Drifting is an exciting and adrenaline-fueled sport that requires skill, precision, and the right car. As a Toy Guide writer and enthusiast, I have tried and tested various cars to determine which are the best starter drift cars in 2022.
What to Consider When Choosing a Drift Car
Before we dive into the list of the best starter drift cars, let's first discuss the factors you should consider when choosing a drift car.
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Rear-wheel drive: Drifting requires the rear wheels to be the driving wheels. As such, rear-wheel drive cars are the most suitable for drifting.
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Manual transmission: A manual transmission allows for better control over the car, making it easier to initiate and maintain drifts.
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Weight distribution: A car with a balanced weight distribution is easier to control when drifting. Ideally, the car should have a 50/50 distribution between the front and rear axles.
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Aftermarket support: A car with a strong aftermarket support system ensures that you can easily find and replace parts when needed.
Best Starter Drift Cars in 2022
Based on the above factors, here are the best starter drift cars in 2022:
1. Nissan 240SX
The Nissan 240SX is a popular choice among drift enthusiasts and for good reason. It has a rear-wheel drive and a manual transmission, making it easy to initiate drifts and control the car. The car also has a balanced weight distribution, making it easy to control when sliding around corners.
The 240SX became famous for its 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine that provided a good balance between power and fuel economy. The car's engine can be easily upgraded with aftermarket parts, making it a desirable choice for those looking to modify their cars. The 240SX is also relatively cheap, making it an excellent starter car for beginners.
2. Mazda RX-8
The Mazda RX-8 is another excellent choice for a starter drift car. Its rotary engine provides a unique driving experience, and the car's rear-wheel drive and manual transmission make it perfect for drifting. The RX-8 also has a near-perfect weight distribution, making it easy to control during drifts.
The RX-8's rotary engine is unlike most engines on the market, making it a favorite among car enthusiasts. The engine's design allows for a high-revving power band, providing plenty of power for drifting. The car's weight distribution is also ideal for drifting, making it easy to control during slides.
3. BMW 3 Series
The BMW 3 Series is a popular choice among car enthusiasts, and it's an excellent choice for a starter drift car. It has a rear-wheel drive and a manual transmission, making it easy to initiate and maintain drifts. Additionally, the car has a balanced weight distribution, making it easy to control when drifting.
The 3 Series is known for its handling and performance, making it a favorite among car enthusiasts. The car's weight distribution is nearly perfect, providing excellent balance and control during drifts. Additionally, the car has a strong aftermarket support system, making it easy to find and replace parts when needed.
4. Toyota Corolla AE86
The Toyota Corolla AE86 is a classic choice for drifting enthusiasts. It has a rear-wheel drive and a manual transmission, making it easy to control during drifts. The car's light weight also makes it easy to initiate drifts and control the car during slides.
The AE86 is a cult classic among car enthusiasts, thanks to its appearance in the Initial D anime series. The car's light weight and rear-wheel drive make it an excellent choice for drifting. Additionally, the car's aftermarket support system is strong, making it easy to find and replace parts when needed.
5. Ford Mustang
The Ford Mustang is a powerful car that's perfect for drifting. It has a rear-wheel drive and a manual transmission, making it easy to initiate and maintain drifts. The car's weight distribution is slightly front-heavy, but it's still easy to control when drifting.
The Mustang is known for its muscle car heritage and performance. The car's powerful engine and muscular design make it a favorite among car enthusiasts. The Mustang is also relatively affordable, making it an excellent starter car for beginners.
Conclusion
Choosing the right starter drift car is crucial to getting started in the sport. The best starter drift cars in 2022 are the Nissan 240SX, Mazda RX-8, BMW 3 Series, Toyota Corolla AE86, and Ford Mustang. These cars have the necessary features, such as rear-wheel drive, manual transmission, balanced weight distribution, and aftermarket support, to make them excellent choices for beginners.
So, if you're looking to get into drifting, consider one of these cars and get ready for an adrenaline-fueled experience. Remember, drifting can be dangerous, so always practice in a safe environment and wear the necessary safety gear. And, most importantly, have fun!