Drifting is a thrilling motorsport that has gained immense popularity in Australia. Enthusiasts love the adrenaline rush, controlled slides, and powerful machines. Whether you are a beginner or an expert drifter, choosing the right car is essential. This guide explores the most popular drifting cars in Australia, detailing their features, performance, and why they dominate the drifting scene.
What Makes a Great Drifting Car?
Before diving into the list, it’s important to understand what makes a car ideal for drifting. A good drifting car should have:
- Rear-wheel drive (RWD) for better control.
- A lightweight chassis for easy maneuverability.
- A powerful engine with high torque.
- A well-balanced weight distribution.
- An affordable price with available aftermarket parts.
- A limited-slip differential (LSD) to improve traction.
- Strong braking capability to manage controlled slides.
Drifting requires precision, and the right vehicle setup can make all the difference. While some cars are naturally designed for drifting, others require modifications to enhance their performance. A well-balanced drift car not only improves handling but also ensures better control in high-speed slides.
Why Drifting is Popular in Australia
Drifting has seen a massive rise in Australia due to various factors. Motorsport culture is deeply embedded in Australian society, and drifting provides a unique experience unlike traditional racing. The country hosts various drift events, including Drift Masters Australia and World Time Attack Challenge, attracting professional and amateur drifters alike.
Many drivers take their cars to drifting tracks such as Sydney Motorsport Park, Calder Park Raceway, and Barbagallo Raceway. These venues allow enthusiasts to practice in a controlled environment, helping them master advanced drifting techniques. With more dedicated drift circuits emerging, the sport continues to grow, providing new opportunities for drifters to showcase their skills.
1. Nissan Silvia (S13, S14, S15)
The Nissan Silvia remains one of the most popular drifting cars in Australia. It offers a lightweight design, a turbocharged engine, and exceptional handling. With its rear-wheel-drive layout, drifters can execute precise slides effortlessly. This car has been a favorite among drifters for decades, and its popularity only continues to grow.
Why Drifters Love It:
- Turbocharged SR20DET engine delivers great power.
- Lightweight body enhances control.
- Aftermarket support makes modifications easy.
- Affordable replacement parts are widely available.
- Easy to tune for increased horsepower.
- Ideal for both beginners and experienced drifters.
- Strong chassis can handle aggressive drifting techniques.
- Highly customizable with various body kits and engine upgrades.
2. Toyota 86 / Subaru BRZ
The Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ are modern drifting legends. These cars are affordable, reliable, and feature an excellent rear-wheel-drive system. They may not be the most powerful, but their balance and agility make them ideal for drifting. Their sleek design and lightweight build ensure maximum performance on the track.
Key Features:
- Boxer engine with low center of gravity.
- Precise steering and excellent handling.
- Affordable entry-level drifting car.
- Responsive throttle for controlled slides.
- Perfect platform for modifications and turbocharging.
- Excellent weight distribution enhances cornering ability.
- Sturdy suspension system for better drift control.
- Widely used in grassroots drifting competitions.
3. Nissan 350Z / 370Z
The Nissan 350Z and 370Z are favorites among drifters. They pack a naturally aspirated V6 engine, providing plenty of torque. These cars offer great stability, making them a top choice for both beginners and professionals. With their stylish design and powerful engine, they dominate the drifting scene.
Performance Highlights:
- Powerful VQ-series engine.
- Stiff chassis for better drifting control.
- Wide availability of performance upgrades.
- Well-balanced weight distribution improves cornering.
- Large aftermarket support for custom setups.
- Strong braking system for better stopping power.
- Ideal for those looking to transition from beginner to pro-level drifting.
- Known for its durability and reliability in drift competitions.
4. Toyota Supra (A80 & A90)
The Toyota Supra is an iconic sports car that performs exceptionally well in drifting. The legendary 2JZ-GTE engine in the A80 model offers incredible tuning potential. The newer A90 Supra also boasts impressive drifting capabilities with its turbocharged inline-six engine. Supras have a long history in motorsports and continue to be a dominant force in the drifting community.
Why It’s a Drifting Beast:
- High horsepower and torque for long slides.
- Rear-wheel drive ensures smooth drifts.
- Strong aftermarket community for modifications.
- A90 model comes with modern traction control features.
- Sturdy chassis absorbs intense drifting stress.
- Superior aerodynamics for enhanced performance.
- Iconic styling makes it a fan favorite.
- Frequently used in professional drifting events worldwide.
5. Mazda RX-7 (FD3S)
The Mazda RX-7 is a dream machine for drift enthusiasts. Its rotary engine and lightweight chassis make it highly maneuverable. The perfect weight distribution enhances stability, making it one of the most popular drifting cars in Australia. The RX-7 has a unique sound and driving experience that sets it apart from the competition.
Unique Drifting Features:
- 50/50 weight balance for precise control.
- Lightweight and agile chassis.
- High-revving rotary engine delivers unique power.
- Aerodynamic design improves slide stability.
- Requires proper tuning for long-term reliability.
- Highly customizable for better drift performance.
- Known for its smooth power delivery and agility.
- Preferred by experienced drifters due to its technical handling.
6. BMW E36 & E46
European cars also have a strong presence in the Australian drift scene, with the BMW E36 and E46 being top contenders. These cars offer great power, balanced weight distribution, and a rear-wheel-drive layout. They provide excellent control and smooth handling, making them perfect for drifting.
Why They Stand Out:
- Inline-six engines deliver strong power and torque.
- Excellent handling due to balanced weight distribution.
- Wide availability of aftermarket drift modifications.
- Strong and durable chassis for aggressive drifting.
- Commonly used in both beginner and pro drift circuits.
- Affordable entry into the European drift scene.
7. Ford Mustang (S550)
The Ford Mustang S550 has made a mark in the drifting world with its powerful V8 engine and rear-wheel-drive system. It is a perfect blend of American muscle and precise handling, making it a great choice for drift enthusiasts in Australia.
Mustang Drifting Highlights:
- Powerful V8 engine offers massive torque.
- Large aftermarket support for modifications.
- Strong chassis for improved stability.
- Modern traction control features assist with drift tuning.
- Used in professional drift series like Formula Drift.
8. Holden Commodore SS
The Holden Commodore SS is an Australian favorite with a strong presence in motorsports. It has a rear-wheel-drive setup and a powerful V8 engine, making it a solid choice for drifting.
Reasons to Choose It:
- High-powered engine for extended drifts.
- Affordable with locally available parts.
- Strong build quality for durability.
- A piece of Australian automotive history.
Tips for Beginner Drifters in Australia
If you’re new to drifting, here are some useful tips to get started:
- Start with a budget-friendly RWD car.
- Invest in quality tires for better control.
- Practice in a safe and legal drifting location.
- Upgrade your suspension and LSD for smoother drifts.
- Watch professional drifters and learn from their techniques.
Conclusion
Drifting in Australia continues to grow, with many drivers opting for these popular drifting cars. Whether you prefer the lightweight agility of a Nissan Silvia, the balance of a Toyota 86, or the raw power of a Ford Mustang GT, there’s a perfect drifting car for every enthusiast. Choose wisely, modify strategically, and enjoy the thrill of controlled slides!
Explore more blogs about cars.
