The "coolest" drift car is highly subjective, as what one person considers cool, another might not. However, certain vehicles consistently rank high among enthusiasts for their performance, style, and ease of modification, making them iconic choices in the drifting community.
While personal preference plays a huge role, the coolest drift cars often share characteristics like excellent balance, powerful rear-wheel-drive platforms, strong aftermarket support, and a history of success in competitive drifting.
Defining "Cool" in Drifting
What makes a drift car truly "cool" often boils down to a blend of:
- Performance: How well it handles the rigors of drifting, including power delivery, steering feel, and chassis dynamics.
- Aesthetics: The visual appeal, whether it's sleek and modern or a classic JDM legend.
- Modifiability: The ease with which it can be upgraded, tuned, and customized to suit a driver's style.
- Availability & Cost: How accessible it is for aspiring drifters, often favoring robust and affordable options.
- Legacy: Its reputation and impact within the drifting world, often forged through motorsport success or a dedicated fan base.
Top Contenders for the "Coolest" Drift Car
Drawing from common choices among enthusiasts and experts, several models frequently stand out. These cars are celebrated for their intrinsic qualities that make them excellent drift platforms, often with a dedicated following.
Here's a look at some of the top contenders that embody what makes a drift car "cool":
Mazda MX-5 (Miata)
Often praised for being small, lightweight, and incredibly fun to drive, the Mazda MX-5 is an entry-level favorite. Its excellent balance and direct steering feedback make it an ideal platform for learning and honing drifting skills. Despite its relatively low power output in stock form, its agility and vast aftermarket support allow for easy engine swaps and modifications to enhance its drift capabilities.
Nissan Skyline R32 (GTS-T)
While the GT-R models are AWD, the Rear-Wheel-Drive (RWD) GTS versions of the Nissan Skyline R32 are highly sought after by drifters. They are renowned for their robust chassis and powerful RB-series engines. Many consider them easy to modify, making them a popular choice for those looking to build a serious drift machine, capable of impressive slides right off the bat, even in standard form.
Toyota Chaser / Soarer
Japanese sedans like the Toyota Chaser and coupes like the Toyota Soarer have cemented their place in drifting folklore. Known for their robust chassis and powerful, easily tunable engines (often the legendary 1JZ or 2JZ), these cars offer a fantastic blend of power, comfort, and drift-ability. They provide a stable platform for long, controlled drifts and have extensive aftermarket support.
BMW 3 Series (E30) & 5 Series (E39)
BMW models, particularly the E30 3 Series and the E39 540i, are highly regarded in the European drift scene. Their robust build quality, excellent weight distribution, and powerful inline-six or V8 engines make them natural contenders. The E30 is praised for its compact size and agility, while the E39 540i offers more power and a larger platform for those seeking a more luxurious yet capable drift car.
Other Notable Mentions
- Jaguar XJ6 Series 1: An unexpected but surprisingly capable choice, offering a unique blend of classic style and rear-wheel-drive dynamics.
- Mazda RX-8: Known for its Wankel rotary engine and near-perfect 50/50 weight distribution, offering a unique driving experience and good balance for drifting, though the rotary engine requires specific maintenance considerations.
Characteristics of a Great Drift Car
Regardless of the model, the "coolest" drift cars often share these fundamental characteristics:
- Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD): Absolutely essential for initiating and maintaining a drift.
- Good Weight Distribution: A balanced chassis (ideally 50/50) allows for predictable handling and easier transitions.
- Sufficient Power and Torque: Enough power to break traction and sustain a slide, but not so much that it becomes uncontrollable.
- Strong Aftermarket Support: Easy access to performance parts, suspension upgrades, and body kits.
- Durability: The ability to withstand the stresses of aggressive driving and repeated abuse.
Popular Drift Car Options
The table below highlights some of the most frequently chosen and "cool" drift cars, detailing what makes them stand out:
Model | Key Features | Why It's Cool for Drifting |
---|---|---|
Mazda MX-5 | Small, lightweight, balanced, agile | Excellent for learning, highly nimble, vast aftermarket |
Nissan Skyline R32 GTS-T | RWD, strong RB engine, robust chassis | Iconic JDM, easy to modify, capable standard |
Toyota Chaser/Soarer | Powerful JZ engines, sturdy platform, comfortable | Reliable power, good for sustained drifts, strong community |
BMW 3 Series (E30) | Balanced, durable, good handling, classic looks | Affordable entry, great chassis feel, European style |
BMW 540i (E39) | Powerful V8, stable platform, comfortable interior | More power, refined feel, good for higher-speed drifts |
Mazda RX-8 | 50/50 weight distribution, unique rotary engine, sharp steering | Balanced chassis, distinct sound, fun and engaging |
Ultimately, the "coolest" drift car is the one that best fits a driver's skill level, budget, and personal style, while providing an exhilarating and controllable platform for mastering the art of sideways driving.