When it comes to drifting, not all cars are created equal. If you’ve read our Top Drift Cars of All Time, you know that certain platforms like the BMW E36, Nissan 350Z, and Corvette C6 consistently rank among the best drifting cars available today. But what actually makes a great drift car, and why do these specific models dominate both grassroots and professional drifting scenes?
This post dives deeper into the mechanical characteristics, chassis dynamics, and aftermarket support that separate the best drift cars from the rest — and why you might want to consider one of them for your next build.
What Makes a Car One of the Best for Drifting?
1. Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) Layout
This is non-negotiable. RWD platforms allow for power-induced oversteer, the core of drifting. Cars like the S13 240SX, E36, and FC RX-7 all feature a front-engine, rear-drive layout that makes initiating and maintaining a drift predictable and controllable.
2. Balanced Chassis
Weight distribution matters. The E36 BMW, for instance, offers near 50/50 weight balance, making it incredibly stable mid-drift while still responsive to throttle and steering input. This balance is part of what earned it the top spot in our Best Drift Cars List.
3. Parts Availability and Aftermarket Support
A drift car needs to be repairable and upgradeable. That’s why cars like the 350Z and E46 BMW are so popular. Companies like SLRspeed offer drift spec coilovers, angle kits, control arms, and reinforced suspension parts purpose-built for these platforms. The stronger the aftermarket, the better the long-term potential of your build.
Underrated Drift Cars That Could Be the Best For You
While legends like the 240SX and E36 get most of the love, cars like the SN95 Mustang, Mazda Miata, and even the Porsche 944 are gaining attention as unique but capable drift platforms. What makes them great isn't just their base design, but how well they can be tuned with the right coilovers, angle kits, and reinforced chassis components — all available through SLRspeed for many of these cars.
Drift Car Customization is What Unlocks True Potential
Out of the box, even the best drifting cars can be limited. That’s why the real magic happens with mods. An angle kit unlocks steering potential. Drift spec coilovers enhance weight transfer and corner stability. Camber and toe tuning sharpen responsiveness. All of these upgrades make the difference between a car that can drift… and a car that dominates.
Explore your upgrade options here at SLRspeed — whether you're running an E30, Corvette, E36, or 370Z, we build the components that help you make the most of your machine.
Final Thoughts – The Best Drift Car is the One You Build Right
You don’t need to start with the most expensive chassis or trendiest platform. What matters is how you build it, how well you understand its dynamics, and whether the car can evolve with your skills. That’s why platforms like the E36, E46, and 350Z continue to top lists of the best drifting cars year after year — they’re balanced, upgrade-friendly, and proven on tracks and touge circuits around the world.
👉 Read our full breakdown here: The Best Drift Cars of All Time – Top Choices for Beginners, Pros, and Enthusiasts
