Car Guides | Drifted.com https://www.drifted.com The Ultimate Online Drifting Experience Sat, 11 Mar 2023 14:12:41 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.1.1 Best RC Drift Cars Guide For 2023 https://www.drifted.com/rc-drift-cars/ Tue, 07 Mar 2023 14:11:33 +0000 https://www.drifted.com/?p=41601 Are you eager to get into drifting, but your bank balance is holding you back? RC drift cars present the perfect opportunity to get your drifting fix.

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]]> Are you eager to get into drifting, but your bank balance is holding you back? RC drift cars present the perfect opportunity to get your drifting fix on a budget.

rc drift car feature image

In a hurry? Here is our RC Drift Car summary

Ready-to-Run Choice RC Drift Car Kit Choice RC Drift Car Chassis Choice
HSP FlyingFish Nissan Skyline GT-R RC Drift Car toyota supra mst rmx 2 rc drift cars Hobbypower Alloy & Carbon RWD Drift Racing Chassis
HSP FlyingFish Nissan Skyline GT-R RC Drift Car MST RMX 2.0 RWD Drift Car Kit Hobbypower Alloy & Carbon RWD Drift Racing Chassis
🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
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As much as we love real-life drifting, we’re never going to deny that it’s an expensive hobby.

Not only do you have to worry about maintenance and repairs on your drift car, but tires and fuel need to be a serious consideration, too.

That’s before you’ve even considered the endless list of upgrades and modifications that you want to do to make the car competitive.

Once you’ve built the car of your dreams, you then need to consider the costs of getting to and from events, then when it gets more serious, the cost of racing equipment.

Although drifting is one of the most insanely exciting hobbies on the planet, unfortunately, it comes with a never-ending cost.

rc drift car ae86

These disadvantages have birthed the concept of VR sim racing and free online drifting games, with enthusiasts building increasingly impressive drifting sim rigs so that they can get their precious seat time at a fraction of the price.

Not only is this extremely useful for training, but it also comes at a fraction of the price and inconvenience that comes with running a real car.

But, what if you’re still craving the physical art form of drifting?

Sure, gaming might tick the right boxes for some of you, but there’s always something incredibly exciting about the feeling of controlling a physical drift car, whether it’s full-sized, or in miniature scale. This is where RC drifting becomes the perfect solution.

rc drift car s14 240sx

Not only do you get to learn the basics of car control, gaining knowledge in areas like counter-steering alongside an understanding of weight shift and braking under load, but also it’s hugely entertaining in the process.

If you’re just getting started with RC drifting, our How to Drift guide will be a fantastic place to start, as it’ll give you a much deeper understanding of what the car is doing and how it’s reacting to the various inputs which allow you to master the art of drifting.

Once you’ve got to grips with the basics, you’ll want to decide which RC drift car is best for your needs, so first, let us explain the various RC drift car variations on the market.

FAQ

What’s the best RC drift car kit?

Our RC drift car kit choice is the MST RMX 2.0, providing fantastic value for money with a freshly-improved chassis, which has proven to be a hit among RC drifters.

What are the best RC drift cars?

There are three types of RC drift cars, so here are our recommendations depending on what you’re looking for: Our RTR (ready-to-run) choice is the HSP FlyingFish, and our RC drift car kit preference is the MST RMX 2.0 RWD. For those looking to build their RC drift cars from scratch, the Hobbypower RWD drift chassis offers fantastic value for money.

What’s the best 1/10 RC drift car?

Our favorite 1/10 RC drift car kit is the MST RMX 2.0, and the HSP FlyingFish is our top pick for those looking for a ready-to-run RC drift car. These picks offer exceptional value for money for those looking to get started with RC drifting.

Ready-to-run vs kit vs chassis – the differences explained

As you’ve probably noticed, we’ve broken down this guide into three different categories to allow you to choose the perfect drift car for your needs, or maybe even the lucky person you’re buying for.

Ready-to-run RC drift cars

Ready-to-run is the most self-explanatory method when it comes to RC drift cars, and often makes the ideal gift for a first-time RC drift car owner.

You buy the car that ticks the right boxes for your needs (or perhaps your kids’), have it conveniently sent to your door, remove the packaging, and immediately begin testing the boundaries once the batteries are installed and charged.

You can probably expect a few crashes to happen very shortly after!

rc drift car ae86 twins

Ready-to-run kits are the easiest, most convenient, and often the cheapest method if you’re just getting started with RC drifting. We often think of these cars as an ideal entry to the sport.

The downside of ready-to-run kits is that if you happen to have a high-speed impact and something gets broken, you’re most probably going to be left having to replace the entire car.

Therefore, if you’re looking to get serious with your RC drift car right away, or you can see this potentially becoming a long-term hobby, we’d advise that you continue reading. You’ll thank us later.

RC drift car kits

With a kit, you would typically receive the car in many parts, which you then need to construct yourself, but don’t panic; it’s not as difficult as it sounds, as you’ll have clear instructions to guide you.

I’m sure many of you would be wondering why anyone would want to do this, so we’re going to explain the advantages of a kit.

With a ready-to-run car, the chances are that if you have a severe impact, you may end up breaking some of the parts on your vehicle.

In this situation, you’re most likely going to have to either cut your losses or return your car in the hope that it’s repairable, but the chances are that’s not very likely or cost-effective.

With a kit, not only do you get to enjoy the pleasure of building the car, which you could perhaps make a family affair, but you’ll also gain an excellent understanding of how the different components of the car work - this is the perfect introduction for an aspiring mechanic.

Not only do you gain an understanding of the car and have the enjoyment of the build process, but if you were to crash your RC drift car and break one, or more components, you can assess the damage and replace the spare part(s) necessary.

The ability to fix any damage is the main advantage of a kit; instead of buying a ready-to-run car.

Once your replacement parts turn up, you’ll now know how to replace them with your newfound knowledge from building the car, and you can then enjoy many more hours of worry-free drifting (assuming your abilities have improved since the crash, of course!)

Another advantage of buying a kit is that you’ll likely want superior upgrades as your skill levels progress.

Whether that’s an improved chassis, batteries, motor, or suspension, you name it; you can upgrade everything and build the RC drift car of your dreams without having to buy EVERY part each time like you would with a ready-to-run car.

For the RC drift car enthusiast, this can make for great Birthday and Christmas present opportunities.

Are you looking to upgrade your suspension? No worries, Grandma’s got you covered this year!

We always recommend that you carefully look into the possibility that a kit may need additional components. Most kits don’t come with all of the required electrical components, for example.

RC drift car chassis

Kits and Chassis are typically very similar. The main times that we would consider buying the bare-bones chassis rather than a kit is if we couldn’t find the perfect body shell.

Sometimes, it perhaps works out cheaper to buy a chassis and a shell separately, but otherwise, we would consider opting for a kit and then keeping the shell as a spare for practicing.

Now that you’ve read our explanation of the different variations, you’re clued up when it comes to purchasing the perfect RC drift car package for your needs, so let’s take a look at the best RC drift cars on the market!

Ready-to-run RC drift cars

Here is our selection of ready-to-run RC drift cars:

MST RMX 2.5 Brushless RTR Drift Car

rmx 2 5 brushless rtr rocket bunny toyota a90 gr supra widebody

Our comment: The most recent ready-to-run chassis to shake up the RC drift scene came with the introduction of the MST RMX 2.5 at the start of 2023.

With the latest technology within an affordable package, it’s easy to see why many RC drift fans feel that it’s a perfect choice.

Aimed at both beginner and intermediate RC drifters, the MST RMX 2.5 will be more than capable when rubbing doors with some of the premium kits on the market.

One of the benefits of an RTR kit is that MST checks each model before it’s shipped, which means it’s perfectly calibrated and set up right out of the box. So if you notice minimal tire wear with your new purchase, don’t panic!

Although the RMX 2.5 can throw down huge, consistent angles right out of the box, it also provides two motor install locations and two servo install locations if you wish to adjust the weight distribution.

Whether you’re just getting started with RC driting and want an excellent ready-to-go car right out of the box or you’re not interested in building a kit, the MST RMX 2.5 offers the ultimate opportunity.

With the insane choice of bodies, from Liberty Walk Mustangs to Toyota GR Supra’s, you’ll struggle to find a better-looking ride on the market.

Manufacturer description: “This is the MST RMX 2.5 1/10 2WD Brushless RTR Drift Car. Building off of the success of the RMX 2.0 this updated version brings the next level of performance to the RMX name. With countless hours of research and development, MST has fine tuned the RMX platform for the ultimate drift experience.”

“Designed to be easy to drive for beginners but still rewarding for the experienced drifter, MST has included an updated chassis. This improved chassis offers increased traction and control along with a plethora of adjustments to fine tune your driving experience. Whether you are an experienced drifter or just getting started, the RMX 2.5 RTR gives you the performance you are looking for with looks to match!”

Features

  • Two motor install options - upper or lower gravity
  • Two servo install options - vertical or lateral
  • Plastic high-rigidity construction
  • Unique front suspension system for great steering
  • The adjustable steering system with two-step Ackermann changes
  • 6 degrees KPI steering upright, and -0.5 trailing axle design
  • An inside rod fulcrum mount at the front upper arm features 10-step height adjustment and both side positions
  • Fully-sealed dustproof bevel gearbox system
  • Standard ball differential
  • 5 changeable second-deceleration-ratio gear sets of 1.89-3.82 (standard 3.08)
  • The fulcrum at the rear suspension upper rod is 5-step adjustable on both sides. The outer fulcrum is 4-step adjustable on both sides
  • Steel CVD axle for rear transmission system
  • Suitable for long and short battery
  • Full great smooth metal ball connectors
  • Standard realistic caliper and disc shape brake set

HSP FlyingFish Nissan Skyline GT-R RC Drift Car

Our comment: If you’re looking for a bargain, then you’re going to struggle to get more for your money than the HSP FlyingFish.

Thanks to the newly upgraded RC 540 motor, this provides impressive performance and enables speeds of over 35km/h out of the box.

If you’re looking to go even faster (which isn’t necessary for learning the basics of drifting), then make sure you take a look at the higher-spec brushless version, which is capable of an incredible 60km/h!

Although this is far cheaper than the HPI equivalents above, the materials are known for being a little more fragile. However, spares are easily sourced online.

The HSP FlyingFish is a genuine bargain, and a fantastic entry to RC drifting for the money.

Manufacturer description: “You can now get your own serious RC Hobby Drift Car at an amazing price. Straight out of the box this RC car is very competitive while the fully adjustable suspension lets you fine-tune to each track spec. Mash the throttle and the new RC 540 screams into life with a massive 22% more power and 9% lighter chassis, this new RC model is seriously competitive. You will truly be astonished by the quality of this RC Drift Car for the price you are paying. Everyone will want one.”

“This latest version has an even lower center of gravity and coupled to 4 wheel shaft drive and the latest Driftech Low profile drift tires makes 4 wheel drifts easier than ever. Comes with everything except the 8 AA batteries for the transmitter.”

Features

  • 100% Ready To Run
  • 4-Wheel Drive System
  • Shaft Drive
  • Front and Rear Ball Raced Differentials
  • High Discharge 2000mAh 7.2 V NiMh Battery and Charger
  • Upgraded RC 540 Race Motor
  • Light Weight Alloy Drive Shaft
  • Light Weight Aluminium Alloy High-Intensity Upper Plate
  • Front and Rear Differentials with Bevel Gears
  • Full 4 Wheel A-Arm 100% independent Adjustable Suspension
  • Aluminum Cap Oil Filled Adjustable Shock Absorbers
  • Adjustable Height
  • Adjustable Camber
  • Adjustable tilt angle
  • New Even Lighter Smaller Front and Gear Boxes
  • HSP Driftech Low Profile Tyres
  • 3 Way Electronic Speed Controller with Brake and Reverse
  • Factory Installed Servo Saver
  • 2 Channel Pistol Grip Radio Factory Installed

Redcat Racing Thunder Drift Car

redcat racing gun metal drift cars

Our comment: The Thunder Drift from Redcat Racing is very similar to their EPX drift car above, except this car comes with the superior belt-driven method for improved performance.

Its improved belt-driven system helps all four wheels move at the same time rather than the lag which you can experience from the cheaper shaft-driven system, and is usually only found in premium RC cars.

Owners have pointed out that the belts have sometimes arrived loose and required tightening, which is an easy fix that improved the performance dramatically.

The Thunder Drift is an insane value-for-money belt-driven drift car, and although we prefer the quality of the HPI products, there’s no questioning that this is a real bargain in comparison.

Manufacturer description: “Welcome to a whole new level of drifting with the 4WD belt-driven, high-performance Thunder Drift! Quality drifting requires precision driving to consistently challenge the line between control and chaos. A combination of brushed motor and special RC drift tires allow the Thunder Drift to slide effortlessly around corners, while the high-performance belt drive system provides an edge over the typical drifter.”

“Say goodbye to gear slop with the Thunder Drift’s high-performance belt drive system. Fully adjustable for ultra-smooth acceleration, the Thunder Drift is ready to drift circles around the competition. Blue anodized aluminum threaded body oil-filled shocks allow for quick ride height adjustments. Easily direct more weight to a single wheel for precise tuning. Shock dampening can be tuned by adding different weight oils inside the shocks, or by swapping out the pistons. The Thunder Drift’s fully tunable 4-wheel independent suspension allows the driver to adjust toe angle and camber, with the turn of a wrench, to achieve the drifting setup you like.”

Features

  • 1/10 scale drift car
  • 4 wheel drive
  • Belt driven for smooth power transfer
  • Independent suspension
  • Lightweight plastic chassis
  • Aluminum threaded body oil-filled shocks
  • Bearings throughout
  • Tunable suspension
  • Adjustable ride height
  • Tunable shocks
  • Adjustable camber angle
  • Multiple shock mounting positions
  • Adjustable belt tension.
  • 22T RC540 Brushed electric motor
  • Waterproof electronics  – 40A ESC
  • Responsive steering servo
  • 2.4GHz radio

Exceed RC Drift Star 350Z

exceed rc drift star electric 350z

  • Manufacturer: Exceed RC
  • Suitable for: 14 years and up
  • Configuration: 4WD
  • Scale ratio: 1/10th
  • Value for money ???
  • Purchase link: Exceed RC Drift Star 350Z

Our comment: The Exceed RC Drift Star 350Z drift car is a replica of the Nissan 350Z, and certainly looks to have been inspired by The Fast and the Furious.

Given that this has very similar specifications to the Redcat Racing EPX Drift Car, but features a brushless motor, making it the superior choice.

There’s no doubt that we prefer the look of the 350Z, so if this brushless drifter ticks the right boxes, then you really can’t go wrong.

Manufacturer description: “The EXCEED RC Electric Drift Star model represents a new generation of 1/10 scale on-road drift cars. This ready-to-run Drift Star car is electric-powered and perfect for indoor or outdoor drifting.”

“Based on our popular and durable on-road electric powered car, this drift version adds specially designed solid compound drift tires pre-mounted on high-performance wheels. Combined with a powerful programmable 45amp brushless ESC and brushless motor, this Driftstar is capable of extreme drift angles and speed.”

Features

  • The new KV 3300 Brushless motor provides reliable and consistent power for high-performance drift driving
  • The 2.5mm lightweight chassis provides excellent performance and durability
  • An excellent differential system design provides quick access to the front or rear differential by removing only a few screws. You can now access the front and rear differential for easy maintenance
  • New lightweight suspension arms deliver quick suspension response and reduce the critical sprung weight and overall weight of the car
  • High-capacity battery provides long run times
  • The high-quality 2.4Ghz transmitter and receiver work together to let you precisely control your car
  • Four-wheel drive system
  • Excellent front/rear camber and toe-in setup
  • Anodized aluminum center long drive shaft
  • Stable suspension arms and solid front/rear shock tower
  • Oil-filled aluminum capped shocks
  • Precise steering fitting delivers a quick response
  • Complete ball bearings for a smooth and an efficient drive
  • High-performance anti-skid drift tires, chrome-plated spoke rims and pre-mounted drift wheels

GoolRC WLtoys K989 High Speed RC Race Car Drift Car

Our comment: If you’re keen on the smaller style cars above, but you fancy something a little more impressive, this Ken Block-style Ford Fiesta replica could well be what you’re looking for.

With a more substantial set-up, this is ideal for the hobbyist with a smaller area to play in.

Although this car is small, it packs a serious punch and is capable of quickly achieving speeds of up to 30km/h.

Another perfect entry-level variation with a decent controller, this is perfect for the younger generation of Ken Block fans that are looking for their first RC drifter.

Manufacturer description: “The racing car is super fast, responsive, full function, and remote controlled. You can freely control the speed and direction, and perform U-shape drifts with ease.”

“Also features steering (go forward and backward, turn left and right). It is delicately manufactured, which is the standard of all hobby class vehicles.”

Features

  • 2.4GHz transmitter, you’ll never get any radio interference with this electric car.
  • You can enjoy drifting with the on-road anti-skid drift tires.
  • High-quality PC material car shell, like a real car, with excellent flexibility, to prevent the impact of rupture.
  • The speed reaches up to 30 KM/H, which makes the car race faster than others.
  • The rechargeable battery is available for longer playtime, it will last up to 30 minutes.
  • Metal chassis, sturdy and durable, protects the car and with longer service life.

JADA Toys Fast & Furious Brian’s Nissan Skyline GT-R (BNR34)

Our comment: JADA Toys have launched a range of The Fast and the Furious cars onto the RC market, which is perfect for both young and old fans of the movie.

Fans of Brian O’Conner will undoubtedly relish the opportunity to drift his R34 Skyline GT-R!

Are you stuck for the perfect Christmas or Birthday gift for your Fast and the Furious-crazy friend or relative? Look no further!

The 1/16th scale cars conveniently charge via USB and feature surprisingly impressive battery life.

