.

If you’re looking into JDM AWD Cars, you can check the top models in the market on our list here.

The post 17 Best Drift Cars For Beginners first appeared on Drifted.com.

• Air Intake
• Mass Air Flow Sensor
• Intercooler
• Fuel Injectors
• Fuel Pump
• Exhaust System
• Turbocharger
• Boost Controller
• ECU & Tuning

In a hurry? Watch our SR20DET tuning guide summary

Introduction to SR20DET tuning

Welcome to our SR20 tuning guide, this guide contains nine tuning tips that when implemented correctly should have your SR20DET running at peak performance.

WARNING: Before we dive into this tuning guide you need to consider that running your SR20DET at higher than factory power levels will put additional strain on all parts of the drivetrain. Depending on how far you push your engine you may need to upgrade to a stronger clutch and quite possibly a stronger gearbox.

The Silvia S15 six speed manual transmission is rumoured to hold up to around 350ps but pushing higher figures than that is not advised. As an alternative the Nissan 350z gearbox is a good candidate for a swap being robustly engineered and also a six speed.

You will also need to look into cooling, an upgraded radiator and higher pressure radiator cap will help to keep engine temperatures down. Although it looks ugly and takes up space in the ‘bay, within the SR20DET community it is widely recommended to retain the standard viscous fan and fan cowling.

Please also bear in mind that I am an enthusiast, not a professional. I am giving this advice in good faith, if you have any doubts what so ever please contact your local trusted tuner or garage and discuss your plans with them.

Now on with the tuning tips!

About the SR20DET

This Japanese built turbo charged four cylinder engine has powered over two decades of reliable drift cars. It is relatively cheap to purchase, reliable up to circa 400ps on stock internals and it is extremely tuneable.

What is the history of this engine? What versions of the SR20 exist? What cars did they come in?

The first SR20DET that rolled out of the Nissan Motor Company’s factory in 1989 could be found transversely mounted in the Nissan Bluebird 2000SSS.

A couple of years later in 1991 Nissan decided to redesign the mounting of the engine and flipped it longitudinally for it’s upcoming rear wheel drive coupé platforms. The first car to use this new configuration was the Nissan 180sx (S13).

All through the nineties Nissan tweaked their four cylinder SR20, along the way releasing a naturally aspirated SR20DE that found it’s way into most of the rare Nissan Silvia convertible range.

In the mid-nineties the Nissan Silvia / 200sx (S14) received the new “bentcam” SR20DET, this offered Variable Valve and Timing, bigger injectors and a larger T28 turbo charger.

The final incarnation of the SR20DET was built for the Nissan Silvia Spec R (S15). This version featured all of the improvements Nissan had engineered over the past nine years and in addition squeezed out an extra 50ps.

SR20DET engine specifications

Here are the specifications from the final ‘bentcam’ SR20DET that was housed in the S15:

• Manufacturer: Nissan
• Version: Nissan Silvia Spec R S15 (1999-2002)
• Displacement: 1998cc (rounded to 2.0 liters)
• Configuration: DOHC (Dual Over Head Cams), 16 Valves, Chain driven cam sprockets
• Power: 250ps @ 6,400 rpm
• Torque: 220 lb ft
• Turbo: T-28 Ball Bearing T2 Flange
• Stock boost: 7 psi
• Cars that housed the SR20DET: Nissan Bluebird, Nissan Pulsar, Nissan Sunny, Nissan 180sx, Nissan Silvia, Nissan Avenir, Nissan Liberty, Nissan R’nessa, Nissan 200sx

You can read more SR20 specs right here.

Now we have discussed the history of the SR20 and the cars that it came in let’s dive into the tuning.

Tuning philosophy

Basic engine tuning philosophy is pretty simple; Think of the engine as a giant air pump. Air comes in through the air intake, it is compressed on it’s journey by the turbocharger, it combusts in the engine and the waste is shot out of the exhaust.

Our approach to obtaining more power is to increase the amount of air coming into the engine, increase the air density by upgrading the turbocharger and to decrease the air flow restrictions of the exhaust system to allow waste to get out as quickly as possible.

