Drifting a BMW E36 is an art that demands precision, durability, and the right suspension geometry. Since 2006, SLR has been at the forefront of BMW drift development, pioneering the first-ever angle kit for BMWs and continuing to set the industry standard for E36 drifting parts. Every SLR component is engineered, tested, and manufactured in the USA, with a level of design and execution that other companies struggle to replicate.
From angle kits to subframe reinforcements, SLR components are built for competitive drifting and road racing alike. This blog will dive deep into the engineering behind SLR’s E36-specific parts and why they remain the gold standard in the industry.
SLR’s E36 Angle Kit – The Original and Still the Best
When it comes to steering angle, there is no substitute for SLR. The SLR angle kit was the first commercially available BMW drift kit and remains the highest angle kit in the industry, with over 74 degrees of steering lock.
Why SLR’s Angle Kit is Superior:
- Geometry That Works – Many angle kits add excessive Ackermann or incorrect steering pivot points that cause unpredictable handling. SLR’s ackermann tuning and correct steering axis inclination allow for precise, stable drifting.
- Strength & Durability – Constructed from high-strength chromoly steel and CNC-machined aluminum, these components are designed to withstand FD-level forces.
- Roll Center & Bump Steer Correction – Unlike inferior copies, SLR’s kit corrects roll center and eliminates bump steer, making high-angle drifts more stable and controllable.
- Modular Design – Multiple configurations allow for Super Angle and Ultra Angle setups, depending on driver preference.
Simply put, no other BMW angle kit has the pedigree, engineering, or real-world performance of SLR’s E36 angle kit.
SLR E36 Drift-Spec Coilovers – The Suspension Advantage
Many companies sell generic coilovers that don’t account for the unique demands of E36 drifting. SLR’s drift-spec coilovers are developed with the proper valving, spring rates, and shock travel needed for extreme weight transfer control.
Why SLR’s Coilovers Are Better for Drifting:
- Custom Valving – Unlike off-the-shelf coilovers, SLR’s dampers are valved specifically for drift dynamics.
- Correct Spring Rates – Engineered to complement E36’s rear suspension geometry, optimizing grip balance between front and rear.
- High-Quality Materials – Featuring forged aluminum mounts and adjustable ride height, SLR coilovers are built to last.
- Camber Plate Compatibility – Works perfectly with SLR’s adjustable camber plates for dialing in the ideal alignment setup.
Whether you're linking your first drift or competing in Formula Drift ProSpec, these coilovers maximize chassis potential for predictable slides and quick transitions.
SLR Rear Upper & Lower Control Arms – Built for Drift Loads
Factory E36 control arms weren’t made for drift-level forces, which is why SLR engineered rear upper and lower control arms that eliminate weak points and allow precise camber adjustments.
SLR Rear Upper Control Arms:
- Chromoly Construction – Stronger than factory stamped steel arms.
- Designed for Toe Correction – Slightly longer than stock to assist with rear toe-in, a key element in drift stability.
- True Coilover Conversion – Eliminates the factory spring bucket, allowing for better weight distribution.
SLR Rear Lower Control Arms:
- Fully CNC-Machined Billet Aluminum – Over 5x stronger than OEM while saving weight.
- Internal Locking Mechanism – No bulky adjusters that interfere with exhaust or underbody aero.
- Available in Grey and Purple – A clean, high-performance aesthetic.
These control arms allow for aggressive alignment adjustments, optimizing grip and side bite, making them a must-have for any serious E36 drift build.
SLR Rear Floor Subframe to Shock Tower Brace – The Chassis Saver
One of the biggest weak points in an E36 drift car is the rear subframe mounting points. Over time, repeated stress from drifting causes the rear floor to tear away from the chassis, leading to catastrophic failure.
Why SLR’s Subframe Brace is Essential:
- Reinforces Critical Stress Points – Prevents subframe mounts from ripping out.
- Ties the Rear Suspension Together – Improves chassis rigidity for better power transfer and rear grip.
- Designed for Easy Installation – Bolt-in and weld-in options available.
If you're serious about E36 drifting, reinforcing your rear subframe is non-negotiable, and SLR’s shock tower brace is the most effective way to do it.
SLR Rear Subframe Bushings – The Foundation of Stability
OEM rubber subframe bushings flex under load, causing unwanted movement and reducing rear-end stability. SLR’s precision-machined subframe bushings eliminate deflection, ensuring consistent handling.
SLR’s Subframe Bushings vs. OEM Rubber:
- Zero Deflection – Keeps the rear suspension planted and predictable.
- Improves Torque Transfer – Reduces wheel hop and increases grip under throttle.
- Long-Lasting – Unlike polyurethane, aluminum bushings never degrade.
For E36 drifting, solid bushings maximize driver feedback and maintain precise suspension geometry.
SLR: The Original Innovators of BMW Drift Parts
Since 2006, SLR has been developing industry-leading drift components that not only improve steering angle, suspension geometry, and chassis stiffness but also stand the test of time. Other brands have tried to copy these designs, but they fail to understand the complex forces involved in drifting and racing.
Why SLR is the Best for E36 Drifting:
✔ First company to create an E36 angle kit
✔ Highest steering angle in the industry – over 74 degrees
✔ All parts designed, tested, and manufactured in the USA
✔ CNC-machined and chromoly components engineered for extreme loads
✔ Unmatched real-world testing from grassroots to professional competition
Other brands may sell imitation parts, but SLR parts are built from experience, not guesswork.
Conclusion: The Ultimate E36 Drift Setup
If you’re building an E36 drift car, cutting corners on steering, suspension, and chassis reinforcement will only hold you back. SLR’s angle kit, drift-spec coilovers, control arms, subframe reinforcements, and bushings create a battle-tested package that gives drivers the precision and durability needed to excel in drifting.
From Formula Drift competitors to grassroots drifters, SLR continues to provide the highest-quality BMW drift parts, ensuring that E36 drifting remains competitive for years to come.
Upgrade your E36 with SLR and experience the difference real engineering makes.