These reasonably-priced RC drift cars are the ultimate gift for any Fast and the Furious fan, and they’ll undoubtedly want to collect the whole range.

As you’ve probably guessed, these cars weren’t created with the serious enthusiast in mind, but they’re perfect for cheap entertainment with all the family.

Manufacturer description: “From the franchise built on speed comes Brian’s highly modified Nissan Skyline GT-R (BNR34) featuring styling cues directly from the movie! Race to the finish as this aggressively styled 1:16 scale RC vehicle features lightweight aero modifications and performance wheels!”

“Help Dom and his crew as they continue their global exploits in the unstoppable franchise built on speed! You call the shots as you lead the team on their crusade with vehicles featuring styling cues directly from the movie! Featuring a turbo Boost feature, This R/C vehicle is ready for action-packed fun!”

Features

  • 2.4 GHz – fully functioning R/C
  • Turbo Boost feature
  • Alkaline Battery included- ready to run
  • Exterior styling directly from the Fast and Furious movie
  • Officially licensed and authentic movie decoration with themed packaging
  • USB charging technology

HPI Racing Micro RS4 Drift Fail Crew Nissan Skyline R34 GT-R

Our comment: Best known for showing off his skills at Europe’s infamous Gatebil festival, the legendary Fail Crew Nissan Skyline R34 GT-R driven by ‘Mad Max’ Tvardovsky is now available in 1/18th scale!

This pre-built, ready-to-run RC drift car from HPI Racing combines its 4WD speed belt drivetrain with a high-powered motor and double-wishbone independent front suspension to provide maximum power and control.

Utilizing HPI’s very-own 180-size motor, with electronic speed control, full-time 4WD belt drive, and a water-resistant servo, this is an excellent setup for those of you that are looking for a smaller beginner drift car.

Despite this being a ready-to-run kit, HPI has ensured that it’s one of the few which provides optional hop-up upgrades, which could be the perfect solution once you’ve got the hang of RC drifting.

Although the more commonly-found RC car scale size is 1/10th, this 1/18th scale car could be the perfect answer for those of you that are looking for a smaller alternative.

Manufacturer description: “With its 4WD belt-drive system and hard tires, the Micro RS4 Drift is easy to drift on any smooth surface! Concrete, short carpet, and even tarmac or asphalt are all ideal sliding surfaces that were made for your car – you’ll feel like a real drifter with the Micro RS4!”

“With the full range of HPI custom bodies for your car, it’s easy to turn your Micro RS4 Drift car into any kind of car you can imagine! Do you fancy swapping for a snarling American muscle car, a different drift car, or even a gravel-eating rally car? All these looks and more are waiting for you! To complete the look, you can also have a look at the huge range of available custom wheels and even drift and grip tires from HPI Racing!”

Features

  • Pre-Built, Ready to Run 1/18th scale racing car
  • Drives just like a larger RC car!
  • 4WD for maximum control and speed
  • Belt drivetrain for efficient power transfer to front wheels
  • Double-wishbone independent front suspension
  • Coil-over inboard cantilever front shocks
  • Front universal dogbones
  • Front and rear differentials for maximum drivetrain efficiency
  • Fully equipped with ball bearings for maximum efficiency
  • SCM-2S-WP electronic speed control for total control
  • 2.4GHz radio system for long-range reception, no frequency crystals needed
  • 180-size motor for fast speeds and quick acceleration
  • 6v 1200mAh battery for long driving times and plenty of power
  • AC wall charger included for extra convenience
  • 4 AA batteries included for the transmitter

HPI Racing Micro RS4 Ford Mustang RTR-X

Our comment: The next car in our ready-to-run line-up is based on the awesome 1969 Ford Mustang RTR-X drift car.

Utilizing a one-piece molded chassis, allowed HPI to build a replica that performs like the real car. With the drivetrain tunnel molded down the middle, this provides similar handling characteristics.

They’ve also introduced a low-profile layout to ensure that all the components sit as low as possible in the chassis, allowing for a low center of gravity for optimum handling.

The RTR Mustang is quite possibly the best ready-to-run car on our list and would make the perfect entry-level RC drift car straight out of the box.

HPI has once again produced a variety of hop-up upgrades should you wish to upgrade the car to an intermediate level further down the line.

Manufacturer description: “The newest member of the HPI x Vaughn Gittin Jr. collection is here, and it’s the perfect little brother to the 1/10th scale HPI Mustang RTR-X Sprint 2 Sport and Nitro RS4 3 Evo+! This Micro RS4 is a scaled-down, 1/18th version of Vaughn’s iconic 1969 Ford Mustang RTR-X, which was designed by Vaughn in partnership with the Need For Speed crew! Vaughn is the only one who can drive the real thing, but if you want an RC replica that can fit in the palm of your hand, this is the only version you’ll be able to find!”

“The Micro Mustang RTR-X is perfect for shredding tires inside and outside, with a high-powered motor driving all four wheels and coil-over shocks providing smooth power and excellent control. This Ready To Run Micro RS4 kit features a highly detailed and scale 1969 Ford Mustang RTR-X replica body for an awesome scale look wherever you drive! Just like the 1/10th scale replica, we even include TWO SETS of wheels and tires, one for drifting and one for racing!”

Features

  • Pre-Built, Ready to Run 1/18th scale racing car
  • Officially licensed replica of Vaughn Gittin Jr.’s 1969 Ford Mustang RTR-X
  • Drives just like a larger RC car!
  • 4WD for maximum control and speed
  • Belt drivetrain for efficient power transfer to front wheels
  • Double-wishbone independent front suspension
  • Coil-over inboard cantilever front shocks
  • Front universal dogbones
  • Front and rear differentials for maximum drivetrain efficiency
  • Fully equipped with ball bearings for maximum efficiency
  • EN-2 electronic speed control for total control
  • 2.4GHz radio system for long-range reception, no frequency crystals needed
  • 180-size motor for fast speeds and quick acceleration
  • 6v 1200mAh battery for long driving times and plenty of power
  • AC wall charger included for extra convenience
  • 4 AA batteries included for the transmitter

Mostop Mini RC Drift Truck

  • Manufacturer: Mostop
  • Suitable for: 12 years and up
  • Configuration: 4WD
  • Scale ratio: 1/16th
  • Value for money ????
  • Purchase link: Mostop Mini RC Drift Truck

Our comment: If you’re after a reasonably-priced entry-level drift truck, this 1/16th scale offering from Mostop may be just what you’re looking for.

With top speeds of an impressive 20 mph (30km/h), it’s certainly no slouch for its size and could be capable of causing an upset against some of the more expensive competitors.

One of the unique aspects of this buggy is that it comes with two sets of tires, making it ideal for using on-road or off-road, making it one of the most exciting prospects for those who enjoy drifting on varied terrains.

Another unique feature is the angel-eye headlamps, which have three lighting modes, and you can switch them on or off if you wish to conserve your battery life.

The 2.4GHz remote has a range of 150ft, and you can run several of these cars alongside your friends without the risk of interference.

The 1200mAh rechargeable battery enables a 20-25 minute racing time following around 3-4 hours of charging.

Although it won’t compete with the most expensive offerings on the market, this drift buggy has plenty of unique features which make it a perfect prospect for an entry-level RC drift car for a young enthusiast.

Manufacturer description: “Equipped with a double set of tires, 4 rubber racing tires and 4 smooth drift tires, you can experience drifting and racing once you own one of this drift racing car.”

“Designed with 4WD powerful motors, which provide this RC drift car with strong power and driving force to make it run fast, it’s capable of reaching speeds of up to 30+KM/H (20MPH).”

Features

  • High-Speed Drifting Car – Remote control drift car can go forward, backward, turn left and right, brake, and other full-scale synchronous control functions. The speed can reach up to 30 km/H, which provides you with a faster high-speed racing experience.
  • 2.4G Remote Control – 2.4 GHz high frequency assures a longer controlling distance of at least 150 feet, it can support multiplayer playing the RC cars together at the same time without interference. Automatically pairing and stable signal.
  • Stable & Safe Design – Designed with great stability during racing due to the independent suspension and ESP Electronic Stability System. Overcharge and over-current protection are adopted to ensure security for playing and charging.
  • Full-Scale Drift Truck – There is a proportional throttle and steering control function in the sensitive remote control system, players have conditions to control the speeds and fine-tune direction by the controller.
  • Battery Life – Comes with a 7.4V 1200mAh lithium battery, 3-4 hour charging time to support 20-25 minute playing. Equipped with 2 sets of tires for replacement. 3 levels of adjustable headlamps make it cool and realistic.

RC drift car kits

Here is our selection of RC drift car kits:

MST RMX 2.0 RWD Drift Car Kit

rmx 2 0 ford mustang liberty walk widebody

Our comment: For many, the MST RMX 2.0 RTR above will be the ideal choice for those getting started in RC drifting or looking for the most convenient and refined option straight out of the box.

However, for those looking to create a custom RC drift car build with their own choice of electronics, this kit provides the perfect opportunity.

Utilizing the latest technology, we feel that the RMX 2.0, which hit the market in November 2021, provides the ultimate value for money against some of its more expensive, outdated rivals.

Whether you’re looking to buy a standalone chassis or take advantage of the discounted shells with the package deals, the RMX 2.0 has repeatedly proven an incredible platform for sliding sideways.

Although the RMX 2.0 can throw down huge, consistent angles right out of the box, it also provides two motor install locations and two servo install locations if you wish to adjust the weight distribution.

Although the kit comes in at a fantastic price, remember that you will also need to budget for the additional electronics. Once you’ve calculated this, we recommend deciding whether this or the RTR kit will better suit your needs.

Manufacturer description: “The ingenious design allows for higher drift speeds and ensures a very simple but efficient steering behavior. The chassis is extremely stiff and nearly unbreakable. The structure of the top deck with its struts ensures very good cooling of the electronic components. Extremely large and variable steering deflections by Ackermann control increase handling.”

“The motor and the steering servo can be installed in 2 different positions to adjust the center of gravity according to your needs. The RMX S is the ideal drifter for beginners and due to its variable design also suitable for professionals.”

Features

  • Two motor install options - upper or lower gravity
  • Two servo install options - vertical or lateral
  • Plastic high-rigidity construction
  • Unique front suspension system for great steering
  • The adjustable steering system with two-step Ackermann changes
  • 6 degrees KPI steering upright, and -0.5 trailing axle design
  • The inside rod fulcrum mount at the front upper arm features 10-step height adjustment and both side positions
  • Fully-sealed dustproof bevel gear box system
  • Standard ball differential
  • 5 changeable second-deceleration-ratio gear sets of 1.89-3.82 (standard 3.08)
  • The fulcrum at the rear suspension upper rod is 5-step adjustable on both sides. The outer fulcrum is 4-step adjustable on both sides
  • Steel CVD axle of the rear transmission system
  • Suitable for long and short battery
  • Full great smooth metal ball connectors
  • Standard realistic caliper and disc shape brake set

Tamiya TT-02D – Various Models

Tamiya TT-02D image

Our comment: Tamiya is one of the most reputable brands in the RC drift scene, and their TT-02D Drift Spec chassis is a testament to the continued fantastic quality that they’ve been launching throughout the years.

If you’re not shy when it comes to building your RC drift car, then the entry-level TT-02D kit could well be the perfect answer to your needs.

As the 24mm wide drift-spec tires provide the perfect traction, the CVA shock units combined with the 4-wheel double wishbone suspension offer the ultimate handling for drifting.

With a full ball-bearing setup, an aluminum motor heat sink, and a tuned sports motor as standard, this is the perfect introduction to your RC drift career.

As you’ve probably guessed, there’s a vast range of hop-up upgrade modifications on the market to build the ultimate ride, and all the spares you could ever need if you were to crash a little too hard.

It’s no coincidence that so many enthusiasts start with the TT-02D, as it’s the perfect entry-level kit, and Tamiya provides a massive range of body shells.

Although there are several kits available, they are all the same parts with different body shells, so it’s entirely your decision as to which shell is best for you.

The only downside with the TT-02D over the ready-to-run kits is that you’ll need to factor in the additional costs of buying the electronics, such as a radio, receiver, ESC, steering servo, battery, and charger.

The shells also arrive as clear plastic, which allows you to fully customize and choose any colors or stickers that you fancy.

Don’t let the additional expenses put you off this fantastic kit, though, as the TT-02D is worth every cent once you’ve got everything up and running!

Manufacturer description: “The TT-02 chassis is Tamiya’s latest entry-level 4WD full independent suspension assembly kit that offers ease of assembly and easy maintenance.”

“The TT-02D is the Drift Spec variant that includes special parts to make it a fun-to-drive drifting machine.”

Features

  • Scale: 1/10
  • Construction type: assembly kit
  • Terrain use: on-road
  • Drivetrain: 4WD
  • Drive type: shaft
  • Drive line: dog bone
  • Differential type: gear
  • Suspension: fully independent double wishbone
  • Steering mechanism: bell-crank
  • Shock damper: oil-filled damper
  • Shock damper material: plastic
  • Chassis material: plastic
  • Bearings: shielded ball bearing
  • Adjustable camber: fixed
  • Adjustable toe angles: front only
  • Adjustable ground clearance: yes
  • Adjustable gear ratio: yes
  • Adjustable wheelbase: yes
  • Adjustable track width: yes
  • Adjustable shock angle: yes

RC drift car chassis

Here is our selection of RC drift car chassis:

Tamiya TB-03 VDS Drift Spec Chassis

Tamiya TT-02D image

Our comment: If you’re not entirely new to RC drifting, and you don’t mind splashing a little extra cash for the ultimate off-the-shelf package, then Tamiya’s TB-03 VDS drift spec chassis is the perfect choice for you!

With the knowledge gained from their TA-05 VDF, Tamiya developed this top-spec chassis, which is perfectly tweaked for the ultimate drifting performance.

With a 2.5mm thick carbon lower deck, aluminum gearbox braces for the front and rear gearboxes, and an aluminum center brace to provide rigidity, the TB-03 was undoubtedly built with performance and durability in mind.

As far as quality and performance go, you’re going to struggle to find a better off-the-shelf kit than the TB-03, even if it is a little expensive and still requires a body shell, motor, and electronics to be purchased separately.

If you’re just getting started with drifting and this is a temptation, then we’d also recommend taking a look at Tamiya’s TT-02D kit above.

Manufacturer description: “Based on the shaft-driven TB-03 chassis, this drift-spec chassis incorporates a 2.5mm thick carbon lower deck, aluminum gearbox braces to hold front/rear gearboxes, and a distinctive aluminum center brace to provide rigidity toward chassis pitch.”

“The well-balanced layout has the two-piece propeller shaft along the center of the chassis with the battery pack and R/C unit positioned at chassis sides. The chassis also comes equipped with high-spec parts such as knuckle extensions, parallel steering link, and rear direct coupling to offer an exciting drift experience.”

Features

  • Equipped with the TB-03’s front and rear gearboxes
  • 2.5mm thick carbon fiber lower deck
  • Aluminum center F/R gearbox braces which offer superior chassis strength
  • The chassis layout is optimized for drifting and features a 2-piece propeller shaft along the center line of the chassis with the battery pack, motor, and R/C radio gear positioned on either side of the car
  • 4-wheel double wishbone suspension is equipped with short reversible suspension arms as seen on the TB-03, TA-05 Version 2, and TRF 416,417
  • TRF (Tamiya Racing Factory) Aluminum threaded shock body and Teflon piston dampers included
  • A parallel geometry steering system with both left and right symmetrical steering angles offers excellent control and easier counter-steering maneuvers
  • Front ball diff and rear direct coupling (spool)
  • 2-piece universal propeller shaft
  • Aluminum turnbuckle shafts
  • Front and Rear universal shafts
  • Aluminum hex wheel hubs
  • Hi-torque servo saver included
  • Steel diff joints for improved wear and durability

Hobbypower Alloy & Carbon RWD Drift Racing Chassis

Tamiya TT-02D image

Our comment: If you’re keen to buy a chassis setup, but haven’t got the money to splash out on the upper-price-bracket Tamiya TB-03 above, then fear not, as Hobbypower has the ultimate alternative for those of you looking for a fantastic chassis on a budget.

This chassis is made with premium alloy and carbon and represents incredible value for money.

Unlike the other kits in our guide, this is a rear-wheel-drive setup with the weight centered at the back, and an ultra-wide-angle steering system for maximum steering lock capabilities.

You’ll struggle to get more for your money than this RWD belt-driven car, but you will still need to consider the costs of electronics and the body shell(s).

For beginners on a budget that are keen to learn exactly how to build an RC car from the ground up, you aren’t going to get better value for money than this chassis.

Manufacturer description: “This is a Rear-wheel drive (RWD)1:10 drift kit which is very suitable for drifting beginners.”

“The kit weight centered at the back and it already comes with the ultra wide angle steering system making the beginner easier to handle and enjoy the drifting experience.”

Features

  • Main Chassis, Upper Deck, Front, and Rear Shock Towers
  • 2-Belt Drive System
  • KIT-D4AWD Internal Gear Ratio is 1.47
  • Ultra Wide Angle Universal Driveshafts (65 degrees)
  • Height. Adjustable. Dampers & Full Bearing
  • Wide Double-Wishbone Suspension Design
  • 15 Degrees Front Caster Angle
  • Adjustable Y Shaped Front Upper Suspension Arms
  • Weight: 800g

Needed to complete

It’s worth remembering that this kit doesn’t come with the following parts, which will need to be purchased separately, but this allows you to choose the best products for your needs:

  • 1/10 Drift Body & Paint
  • Motor & ESC
  • 2 Channel Radio System (minimum)
  • Steering Servo
  • Shorty LiPo Battery & Charger

MST FMX 2.0 “LCG” RWD Electric Drift Car Kit

mst fmx 2 0 lcg rwd electric rc drift cars

Our comment: For intermediate/advanced drifters with a bigger budget, this could be the perfect opportunity to land yourself an epic carbon fiber chassis.

