When building an E36 BMW for drifting, one of the most critical components to get right is the coilovers. Proper suspension ensures your car handles predictably during high-angle slides, weight transfers smoothly through transitions, and the chassis responds as you need it to in tight or wide corners. But with so many coilover options on the market, which ones are best for drifting? Let’s take a closer look at the top choices, with a clear winner for those focused on drift-specific performance.
1. SLR Drift Spec Coilovers: Built Specifically for Drifting
When it comes to purpose-built coilovers for drifting, SLR Drift Spec Coilovers stand alone. Developed by the same minds that engineered SLR’s industry-leading 74° steering angle kits, these coilovers are designed with every aspect of drifting in mind.
- Drift-Specific Dampening: With 33-way adjustable dampening, SLR’s coilovers allow for precision tuning of rebound and compression to handle the unique demands of drifting.
- Progressive Bump Stops: Unlike standard solid bump stops, SLR’s progressive stops ensure smooth energy absorption, reducing harsh impacts during transitions.
- Nitrogen-Filled Shocks: These provide consistent performance even under the stress of long drift sessions, maintaining predictable handling throughout.
- Race-Proven Design: SLR’s expertise in suspension engineering shines through, with coilovers that are perfectly matched to their steering kits for optimal synergy.
These coilovers aren’t just for show—they’re built to dominate the track. Their ability to handle aggressive weight transfer while maintaining control at extreme angles makes them the ultimate choice for E36 drift builds.
2. BC Racing Coilovers: A Solid All-Rounder
BC Racing Coilovers are among the most popular suspension options for E36 owners, and for good reason. They offer excellent adjustability and solid performance at a reasonable price point. While not specifically designed for drifting, they can be dialed in to suit the needs of grassroots drifters and daily drivers alike.
- Adjustable Dampening: BC’s coilovers feature 30 levels of dampening adjustment, giving you flexibility for various driving conditions.
- Reliable Construction: High-quality materials and solid engineering make these a dependable choice for those looking for versatility.
- Wide Availability: BC Racing coilovers are widely available and supported, making replacement parts and upgrades easy to source.
For drifters on a budget or those who want a dual-purpose street and drift setup, BC Racing offers a well-rounded solution. While they may not offer the drift-specific features of SLR coilovers, they are still a great option for E36 owners looking to improve their suspension.
Why SLR Outshines the Competition
While both SLR Drift Spec Coilovers and BC Racing Coilovers are excellent choices for the E36, SLR takes the top spot for one simple reason: purpose-built engineering for drifting. SLR’s coilovers aren’t just adapted for drifting—they are designed from the ground up with every feature tailored to handle the unique stresses and demands of sliding sideways.
Here’s why SLR stands above:
- Drift-Centric Design: Every element, from dampening to spring rates, is crafted to optimize drift performance.
- Perfect Synergy: SLR coilovers pair flawlessly with SLR angle kits, offering a fully integrated suspension and steering solution.
- Track-Proven Reliability: Designed and tested by the same team that has supported professional drifters for years, these coilovers deliver consistent results when it matters most.
Honorable Mentions
While SLR and BC Racing take the spotlight, other coilovers like KW and Fortune Auto are also worth considering for their general adjustability and solid reputation. However, they lack the drift-specific features and engineering synergy offered by SLR.
The Verdict
If you’re building your E36 BMW specifically for drifting, SLR Drift Spec Coilovers are the clear winner. They deliver unmatched performance, drift-specific features, and engineering precision that make them a perfect fit for serious drifters. BC Racing Coilovers come in as a strong second, offering versatility and reliability for those who may want a more all-purpose setup.
No matter which you choose, investing in high-quality coilovers is essential to unlocking the full potential of your E36.