These nine tuning tips aim to achieve this without needing to open the engine itself, while also keeping your SR20 running safely. In the tuning community you would refer to this approach as “bolt-ons” because you are not opening the engine.

Tuning tip #1: Upgrade Your Air Intake

The first SR20det tuning tip is to upgrade the engine’s air intake. Factory air intake systems are designed with dual purpose; to filter dirty air and to restrict intake noise.

An aftermarket performance air intake system is going to be focused purely on getting as much clean air into the engine as possible at the sacrifice of increased levels of intake noise. There are many aftermarket air intake systems available for the SR20DET and many of those have lofty power claims.

I would take those claims with a pinch of salt.

The MKIV Supra forum published an interesting article testing four different premium air intake kits on the same 2JZGTE, although it is not an SR20DET and the figures won’t exactly add up you get a good feel for which filters perform the best.

If it was my money I would pick the APEXi Power Intake.

I have used this air intake on my own cars in the past and I have always been happy with it. Unlike the foam filters this is also washable.

Tuning tip #2: Upgrade Your Mass Air Flow Sensor

As the name suggests the Mass Air Flow Sensor is a simple device that measures the volume of air coming into the air intake, this information is relayed to the car’s ECU so that the correct air / fuel mixture is set.

The original SR20DET was built to produce 200bhp at the flywheel, the engine used a Mass Air Flow Sensor with generous headroom all the way up to 300ps however to go over this we are going to need to look at the SR20det’s older brother for parts..

A Nissan 300zx Z32 model Mass Air Flow Sensor should be perfect to support our targeted power level and a brand new ISR Performance Z32 MAF can be found here.

Recently, tuners are steering away from the outdated Z32 MAF in favor of the modern-day equivalent found in the R35 GTR.

Although this may sound like overkill for SR20DET’s, it’s very similar to the outdated 20-year-old Z32 AFM, with a touch of updated technology.

With improved precision, the R35 GTR mass air flow meter allows for a far stable tune, eliminating the “MAF stalling” issues that many experienced with the Z32.

If you’re planning on going down the MAF route, we highly recommend opting for the R35 option over the Z32.

Another option is to ditch the Mass Air Flow Sensor entirely and go with a MAP sensor setup, this will do away with the ugly looking MAFS but I don’t really see the need unless you are going for seriously high power figures.

Tuning tip #3: Install A Front Mount Intercooler (FMIC)

The third SR20DET tuning tip I have for you is to ditch the stock (wing mounted) intercooler and replace it with a large front mounted intercooler.

An intercooler is designed cool the air charge – the cooler the air charge, the denser the air, the denser the air the more efficient the combustion cycle. By replacing the standard intercooler with a larger unit and placing that behind the front bumper (rather than in the wing like in most s-chassis) means more airflow to the intercooler and that means better cooling.

Which unit you choose depends on your budget but in my own 180sx SR20DET build I used a huge front mounted intercooler (S14, S15) – (S13). There are also plenty of cheaper alternatives on the market.

Tuning tip #4: Upgrade Your Fuel Injectors

The fourth tip to building your SR20DET into a true bad ass is to replace your standard fuel injectors with larger ones. Each different generation SR20DET’s came with different sized fuel injectors but if you want to turn up the wick on the power then you will want to increase the displacement of your fuel injectors.

Standard fuel injectors will work fine with the turbo boost setting at a stock or at slightly increased level however to really hike up your engine power you are definitely going to need to increase the size.

A set of four 550cc fuel injectors should do the trick. You can go even bigger in size for safety and future power headroom and just instruct your tuner to turn down the fuel duty cycle for now.

The FiveO 550cc fuel injector set should do the job. I haven’t personally used FiveO before but they seem to get good reviews.

Tuning tip #5: Upgrade Your Fuel Pump

Your car’s standard fuel pump has been around for at least 14 years (in the case of a late model Silvia S15) so it is probably due a replacement anyway, an engine leaning out from fuel starvation is going to go bang pretty quickly and we don’t want that.

When aiming for over 300ps you will definitely want to upgrade the standard fuel pump to a larger, higher capacity unit.