An LCG (low center of gravity) aluminum motor mount is positioned 5mm lower than the previous generation, which provides increased stability and control.

The upper deck is made from carbon fiber, which looks incredible and makes it strong and lightweight.

This is an excellent choice for beginners to experienced RC enthusiasts looking for a reasonably-priced carbon fiber drift chassis with a lower-midrange price tag.

Manufacturer description: “The MST FMX 2.0 “LCG” 1/10 RWD Electric Drift Car Kit is a mid-motor, rear-wheel drive kit designed with the enthusiast in mind. Featuring high-quality carbon fiber and molded composite parts, super smooth shocks, and a plethora of tuning settings available right out of the box, this kit delivers great steering angles in a mid-motor platform that is great for both beginners and experienced enthusiasts alike.”

“This redesigned LCG aluminum motor mount lowers the center of gravity of the motor by up to 5mm than the last generation, which further increases the stability and control. The freshly designed carbon upper deck is separated from the motor mount, increasing the torsion of the car body, reducing the height of the upper deck, and more dynamic and streamlined visual looks.”

Features

  • Middle motor mounts and centralized configurations
  • Carbon fiber chassis with dual vertical carbon fiber upper deck
  • A redesigned great front suspension system
  • Adjustable Ackerman angle variation in 2 sections of the steering system
  • Front steering wheel base KPI at 6 degrees. – 0.5 towing distance of axle
  • Redesigned front upper arm inside seat supports 10-steps bi-side adjustments
  • Full dust-proof rear gearbox with the bevel gear shaft drive
  • Standard ball differential
  • A variable second reduction ratio of the rear axle in a total of 6 variable range of 1.78-3.82 (standard 3.82)
  • Updated carbon upper deck
  • Standard equipped with a realistic car brake and caliper set

Needed to complete

It’s worth remembering that this kit doesn’t come with the following parts, which will need to be purchased separately, but this allows you to choose the best products for your needs:

  • 1/10 Drift Body & Paint
  • Motor & ESC
  • 2 Channel Radio System (minimum)
  • Steering Servo
  • Shorty LiPo Battery & Charger
  • Wheels & Tires

MST FXX 2.0 S RWD Electric Drift Car Kit

mst fxx 2 0 s rwd electric rc drift cars

Our comment: Although the FXX 2.0 comes in at a higher price than the RMX 2.0, it’s likely to make for a more suitable setup for intermediate/advanced drifters looking to take their skills to the next level.

It may not have fancy carbon fiber parts, which admittedly leaves it more prone to damage, but if you’re drifting in an open space with few solid obstacles, that shouldn’t be too much of a concern.

This kit is also available without a bodyshell, but for an additional twenty bucks, we think it’s well worth going with one of the body shell kits, even if you only intend to use it as a spare, or perhaps for show.

Manufacturer description: “The MST FXX 2.0 S 1/10 RWD Electric Drift Car Kit combines the centralized chassis configuration of the FXX 2.0 KMW, with a redesigned motor forward transmission configuration and front suspension system to create an amazingly progressive driving experience.”

“This rear-wheel drive-specific design is complimented by the unique MB rear suspension system that provides increased rear geometry adjustments, allowing the suspension to better handle steep drift angles with an optimized secondary reduction ratio for improved throttle control. All of these features combined create a high-performance chassis that provides handling characteristics more like that of a 1:1 drift car.”

Features

  • The front motor configuration creates a feel similar to a real drift car, for a more realistic driving experience
  • CNC machined chassis with the readjusted center of gravity provides better weight distribution
  • Updated motor mount, suspension, and ATK system
  • The integrated steering system with redesigned aluminum alloy steering connection plate updates the geometry settings to create steep front wheel steering angles, allowing for greater drift angles
  • Equipped with MB rear suspension system for increased adjustments and tuning possibilities
  • Steel CVD axle for the rear transmission system
  • Standard realistic caliper and disc brake set
  • Full ball bearings
  • Hydraulic Dampers

Needed to complete

It’s worth remembering that this kit doesn’t come with the following parts, which will need to be purchased separately, but this allows you to choose the best products for your needs:

  • 1/10 Drift Body & Paint
  • Motor & ESC
  • 2 Channel Radio System (minimum)
  • Steering Servo
  • Shorty LiPo Battery & Charger
  • Wheels & Tires

Yokomo YD-2E RWD Drift Car Kit

Yokomo YD-2E imageYokomo YD-2E image

Our comment: Yokomo is arguably the highest-regarded company in the RC drift car market, but not all their products are eye-wateringly expensive!

The entry-level YD-2E chassis comes with a fantastic price tag with the plastic chassis version for those looking to get started.

However, if you’re feeling fancy, then there’s also the graphite ‘PLUS’ model alternative to choose from, which comes from the high-end ‘E’ series model.

Manufacturer description: “The Yokomo YD-2E 2WD RWD Drift Car Kit is helping to drive the RWD trend in the drift world. Featuring updated “short type” Front Suspension Arms to optimize the Ackermann setting and prevent interference with the wheels, these arms offer increased steering angle and improved overall performance. The chassis tub allows the use of standard and shorty type LiPo batteries, as well as 6-cell nickel packs.”

“The kit includes LS Rear Lower Suspension Arms as standard for more down stroke and increased grip in order to achieve both stability and speed at the same time. A 4-gear transmission positions the motor horizontally and helps to prevent torque twists. Plus, the design helps to encourage power traction, providing increased stability and acceleration during corner exit.”

Features

  • 4 Gear rear transmission
  • Closed gearbox
  • Four-wheel independent double wishbone suspension
  • Front short suspension arm
  • High-performance vehicle height adjustable oil damper
  • Resin-made one-piece main chassis
  • Aluminum motor mounting plate
  • RWD exclusive high-angle steering system
  • 49mm bone rear universal shaft
  • LS Rear lower suspension arm
  • Large Rear Diffuser

Needed to complete

It’s worth remembering that this kit doesn’t come with the following parts, which will need to be purchased separately, but this allows you to choose the best products for your needs:

  • 1/10 Drift Body & Paint
  • 2-Channel radio system
  • Electronic Speed Control
  • 540 Motor
  • Steering Servo
  • 7.4V LiPo battery pack
  • Compatible battery charger
  • Drift car tires & Wheels
  • Steering Gyro

Yokomo YD-2R Plus RWD Drift Car Kit

yokomo yd 2r plus rc drift cars

Our comment: The YD-2R Plus is the mid-range offering from Yokomo, which features a matte graphite double-deck chassis and a six-stage adjustable rear-mounted motor for superior weight balance.

With this layout, you’ll have additional grip in the rear, thanks to the weight being placed on the back. Combined with the aluminium shocks and towers, you’ll achieve maximum traction, which is perfect if you often drift in low-grip areas.

If you’re looking for a competitive car without having to go into the premium price bracket, the YD-2R plus is likely to offer the perfect solution.

Manufacturer description: “The Yokomo YD-2R Plus 1/10 2WD RWD Drift Car Kit was created to deliver the rear traction control needed on low-grip tracks found in drifting circles. Yokomo achieves superior rear traction with an updated rear-motor design, a layout that can maximize traction without changing the total weight of the kit.”

“In this layout, the motor is mounted on the rear overhang to distribute the load directly to rear tires, exactly where you want it on low-grip drifting tracks. Acceleration will apply the maximum load to the contact surface of the rear tires, giving them the bite they need to pull out of turns and maneuver with agility. This is a high-spec machine equipped with the popular graphite double-deck chassis, aluminum SLF oil shock, aluminum front, and rear shock towers, and much more.”

Features

  • Rear motor and rear two-wheel drive
  • Redesigned Integrated upper deck
  • Matte graphite double-deck Chassis
  • 6-stage adjustable aluminum motor mount
  • 4-wheel independent double wishbone suspension
  • 3 gears Rear Transmission
  • Updated Sealed gearbox
  • Aluminum front /rear shock tower
  • Narrow scrub steering block
  • Straight /short Li-po Battery compatible

Needed to complete

It’s worth remembering that this kit doesn’t come with the following parts, which will need to be purchased separately, but this allows you to choose the best products for your needs:

  • 1/10 Drift Body & Paint
  • 2-Channel radio system
  • Electronic Speed Control
  • 540 Motor
  • Steering Servo
  • Battery (Li-po 2-cell, shorty type)
  • Compatible battery charger
  • Drift car tires & Wheels

Yokomo YD-2ZX 1/10 RWD Competition Drift Car Kit

yokomo yd 2zx rc drift cars

Our comment: If you’re planning to go down the competitive route, and you’ll settle for nothing less than the best, the YD-2ZX is the ultimate premium pick.

Available in black, red, or purple, the YD-2ZX has been specifically designed with competition in mind and offers the ultimate platform to secure a spot on the podium without needing to upgrade various components.

Yokomo is the master of RC car design, and we’re confident that this flagship graphite offering will not disappoint.

Manufacturer description: “The Yokomo YD-2ZX 1/10 2WD RWD Competition Drift Car Kit has been designed to become the top model RWD drift car. Built for performance this drift chassis gives the user many features to provide a smooth and stylish experience. With the Yokomo YD-2ZX, you can drift like there’s no tomorrow.”

“This drift car features a high traction graphite chassis and double deck design. Yokomo changed the way the steering servo attaches to the chassis side, making the upper deck more flexible. This allows for a smoother steering feel without hindering the flex of the chassis. The transmission is equipped with a unique motor mount allowing for a higher motor mount and better heat dissipation. The battery can be fully moved within the chassis without hindering kinetic performance. The front bulkhead, suspension mount, shock tower, and big bore shock are made from machined aluminum for high rigidity and lower weight. These features come together to deliver a highly competitive chassis.”

Features

  • Redesigned graphite main chassis & upper deck
  • Vibrant Purple Anodized aluminum parts
  • Graphite front bumper
  • Slide rack steering system
  • Aluminum special motor mount
  • Aluminum shock towers
  • Aluminum suspension mounts
  • Aluminum lower suspension arm adapter
  • Aluminum integrated front bulkhead
  • Aluminum SLF Big Bore Shock
  • Aluminum Gear Diff Joint
  • Aluminum Hexagon Hub
  • Graphite front bumper/brace
  • Aluminum 3mm steering stopper
  • Front/rear short suspension arms

Needed to complete

It’s worth remembering that this kit doesn’t come with the following parts, which will need to be purchased separately, but this allows you to choose the best products for your needs:

  • 2-Channel radio system
  • Electronic Speed Control
  • 540 Motor
  • Standard-size steering servo
  • 7.4V LiPo “Shorty” or Stick LiPo battery pack
  • LiPo-compatible battery charger
  • Drift car tires & Wheels
  • 200mm TC or Drift body
  • Polycarbonate paint for the body

Usukani D3T 1/8 RC Drift Tricycle Chassis Kit

usukani d3t 1 8 rc drift tricycle trike chassis bajcica rc drift cars

Our comment: If you’re looking for a unique RC drift car to stand out at events, look no further than the epic Usuakni D3T drift trike!

Your rival competitors will be in awe as you throw down some epic lines with these well-refined three-wheelers!

Although they won’t be up to the standard of the premium offerings that companies such as Yokomo have to offer, you’ll undoubtedly walk away from every event with the crowd-pleaser award!

Manufacturer description: “The Usukani D3T 1/8 RC Drift Tricycle Chassis Kit is a special version of the TUKCICA kit with an updated BAJCICA body set included. High-quality components and attention to design make this 1/8th scale trike an exciting and responsive product.”

“The unique three-wheeled drifting platform includes two bodies for optional appearances and slick drifting style. Decide between either the original TUKCICA body shown in the video below or the alternate BAJCICA body with the covered and enclosed tricycle bed. Pick colors, paint the bodies and get drifting in style!”

Features

  • Three wheels (RWD)
  • Three-gear transmission seal gear case
  • Rear wheel independent suspension
  • Front fork two-spring shock
  • Rear wheel Damping Shock Absorber
  • Adjustable Front Fork angle System
  • Dual spring steering buffer tie rod+
  • Rims
  • Ultrathin drift tries (PP/HDPE)
  • Full ball bearing
  • High tenacity and impact resistance Nylon
  • Metal motor mount
  • Metal pinion gear (Gear ratio: approx 10.77)
  • Metal Spur Gear Adapter
  • Stainless steel Universal Bone
  • Transparent PC bodyshell

Needed to complete

It’s worth remembering that this kit doesn’t come with the following parts, which will need to be purchased separately, but this allows you to choose the best products for your needs:

  • Transmitter
  • Receiver
  • Low height servo
  • Gyro
  • ESC
  • Type 540 motor
  • 7.4V 2S short lipo battery

Our ready-to-run RC drift car choice

With their upgraded brushless ready-to-run car, speeds of up to 60km/h can be achieved from this incredible value-for-money kit.

Our choice for the ready-to-run RC Drift Cars is the HSP FlyingFish Nissan Skyline GT-R RC Drift Car

Since this is likely to be too fast and advanced for beginners, there is also their cheaper brushed kit, which would be the perfect car for those of you that are looking to get started with the perfect Ready-to-Run RC drift car on a budget.

Some of you may be wondering why the HSP FlyingFish has won over some of its rivals, such as the MST RMX 2.5 RTR, and the main reason for this decision is value for money.

The HSP FlyingFish provides a fantastic platform for those with a lower budget looking to get into RC drifting at a fraction of the price.

Ready-to-Run HSP FlyingFish Nissan Skyline GT-R RC Drift Car

Ready-to-Run HSP FlyingFish Nissan Skyline image

Our RC drift car kit choice

Although the Tamiya TT-02D took the win in our outdated RC drift cars guide, there has been a big shake-up in recent years with the introduction of the MST RMX 2.0.

Our choice for the RC Drift Car Kit choice is the MST RMX 2.0

While Yokomo fans will often recommend the YD-2 chassis, this has become a similar argument to the never-ending Android vs Apple debate in recent years, with both having minor pros and cons.

Both chassis’ are incredible when sliding sideways, and for many RC drift fans, it comes down to convenience and availability of spares and upgrades at your local hobby shop.

However, MST is the clear winner when it comes to providing a fantastic setup out of the box, alongside the latest shells on the market with their ready-to-run kits – providing the likes of the Rocket Bunny kitted Toyota GT86 and GR Supra, alongside the new Ford Mustang.

If you’re willing to consider a perfect all-arounder ready-to-run kit, we highly recommend checking out what the MST RMX 2.5 Brushless RTR Drift Car offers. Although this RTR version is more expensive, you’re getting everything you need right out of the box.

MST RMX 2.5

toyota supra mst rmx 2 rc drift cars

Our RC drift car chassis choice

Now, admittedly this is a controversial winner since the Yokomo YD-2 is technically a more refined and superior quality kit.

Our choice for the RC drift car chassis is the Hobbypower Alloy & Carbon RWD Drift Racing Chassis

However, due to the significant price difference, there’s no question in our mind that the Hobbypower chassis represents incredible value for money, especially when stacking the two head-to-head.

With that said, if you’re looking for the ultimate RC drift chassis, and you don’t mind spending the extra bucks on the perfect drift setup, then we would highly recommend going for the Yokomo YD-2RX.

So, we’re sticking to our guns with Hobbypower as our winner, and for beginners on a budget that are keen to build their first car, there is no better option for the price on the market.

Hobbypower Alloy & Carbon RWD Drift Racing Chassis

Hobbypower Alloy & Carbon RWD Drift Racing Chassis

Thank you for reading our RC drift cars guide

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The post Best RC Drift Cars Guide For 2023 first appeared on Drifted.com.

]]> Lexus SC400 – A JDM Legend? https://www.drifted.com/lexus-sc400/ Mon, 06 Mar 2023 13:37:28 +0000 https://www.drifted.com/?p=279104 Discover the Lexus SC400 - an iconic sports coupe with the perfect combination of luxury and Japanese-engineered performance.

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]]> Discover the Lexus SC400 – an iconic sports coupe with the perfect combination of luxury and Japanese-engineered performance.

sc400

What Is The Lexus SC400?

Before we dive into more complex topics like the specs of the SC400, let’s first look at what the SC400 is in general.

The SC400 was conceived as a competitor to Mercedes and BMW in the luxury coupe segment. Luxury cars make the most profit, so with its Lexus brand, Toyota is always trying to share some of the sales with its German rivals.

Lexus started working on their Lexus coupe and created clay models in the early 1990s; the SC400 was soon available in 1991.

And honestly, the SC400 is probably one of the most desired Japanese cars when we discuss luxury cars. It came only as a two-door coupe and had no sedan version.

It was a significant refresh in the Lexus lineup. The United States model was known as the SC400, but this name was only available for the USDM (US Domestic Market.)

The JDM model was known as the legendary Toyota Soarer. So, don’t be surprised to hear this name – the Soarer and SC 400 are essentially the same car.

But what is worth noting is that the SC does not have to do with the LS 400 model. This completely different model was built on the Toyota Supra A80 platform.

It kept the same rear-drive powertrain but with a more old-school design language. The Supra and the SC400 are practically twins. In general, the 90s were the golden era for JDM cars.

SC400 Generations

Before diving into the different generations of the SC400, let’s learn more about the various model iterations in detail.

The first ever SC400 hit the showrooms in 1991, and 1992 was the first model year. This first generation was produced until 2000, when the model was superseded.

The second generation of the SC400 was introduced in 2001, and the model was produced until 2010, when it was discontinued.

Unfortunately, even though there were a lot of rumors, we didn’t experience seeing a replacement for this legendary model. So, only two generations were ever made.

Another essential thing to note is that the second generation of the SC was known as the SC430. So, the SC400 model was only produced between 1991 and 2000.

That’s why if you are looking for a model produced after 2000, this is an SC430, not an SC400.

Now let’s move on and discuss the SC400 in detail and learn more about the specs of this vehicle.

