One of the most common questions new enthusiasts ask is: can you drift automatic cars? The short answer is yes — you can drift an automatic transmission car. But the long answer involves understanding how automatic gearboxes work, what adjustments you’ll need, and what techniques replace the traditional manual clutch kick. In this in-depth guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about drifting an automatic car, from techniques and setups to pros and cons.
Manual vs Automatic: The Key Difference
Drifting is all about controlling wheel speed, weight transfer, and traction. In manual cars, drivers use the clutch kick, gear changes, and handbrake to initiate and control slides. In automatics, you don’t have a clutch pedal to work with. This means the techniques are different, but the core principle is the same: break traction in the rear, then maintain angle with throttle and steering control.
Techniques for Drifting an Automatic Car
So how do you drift an automatic car without a clutch kick? Here are some of the most common methods:
- Handbrake Pull: Using the e-brake is one of the easiest ways to initiate a drift in an automatic. Hydraulic handbrakes are especially effective for drifting setups.
- Power Oversteer: With enough horsepower, simply flooring the throttle mid-corner can break traction and initiate a slide.
- Weight Transfer / Scandinavian Flick: Quickly steering in the opposite direction before turning in sharply loads the suspension and can cause the rear to step out.
- Brake Drift: Tapping the brakes mid-corner while on throttle shifts weight forward and reduces rear traction.
- Line Lock / Torque Brake: In some setups, drivers use brake and throttle at the same time to spin the rear tires — useful for burnouts and certain drift initiations.
Do Automatic Cars Drift Well?
Yes, but there are tradeoffs. Automatics drift differently than manuals, and whether they’re “better” depends on your goals.
Pros of Drifting Automatics:
- No missed shifts — smooth, consistent gear changes.
- Torque converters can keep power delivery smooth at low speeds.
- Easier for beginners who don’t want to worry about clutch timing.
Cons of Drifting Automatics:
- No clutch kick, which limits some initiation options.
- Less driver control over gear selection unless equipped with manual mode or paddle shifters.
- Heat build-up — automatics can overheat without upgraded transmission coolers.
How to Set Up an Automatic Car for Drifting
If you want to drift an automatic car regularly, a few upgrades will make a big difference:
- Transmission Cooler: Prevents overheating during long drift sessions.
- Shift Kit or Manual Valve Body: Gives more control over gear changes in older autos.
- Hydraulic Handbrake: Essential for consistent initiations in automatic cars.
- Rear Differential Upgrade: A welded diff or 2-way LSD ensures both rear wheels spin together.
- Coilovers and Angle Kit: Suspension tuning and steering angle mods transform drifting control and speed.
Drifting Automatic vs Manual Cars
| Feature | Automatic | Manual |
|---|---|---|
| Initiation | Handbrake, power over, weight transfer | Clutch kick, handbrake, power over |
| Driver Input | Throttle + brake balance | Throttle + clutch + brake balance |
| Learning Curve | Easier to learn basics | More advanced techniques available |
| Consistency | Smoother shifts, fewer mistakes | More driver control but easier to mis-shift |
Best Automatic Cars to Drift
While almost any RWD automatic can drift, some platforms are especially popular:
- Nissan 350Z / 370Z: Strong aftermarket support and reliable power.
- BMW E36 / E46 Automatics: Lightweight, balanced chassis with easy swap options.
- Lexus IS300 / SC300: Toyota inline-six reliability with auto trans options.
- Mustang GT Automatic: Plenty of torque for power oversteer.
- Corvette Auto: High horsepower, excellent for advanced drivers.
Tips for Beginners Drifting Automatics
- Practice with handbrake initiations to learn car control.
- Keep speeds moderate until you can link corners smoothly.
- Don’t overheat your transmission — install a cooler if drifting often.
- Upgrade suspension and differential before adding big power.
- Focus on throttle modulation — smooth input is key.
Conclusion: Yes, You Can Drift Automatic Cars
So, can you drift automatic cars? Absolutely. While the techniques differ from manuals, automatics can be effective drift platforms when set up correctly. With handbrake initiations, proper suspension, and drivetrain upgrades, automatic cars can drift competitively and consistently.
Want to dive deeper? Check out our full guide here: Drifting an Automatic Car – The Ultimate Guide. Whether you’re building your first drift car or upgrading for competition, understanding how to drift automatics opens up new possibilities for your driving.
