Drifting, the art of sliding a car sideways at high speeds, has become a thrilling motorsport and a captivating driving technique. Japanese cars, renowned for their performance and handling, have dominated the drift scene for decades.
In this blog post, we'll count down the top 10 best Japanese cars for drift, celebrating the precision engineering, power, and agility that make these vehicles perfect for the exhilarating world of sideways driving.
Nissan 240SX (S13/S14/S15)
The Nissan 240SX, available in various generations (S13, S14, and S15), has achieved legendary status in the drift community. With a lightweight rear-wheel-drive platform and a robust aftermarket support, these cars are highly customizable and ideal for drifting.
Toyota Corolla AE86
The Toyota Corolla AE86, also known as the "Hachi-Roku," is a timeless classic cherished by drift enthusiasts. Its lightweight chassis, rear-wheel-drive layout, and nimble handling characteristics have made it a staple in the drifting world.
Nissan Silvia (S13/S14/S15)
The Nissan Silvia, like its 240SX counterpart, is a popular choice among drifters due to its well-balanced chassis and rear-wheel-drive configuration. The S13, S14, and S15 generations offer varying levels of performance, allowing drivers to choose based on their preferences and skill level.
Mazda RX-7 (FD)
The Mazda RX-7 FD is an iconic sports car admired for its sleek design and rotary engine. Its near-perfect weight distribution and rear-wheel-drive setup provide drifters with an exceptional driving experience that leaves them craving more sideways action.
Toyota Supra (MK3/MK4)
The Toyota Supra, particularly the MK3 and MK4 generations, has gained a reputation as a formidable drift machine. Equipped with powerful engines and rear-wheel-drive, the Supra delivers the perfect blend of power and control for mastering drift maneuvers.
Nissan 350Z / 370Z
The Nissan 350Z and 370Z are modern drift cars loved for their aggressive styling and exceptional performance. These rear-wheel-drive coupes offer impressive power and a balanced chassis, making them well-suited for drifting on both tracks and open roads.
Subaru BRZ / Toyota 86
The Subaru BRZ and Toyota 86 (formerly Scion FR-S) are two sports cars developed jointly by Subaru and Toyota. With their lightweight design, low center of gravity, and rear-wheel-drive layout, these cars excel in delivering the thrill of drifting.
Lexus IS300
The Lexus IS300, with its potent 2JZ engine and rear-wheel-drive architecture, has earned a dedicated following in the drift community. Its strong aftermarket support and smooth power delivery make it an excellent choice for enthusiasts seeking both style and performance.
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution (Evo)
The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, although primarily known for rally racing, has found its place in the world of drifting. Its advanced all-wheel-drive system and powerful turbocharged engine provide exceptional traction, allowing drivers to execute controlled drifts with ease.
Mazda MX-5 Miata (NA/NB)
The Mazda MX-5 Miata, specifically the NA and NB generations, is a surprising yet beloved addition to our list. Although not originally designed as a drift car, its lightweight and rear-wheel-drive setup have attracted drift enthusiasts who appreciate its nimbleness and tossability.
Conclusion
As the popularity of drifting continues to grow, Japanese cars remain at the forefront of this thrilling motorsport. From timeless classics like the Toyota Corolla AE86 and Nissan 240SX to modern sports cars like the Nissan 350Z and Subaru BRZ, these top 10 best Japanese cars for drift showcase the perfect balance of power, handling, and customization options desired by drifting enthusiasts.