Drifting has become a real phenomenon, what was once reserved for the Japanese community is now a motorsport in its own right, attracting many newbies thanks to its relatively low cost of entry. Here is our selection of the 7 best cars to start drifting.
1. BMW M3 E36 and E46: References in drifting
The BMW M3 E36 and E46 are real benchmarks in drifting. Their **6-cylinder in-line** developing 240 and 338 hp respectively, their balanced chassis and their propulsion make them ideal bases for learning to ski. Count around $9,000 for an E36 and $12,000 for an E46.
2. Toyota GT86/Subaru BRZ/Scion FR-S: Light and affordable sports cars
Developed jointly by Toyota and Subaru, these lightweight and affordable sports cars are built for the track. Their **4-cylinder naturally aspirated boxer of 200 hp**, their ideal weight distribution and their propulsion make them excellent bases for starting drifting, starting at $9,000.
3. Mazda MX-5 Miata NB: A safe bet to learn drifting
The second generation Mazda MX-5 (NB) is a safe bet for getting started with drifting. Light, handy and affordable, it compensates for its **4-cylinder 1.8 140 hp** with an excellent chassis and playful propulsion. Enough to progress quickly!
4. Nissan 350Z/Infiniti G35 Coupe: A classic but effective choice
With its **300 hp 3.5 V6** and its sharp chassis, the Nissan 350Z (or its cousin the Infiniti G35 Coupรฉ) is a classic but effective choice for starting drifting. Its large community and affordable price (starting at $5,000) make it a bestseller.
5. Mazda RX-7 FD3S: A Japanese icon with a rotary engine
A true Japanese icon, the third generation Mazda RX-7 (FD3S) combines the charm of its **252 hp turbo rotary engine** with a light and playful chassis. Enough to progress quickly in drifting, as long as you watch your oil consumption!
6. Mercedes C-Class (W203) 230 Kompressor: A German surprise
Didn't expect to see a Mercedes on this list? And yet, the C-Class W203 230 Kompressor and its **4-cylinder 1.8 supercharged 191 hp** have attracted many budding drifters, thanks to their robustness and efficient chassis.
7. Nissan Skyline R33 GTS-25T: The affordable alternative to the GT-R
If the Nissan Skyline GT-R R34 remains inaccessible, its predecessor the R33 GTS-T is an excellent choice. Its **6-cylinder RB25DET turbo of 247 hp**, its rear-wheel drive transmission and its sharp chassis make it a solid base for starting drifting, starting at $8,000.
Safety and practice above all, whatever car you choose, remember that drifting requires practice, technique and safety. So put on your helmet, buckle your seat belt and go skiing… within a legal and appropriate framework!
SRQ Backlot