A pump that is flowing more fuel is going to provide a lovely, high pressure fuel stream to feed your larger fuel injectors. These two supporting modifications are going to allow you to safely increase the turbo boost pressure.

A good aftermarket fuel pump is a Walbro High Pressure 255 ltr/hr in tank fuel pump.

Tuning tip #6: Upgrade Your Exhaust System

Like the factory air intake your standard exhaust system is designed as a compromise between providing performance and keeping down the sound level.

An aftermarket performance exhaust system will offer increased pipework size and crucially less bends and obstructions to ensure that the exiting engine waste can leave the exhaust as quickly as possible.

As for which system to get you have a huge selection of exhaust systems on the market to choose from. For my choice at a reasonable price level I would pick the APEXi N1, this system has been around for a long time and is a proven performer for a reasonable price.

Our sister site the 180sx Club has written a detailed exhaust guide listing many of the currently available exhaust systems for the Nissan S13, S14 and S15. The guide also includes pictures and videos of each exhaust system so you can get a real feel for the exact look and sound that you want.

We highly recommend upgrading the SR20DET’s restrictive manifold (header) alongside an aftermarket exhaust to maximize the airflow.

While the Tomei Expreme Manifold is a popular choice for those looking for a simple setup, there are plenty of other alternatives.

Those looking for a cheaper option will want to check out the ISR Performance V2 Tubular Exhaust Manifold.

ISR Performance also offers premium RamHorn Top Mount, and Tubular Bottom Mount manifold alternatives if your plans are a bit different.

Tuning tip #7: Upgrade Your Turbocharger

The turbo charger one of the most complex and the most expensive upgrades on our SR20DET tuning list. There are so many options, trim levels and intake sizes, exhaust sizes etc I cannot confidently cover them all.

So instead let’s try to keep it as simple as possible; if our goal is to increase the engine output to 350ps – 400ps at the flywheel I would stick with a T2 flange. This means that we can reuse the standard (cast iron) exhaust manifold and fittings and just swap out the turbo charger unit itself.

To produce higher power outputs without an excessive amount of turbo-lag I would suggest a Garrett GT2871R turbo charger.

Garrett are one of the most well respected turbo manufacturers and the GT2871R is an ideal pairing with a properly supported SR20DET. This turbo is both oil and water cooled and has a great reputation.

Alternatively, if you’re after a newer update to the ever-popular GT2871R, then Garrett’s latest offering, the G25-550 turbo, is seen by many as the ultimate choice.

If you’re unsure which is best for you, check out this video from Adam LZ, where he fits the G25-550 turbo to his SR-powered S13 before heading to the dyno:

Garrett parts are readily available if you ever need to service the unit.

If you’re looking for a complete turbo kit for the SR20DET, we highly recommend checking out these offerings from ISR Performance.

ISR Performance Garrett GT2871R Turbo Kit Package

• Garrett GT2871R-RS turbo
• ISR Performance Bottom Mount Turbo Manifold
• ISR Performance Turbo Lines for S13 or S14
• Clocking adapter and Wastegate Rod Extension (S13 Only)
• GT fitting and drain kit (S13 Only)
• Oil Restrictor for Garrett Ball Bearing Turbos (S13 and S14)
• ISR SR20DET 7 Layer Exhaust Manifold Gasket
• ISR 4 Bolt Turbine Inlet Gasket

ISR Performance RS3871 Turbo Upgrade Package

• ISR Performance RS3871 Turbo drive (rated to ~380hp)
• ISR Performance V2 Bottom Mount Turbo Manifold
• ISR Performance Turbine O2 Housing
• ISR Performance Turbo lines
• ISR Performance Intake Kit
• All gaskets, couplers, clamps, and hardware (Does not include new exhaust manifold studs to the head)

Tuning tip #8: Install A Boost Controller

Now that all the supporting modifications in place on the intake side, the fueling side, the turbo charger and the exhaust side we can look at increasing the boost level.

In order to do this an electronic boost controller is the next item on our shopping list. By replacing the standard restrictive boost controller with an aftermarket item we can control the turbo charger boost pressure level from inside the cabin.

