The BMW E36 is a drift legend thanks to its balance, chassis feel, and aftermarket support. But building a true drift-ready E36 takes more than good intentions—you need the right E36 drift parts to unlock its potential.
This guide covers every essential upgrade—from suspension to steering, angle kits to links—so you can build a car that corners hard, drifts smoothly, and withstands competitive abuse.
1. Coilovers & Shock Setup
Coilovers are the foundation for ride height, stiffness, and handling control. For E36 drift builds, go:
- 10–12 K front springs, 5–7 K rear springs
- Adjustable damping for weight transfer control
- Camber plates to dial static camber to -3° to -4°
2. Angle Kit & Steering Upgrades
E36 stock steering is limited (~30° lock). A drift car needs more:
- High-angle knuckles or subframe kit for 55°+ lock
- Rack spacers for additional turn
- Tie rods and extended rods to maintain geometry
3. Suspension Links & Alignment Tools
Adjustable arms let you correct camber and toe after modifications:
- Camber arms for static camber
- Toe arms for rear-end stability
- Tie rod kits for steering clearance
- Toe plates for DIY alignment
4. Differential & Drivetrain
- 1.5-way or welded LSD for consistent rear traction
- Upgraded driveshafts and CVs to handle power under angle
5. Brakes & E-Brake Setup
- Performance front brake pads & rotors
- ST-185 or welded E-brake setup for harsh handbrake entries
6. Bushings & Chassis Strengthening
Replace rubber bushings with polyurethane or spherical ends to reduce flex. Add strut braces and rear bars for stiffness.
Step-by-Step Build Path
- Install coilovers & set ride height
- Add angle kit and steering upgrades
- Replace control arms and alignment tools
- Install LSD and drivetrain upgrades
- Upgrade braking and handbrake systems
- Reinforce chassis and align settings per build goal
DIY Alignment Cheat Sheet
- Ride height: Feet on car to settle the suspension
- Front camber: -3° for drift, -1.5° for track
- Front toe-out: 0–2 mm for quick turn-in
- Rear toe-in: 1–2 mm for stability
Why Buy from SLR
- Drift-tested parts built by experienced E36 drivers
- Comprehensive bolt-on kits with detailed instructions
- Rebuildable, serviceable components for long-term use
Conclusion
Building a drift-ready E36 is rewarding—but only if you choose proven parts in the right order. Follow this guide and SLR’s E36 drift parts collection to craft a car that handles precision, outlasts sessions, and looks sharp sliding down the track.