First Generation Lexus SC400 (1991 - 2000)

Now let’s dive into the first generation of the SC400. As noted, this model was introduced in 1991, and 1992 was the first model year. The model was produced until 2000 when the second generation replaced it.

Nevertheless, this model was based on the fourth-generation Toyota Supra. It was essentially a Supra with a Lexus emblem for the luxury market in America.

Thus, it includes a leather interior, a dashboard covered in leather, an expensive-looking cabin, and many additional luxuries.

The model came with many controls, like power windows, power controls for the driver-side seat, and much more.

The SC400 also featured quite a modern suspension MacPherson struts and an independent multi-link suspension in the rear.

Overall, we think the SC’s design stood the test of time and still looks quite modern, even by today’s standards.

We can honestly say that the model is a modern classic. This is why it is so desired on the second-hand market.

Not only that, this model is available for a real bargain. But more on the price for which you can get the model, we will discuss later on.

The important thing to note is that this model was assembled only in Japan in two different factories: the Fiji plant and the Motomachi plant.

Now that we introduced ourselves to the model let’s look at this vehicle’s dimensions and size.

Dimensions & Size

What is worth noting about this model is that based on the Supra. So, it shares the same wheelbase of 105.9 inches. The length varies because, through the years, the model grew in size a little bit.

Between 1992 and 1997, the length was 191.3 inches. While between 1998 and 2000, the length was about 192.5 inches.

rear sc400

In terms of class, this model is a mid-size car. But with two doors.

The curb weight of the SC400 was 3,604 lbs, making it fairly lightweight for a vehicle built for luxury comforts.

Engines & Transmissions

Now let’s take a look at the engines and transmissions that were used in the SC400. What type of engine this model has?

We are sorry to disappoint you, but the famous 2JZ is not included in this model. If you want a 2JZ, you want the SC300 model. This is a lower-spec version of the SC.

Regarding the engine used in the SC400, you’re treated to a 4.0L V8, known under the codename 1UZ-FE.

The engine is naturally aspirated. The model creates about 290hp and 300 lb-ft of torque. It powers the rear wheels. So, the model is RWD only.

The model comes with a 5-speed automatic; there isn’t an option with manual transmission available.

If you want a manual, you’ll be best off going with the SC300 since this model has a 5-speed manual.

Fuel Economy

Another thing that we would like to cover regarding the SC400 is fuel economy. What kind of mileage does this model get?

When you consider that this is a V8 engine, the numbers it delivers are pretty good. The 1998 model gets about 17 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. The average fuel economy is 19 mpg.

Overall, this model does not disappoint when it comes to fuel economy. But if you want something more fuel-efficient, we would recommend the SC300. Since it is a smaller engine, this model will deliver about 23 mpg on average, which is a decent number.

Safety

In terms of safety, the SC400 is pretty decent for its time. Remember that this is a model that was introduced in 1991.

Standards in those times were different; generally, no certified safety tests existed.

Because safety was not considered a priority, those were different times, and for many carmakers, looks were always the priority.

Even though the SC400 implements dual front airbags. Which is a big bonus. Considering that in 1991 the number of cars with airbags was relatively low.

interior sc400

In addition to this, the model also implemented four-wheel disc brakes with ABS. ABS is also a feature included on all modern vehicles, although back in the day was considered a luxury.

In addition, there were three-point seatbelts and front and rear crumple zones engineered to absorb the impact the best they could. And if you see some crashed cars from this model, you will notice that the car’s cage is pretty much intact.

SC400 Prices

The new cars back in the day were costly when it came to cost – the base price for a Lexus SC400 started at $47,000. In today’s money, this translates to a price of $95,000. Pretty crazy, huh?

Nowadays, the same models are affordable if you want to purchase one on the used car market. The cheapest one we could find on Autotrader was available for just $7,000.

You can find some in decent condition and low miles for $12,000, but some immaculate, expensive models can still go high in value.

The most expensive model that we could find was about $29,800, with only 6,000 miles and good service records.

To many new buyers, we recommend that you find a reputable seller that will not scam you in any way.

Also, a car with a good service history is a must. Since the prices of these cars rise over time, you can expect your investment to rise similarly.

So, when purchasing this model, consider it an investment since these cars will not go down in value soon.

SC400 Problems

We have covered the specs of the Lexus SC400. Now, let’s move on and learn more about the common issues associated with this model.

There are a lot of common problems with these vehicles. Luckily, they are minor and are not powertrain related.

The control arm bushings and lower ball joints are common problems with this vehicle. They tend to fail and cause drivability problems.

In addition to this, there can also be some power steering leaks. These leaks develop under the fluid tank or on the main hose, and they will eventually cause the alternator to fail since the fluid will leak on the alternator.

Also, there are problems with cracks in the radiator overflow tank. So, this has to be replaced at some point during the ownership.

The cabin vents could crack from temperature changes, which also have to be replaced at some point if they were not replaced already.

Blacked-out LCD screen for climate control is widespread as well. But you can replace this screen for about $125, as some owners reported.

In addition, the backlighting and the light for the needles also go out. So, the cluster can fail to show any light even though everything works well. In this instance, you will have to replace the lights on the cluster.

Door hinges can also start to sag; consequently, the door will sag too. This is the case because this is a coupe. When it comes to coupes, doors are heavier, so they can say. The solution is replacing the hinges with new ones.

Another problem with this model is the development of cracks on the upper door panel where the driver rests his hand while driving. Replacing this panel will sort the problem.

And last but not least is the window regulator. Window regulators tend to fail on the SC400; you’ll likely need to replace them sooner or later.

SC400 Reliability

Regarding reliability, we can say that the SC400 is a pretty reliable model. The car does not have major problems whatsoever.

Even though our list of problems that we noted previously might scare you, these issues should not scare you away from buying the car.

You should take these notes as a guideline when buying your dream car. Be aware of these issues and check the car and see if some of them are in the car you plan to buy.

If none of these issues are present, congratulations, you found yourself a true gem. And make sure that you don’t miss out on the chance of getting a reliable vehicle.

SC400 Maintenance Costs

Regarding the maintenance cost, we can say that this model is quite demanding. This is not your regular Toyota.

Lexus models have more expensive maintenance costs and more extensive maintenance procedures. So, you must be prepared for this when buying a model like this.

This is why we often recommend getting the model with the 2JZ engine. Since this smaller engine is much more reliable and cheaper to maintain, you will save a ton of money in the process.

Conclusion

Overall, the SC400 is a true testament to the quality, comfort, and performance you can expect from Lexus.

The SC400 is the pinnacle of luxury that Lexus sold back in the day and as such, we can say that the model has created a true legacy among car guys.

This is why these models’ prices go up significantly even though they are almost three decades old.

Before buying, we strongly recommend you research and learn about common problems and what to expect.

Regarding our recommendations – we would recommend going for the SC300, mainly because it is cheaper and a more reliable vehicle to maintain overall. The 2JZ also has impressive tuning capabilities and can be transformed into a turbocharged weapon if performance is your end-goal.

Not sure if the SC lineup is quite right for you? Perhaps the GS300 could also be a consideration?

The post Lexus SC400 – A JDM Legend? first appeared on Drifted.com.

]]> Crazy Cheap Cars – Ultimate Bargains https://www.drifted.com/crazy-cheap-cars/ Mon, 27 Feb 2023 16:26:20 +0000 https://www.drifted.com/?p=269574 Our comprehensive crazy cheap cars selection proves that you can have fun on the street or the track without breaking the bank.

The post Crazy Cheap Cars – Ultimate Bargains first appeared on Drifted.com.

]]> Our crazy cheap cars selection proves that you can have fun on the street or the track without breaking the bank.

crazy cheap cars

Although many people nowadays are more interested in taking out huge loans to show off their latest ride, car enthusiasts are (quite rightly) more likely to figure out how much horsepower they can get for their budget.

While some of you may be looking for a crazy cheap daily driver, others may be looking for the best crazy cheap cars for their next crazy cheap drift project.

Crazy Cheap Cars – Our Top Picks

In this guide, most of the crazy cheap cars will set you back under $6,000, but there’s certainly no compromise regarding performance.

If you’re happy to splash extra cash, there are some additional options, but we’ve ensured none are over $10,000.

Ford Mustang Fourth generation (1994-2004)

mustang sn95 crazy cheap cars

The Ford Mustang SN95 is a sports car model produced by Ford Motor Company from 1994 to 2004. It is the fourth generation of the Ford Mustang and was built on the Fox platform.

The SN95 Mustang was available in a coupe and convertible body styles and was offered a variety of engine options, including a 4.6-liter V8 in the GT model.

SN95 Mustangs also featured a refreshed exterior design, with a more aerodynamic shape and updated headlights and taillights. The interior was also updated with new materials and technology.

In its younger years, the SN95 Mustang was well-received by critics and car enthusiasts and is considered a classic model of the Ford Mustang.

Ford produced a LOT of the SN95, which is why they’re pretty cheap, and you’ll have the added benefit of a thriving spares market.

Great for us, since they make for fantastic drift builds, too!

So, whether you’re looking for a daily driver or a drift project, the SN95 makes an ideal crazy cheap car.

Mitsubishi Eclipse

eclipse gsx awd crazy cheap cars

Mitsubishi’s Eclipse is a compact sports car produced by Mitsubishi Motors from 1989 to 2011. It was available in a coupe and convertible body styles and was marketed as a sporty, affordable car.

The Eclipse was initially powered by various 4-cylinder engines, but later models also offered a V6 option. The Eclipse was available in several trim levels and featured a variety of standard and optional features, including air conditioning, power windows and mirrors, and a CD player.

Well-regarded for its performance and handling, the Eclipse was particularly popular among younger buyers and enthusiasts. In particular, we love the first and second generation of the Eclipse, since those used to come with an AWD paired with a manual.

The Eclipse is known for its sleek, sporty styling and distinctive angular design.

The Eclipse was discontinued after the 2011 model year, but it remains a famous and iconic model among car enthusiasts thanks to its inclusion in the Fast & Furious series.

Mitsubishi 3000GT

mitsubishi 3000gt crazy cheap cars

Our next crazy cheap cars choice is Mitsubishi produced the Mitsubishi 3000GT sports car from 1990 to 2000.

Available in both coupe and convertible body styles, the 3000GT was sold under various names, including the Mitsubishi GTO and Dodge Stealth.

Various engines, including a 3.0-liter V6 and a twin-turbocharged version of that engine, powered the 3000GT. It featured all-wheel drive, four-wheel steering, and active aerodynamics, which helped to improve its handling and stability.

The 3000GT’s production ended in 2000, and it was not replaced by a direct successor, which helps make it a crazy cheap car that you can get your hands on for under $6,000.

Mitsubishi Lancer

lancer ralliart awd crazy cheap cars

Next in our crazy cheap cars list is the Mitsubishi Lancer – a compact car that has been in production since 1973.

It has been sold under various nameplates worldwide, including the Mitsubishi Colt and Mitsubishi Mirage.

The Lancer has been offered in various body styles, including sedan, wagon, and hatchback.

Various engines, including four-cylinder and six-cylinder engines, have been the heart of the Lancer, known for its reliability and value for money.

In recent years, the Lancer has been offered a range of features such as all-wheel drive, turbocharged engines, and advanced safety features.

The Lancer Evolution, also known as the Evo, was a high-performance version of the Lancer that was produced from 1992 to 2016.

It featured a turbocharged engine, all-wheel drive, and advanced suspension and braking systems, and was popular among enthusiasts for its rally-inspired performance. You can read more about the Evo 8 here at Drifted.

Although most of the Evo’s won’t fall under the crazy cheap cars bracket, with luck, you’ll be able to find a perfect Lancer that you can modify later on.

Preferably, go for a Ralliart variant if you can, since this model features AWD.

BMW 325i / 330i / 328i / 335i (E46)

bmw 330i e46 crazy cheap cars

The BMW E46 is the fourth generation of the BMW 3 Series, produced from 1998 to 2006.

It was available in various body styles, including sedan, wagon, coupe, and convertible.

The E46 was notable for its sporty handling and performance, high-quality interior, and advanced features.

The E46 was powered by a range of engines, including inline-four and inline-six engines, and it was available with a manual or automatic transmission.

An upgraded, high-performance M3 version was powered by a 3.2-liter inline-six engine that produced up to 343 horsepower. It also featured a sport-tuned suspension, larger brakes, and unique styling.

The E46 also featured a range of advanced technology and safety features, such as stability control, traction control, and various airbags. It also had advanced options like automatic climate control, a premium sound system, and a navigation system.

It’s worth noting that the E46 was also known for its reliability, although some specific models and engines have had certain issues.

If you’re in the market for one of the crazy cheap cars that are going to make the perfect drifting platform, there are limited examples out there that can match the 3-series for the price.

Infiniti G35

infiniti g35 crazy cheap cars

The Infiniti G35 is a luxury sports sedan produced by Nissan’s luxury brand, Infiniti, from 2002 to 2008. It was available in both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations.

The G35 was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produced up to 306 horsepower and was available with a manual or automatic transmission.

A coupe version was also offered, called G35 Coupe, which was sold from 2003 to 2007. It shared most of its features and engine options with the sedan version, but it had more aggressive styling, and it was available with a 6-speed manual transmission and rear-wheel drive.

In 2008, the G35 was replaced by the Infiniti G37, which featured a larger 3.7-liter V6 engine and a more luxurious interior.

Known as the cheaper alternative to the Nissan 350Z, and based on the same platform, it’s easy to see why so many drifting fans have made the G35 their top pick when it comes to crazy cheap cars.

Lexus LS400

lexus ls400 crazy cheap cars

The Lexus LS400 is a full-size luxury car produced by Lexus, the luxury division of Toyota, from 1989 to 2000.

The first generation of the LS400 was introduced in 1989 as the flagship model of the Lexus brand. It was designed to compete with other high-end luxury cars, such as the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and the BMW 7 Series.

LS400s are powered by a 4.0-liter V8 1uz-fe engine that produces 250 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. It was paired with a four-speed automatic transmission and was available with rear-wheel drive. It featured a smooth and refined ride, and it was known for its quiet cabin and advanced technology.

The LS400 was also known for its high level of standard equipment, including leather seats, a premium sound system, and automatic climate control. It also had advanced options like a navigation system, a sunroof, and a power-adjustable steering wheel.

For many, the Lexus LS400 was considered one of the best luxury cars of its time, thanks to its build quality, smooth ride, and advanced technology. The LS430 succeeded the LS400 in 2001.

Thankfully, the LS400 remains an absolute steal for those of you looking for a crazy cheap car that ticks all of the baller/VIP/comfort boxes.

Lexus GS 300 / GS 350

lexus gs300 crazy cheap cars

The Lexus GS is a mid-size luxury car in production since 1991. The GS 300 and GS 350 are two versions of the vehicle that were produced in different model years.

The Lexus GS 300 was produced from 1991 to 2005. It was powered by a 3.0-liter inline-six engine that produced up to 220 horsepower.

It was available with rear-wheel drive. The Lexus GS 350 was produced from 2006 to 2011, and it was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produced up to 306 horsepower. The GS 350 also had an RWD layout - big YAY!

They were known for their build quality, comfortable ride, and advanced technology, but more importantly, they are good drift builds too!

Although it’s newer than the LS400, its popularity means that it it’s a much more affordable option – perfect for our crazy cheap cars selection.

Both models have been succeeded by later versions of the Lexus GS, which are still in production today.

Lexus SC430

lexus sc430 crazy cheap cars

The Lexus SC430 is a luxury convertible sports car produced by Lexus, the luxury division of Toyota, from 2001 to 2010.

During its production, the SC430 was the only convertible model in the Lexus lineup.

The SC430 was powered by a 4.3-liter V8 engine that produced up to 288 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, and it was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.

One of the most notable features of the SC430 is its power retractable hardtop, which could be opened or closed in about 25 seconds, providing pleasurable open-air motoring or the comfort of a coupe, depending on the weather and the driver’s preference.

The SC430 was criticized for its high price and lack of sportiness compared to other luxury convertibles.

But that didn’t stop Daigo Saito from transforming it into one of the most popular cars ever seen in Formula Drift.

The SC430 was discontinued in 2010, and it wasn’t replaced by a direct successor. It can be easily sourced under the $6,000 region.

Dodge Challenger

dodge challenger crazy cheap cars

The Dodge Challenger is a muscle car in production since 1970. It was first introduced as a two-door coupe and designed to compete with other muscle cars such as the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro.

The first generation of the Challenger was produced from 1970 to 1974, but it was later discontinued. It was reintroduced in 2008 as a two-door coupe and continues to be made today.

The current generation of the Challenger is available in several trim levels, including the SXT, GT, R/T, R/T Scat Pack, and SRT Hellcat.

It is powered by various engines, including a 3.6-liter V6, a 5.7-liter V8, a 6.4-liter V8, and a supercharged 6.2-liter V8.

The Challenger has rear-wheel drive and features a comfortable and spacious interior, advanced technology, and high-performance options.

The Challenger is known for its classic muscle car styling, its powerful engines, and its comfortable and spacious interior.

The Challenger is considered a modern muscle car and is popular among enthusiasts for its performance and retro styling.

With some digging, you can find a 3.6L variant for $8000, it might not be the cheapest, but this is going to be one of the best crazy cheap cars when it comes to putting a smile on your face!

Dodge Charger

dodge charger 2014 crazy cheap cars

The Dodge Charger is a full-size sedan that has been in production since 1966. It was first introduced as a two-door muscle car and it was designed to compete with other muscle cars such as the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro.

The first generation of the Charger was produced from 1966 to 1978, but it was later discontinued. It was reintroduced in 2005 as a four-door sedan and continues to be produced today.

The current generation of the Charger is available in several different trim levels, including the SXT, GT, R/T, R/T Scat Pack, and SRT Hellcat. It is powered by a range of engines, including a 3.6-liter V6, a 5.7-liter V8, a 6.4-liter V8, and a supercharged 6.2-liter V8.

