Home Cars Drift Kings: The Best Machines for Conquering Corners and Creating Smoke

Cars

Drift Kings: The Best Machines for Conquering Corners and Creating Smoke

Jimmy adeel July 10, 2025

Drifting isn’t just a motorsport—it’s a culture, a spectacle born on the winding mountain roads of Japan and now celebrated worldwide. The art of controlling a car in a controlled slide captures both drivers and fans with its blend of skill, precision, and showmanship. Certain cars have become icons in this sideways symphony, revered for their perfect balance, responsive handling, and undeniable style. These legends have helped shape drifting into the addictive phenomenon it is today, where the pursuit of the perfect slide fuels endless passion.

NEXT >>

1. BMW E36 and E46

The BMW E36 Series remain among the most popular drift cars due to their near-perfect 50/50 weight distribution, rear-wheel-drive layout, and large aftermarket support. These chassis offer excellent steering feel and suspension geometry, making them favorites for both beginners and pros. They are affordable, easy to work on, and highly tunable, with options for engine swaps like the LS V8 for serious power.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

2. Chevrolet Corvette C5 and C6

The C5 and C6 Corvettes have emerged as underrated drift machines, boasting factory V8 power, independent rear suspension, and lightweight aluminum frames (especially the C5). While not beginner-friendly, they offer immense power and grip potential for advanced drifters seeking a unique American muscle drift experience.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

3. Ford Mustang SN95/New Edge (1994-2004)

The SN95 Mustang is a budget-friendly drift platform, especially the 1994-1995 GT with the 5.0L V8 and the 1999-2004 GT with the 4.6L Modular V8. Though heavier and with older suspension technology, these Mustangs have plentiful parts, strong aftermarket support, and a robust engine lineup, making them accessible and fun drift cars.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

4. Mazda MX-5 Miata (NA/NB/NC)

The Mazda MX-5 Miata is a legendary lightweight roadster with rear-wheel drive and near 50/50 weight distribution. While it has modest horsepower, its nimbleness, balanced chassis, and excellent steering make it ideal for learning and mastering drifting. The strong aftermarket allows for suspension upgrades, LSDs, and turbocharging for more power.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

5. Nissan 350Z and 370Z

The Nissan 350Z and 370Z are popular drift choices for their powerful V6 engines, rear-wheel drive, and balanced chassis. The 370Z offers improved handling and power over the 350Z, and both have extensive aftermarket support for drift-specific modifications. While the 370Z is quicker and more refined, many drifters prefer the 350Z for its nimble feel and ease of initiating and maintaining drifts, especially with manual transmissions and suspension upgrades.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

6. Toyota GR86 / Subaru BRZ / Scion FR-S

These lightweight coupes are favored for their driver engagement and balanced chassis. Although stock power is lower (~200-230 hp), their agility and responsiveness make them excellent for drifting, especially with aftermarket forced induction or engine swaps. Their relatively low weight and precise steering allow drivers to initiate and control slides with ease, making them ideal platforms for both beginners and seasoned drifters looking to refine their skills.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

7. Mazda RX-7 (FD)

The Mazda RX-7 FD is highly prized in the drifting community for its lightweight chassis, near 50/50 weight distribution, and high-revving 1.3-liter twin-rotor twin-turbo rotary engine producing around 252 hp in stock form. Its aerodynamic design and double-wishbone suspension front and rear provide exceptional handling, making it one of the best drift cars available

<< Previous

NEXT >>

8. Nissan Silvia S13, S14, and S15

The Nissan Silvia line, especially the S13 and S15, are iconic in drifting culture. Known for their lightweight chassis, rear-wheel drive, and turbocharged engines, these cars offer excellent balance and tunability. The S15, in particular, features a six-speed gearbox and improved suspension, making it a favorite for competitive drifting.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

9. Hyundai Veloster N

The Hyundai Veloster N is an emerging favorite in the drifting community, thanks to its sharp handling, turbocharged 2.0-liter engine producing around 275 horsepower, and distinctive aggressive styling. Its lightweight chassis and sport-tuned suspension contribute to nimble, responsive driving dynamics that appeal to both beginners and experienced drifters.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

10. BMW M3 (F80)

The BMW M3 F80 (2014-2020) is the first turbocharged M3, powered by a 3.0L twin-turbo inline-six producing 431 hp. It offers sharp handling, rear-wheel drive, and a choice of manual or dual-clutch automatic transmissions. Known for its modern performance and aggressive styling, the F80 is a favorite for enthusiasts seeking a powerful, agile sports sedan.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

11. Ford Mustang GT (S550)

The Ford Mustang GT (S550) is a popular drift car powered by a 5.0L naturally aspirated Coyote V8 producing around 460-480 horsepower, depending on the model year and tune. Its independent rear suspension significantly improves handling and balance, making it well-suited for controlled slides and drifting. The Mustang GT offers both manual and automatic transmissions, with many drift builds favoring the manual for better driver control.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

12. Volvo 240/740/940 Series

Older Volvo sedans have a cult following in drifting for their durability, rear-wheel-drive layout, and simple, robust mechanics. Models like the Volvo 240 and 740 are especially prized for their strong chassis and ease of modification. Their affordability and reliability make them popular among grassroots drifters who value a solid platform that can handle power upgrades and rough treatment on the track. Additionally, their boxy design and weight distribution contribute to predictable handling, making them excellent learning cars for drifting enthusiasts.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

13. Mercedes-Benz R230 SL-Class

Though unconventional, the Mercedes R230 SL has carved out a surprising niche in drifting for enthusiasts seeking a unique and powerful platform. Equipped with robust V8 and V12 engines—notably the M113 V8 in the SL500 and the supercharged M113K in the SL55 AMG—the R230 delivers strong torque and smooth power delivery ideal for controlled slides. Its rigid chassis and advanced suspension geometry provide a surprisingly stiff and stable foundation, even with the convertible hardtop design.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

14. Toyota Chaser JZX100

The Toyota Chaser JZX100 blends a 1JZ-GTE turbo engine with a roomy, comfortable sedan body, making it a standout in the drift scene. Renowned for stylish, smoke-filled slides, the Chaser’s power and balance have earned it a devoted following in Japan and around the world. Its sleeper looks and strong tuning potential offer both performance and a touch of luxury for drifters seeking something unique.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

15. Lexus SC300/Soarer

The Lexus SC300 (also known as the Toyota Soarer) pairs the legendary 2JZ-GE engine with a sleek, comfortable coupe body. This combination is perfect for drifters seeking both power and refinement, making the SC300/Soarer a popular choice for big-horsepower builds and stylish sideways action. Its smooth ride and strong tuning potential ensure it remains a staple in drift paddocks and car meets alike. More info

.article-content-img img { width: 100% }

<< Previous