An attractive control unit will be fitted inside the cabin, normally around the dashboard area and this can be used to set the boost level.

Alongside setting the boost pressure level most modern boost controllers feature a ‘Scramble boost‘ setting, this setting is designed to spike the boost for a short amount of time, useful for performing an overtake.

GReddy is a highly regarded Japanese tuning brand and their Profec OLED boost controller is a lovely little toy. It is a modern, sophisticated and compact machine that is packed with features. This will make a great addition to any dashboard.

Cheaper boost controller alternatives are available, a simple manual boost controller will get the job done.

Tuning tip #9: Upgrade Your Engine management & Tuning

Everything is now in place to seriously hike up your SR20DET’s power output, all that is left is upgrading your car’s ECU and getting it professionally tuned. Standard ECU’s are tough to work with and most older cars require soldering on a chip that contains the custom tuning ‘maps’ which are needed to run your new performance components at their optimum level.

A standalone replacement Engine Management System such as an APEXi Power FC is a plug and play unit that neatly swaps with the standard ECU.

This ECU can also use a ‘Commander’ which is a cool little gizmo that you can mount on your dashboard to monitor vital engine statistics, temps, revs etc and also if needed you can create tunes on the fly.

Although the APEXi Power FC has continued to be a popular choice over the years, many see it as outdated technology compared to some of the other options on the market today.

One of the most impressive choices for SR20DET ECU’s in the present day comes from Link Engine Management.

Link makes off-the-shelf ECU’s for S13/S14 and S15 Silvia’s.

Now that the ECU is in place it is time to find a local tuner. Tuners can be hit and miss so it is really worth doing your research and asking around your local tuning community or owners clubs to find people willing to recommend a tuner. You will also want to make sure that your tuner is familiar with the SR20DET.

All of these fantastic aftermarkets parts will come to nothing if the tuner you select does not know how to safely tune a car. I am based in the United Kingdom and I have always used the London firm FC Tuning for all of my ECU tunes.

Drifted is not sponsored by FC Tuning, they are simply my personal preference. Steve has tuned my 180sx and JZX90 in the past so I trust him with my engines.

Conclusion

With all nine steps of our SR20 tuning guide followed and a healthy base engine you should be looking at the thick end of 300ps at the flywheel. Furthermore your engine should also be putting out some ferocious torque and you will really feel that.

Professional race shops and tuners have built SR20DET engines to hit far bigger numbers than these but to do that safely you will need to start upgrading your internal engine components such as pistons, rings, con-rods etc.

If you want to change the driving characteristics you can also look at stroker kits to increase your engine displacement. There are plenty of stroker kits on the market, the TOMEI 2.2 kit gets a good reputation and is often used on JDM tuner builds. TODA produce very popular 2.2 liter stroker kits.

Crate SR20DET engines

If you want to extract some next level power and reliability (and if you have deep pockets) a crate engine from TOMEI might be a good choice. The TOMEI GENESIS has a mouth watering specification and a great reputation, but TOMEI has unfortunately discontinued production.

There are many other tuning parts which can help you get to the 400ps figure that I haven’t mentioned including aftermarket camshafts, intake and exhaust manifold upgrades, cylinder head work but for this tuning guide I am keeping it as simple as possible.

You could also go down the route of Nitrous Oxide..

Wondering what a tuned SR20DET is capable of? Check out this 1971 Datsun Ute with a 1000 horsepower SR20 stuck under the hood.

Or what about this equally impressive SR20DET powered “Cage-Car”

For more tuning guides just like this for other popular drift cars, check out our tuning guides section.

Now that you are an SR20DET tuning genius why not check out how this engine fared against the mighty RB20DET? Maybe Nissan engines aren’t for you? Why not check out Mitsubishi’s 4G63T? Some say it’s the best 4-cylinder ever!

If you are passionate about SR20’s then take a look at Speedhunter’s SR20 archives to discover more great content.

Want an instant hit of drifting action? Try our free to play drifting games.

The post 9 Step SR20 Tuning Guide For Peak Performance first appeared on Drifted.com.