The Charger is available with rear-wheel drive and it features a comfortable and spacious interior, advanced technology, and high-performance options, just like the Challenger, but it is a bit heavier.

Nissan 350z

nissan 350z crazy cheap cars

The Nissan 350Z is a sports car produced by the Japanese automaker Nissan from 2002 to 2009. It is the fifth generation of the Nissan Z-car line, which began with the Datsun 240Z in 1970.

The 350Z was available in coupe and roadster body styles and was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine. The car received positive reviews for its performance, and handling and was popular among enthusiasts.

Production of the 350Z ended in 2009, and it was replaced by the 370Z in the Nissan lineup, which is another great car, but unfortunately, out of our budget.

As far as crazy cheap cars that are also capable of performing when it comes to going sideways at the track go, the 350Z may be the perfect combination.

Nissan 240sx

240sx nissan crazy cheap cars

The Nissan 240SX is a sports car produced by the Japanese automaker Nissan from 1989 to 1998. It was available as a coupe or hatchback and was powered by a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine.

Initially offered with a naturally aspirated engine, JDM models were also available with a turbocharged engine.

The 240SX was well-regarded for its handling and balance and was popular among enthusiasts, particularly those interested in drifting.

The 240SX was also produced as a convertible in limited numbers and was later replaced by the 200SX (Silvia) in Japan and the Sentra SE-R in North America.

It may be hard to source the 240SX as a crazy cheap car, but if you’re willing to do some work, they can sometimes be picked up under the $10k budget.

Toyota Corolla 1986 / 1988

corolla 1988 crazy cheap cars

The 1986 Toyota Corolla is a compact car that was part of the fourth generation of the Corolla lineup. It was available as a sedan, wagon, and hatchback. A unique thing about the 1986 Corolla is that it was available in a performance-oriented version called the Corolla GT-S.

This model featured a twin-cam 1.6-liter 4A-GE engine that produced around 130 horsepower and came with a 5-speed manual transmission. This engine was known for its high-revving and sporty characteristics, making it a popular choice for enthusiasts and tuners.

This model was also commonly called the AE86, and it was known for its drifting capabilities and was popular for motorsport events such as rallies and drifting.

The 1988 Toyota Corolla is a compact car that was part of the fifth generation of the Corolla lineup. It was available as a sedan, wagon, and hatchback.

Corolla’s are powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine and come with a five-speed manual or a three-speed automatic transmission. It was known for its fuel efficiency, reliability, and low maintenance costs.

Toyota Celica

toyota celica crazy cheap cars

The Toyota Celica is a sports car produced by the Japanese automaker Toyota from 1970 to 2006. It was available as a coupe, liftback, and convertible and was known for its sleek, sporty design and affordable price.

In the drift world, the Toyota Celica is mainly known for its models of the 90s and early 2000s, specifically the ST165, ST185, and ST205 models, which were all equipped with powerful engines and rear-wheel drive.

These models were praised for their balance and handling, which made them well-suited for drifting.

The Toyota Celica was also popular among professional drifters, many of whom competed in the sport using Celica models.

One notable example is the professional drift driver Ken Nomura, who competed in the D1 Grand Prix series using a Toyota Celica GT-Four.

Another example is the professional drift driver Samuel Hubinette, who competed in the Formula D series using a Toyota Celica.

In addition, many amateur drift drivers also used Celica models in grassroots drift events and competitions, making it a popular choice among the drift community.

Even though the Celica production was discontinued, the car still has a solid following and is still used in drifting events and competitions worldwide.

Chevrolet Camaro (Third-gen)

f body camaro 3rd gen crazy cheap cars

The Chevrolet Camaro is a sports car produced by the American automaker Chevrolet from 1967 to 2002 and then again from 2010 to the present day. It was known for its aggressive styling, powerful engines, and affordable price.

In the drift world, the Camaro is not as commonly used as some other models, but professional and amateur drifters have used it.

While the Camaro is generally considered a muscle car and not specifically designed for drifting, the rear-wheel drive platform, powerful engines, and affordable price make it a popular choice for drift enthusiasts looking for a more affordable option to drift with.

I couldn’t find any notable instances of a Camaro being used in professional drift motorsports, but several examples of Camaros are used in grassroots drift events and competitions.

Some Camaro enthusiasts have also modified their Camaros with drift-specific modifications such as wider tires, adjustable suspension, and more powerful engines to make them more competitive in drifting.

It’s worth noting that because of its weight, the Camaro is not the most ideal car for drifting, but with the correct modifications and skill, it can be used to drift.

Chevrolet Corvette C4

corvette c4 crazy cheap cars

The Chevrolet Corvette C4 is a sports car produced by Chevrolet from 1984 to 1996. It is the fourth generation of the Chevrolet Corvette sports car and was the first complete redesign of the Corvette since 1963.

One of the key features of the C4 Corvette was its low cost, as it was less expensive to produce than its predecessor.

In terms of its role in the drift world, the C4 Corvette was not as popular as some other sports cars for drifting. However, it has been used in drift competitions by some drivers. One example is the driver Tony Angelo, who used a C4 Corvette in the Formula D Drift series.

The C4 Corvette is more of a classic car now, it’s not been produced since 1996, and it’s not usually the first choice for drift competitions, as more modern and specific drift cars are used.

Porsche 924 / 944

porsche 944 crazy cheap cars

The Porsche 924 and 944 are sports cars produced by Porsche from 1976 to 1991. The 924 was Porsche’s first front-engined, water-cooled car and was also the first car to be designated with the “924” model number.

The 944 evolved from the 924, featuring a more powerful engine and updated styling. Both cars were known for their low cost of ownership and good handling characteristics. The Porsche 924 and 944 were not commonly used in drift competitions. However, the mid-engine layout is extremely appealing.

The 924 and 944 may have good handling characteristics. Still, they don’t have the same power and modification options as other more traditional drift cars, so professional drifters do not usually choose them.

Although the 944 can be found with a cheap price tag, it may be a little more expensive than most of this list regarding maintenance/running costs.

Still, not many Porsches fall under the crazy cheap cars bracket!

Cadillac CTS (2002-2007)

cadillac cts crazy cheap cars

The Cadillac CTS (2002-2007) is a luxury sport sedan produced by Cadillac during that period. It was designed to compete with European luxury sport sedans like the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class. The CTS was known for its sharp handling and powerful V6 engine options.

The Cadillac CTS (2002-2007) is not a common car used in drift competitions, but its rear-wheel drive layout and powerful V6 engine could make it a good platform for drifting; in fact, some people have made sick builds out of the car.

Chrysler Crossfire

chrysler crossfire crazy cheap cars

The Chrysler Crossfire is a low-cost sports car produced by Chrysler between 2004 and 2008.

It was based on the Mercedes-Benz R170 platform and was built in Germany. It also shares a lot of parts from the Mercedes, so it’s a pretty cool car - looks aside!

The Crossfire is a rear-wheel drive car, which makes it suitable for drifting. Its powerful 3.2L V6 engine can produce 215 horsepower, giving it good performance for drifting.

Rear-wheel drive, a powerful engine, and a relatively low cost make it a good option for those looking to get into drifting on a budget.

However, it’s important to note that the car is relatively heavy (3,564 lb), affecting its handling and balance when sideways.

Mercedes-Benz CLK (W208 / W209)

mercedes benz clk crazy cheap cars

The Mercedes-Benz CLK (W208/W209) is a luxury coupe produced by Mercedes-Benz between 1997 and 2010. It was based on the W202 C-Class platform and was available with rear and four-wheel drive.

The rear-wheel drive versions of the CLK are more suitable for drifting, as they provide better control and power delivery to the rear wheels. The CLK was available with various engines, ranging from a 2.0L 4-cylinder to a 5.5L V8, providing a good amount of power for drifting.

Its weight (around 3,500 lb) and balance make it suitable for drifting.

Still, it’s important to note that it’s a luxury car, and it’s not as common as some sporty models, making it harder to find the right parts and modifications to make it a drift-specific vehicle.

Mercedes-Benz SLK 230/320 (R170)

mercedes r170 slk crazy cheap cars

The Mercedes-Benz SLK 230/320 (R170) is a compact roadster produced by Mercedes-Benz between 1996 and 2004. The car was known for its low cost and sporty design, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts.

Pontiac Firebird

pontiac firebird crazy cheap cars

The Pontiac Firebird is a sports car that was produced by the Pontiac division of General Motors between 1967 and 2002. It was known for its bold design and powerful engines.

As for its role in the drift world, the Pontiac Firebird, like other muscle cars of its era, is not as popular as modern sports cars and Japanese imports in drift competitions. However, the Firebird’s rear-wheel drive layout and powerful engines make it well-suited for the sport.

Additionally, the car’s lightweight body and responsive handling make it easy to control, which is essential when drifting.

The Pontiac Firebird, particularly the Trans-Am models, is relatively cheap and can be an excellent option for those looking to get into drifting on a budget.

Keep in mind that it’s not going to be as popular as other drift cars and it’s not going to be as competitive as others, but the Firebird can still be a fun and unique car to drift with.

Subaru Impreza

subaru imprezas crazy cheap cars

The Subaru Impreza is a compact car produced by the Japanese automaker Subaru since 1992. It’s known for its all-wheel drive layout, reliability, and practicality.

In terms of its role in the drift world, the Subaru Impreza, particularly the WRX models, has become a popular choice among drift enthusiasts due to its all-wheel drive layout, allowing for better control and stability while drifting.

Additionally, the WRX models come with powerful turbocharged engines, making them well-suited for the sport.

Due to its all-wheel drive, the Impreza WRX has a unique handling characteristic when drifting; it allows the car to rotate more easily and controllably.

Drifting with an all-wheel drive car, like the Impreza WRX, is different than drifting with a rear-wheel drive car, and it may take some time and practice to master the technique.

If drifting is the aim, opting for WRX that’s already had a rear-wheel-drive conversion is ideal.

Mazda RX-7 (First Generation)

rx7 fb crazy cheap cars

The first-generation Mazda RX-7, the SA, and FB, was produced between 1978 and 1985. It’s a sports car known for its lightweight, compact design and a rotary engine.

Regarding its role in the drift world, the first-gen RX-7 is considered a classic drift car due to its rear-wheel drive layout, responsive handling, and lightweight body.

The car’s rotary engine provides plenty of power and torque, making it well-suited for the sport. Additionally, the car’s compact size and low weight make it easy to control, which is essential when drifting.

The first-gen RX-7 can be an excellent option for those looking to get into drifting on a budget. They’re relatively cheap, and with some modifications, such as suspension upgrades, a limited-slip differential, and more grippy tires, an RX-7 can be transformed into a formidable drift car.

Finding a first-gen RX-7 in good condition might be challenging and require some maintenance or even a complete restoration.

The RX-7 rotary engine is considered a high-maintenance engine, and you may require additional maintenance and cost for it, but it will be worth it for the unique driving experience.

While some may see these points as negatives, they’re the main reason the RX7s can make our crazy cheap cars list. While you might be able to pick one up for a bargain, we expect the costs to be higher than most options on our list long-term.

So, there we have it – we hope you’ve enjoyed our list of crazy cheap cars! We hope we’ve provided something to suit everyone’s needs in this guide, and we wish you luck with your future purchase.

The post Crazy Cheap Cars – Ultimate Bargains first appeared on Drifted.com.

]]> 17 Best Drift Cars For Beginners https://www.drifted.com/7-best-drift-cars-for-beginners/ https://www.drifted.com/7-best-drift-cars-for-beginners/#comments Mon, 27 Feb 2023 09:29:27 +0000 http://www.drifted.com/?p=36515 We present seventeen of the best drift cars for beginners. From BMW to Toyota, we'll find you the perfect platform to get started on your drifting adventure.

The post 17 Best Drift Cars For Beginners first appeared on Drifted.com.

]]> We present seventeen of the best drift cars for beginners. From BMW to Toyota, we’ll find you the perfect platform to get started on your drifting adventure.

drift cars in jdm garage

With so many potential platforms to choose from when picking your first drift car, getting the perfect ride can prove challenging.

For that reason, we’ve written this guide to provide you with the cars we think are solid choices when it comes to choosing a beginner’s drift car.

e92 m3 with silvia s15

Seventeen of the best drift cars for beginners

New to drifting? Check out our drifting tips for beginners and our Drifting 101 guides. When you’re ready to take your skills to the next level, make sure you head over to our ultimate How to Drift guide.

Ready to start? Let’s see some cars!

BMW E36 M3 best drift cars for beginners

BMW M3 E36

  • Manufacturer: BMW
  • Country of origin: german flag
  • Model year: 1994 – 1999
  • Engine: S50B30US
  • Engine displacement: 2,990 cc
  • Drivetrain: FR
  • Power: 243 bhp @ 6,000 rpm
  • Torque: 225 lb-ft @ 4,250 rpm
  • 0-60 mph: 5.5s
  • Top speed: 155 mph

The BMW M3 is the mainstay drifting car for many countries around the world, this is especially true in Europe where the number E36 and E46 models on track even outnumber the s-bodies.

With solid German engineering underpinning every aspect of the car, high performing naturally aspirated engines, and great looks it is no big surprise that this is a great drifting platform.

The E36 offered 3.0 litre straight six engines which ran through five-speed manual transmissions and limited slip differentials. In European trim the engine produced 282 bhp as standard.

E36 examples are plentiful and relatively cheap for the performance that they offer. This would be a solid, low cost entry into the drifting world and could also be a great platform for a street sleeper.

With BMW M3 prices continuing to increase in recent years, it may also be worth considering one of the modern-day 3 Series options.

Browse BMW E36 articles

Nissan 350z Z33 best drift cars for beginners

Nissan 350Z

  • Manufacturer: Nissan
  • Country of origin: Japanese flag
  • Model year: 2003 – 2008
  • Engine: VQ35DE
  • Engine displacement: 3,498 cc
  • Drivetrain: FR
  • Power: 287 bhp @ 6,200 rpm
  • Torque: 274 lb-ft @ 4,800 rpm
  • 0-60 mph: 5.5s
  • Top speed: 155 mph

The Nissan 350Z was released in 2003 to rave reviews, this car was the latest in the ‘Z’ car lineage and carried many of the traits that made the cars before it a great success with sports car fans of the period.

The 350Z was built by Nissan in the classic sports car drivetrain configuration of front engine and rear wheel drive. Oh, and did we mention its retro-inspired looks?

As standard, the cars came with a bulletproof 3.5 litre V6 engine producing 287bhp at the flywheel which was put to the tarmac through a six speed manual transmission and a limited slip differential.

These mechanical assets make the Nissan 350Z a perfect beginners drift car; a potent and tough power plant mated with a manual gearbox and a limited slip differential ensure that as you learn the ropes and increase your drifting abilities this car should see you through until you feel ready to substantially increase your car’s power level.

If you end up loving this platform there are forced induction options available for the V6 engine (depending on your budget) so the Nissan 350z could well be your perfect partner.

With the 350Z’s sibling, the 370Z, now becoming increasingly affordable, more drifting beginners than ever opting for the modern-day Z as their weapon of choice.

Wondering if you should take a 350Z or save up for a 370z? Try our 350z vs 370z guide to see if it’s right for you.

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Nissan Skyline R33 Gtst best drift cars for beginners

Nissan Skyline R33 GTS-T

  • Manufacturer: Nissan
  • Country of origin: Japanese flag
  • Model year: 1993 – 1998
  • Engine: RB25DET
  • Engine displacement: 2,498 cc
  • Drivetrain: FR
  • Power: 247 bhp @ 6,400 rpm
  • Torque: 217 lb-ft @ 4,800 rpm
  • 0-60 mph: 6.7s
  • Top speed: 165 mph

The Nissan Skyline is a high-performance sports coupe with a lineage going as far back and as equally impressive as the Nissan ‘Z’ cars.

The model we have picked for this guide is the R33 GTS-T, this model was built between 1993 and 1998 and offers some great features for the aspiring drifter.

The R33 GTS-T uses a 2.5 litre straight six RB25DET engine mated to an efficient turbo charger. The power is fed through a five speed manual transmission and into a limited slip differential.

This six-cylinder engine produced a healthy 280bhp from the factory and there is proven power potential of up to 400bhp with a few bolt on modifications.

As standard there is plenty of power to hone your skills plus the potential is there if you want to up the power.

There are many Skyline owner’s clubs available to help you out if you want to do your own mechanical work or face problems, which is always a bonus.

There is also very strong aftermarket support for the R33 so you can customise it to your heart’s content. A good solid choice.

If you are interested in importing your own Nissan Skyline into the US, then you best check out this article first: Why are Nissan Skylines illegal in the United States?

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Mazda MX-5 best drift cars for beginners

Mazda MX-5/Miata NB

  • Manufacturer: Mazda
  • Country of origin: Japanese flag
  • Model year: 1998 – 2001
  • Engine: BP-4W
  • Engine displacement: 1,839 cc
  • Drivetrain: FR
  • Power: 138 bhp @ 6,500 rpm
  • Torque: 119 lb-ft @ 4,500 rpm
  • 0-60 mph: 8s
  • Top speed: 127 mph

There is a popular saying among gearheads that goes “Miata is always the answer!” The same applies here, as we believe anyone who is on the hunt for a great entry-level drift car should definitely have the MX-5 on their radar.

The MX-5 (Europe/EDM), also known as the Miata (US/USDM) and Eunos (Japan/JDM) is a classic Japanese take on the iconic drop-top sports car concept. The original model was unveiled in 1989 and went on to become one of the best-selling sports cars of all time.

The NB designation refers to the second generation of the model of this fun roadster, this version received many improvements over the original including a useful hike in power output.

We recommend the 1.8 litre option as the four-cylinder engine offers 138 bhp on tap, which is plenty for any drifter starting out.

The car offers solid and reliable mechanicals throughout and is naturally aspirated.

