Drifting is one of the most exciting motorsports in the world — but it doesn’t have to drain your wallet. Many drivers start their drifting journey in cheap cars that can drift, focusing on reliable platforms with rear-wheel drive and strong aftermarket support. In this guide, we’ll break down the best budget-friendly drift cars, what makes them great, and how to build an entry-level drift setup without overspending. Whether you’re getting into grassroots drifting or just want a project car, there are plenty of affordable options.
What Makes a Good Cheap Drift Car?
Not every car is drift-ready, but the following qualities make a vehicle an excellent choice for beginners:
- Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD): Essential for initiating and maintaining slides.
- Manual Transmission: Gives better control over clutch kicks and gear selection.
- Aftermarket Support: Easy access to suspension, angle kits, coilovers, and LSDs.
- Lightweight & Balanced: Helps maintain control without overwhelming power needs.
- Affordable Parts: Cheap replacement parts keep the budget in check.
Best Cheap Cars That Can Drift
1. Nissan 350Z
The Nissan 350Z is one of the most popular cheap drift cars thanks to its RWD platform, strong VQ35 engine, and wide availability of aftermarket parts. They’re affordable on the used market and already come with solid suspension geometry for drifting.
2. BMW E36 3-Series
The BMW E36 is a legendary drift chassis with a perfect mix of affordability, balance, and aftermarket support. Available in coupe and sedan form, these cars are reliable and capable of serious angle with the right upgrades.
3. BMW E46 3-Series
The BMW E46 is another fantastic budget drift platform. While slightly more expensive than the E36, it offers modern reliability, great suspension design, and huge parts availability, especially coilover kits and angle upgrades.
4. Mazda Miata (NA/NB)
Lightweight, RWD, and cheap — the Miata is a fun, beginner-friendly drift car. While it lacks big horsepower, it teaches drivers control and technique at lower speeds, making it an excellent entry car for grassroots drifting.
5. Nissan 240SX (S13/S14)
The 240SX is an iconic drift chassis, made famous by Formula Drift’s early days. They’re harder to find at low prices now, but if you score one cheap, they make an incredible drift build with endless aftermarket options.
6. Ford Mustang SN95/New Edge
Older Mustangs, like the SN95 and New Edge models, offer cheap V8 power with RWD platforms. With plenty of availability in the U.S., they make excellent budget drift cars once you stiffen up suspension and install an LSD.
7. Lexus IS300
The Lexus IS300 combines Toyota reliability with RWD fun. With its 2JZ-GE engine, it’s capable of plenty of power upgrades and makes for a unique budget drift car that’s still affordable.
How to Build a Budget Drift Car
Once you’ve chosen your platform, you’ll need a few key upgrades to make it drift-ready:
- Coilovers: To lower ride height and stiffen suspension.
- Angle Kit: To increase steering angle for more control.
- Limited Slip Differential (LSD): Essential for putting power down evenly.
- Toe Plates: For easy alignment adjustments at home or the track.
- Bucket Seat & Harness: Keeps you secure and confident in slides.
Estimated Budget for a Cheap Drift Build
| Category | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Car Purchase | $2,000 – $6,000 |
| Basic Upgrades (coilovers, angle kit, LSD) | $2,000 – $4,000 |
| Safety (seat, harness, helmet) | $500 – $1,500 |
| Total Build Cost | $4,500 – $11,500 |
Conclusion
You don’t need a six-figure drift car to have fun. There are plenty of cheap cars that can drift available today, ranging from BMW E36s to Nissan 350Zs and even older Mustangs. With the right upgrades — coilovers, angle kits, and proper alignment — you can build a budget drift car that’s competitive, reliable, and fun to drive. The key is to focus on seat time and learning technique rather than chasing horsepower. With smart choices, drifting can be both affordable and exciting.
