In the world of motorsports, drifting is known for its precision, control, and style. But when it comes to breaking records, it’s about endurance, persistence, and pushing the limits of what’s possible. The Guinness World Record for the longest continuous drift is one of the most impressive feats in this arena, and it was set by none other than BMW driver Johan Schwartz in a BMW M5 on December 11, 2017. Schwartz’s achievement not only shattered the previous record, but also set the stage for a drift that would be remembered for years to come.
The Drift of a Lifetime: 232.5 Miles
Johan Schwartz's drift in a BMW M5 was nothing short of extraordinary. Over the course of 232.5 miles, Schwartz drifted continuously for eight hours, circling a wet skid pad to break the previous record by a staggering 143 miles. The previous record, set at 89.55 miles, seemed impressive enough, but Schwartz and the BMW team were determined to take it to a whole new level.
How Did He Do It? Tandem Refueling and No Breaks
One of the biggest challenges with such an extended drift is that the car needs to keep moving—without stopping for fuel. Schwartz and his team tackled this problem by employing a solution typically reserved for the skies: tandem refueling.
During the record-setting drift, a second BMW M5 driven by Matt Mullins pulled alongside Schwartz’s car to refuel it—while both vehicles were still drifting. This method is similar to how fighter jets refuel mid-flight, ensuring that Schwartz could keep going without losing momentum. BMW even developed a custom dry break fuel system, which allowed for seamless refueling while the car was in motion.
If refueling mid-drift wasn’t impressive enough, consider this: Schwartz didn’t take a single break. That’s right—no food, no toilet stops, nothing. For eight hours, Schwartz focused on maintaining the drift, controlling the M5 with masterful precision.
Another Record: Longest Twin Vehicle Drift
As if breaking one record wasn’t enough, Schwartz and Mullins decided to set another one that day. The pair went on to set the Guinness World Record for the longest twin vehicle drift in one hour, covering a distance of 49.25 miles. This achievement involved both drivers drifting in tandem, showcasing not only their individual skills but also their ability to synchronize with one another at high speeds.
The Technology Behind the Drift
The BMW M5 used for the drift wasn’t just any ordinary car. BMW engineers worked tirelessly to develop and integrate systems that would make this marathon drift possible. One of the key innovations was the dry break fuel system. Traditional fuel systems aren’t designed for mid-drift refueling, but the custom setup allowed fuel to flow without spillage or risk, enabling the car to stay in motion for the entire eight hours.
The M5 itself, known for its balance, power, and rear-wheel-drive layout, is a natural fit for drifting. Its twin-turbo V8 engine and advanced suspension systems made it the ideal machine to tackle such an ambitious challenge, offering both the power and the control necessary to maintain a drift for such an extended period.
Why This Record Matters for Drifting
Setting the record for the longest continuous drift pushes the boundaries of what's possible in the sport of drifting. While most drifts focus on technical precision and style during shorter runs, Schwartz’s record shows just how far modern drifting—and modern performance cars—can go. The combination of human endurance, vehicle capability, and cutting-edge engineering demonstrates the evolution of the sport.
For the drift community, this record is more than just a number. It highlights the growing ambition within the sport to continually push limits and explore new ways to showcase skill and technology. And, with innovations like mid-drift refueling, the door is open for even more extreme records in the future.
Conclusion: A Benchmark for Future Drifters
Johan Schwartz’s 232.5-mile drift is not only a milestone in the world of drifting but a testament to what can be achieved with determination, skill, and innovative technology. From the precision driving to the mid-drift refueling, every element of this record-breaking run was meticulously planned and executed to perfection.
At SLRspeed, we are always inspired by feats like these that show the potential of what’s possible in drifting. Whether you’re a pro looking to break records or an enthusiast chasing the perfect slide, having the right setup is essential. Our drift angle kits, suspension components, and steering upgrades are designed to help you get the most out of your car on the drift track. While you may not be aiming for an eight-hour drift just yet, the right parts can help you reach new levels of control and performance.
Think you’ve got what it takes to push your drifting to the limit? Let us help you get there!