This means that improving the power output will be challenging without spending out on forced induction and the supporting modifications needed to run it.

Great aftermarket support and active enthusiast communities mean it should be a good platform to adopt. Prices are very reasonable. Please note: Drifted’s own Dan H’s MX-5 NA pictured, not an NB (sorry but I love Dan’s car!).

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Nissan 240sx s14 best drift cars for beginners

Nissan 240sx S14

  • Manufacturer: Nissan
  • Country of origin: Japanese flag
  • Model year: 1995 – 1998
  • Engine: KA24DE
  • Engine displacement: 2,389 cc
  • Drivetrain: FR
  • Power: 158 bhp @ 5,600 rpm
  • Torque: 160 lb-ft @ 4,400 rpm
  • 0-60 mph: 7.2s
  • Top speed: 137 mph

If you ask someone to imagine a drift car, we can guarantee that 9 out of 10 people will imagine the Nissan 240sx.

No drift cars list could ever be complete without at least one generation of Nissan’s 240sx being mentioned, this car (after the expensive AE86) is the recognised face of drifting with hundreds of the cars around the globe being used in both grassroots and pro levels.

We have picked the S14 variant as there are plenty still available (the S13 is becoming rarer and more sought after and therefore more valuable), they offer a solid engine package and come with great looks.

The 240sx S14 houses a 2.4 litre naturally aspirated engine that produces 155 bhp, this is fed into a five speed manual transmission and put onto the tarmac through a limited slip differential as standard.

The lightweight chassis means you do not need a lot of power to get the 240sx loose at the rear end and the natural balance will help you learn faster than with many other cars.

The aftermarket support for this platform is huge so you can pick up a standard example, learn the ropes and this car can grow with you by introducing upgraded aftermarket parts – if you want it to.

A great option for the drifting beginner, highly recommended.

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BMW E46 M3 best drift cars for beginners

BMW M3 E46

  • Manufacturer: BMW
  • Country of origin: german flag
  • Model year: 2000 – 2006
  • Engine: S54
  • Engine displacement: 3,246 cc
  • Drivetrain: FR
  • Power: 338 bhp @ 7,900 rpm
  • Torque: 269 lb-ft @ 4,900 rpm
  • 0-60 mph: 4.5s
  • Top speed: 155 mph

The BMW M3 E46 was the more powerful and better-looking younger brother of the E36. The engine performance was increased to an impressive 338 bhp out of the box with the inclusion of a new inline six-cylinder engine that has proven to be bulletproof to this day.

Everything that applies to the E36 above also applies to this car with the exception that they are on the higher end of the price range.

The E46 is a staple part of the drifting landscape with one powering Michael Essa to a Formula Drift win in recent years. If you can afford to stretch to an E46 M3 you will not be disappointed.

With prices continually increasing on the older-generation M3’s, while modern-day M3 and M4 prices drop, it may well be worth considering the latest platform if the M3 is already an option. Keep in mind that the latest G80 M3 will be the last of its kind to be offered with a manual transmission.

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Toyota JZX90 MKII best drift cars for beginners

Toyota JZX-90

  • Manufacturer: Toyota
  • Country of origin: Japanese flag
  • Model year: 1992 – 1996
  • Engine: 1JZ-GTE
  • Engine displacement: 2,498 cc
  • Drivetrain: FR
  • Power: 276 bhp @ 6,200 rpm
  • Torque: 268 lb-ft @ 4,800 rpm
  • 0-60 mph: 5.3s
  • Top speed: 145 mph

Here’s a car that you might have never heard of. The Toyota Mark II has been active in the drift scene in Japan and Asia since the early nineties however in the West these cars have been a rare sight on our roads.

As these cars have gotten older and more affordable they are seeing their way across the ocean and are popping up on our shores in increasing numbers.

In most markets these cars are at a price point lower than the E46 M3 mentioned in this guide and they offer many benefits the beginner drifter would do well to consider.

Packing a potent and highly tuneable straight six 2.5 litre 1JZ-GTE turbo charged engine the JZX-90 is not lacking for power or for tuning potential.

The transmission was a five-speed manual and it featured a limited-slip differential as standard.

This big, luxury four-door sedan offers an easy road into drifting with a well-balanced chassis and fast engine response.

If you can get one in your country, this would be our pick of the bunch!

If you’re a JZX fan, make sure you check out this insane JZX100 build from Daigo Saito.

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nissan 180sx kouki

Nissan 180sx

  • Manufacturer: Nissan
  • Country of origin: Japanese flag
  • Model year: 1989 – 1998
  • Engine: SR20DET
  • Engine displacement: 1,998 cc
  • Drivetrain: FR
  • Power: 202 bhp @ 6,000 rpm
  • Torque: 203 lb-ft @ 40800 rpm
  • 0-60 mph: 6.2s
  • Top speed: 146 mph

The JDM Nissan 180sx is one of the icons of the drifting world. Launched back in 1989 with a potent turbocharged CA18DET under the hood, the lightweight and RWD FR platform was a hit with both mountain touge racers and track enthusiasts.

The car was equipped with a limited slip differential and it’s great natural balance made it a little easier to get the hang of the tricky drifting learning curve.

As the years went by Nissan decided to upgrade the CA18DET with their new SR20DET powerplant, this engine produced over 200bhp out the box and was tuneable up to 400bhp with just bolt-ons and tuning.

The 180sx aftermarket is one of the largest available today, with everything from aero parts, engine components and drivetrain upgrades available off the shelf.

Right now in 2023 the 180sx has appreciated in value and is a little out of reach from budget drifters, however if you can get your hands on one and if you take care of it, the Nissan 180sx will make a superb drift car.

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toyota ae86 trueno

Toyota Corolla AE86

  • Manufacturer: Toyota
  • Country of origin: Japanese flag
  • Model year: 1983 – 1987
  • Engine: 4A-GE
  • Engine displacement: 1,587 cc
  • Drivetrain: FR
  • Power: 128 bhp @ 7,200 rpm
  • Torque: 101 lb-ft @ 4,800 rpm
  • 0-60 mph: 8.5s
  • Top speed: 125 mph

Here we are, at last, the Hachi Roku (hachi-roku meaning “eight six”), the Drift King’s trusted steed, Toyota’s mighty AE86. I had left this car out of the beginners guide so far due to the rising value of the “twincam” AE86.

These iconic drift cars are now so valuable you’d have to be very financially well-heeled, to buy, let alone to drift one.

But really, no drift car guide is complete without the AE86 so let’s crack on.

The plucky little Toyota offers a wonderfully balanced front engine, rear-wheel-drive platform. Nestled up front is the naturally aspirated 4A-GE inline four-cylinder DOHC powerplant which develops 128bhp @ 6,600rpm. This power was put through the rear wheels with an optional limited slip differential.

Back in the eighties safety restrictions were nothing like today so manufacturers had a lot of scope to create lightweight cars. Toyota managed to keep the kerb weight to just under a ton. This light weight and solid power are a perfect recipe for a nippy little sports car.

There are plenty of tuning options, engine swaps, aero kits and parts available for the little Corolla, there are even AE86 dedicated part suppliers based in Ireland and Japan.

If you can afford one, you will love the Hachi Roku. Keiichi salutes you!

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Mazda RX-7 FD3S

Mazda RX-7 FD3S

  • Manufacturer: Mazda
  • Country of origin: japanese flag
  • Model year: 1992 – 2002
  • Engine: 13B-REW
  • Engine displacement: 1,300 cc
  • Drivetrain: FR
  • Power: 276 bhp @ 6,500 rpm
  • Torque: 232 lb-ft @ 5,000 rpm
  • 0-60 mph: 4.8s
  • Top speed: 161 mph

The third generation of Mazda’s RX-7 line, the FD3S, is a great choice for a budding drifter. Stunning looks, great aftermarket support, potent powerplant and a finely tuned chassis make the FD3S a great choice.

The RX-7 enjoyed a long and successful career, with the model receiving numerous upgrades and improvements as it was revised for each iteration. The initial cars were called Series 6 cars (1992-1995), Series 7 cars (1996-1998) gained more power, improved engineering and revised looks.

The final Series 8 cars (1998-2002) are the most desirable, with a slew of updates covering power, interior and exterior. This culminated in the Spirit R – the ultimate RX-7.

The RX-7 uses the 13B-REW twin-rotor engine, running twin sequential turbochargers. The nature of the rotary engines means RX-7 drivers enjoy a huge powerband, the car pulling hard all the way to the redline. The downsides of this powerplant are fuel economy, heat generation and potentially “apex seal” failure.

Most RX-7’s on the market today will have already had an engine rebuild, however, I would still budget in a rebuild if you are planning on beating on the car (let’s be honest, of course you will!).

The FD3S has some excellent aftermarket support, many specialists worldwide support the platform, especially in Japan which has several dedicated RX-7 tuning houses.

The large displacement offered by the rotary engine means it will spool up turbochargers very effectively, so single turbo conversions are very common within the RX-7 community. This means the drivetrain has potential for big power.

If you can find a good one, that has been looked after and has had the right parts upgraded, it will make a fine drift car.

I ran an FD3S for a year, it was tuned with a single turbo to 350 bhp and was great fun, spinning up second and third gears in the dry. The fun lasted until I needed to gas the tank up! I believe at the time I calculated it achieved less then 10mpg…

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Mazda RX-8 best drift cars for beginners

Mazda RX-8

  • Manufacturer: Mazda
  • Country of origin: japanese flag
  • Model year: 2002 – 2012
  • Engine: 1.3L RENESIS
  • Engine displacement: 1,308 cc
  • Drivetrain: FR
  • Power: 232 bhp @ 8,500 rpm
  • Torque: 159 lb-ft @ 5,500 rpm
  • 0-60 mph: 6.3s
  • Top speed: 147 mph

Let us take a small detour from traditional piston engines to one shaped like a Dorito. With RX-7 prices continuing to soar, yet RX-8’s popping up on the market cheaper than ever, this younger brother of the FD could be the perfect answer for those looking to get into drifting.

The RX8’s four-seat cockpit is bedazzled with rear-opening suicide doors, making it more practical than the FD RX-7 too!

Weighing in at just 1,309kg, the RX8 makes the perfect candidate for an engine swap further down the line if you’re like us and terrified of rotary maintenance!

If you’re brave and you’ve got deep pockets, you could even consider taking it back to its original 13B heritage.

With its sleek shape, rear suicide doors, incredible handling, and insanely cheap price tag, the Mazda RX-8 is a fantastic car that can present a real bargain.

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mercedes c230

Mercedes C230 Kompressor (W202)

  • Manufacturer: Mercedes Benz
  • Country of origin: german flag
  • Model year: 1993 – 2000
  • Engine: M111
  • Engine displacement: 2,295 cc
  • Drivetrain: FR
  • Power: 191 bhp @ 5,500 rpm
  • Torque: 207 lb-ft @ 2,500 rpm
  • 0-60 mph: 6.8s
  • Top speed: 143 mph

Mercedes is probably one of the last car manufacturers that you would think of when it comes to finding an ideal drift car for beginners, but let us surprise you with this entry to our list.

The W202 C Class 230 Kompressor, which in short is a supercharged 2.3 litre, 4 cylinder engine is the perfect drift car for a beginners to start with and is comes recommended by Dan from YourCar.co.uk who is currently building one.

From the factory, it has 190 BHP and 280 LB/FT of torque from the bulletproof M111 engine that can take abuse all day long.

They were produced from 1993 to 2000 and with the predecessor being the mighty 190E. In around 2012, they could have been picked up for around £500 but have creeped up to around the £1,000 mark these days.

Manual C230 Kompressors are becoming harder to find but there are still many around and loads of spares parts available.

An alternative to the C230 could be the 2.5 turbo diesels but modified by fitting a larger turbo but this will become an expensive drift car to begin with.

white is200

Lexus IS200 / Altezza (XE10)

  • Manufacturer: Lexus
  • Country of origin: Japanese flag
  • Model year: 1998 – 2005
  • Engine: 1G-FE BEAMS
  • Engine displacement: 1,988 cc
  • Drivetrain: FR
  • Power: 158 bhp @ 6,200 rpm
  • Torque: 147.6 lb-ft @ 4,400 rpm
  • 0-60 mph: 8.7s
  • Top speed: 134 mph

The Lexus IS200 (or Altezza in Japan) was one of Lexus’s most sporty cars when it was released back in 1998.

Nobuaki Katayama (lead engineer on the AE86 project) was responsible for the technical development of this car.

Nobuaki-san’s efforts paid off as the car won Japan’s prestigious “Car of the Year” honour when it was released and continued to retain the title until 1999. The car was praised for its stylish looks, luxurious cabin, high revving engine and solid handling dynamics provided by the classic FR layout.

Now, in 2020, this compact and sporty sedan is a very tempting proposition for a beginner’s drift car.

These cars are widely available in most Western markets, normally well under the USD 1k range. They come with the reliable 1G-FE BEAMS engine, a front-engine and rear-wheel-drive platform plus a limited-slip differential as standard.

Although the power output of 158 bhp and 147 lb-ft of torque isn’t going to set anybody’s hair on fire, it is plenty to allow you to break traction and learn how to get to grips with the car.

The US market was also blessed with the IS200’s bigger brother, the IS300 which came equipped with a 2JZ variant, but, as these cars are more desirable, they will command considerably more cash.

While tuning potential is limited by the naturally aspirated engine, some owner’s that wanted to keep hold of this platform have been known to add mild superchargers onto the engine, this typically brings power up to the 250-300 bhp mark.

Overall this is a great drift car for a beginner and certainly worth keeping an eye out in the local classifieds for.

However, if you can get your hands on an IS300, it’s likely to be the better choice if you’re looking to keep the car long-term, with plenty of upgrades available for the naturally-aspirated 2JZ.

Check out our favorite IS300 turbo kits, coilover kits, exhaust upgrades, and body kit options to see the potential that it has in store.

Infiniti G35 drift car

Infiniti G35 Coupe

  • Manufacturer: Infiniti
  • Country of origin: Japanese flag
  • Model year: 2003 – 2007
  • Engine: VQ35DE
  • Engine displacement: 3,498 cc
  • Drivetrain: FR
  • Power: 280 bhp
  • Torque: 270 lb-ft
  • 0-60 mph: 5.8s
  • Top speed: 151 mph

The Infiniti G35 is the second car on our list to utilize Nissan’s potent VQ35DE engine. The G35 is an upmarket version of the 350Z platform aimed at a more “premium” target audience. Classy looks, a high-quality interior, and better components separated the G35 from it’s cheaper cousin.

The classic drift car recipe is fully represented in the G35; a powerful and high revving V6 engine, manual transmission, front engine and rear-wheel-drive layout, and a limited-slip differential (on manual models).

While the car tipped the scales a little more than the 350Z, stripping the interior of all those lovely materials makes a big difference and helps to boost performance for no cost.

And when we talk about boosting performance, the G35’s VQ35DE really is ripe for the tuning.

From off the shelf supercharger and turbocharger kits to a plethora of NA upgrades, the G35 is a platform that can grow with you as you get to grips with the art of drifting and you want more from your car.

The fact that these cars are quite plentiful in supply and are becoming very affordable is just another reason this may be the perfect beginners’ drift car.

I strongly encourage you to consider an Infiniti G35 for your first drift car.

With Infiniti G37 prices continuing to fall in recent years, it could now present the perfect opportunity to get your hands on the G35’s younger, more powerful sibling.

We’ve weighed up the positives and negatives of both platforms in our G35 vs G37 guide to help make the decision easier.

If you think the G37 may be the ideal choice, make sure you head over to our G37 mods guide to learn how you can unleash its true potential.

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toyota-gt86-best-drift-cars-for-beginners

Toyota GT86/Subaru BRZ/Scion FR-S

  • Manufacturer: Toyota
  • Country of origin: Japanese flag
  • Model year: 2012 – 2021
  • Engine: 4U-GSE D-4S
  • Engine displacement: 1,998 cc
  • Drivetrain: FR
  • Power: 232 bhp @ 7,000 rpm
  • Torque: 184 lb-ft @ 3,700 rpm
  • 0-60 mph: 6.4s
  • Top speed: 140 mph

After already securing its spot as one of the best drift chassis’ ever built, the Toyobaru is finally starting to fall in price and become more affordable to beginners that are willing to spend a few extra bucks.

With stunning, modern looks, and plenty of gadgets to match, the GT86 is the perfect drift car for those looking for something more recent to enjoy.

Since Toyota recently announced the 2022 GR 86, GT86/BRZ/FR-S prices will likely continue coming down, which is excellent news for drifting fans!

With the GT86 already capturing numerous podiums in drifting competitions across the globe, there’s no question that this epic platform has insane potential.

Admittedly, it doesn’t come with a massive amount of power from the factory, but luckily for our readers, we’ve written several GT86 Tuning Guides to show you how to unleash its potential.

The GT86/BRZ/FR-S are fantastic, stylish, modern-day drift cars with an ever-dropping price tag, and we’re already eyeing them up as future candidates for our personal goals.

The reign of the GT86/BRZ/FR-S came to an end in 2021, with a brand new, slide happy successor taking its place. We’ll talk more about the car that replaced the GT86 later on in this article.

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ford-mustang-gt-best-drift-cars-for-beginners

Ford Mustang GT

  • Manufacturer: Ford
  • Country of origin: USA flag
  • Model year: 2004 – 2012
  • Engine: 32-valve 5.0 L DOHC V8
  • Engine displacement: 302 cu in
  • Drivetrain: FR
  • Power: 412 bhp @ 6,500 rpm
  • Torque: 390 lb-ft @ 4,250 rpm
  • 0-60 mph: 4.6s
  • Top speed: 155 mph

Thanks in part to its appearance in great car movies like Bullitt and Gone In 60 Seconds, the Ford Mustang has cemented its legacy as one of the most popular vehicles on the planet.

The history of the Ford Mustang goes back to the 1960s, and it continues to thrive in the drift scene to the present day.

While the most affordable Mustang on the used car market is the Fox Body, the newer GT model can also be picked up at an affordable price for many.

That’s not all; the Mustang’s fifth-generation model, which earned an unfortunate reputation for its crowd-hunting antics, also provides a roaring V8 soundtrack at a reasonable price point, with legendary aesthetics to match.

Brazilian champion Diego Higa went on to prove what this chassis was truly capable of by taking the win in the Hyperdrive series.

Sara Haro also managed to impress on the world stage with her near-stock V6 model.

As Chelsea DeNofa and Vaughn Gittin Jr continue to prove what the wheelie-poppin’ RTR chassis has to offer in the present day in Formula Drift, there’s no doubt of the Mustang’s potential capabilities.

gr86

Toyota GR86

  • Manufacturer: Toyota
  • Country of origin: Japanese flag
  • Model year: 2021 – Present
  • Engine: FA24D H4
  • Engine displacement: 2,387 cc
  • Drivetrain: FR
  • Power: 232 bhp @ 7,000 rpm
  • Torque: 250 lb-ft @ 3,700 rpm
  • 0-60 mph: 5.4s
  • Top speed: 140 mph


The long-awaited successor to the beloved Toyota GT86 arrived in 2021 in the form of the GR86. GR stands for “Gazoo Racing” which is Toyota’s homegrown racing division.

When compared to the previous generation, the GR86 brought several upgrades in different areas. The looks were updated, retaining the 86 ethos while bringing it in line with the modern crop of competitors.

There were some significant updates done under the hood as well. The most significant change was the increase in horsepower, with the new 2.4-liter boxer engine producing 228 hp compared to the previous generation’s 205.

Torque figures also improved, making the GR86 one of the best platforms to be built into a drift missile. Don’t believe us? Then go ahead and ask Formula D’s Ken Gushi what made him choose the GR86 to build a 1000-horsepower monster.

Toyota also makes an automatic version of the GR86, but let’s be real. If you are serious about drifting, you have to go for the three-pedal version.

And if the stock 228 horses simply aren’t enough for you, there are many twin-turbo kits available that let you easily double the horsepower figure.

Want to try drifting now?

Can’t wait to get started drifting? Try our free to play drifting games, or if you prefer stunt games, Madalin Stunt Cars 3 will be a perfect choice.

s13 240sx

But where is the 240sx S13?

So the 240sx S13, arguably the “go-to” car for many drifters.. While it has been omitted from this list, Nissan’s 240sx S13 does indeed make a great beginner’s drift car. As we had already included the talented S14 it seemed a little too much of the same to include it’s older brother. For detailed information on the S13 check out our 7 Reasons Why The Nissan S13 Is The Best Drift Platform For Beginners article.

Got an S13 already and wondering what to mod first? Try hooking it up with a fresh set of suspension. Don’t know which coilovers to buy? Check out our S13 coilovers guide.

An off the wall alternative to the drift cars we have mentioned already could be this truck. The truck is a mid 90’s Nissan that shares a similar floor-plan to the 240sx and also shares the KA engine and running gear. Truck drifting yeah!

Maybe you aren’t quite ready to look at your first drift car and instead want to learn more about drifting? If so please take a look at: What is drifting?

Want to learn more about these JDM monsters from the nineties? Try our 11 Best JDM Cars Of The Nineties feature.

Are you on a tight budget? Try our cheap drift cars roundup.

Not old enough to buy that first drift car? Why not start your journey with an RC drift car?

Updated January 2022
– Added Ford Mustang GT to list of drift cars
– Updated content from 15 drift cars to 16

Updated June 2021
– Added GT86/BRZ/FR-S to list of drift cars
– Added Mazda RX-8 to list of drift cars
– Updated content from 13 drift cars to 15

Updated December 2020
– Added Infinity G35 to list of drift cars
– Added new drift car group picture
– Updated content from 12 drift cars to 13

Updated April 2020
– Added Lexus IS200 / Altezza to list of drift cars
– Updated content from 11 drift cars to 12

Updated August 2019
– Added new photos of several cars
– Added new performance data for all cars

Updated April 2019
– Added Toyota Corolla AE86
– Added Mazda RX-7 FD3S

Updated February 2019
– Added a 1 minute summary video for time strapped fans!
– To help keeping this article current I have added two more popular drift cars; the Nissan 180sx and the Mercedes C230. Both of these cars would make a fantastic platform for learning how to drift.

Updated February 2023

– Added a new video under the Toyota GT86 section replacing an unavailable one

– Updated content from 16 drift cars to 17 by adding the Toyota GR86, which is the successor of the GT86.

– Added some additional information throughout the article, to make it more informative for our readers.

Thanks for reading the article. If you enjoyed it, please share it using the social buttons. Thanks!

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]]> https://www.drifted.com/7-best-drift-cars-for-beginners/feed/ 2 History Of The Datsun Truck https://www.drifted.com/datsun-truck/ Thu, 23 Feb 2023 10:00:05 +0000 https://www.drifted.com/?p=279093 Pickups from Datsun, Nissan’s alter-ego, are a favorite among Japanese collectors. We check out the best and worst Datun trucks in this guide.

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]]> Pickups from Datsun, Nissan’s alter-ego, are a favorite among Japanese collectors. We check out the best and worst Datsun trucks in this guide.

datsun truck

Who Is Datsun?

Before we learn more about Datsun trucks, let’s know who Datsun is.

There are a lot of younger readers in our audience who just don’t know about the history of Datsun and its legacy in the market in the United States, Australia, and around the globe.

So, who is Datsun? Well, to put things simply, Datsun is Nissan. Or at least it was Nissan since Nissan Corporation decided to rebrand their cars from Datsun into Nissan for the vehicles to follow the same corporate name.

Nevertheless, the Datsun brand existed since 1931 as Datson but was later renamed Datsun. And the Datsun name means “Son Of DAT.” DAT is an acronym created from the first letters of the surname of the company’s three founders.

Nevertheless, Datsun was impressively popular in Japan in the 1930s, and after the war, the business was booming. There were pickups and sedans – the Datsun lineup quickly became rather extensive.

So, in 1958 they decided to enter the US market, more specifically, in California. Starting in 1959, they opened dealerships across the whole country.

And as the gas crisis hit in the early 70s, the need for small Japanese cars was booming in the American market, and the 70s and 80s were probably the two strongest decades for Datsun here in the US.

They competed with Chevrolet, Toyota, Ford, and many other brands. It also competed in other markets like Australia, the Middle East, and other overseas markets.

But what happened at the peak of their rise is that Nissan decided to axe the Datsun name. A big rebranding started in 1981, and this process was completed in the mid-80s.

But how did the Datsun truck fair through all of these vast changes?

Datsun Truck Timeline

This is where we learn more about the timeline of the Datsun truck, starting from the first Datsun truck to the last of the trucks that Datsun sold.

We will list the trucks and some of their specs and learn more about what these models offer. So, if you want to learn more, stick with us!

Datsun 120

The first Datsun truck that comes to our mind is the Datsun 120.

So, what is the 120? Well, the Datsun 120 is probably one of the most famous models that Datsun made back in the day.

This was not the first Datsun truck. But probably the most memorable one from the earlier models.

The 120 was based on the Datsun 1000 sedan, and the truck carried the same mechanicals, except for the rear end, which had a bed instead of rear seats.

Using the same chassis made the 120 models very affordable, and people loved them. These cute little trucks came only as a single cab, so, back in the day, there was no king cab as we have right now. Every was utilitarian and made to serve a purpose.

120 datsun truck

This model also implemented an excellent suspension setup that made the usage of this truck a true pleasure for work and driving around town.

And the main accent of these trucks was on reliability. They were reliable as they could get. These trucks also looked good, with a massive grille at the front.

This truck came with a variety of engines. But the most popular was probably the 988 cc inline-4 engine. That was also known as the stone engine. This engine was paired with a 4-speed manual transmission.

Overall, a really good example of a Datsun truck. Now let’s move on to the next Datsun truck.

Datsun 320

The next Datsun truck that we chose to cover is the Datsun 320. We skipped the 220 because it is only a mild upgrade over the original 120 truck. So, there is not a substantial difference between the two. This is why we will dive straight into the 320 models.

This is the model that was introduced in 1961, and this model stayed in production until 1965.

The base of the truck was the Datsun Bluebird 310 sedan. Nevertheless, this model incorporated greatly improved suspension.

It kept the same A-arm torsion bar independent front suspension with leaf springs at the rear end. However, this truck was overall more heavy-duty compared to its predecessor.

So, we can say that this was a beefed-up version of the 120.

Also, there were improvements under the hood as well.

This model included a more powerful engine. More specifically, the Nissan E-1 engine.

This was a 1.2L inline-4 engine that produced about 60 horsepower. And this model carried the badges “Datsun 1200” and “60 HP” to indicate that this model creates a lot of power.

And jokes aside, this was the case; 60 horsepower back in the day was a lot. This truck competed directly with the Mazda B-Series and the Toyota offerings back then.

What is interesting about this truck is that it was also a coupe utility version and a station wagon.

Now, let’s move on to the next Datsun truck.

Datsun 520/521

The 13th generation Datsun 520/512 takes a more modern approach.

The 520 models are based on the Bluebird 410, and the model was a revolutionary change in design language compared to the predecessors.

This was a full change from the dull 50s looks for something more modern. So, the new model implements a new modern grille with two big round headlights and a few choices in terms of exterior paint.

This model implements improved suspension, allowing a wheelbase extension of up to 60 mm and greater front and rear threads of 80 mm.

Unsurprisingly, with all these improvements, the drivability and comfort significantly improved.

There were also more engines to choose from. There was the base 1.3L inline-4. But there were also the 1.5L inline-4 and the 1.6L inline-4, with the most potent version producing up to 94 hp.

The standard transmissions were the 4-speed manuals, which performed well in any conditions.

Overall, the 520 and then the 521 productions successfully ran until 1972, when the model was replaced with the next Datsun truck that we will cover in the following chapter.

Datsun 620

Next up is the Datsun 620.

If you thought the 520 was revolutionary, we could say the 620 was even better.

This is the model that brought the most noticeable changes from any previous models. This model was introduced in 1971, and its production lasted until 1979.

It was produced globally and used in many countries, including the United States.

In Australia, these vehicles were known as Utes. In South Africa, they were known as Bakkies. Overall, they were a global hit.

And what was good about this model is that it was offered in various cab options in the US, and the model was known as the Lil Hustler.

Since it was rather small compared to other trucks regarding cab options, there was the standard single cab; there was a King Cab and an Extended cab like in most modern cars.

This model brought other innovations as well, like the front disc brakes, EGR system, long-bed, and a lot of other improvements.

The biggest improvement was probably in the engine and transmission department. The base engine was the L16, a 1.6L inline-4 producing 96 horsepower. But there was also the L18, a 1.8L inline-4 engine producing up to 100hp, and the most powerful model, the 2.0L L20B inline-4, produced 110 hp. Those are pretty beefy numbers for a vehicle of its size.

In the transmission departments were also some changes. There were 3-speed automatic— 4-speed, and 5-speed manual transmissions.

The 620 was a perfect and reliable model at the time—the perfect truck for people who wanted something different.

Datsun 720

The next Datsun truck we will cover is the Datsun 720 model. This was the model that replaced the 620 that we covered previously.

This truck significantly changed from the previous version since this model implemented a more contemporary look.

From the outside, this truck is screaming 80s. More specifically, the model was sold between 1979 and 1986 model years.

This truck was another global hit, selling everywhere worldwide, including in the US. There were many trim options, like the GL, DX, MPG, Lil Hustler, XE, and Bushmaster. Every trim carried something special. But the DATSUN logo on the tailgate was common for each one.

These trucks also featured a lower rear valance to complete the look between the tail lights.

Although, there were some cab variations like the Extended-Cab, King Cab, and the Regular Cab, which was the basic 2-door version.

In terms of engines, there was a big variety of powertrains to choose from. The base was the 1.5L inline-4. But there was also a 2.4L inline-4 that was also very popular, especially for the people who needed more power.

There were also a few transmission options, like the 4-speed manual transmission, which was the most popular. There were also a 5-speed manual and a 3-speed automatic.

Overall, this model was the last Datsun truck in the United States. As noted in the introduction, Nissan decided to rebrand all their lineups into Nissan. So, the Datsun name was axed even though the next model we will cover was also sold in Japan as the Datsun truck.

Datsun D21

Now let’s cover the last Datsun truck, the last of its kind. This was the Datsun D21. It was sold as the Datsun Truck in Japan, but in the US, it was sold under a different name—namely, the Nissan Pathfinder. Later on, this model became the Frontier that we know today.

This truck was an improved version of the previous generation. It was much more prominent in size and offered a lot of comforts; with more substantial front rear ends and enhanced ride comfort, this truck has finally started to look more like a truck for the American market.

And that was the case. This model offered a bigger frame and different cab layouts, like the Regular Cab, the standard 2-door version. Also, there was the King Cab. This truck was assembled locally in the US, just as the previous two generations at the Nissan Factory in Smyrna, Tennessee.

Even though it was large, it was still a compact truck since the wheelbase varied between 104.3 and 116.1 inches.

The overall length never surpassed 195.5 inches, and the model’s curb weight is 3,602 lb. Quite a bit heavier compared to its predecessors.

This increase in weight meant that there would be a need for larger engines. So, the new truck had powerplants starting from 1.6L and up to 3.0L in displacement.

There were also a variety of transmissions to choose from on this Datsun truck: two automatic and two manual options.

The automatic transmissions were 3-speed and 4-speed, while the manual models included 4-speed and 5-speed.

This model was discontinued in 1990, and unfortunately, this was the end of the Datsun truck globally.

Conclusion

This article thoroughly covered the Datsun truck from its humble beginnings to where the brand now exists within the Nissan lineup.

Firstly, we learned more about what is Datsun and learned some of the histories of the brand, this is one of the brands with the richest history in the US, even though it was canceled in the mid-80s.

In the second part of our article, we covered the Datsun truck models, starting from the 120 models to the most recent one released, known as the D21, the ancestor of the modern Nissan Frontier.

We discussed some of the specs and key features. What is good about these trucks is that you can find them on the used market and sites like Craigslist or eBay. So, make sure that you check them out.

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]]> Mitsubishi Evolution VII – A Rally Legend https://www.drifted.com/evo-7/ Wed, 22 Feb 2023 16:52:23 +0000 https://www.drifted.com/?p=274923 Some may think the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VII looks like a kid's project car, but this Mitsubishi is the 427 Corvette for the PlayStation generation.

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]]> Some may think the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VII looks like a kid’s project car, but this Mitsubishi is the 427 Corvette for the PlayStation generation.

evo 7

Introduction

Mitsubishi Motors started the production of Lancer Evolution VII in 2001. The car was built on the bigger Lancer Cedia chassis, a bigger, more advanced car than the Lancers on which the prior Evos were based. Evo VII followed the design philosophy identical to earlier Lancer Evos.

The Evo VII versions that followed had increased power figures and other drivetrain changes. The Evo VII included the active center differential for the first time. Evo VII offered an automatic transmission for specific regions and also came with Mitsubishi’s Sirius engine, the 4G63T, providing the ultimate tuner platform.

Mitsubishi Evo History

The Lancer Evolution made its debut in October 1992. The compact and lightweight Lancer was powered by a Mitsubishi Motors 4G63 turbocharged engine. Together with its 4WD powertrain, it produced outstanding torque figures, making it one of the best AWD cars on the market.

variants evo 7

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution’s reputation has grown due to several significant advancements made over the years in its engine, performance, body rigidity, lightweight, suspension refinement, and aerodynamics.

On January 31, 2003, Mitsubishi Motors Corporation introduced Japan’s Evolution VIII sports sedan.

Since the 1992 debut of the most popular Evolution models, Mitsubishi has produced eight further generations.

Evo 7 Specifications

The Mitsubishi Evo VII was the first to come equipped with a limited-slip and active center differential.

The 5-speed automatics had what Mitsubishi called “fuzzy logic.”

Upshift and downshift points were determined by fuzzy logic using a set of upshift and downshift values, as well as rules for weighting each value in line with the degree to which acceleration and throttle position are members of functions.

This was done based on the driver’s driving, accelerating, and gear-shifting styles.

Based on Cedia’s CT9A platform, the Evo VII was powered by a 2.0 L Inline 4 turbocharged engine. The total curb weight was between 1310 and 1400 kg. The car had a wheelbase of 2625 mm, while it measured 4455 mm in length, 1770 mm in width, and 1450 mm in height for all its variants.

Powertrain

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VII was powered by the 2.0-liter inline-four turbocharged 4G63t engine, capable of producing 276 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, thus a top speed of 140 mph, which was more than enough.

The 4G63 engine featured a cast iron block and aluminum head, with DOHC 16-valve design and MIVEC variable valve timing. This engine was capable of revving to 8000 RPM, giving the Lancer Evolution VII excellent throttle response and high-end power.

engine bay evo 7

The engine was mated to a five-speed manual transmission, transmitting power to the all-wheel drive system.

The all-wheel-drive system was designed to give the Lancer Evolution VII excellent grip in a variety of conditions and was able to distribute torque to the wheels that needed it the most. This helped the car maintain stability and traction, even in challenging driving conditions.

The 4G63 engine was known for its reliability, making it an ideal choice for rally and motorsport enthusiasts.

The engine was also highly tunable, with many aftermarket parts available to further improve its performance.

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VII was a true driver’s car, with a balanced chassis and sharp handling made it a joy to drive on both road and track. Overall, the 4G63 engine was an essential part of what made the Lancer Evolution VII a genuinely great car.

Evo 7 Variants

Evo VII came in three different variants. All variants offered the exact power figures and the same 5-speed automatic or manual transmission. The RS or rally-sport variant had some salient features, including rally suspension, bucket seats, limited slip differential, and a sports anti-lock braking system.

The GSR variant came with enhanced braking, using Brembo brakes and sports ABS, and little tweaks in the interior, including bucket seats and a sports steering wheel.

gsr evo 7

GT-A came with a 5-speed F5A5 automatic transmission. This automatic model came with a premium interior trim level of full leather seats or Recaro sports seats. This was the only variant with 17-inch alloy wheels with a diamond-cut finish.

The FQ-300 was a top-of-the-line model in the EVO 7 lineup, and it was powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that produced 300 horsepower and 305 lb-ft of torque.

This engine was paired with a 5-speed manual transmission and an all-wheel-drive system, providing excellent traction and handling on dry and wet roads.

In terms of performance, the FQ-300 could accelerate from 0-60mph in just over 4 seconds and reach a top speed of around 155 mph, limited, as per USA regulation.

The car was also equipped with high-performance brakes and a sport-tuned suspension, which made it a joy to drive on winding roads.

The exterior of the FQ-300 was designed to be aerodynamic and aggressive, with sharp lines and a distinctive front fascia. The interior was also well-appointed, with comfortable sports seats and a high-quality sound system on the dashboard.

Evo VII gained so much popularity globally because it was the first of a brand-new breed of Evos that made an appearance in the WRC. Known as the WRC Lancer, the ultimate model that Mitsubishi and its tuning arm RALLIART went all out for.

ralliart evo 7

In the eleventh round of the World Rally Championship, Rallye Sanremo, in October 2001, the Lancer WRC debuted. For their final season of WRC in 2005, Mitsubishi went all in for the Lancer WRC05.

The WRC Lancer was a race-only vehicle. The dry sump oiling system, block main girdle, and some of the crucial internal parts were among the few components not shared with the Lancer Evolution VII production models.

The WRC Lancer was perhaps one of the most popular models ever made, but unfortunately, this wasn’t a road-going model.

Evo 7 Mods, Upgrades, and Tuning

The 4G63t engine has a good reputation for being reliable and highly tunable. Some common engine upgrades and tunings for this engine include the installation of a larger or upgraded turbocharger that can increase the engine’s horsepower and torque.

All stock 4G36t turbos have an internal wastegate controlled by a flapper door. The wastegate exits into a separate port in the exhaust turbine housing, from where it must be merged into the rest of the exhaust system. It’s a sound, reliable system that is preferred for most street cars.

The Evo’s turbo maintains a separate flow for the wastegate valve from the manifold out to the Oxygen housing. This keeps the gasses from impinging on the flow out of the turbine, increasing efficiency and flow. You’re much less likely to get boost creep with the Evo turbine than with the DSM turbine.

You might want to consider an external wastegate for many reasons if you’re building a high-horsepower DSM or Evo.

For one thing, the wastegate valve is much larger than the stock internal wastegate, meaning boost pressure can be held closer to the set point with less wastegate operation.

For another, the wastegate outlet doesn’t affect the flow out of (and therefore through) the exhaust turbine.

Careful porting can help you avoid boost creep in some cases. However, you’ll need a steady hand to pull this off since a slip could cause the wastegate valve to leak exhaust and slow spool.

This particular turbo also has a larger flapper valve installed, which is trickier than porting the wastegate opening.

You can easily use the stock turbine housing with an external wastegate; block the stock wastegate port on the outlet side.

The cleanest solution is to weld a flat disk over the wastegate area, but you could also wire the stock wastegate flapper closed.

Further mods include installing a larger or more efficient intercooler to reduce air temperature, and increasing engine performance and reliability.

An aftermarket engine management system can also be installed to improve engine tuning and provide more precise control over the engine’s performance.

tuned 4g63t evo 7

Camshafts can also be upgraded on these cars to increase the engine’s power by optimizing valve lift and duration.

The fuel system upgrades include enhanced fuel injectors, fuel pumps, and fuel pressure regulators that can provide more fuel to the engine, increasing horsepower and torque but decreasing the car’s economy.

If that is a huge tradeoff, then a simple upgrade with the pistons and rods can increase engine strength and reliability and result in the longer life of the car.

These upgrades can significantly improve the engine’s performance, but it is important to note that not all upgrades will be compatible.

Researching and consulting with a professional tuner before making any engine modifications is recommended to ensure that the upgrades are done correctly and do not negatively impact the engine’s reliability.

Evo 7 Reliability & Common Issues

Perhaps the owners of these vehicles with dependability concerns do not fully understand how to maintain these monstrosities.

If ignored, the 4G63t engine suffers significantly and will not endure repeated abuse. Any turbocharged DOHC engine needs regular oil changes and timing belt replacement to function correctly.

Broken valves, even with mileage as low as 60,000 miles, are one of the 4G63t engine’s most prevalently reported issues.

If the oil is not changed regularly enough, this occurs more frequently, although they typically fail after 120K miles and emit smoke when malfunctioning.

The most recent parts offered by your local Mitsubishi dealer are far higher quality than the original seals and last much longer.

Any turbo engine’s blue smoke from the exhaust should be examined first. High-mileage engines frequently experience oil burning, primarily caused by worn valve stem seals.

The head might need to be disassembled or possibly replaced, but the valve stem seal is fantastic since it can be replaced with relative ease.

In general, it is a good idea in the case of the 4G63t to replace other worn-out parts.

Another potential source of oil in the combustion chambers is the turbo. Most 4G63t engines have a top-notch Mitsubishi turbocharger with a water-cooled middle section.

A turbo may even operate faultlessly for up to 150 000 miles with the proper maintenance, which includes frequent oil changes, but if the engine’s upkeep is neglected, issues are certain. A malfunctioning turbo may produce smoke when accelerating or, worst case, a scraping noise when a boost is applied.

If the turbo makes the engine burns much oil, replacement is advised.

cam failure evo 7

Ring wear is another factor in oil burning. This issue usually arises after the engine has traveled more than 200,000 kilometers or beyond that. If this issue occurs, you will unavoidably need to remove the engine and replace the bottom end.

Climate control-related odors are a common issue in these vehicles. The evaporator drain hole may be blocked if you notice an unpleasant or fishy smell when the air conditioner is turned on. To fix this smell, you must clear the evaporator drain hole.

This generation of the Evo also has problems with its engine running on idle. Like on one of the recent 3-cylinder JDM cars, the idling rpm of this car should ideally be just under 1000 with the fan or air conditioning on.

If the rpm goes higher, there is some problem with the idle control valve, which may indicate its possible failure.

The first step to solve this problem is to remove and clean the idle control valve. If this isn’t enough, replacement is recommended. The actuator is known to fail on Evo VII.

The actuator might be faulty if the car has sudden boosts or jolts after a slight power loss at high revs.

You will need to find a replacement actuator to resolve the issue.

Conclusion

Growing up, I found myself fond of the Evo VII because of its appearance in the movie 2 Fast 2 Furious as Paul Walker’s ride in its attractive yellow paint scheme. The Evo VII undoubtedly gained popularity after that appearance, making people want to buy one of these 4G63t-powered cars.

Generally, these cars have buyers who want to use them to their fullest potential, maybe adding some tunes and mods to the powertrain. Evo VII was succeeded by the Evo VIII.

If you ever buy one of these cars, you must examine it closely before making a purchase. If the car is kept clean, it will likely be in good mechanical condition as well. Finding the straightest body is another priority, as bodywork can get expensive for these cars.

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]]> How To Make Your Car Louder https://www.drifted.com/how-to-make-your-car-louder/ Tue, 21 Feb 2023 14:52:43 +0000 https://www.drifted.com/?p=272816 Do you want to learn how to make your car louder? In this article, we're covering all of the best and worst options, from budget to premium.

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]]> Do you want to learn how to make your car louder? In this article, we’re covering all of the best and worst options, from budget to premium.

how to make your car louder

Introduction

One of the few things that make us car guys is appreciating the sound of our cars.

We challenge you to find a car guy who doesn’t like to achieve the best note possible as the exhaust screams when the pedal hits the metal.

If you own a Civic, or a car with a similar low-displacement engine, improving the car exhaust sound is going to be one of the obvious ways to make your car stand out from the crowd, and honestly, loud exhausts are a symphony for the ears. (Well, perhaps not from a Civic, but you get where we’re going with this!)

However, not everyone would love your new-found addiction to mashing the loud pedal, especially your neighbors. But still, there are people who will appreciate it, and as you begin to anger the neighborhood, chances are, you’ll make a few like-minded friends along the way.

To be honest, there are more than a few ways that you can try to modify your car exhaust to improve the engine sounds.

And what is helpful to note is that this upgrade will not only improve the sound, but often it will also improve the horsepower since you will be able to squeeze the maximum airflow from this setup.

In some cases, there is an improvement of 10 to 50 hp by installing an aftermarket exhaust system upgrade, but obviously not quite so much from a noisy backbox.

So, if you want to improve the sound that your car makes, this is the way to go, and we’ll be covering all the details in the following chapters.

First, before we learn how to make your car louder, let’s learn the pros and cons of modifying your car’s exhaust system.

Pros & Cons Of Having A Loud Car

Before we learn more about how to make your car louder, let’s first look at the pros and cons of doing this type of mod to your car.

Pros

Let’s start with the pros before we learn how to make your car louder. What are the positives of doing this exhaust upgrade mod on your car?

Well, the first pro is that your car will sound really nice. The engine will (often) sound like a symphony, and that sound will be music for your ears and other car enthusiasts around you.

The second pro of adding these mods besides the sound is the performance that you will get, especially when installing straight-pipe exhaust or headers.

So, how these mods will improve the performance of the car?

Well, this would be the case because the airflow will be a lot better. You will not have a catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, or resonator.

So, the flow of exhaust gases would be very unobstructed, from the combustion chamber into the exhaust, resulting in increased performance.

So, the horsepower gain can be somewhere in the range of 10 to 50 horsepower depending on the engine you run.

The bigger the displacement engine, the higher the gains would be.

Cons

Now let’s discuss the cons before we learn more about the ways how to make your car louder. What are the downsides of doing such a mod to your car?

Well, the first con is probably the sound waves. This sound could irritate people, as well as the cops. So, you need to get familiar with your local laws and regulations because if you get pulled over, you can be heavily fined by the police.

The second downside is that you will start noticing more vibration inside the cabin because there will be no stock muffler. A car manufacturer installs these components also to lower the vibrations.

The next problem would be the check engine light. This would be the case because some more advanced mods will require a tuner. The oxygen sensors have to be tuned to work with the ECU.

Another big problem is the situation with emissions. The emissions will get high whenever you do these mods. So, you can fail the emissions testing mainly because the emissions that your car will produce are not up to the factory’s recommended spec.

There will be too many exhaust fumes that will make your carbon footprint a lot bigger. So, be aware of these problems.

Now, let’s move on and learn more about how you can make your car louder.

How To Make Your Car Louder - The Various Methods

Now let’s dive into the topic and learn how to make your car’s exhaust louder. In the following couple of chapters, we are going to list the most common ways people do to make their cars louder. So, let’s dive into the mods you can do to boost your vehicle’s sound!

1. Install Cold Air Intake

Let’s move to the first way how to make your car louder. The first mod that many people are doing is installing a cold air intake.

So, what is a cold air intake? The cold air intake is simply an air filter that grabs cold air from the side of the engine.

When you install a cold air intake on your car, you are basically removing the regular air filter and replacing this filter box with the aftermarket cold air intake.

But what makes the cold air intakes different? Well, the cold air intake is a cone-shaped air filter. This means that it can get a lot more air into the engine. Also, there is a separate compartment that will make sure that the intake is nice and cool and that there is no hot air getting inside the engine intake.

And as you probably know, cold air creates much more power than hot air. So, if you install this intake, you will also have performance gains.

But what is good about this intake is that the cold air intake will make your car a lot louder. Especially when you push the throttle. And there is nothing more satisfying than the sound that a cold air intake makes.

For a cold air intake, you also might be required to get a tuner to adjust the PCM so the injectors and the throttle are nice and balanced. Some of the aftermarket kits have a unique tuner that comes with them.

With that covered, let’s move on to the next technique to make your car louder.

2. Install An Exhaust Tip (Backbox)

Another good way to make your car louder is by installing a backbox, also known as an exhaust tip. So, what is an exhaust tip?

Well, an exhaust tip is simply the tip of your exhaust. This component mounts after the rear muffler, and not only do aftermarket tips look good, but they are also really good when it comes to improving the sound of your car.

Although many people doubt their effectiveness in improving sound, in reality, they can be quite good. We’ve often found that it’s a case of “you get what you pay for” when it comes to having a cheap sound versus a premium tone.

In the video, you can see the difference in the sound that the exhaust makes before removing the tips and after.

Let’s move on to the next way how to make your car louder.

3. Aftermarket Headers

Now let’s cover the next way to make your car louder, and by this, we mean installing aftermarket exhaust headers.

Aftermarket headers are a really popular and cheap way to make your car sound a lot better.

There are many options out there that you can buy already pre-made headers if you are not into welding.

These headers can be purchased for $150. But as you probably know, you will remove the factory exhaust manifolds, as well as the catalytic converter, to fit these headers on the car. So, this will affect the emissions.

We recommend this mod if you have an older classic car. If you have something more modern, our next mod will be the way to go regarding how to make your car louder.

4. Rear Muffler Delete

Next on our list of ways how to make your car louder is the rear muffler delete. As you probably know, the rear muffler is at the end of the exhaust.

This is a big metal box that is designed to neutralize the noises and make your exhaust quieter.

Some people delete this muffler altogether and run their car with no muffler at all. Just take note that doing this would make your car very loud.

That’s why we strongly recommend that you at least weld the exhaust tubing instead of the car’s muffler. This way, you will make your exhaust sound more nimble and more tolerable. Let’s now move on to the next way how to make your car louder.

5. Performance Muffler

The next way to make your car louder is by replacing the rear muffler with a performance muffler.

And out there are a ton of producers of these aftermarket mufflers. And honestly, we recommend going this route because you will not alter anything in your car except for the sound.

The computer will not be confused like when you cut the cats and the exhaust manifolds by installing headers.

Adding a performance muffler will still get the sound, and your car will run perfectly normally.

6. Install X-Pipe

Another good way to make your car louder is by installing an X-pipe. But what is an X-pipe?

Well, this pipe is usually installed on V-engines that have two banks. So, the mid-muffler is cut off, and you replace it with an X-pipe.

This is also an excellent way to create the perfect sound since V8 engines can produce a real noise when you add an X-pipe.

Also, these pipes are purchased online for cheap. Especially when it comes to classic cars, that’s why we strongly recommend it.

7. Drill Holes

Another very cheap way to make your car louder is by drilling holes in the exhaust.

And this is also a suitable method. But it can make your car sound obnoxiously loud. For that reason, many enthusiasts aren’t big fans of this mod.

Also, it looks rather unprofessional, and the sound is very intolerable. So, we would recommend skipping this method.

8. Cherry Bomb

An ideal way how to make your car louder is by installing a cherry bomb. But what is a cherry bomb?

Well, a cherry bomb is a special muffler that comes in red. And also, the muffler is loud. Very popular among hot rodders back in the day.

While it’s great that these mufflers are dirt cheap, they are certainly an acquired taste since noise, rather than tone, is the primary consideration in the design process.

These are common first mods for enthusiasts looking to make their cars louder, but they soon move on to something more refined.

This type of muffler is mostly suited for V8 engines, but you can also install it on some JDM/USDM applications.

Now let’s move on to the last way how to make your car louder.

9. Straight Pipe

And the last, and honestly the best method to make your car louder is installing a straight pipe exhaust. So, what is a straight pipe exhaust?

Well, a straight pipe exhaust is a type of exhaust that implements straight pipes, as its name implies. This means replacing the mufflers with steel pipes with a larger diameter.

This type of exhaust can be created fundamentally by cutting the mufflers and replacing them with pipes. Or by purchasing a complete aftermarket kit and replacing your stock exhaust system with this new system.

If you can afford the aftermarket option, it is much better because (assuming you buy a quality system) you will not have to weld or deal with exhaust leaks.

Conclusion

In this article, we have covered quite a bit about how to make your car louder. And we discussed a few ways that you can try to achieve this goal.

You should be aware that every method has its pros and cons. So, if you are a beginner, we would not recommend headers, straight pipes, downpipes, or similar mods that can be difficult to install. And for these mods, it is best to consult with a professional mechanic.

You can start from the basics, like installing an aftermarket exhaust tip or by simply installing an aftermarket rear muffler.

We hope we’ve covered all the simplest and cheapest ways to make your car sound much louder.

The post How To Make Your Car Louder first appeared on Drifted.com.

]]> 12 Best JDM Cars Of The Nineties https://www.drifted.com/jdm-cars-of-the-nineties/ Wed, 15 Feb 2023 09:00:38 +0000 https://www.drifted.com/?p=41154 We present twelve of the best JDM cars of the nineties and the latest news on their state of the art successors.

The post 12 Best JDM Cars Of The Nineties first appeared on Drifted.com.

]]> We present twelve of the best JDM cars of the nineties and the latest news on their state-of-the-art successors.

jdm car

In a hurry? Hit play on our video summary

The best JDM cars of the nineties

There’s no doubt that car enthusiasts consider the 1990s to be the golden era for Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) cars.

Electric cars were still a distant vision at the tail end of the last decade, and the performance vehicles rolling off the production line in Japan’s powerhouse motor industry were still entirely mechanical.

Interested in a JDM car for drifting? Try our best drift cars for beginners article.

At the time, Japan’s economy was booming, and disposable income was at an all-time high. With the nation’s car owners facing strict vehicle inspections, drivers concentrated on innovation over durability and frequently updated their cars.

According to French research, a car in Japan travels a yearly average of just 5,800 miles, compared to the UK average of 7,900 miles.

What does JDM stand for?

JDM stands for Japanese Domestic Market. This is a generic term that doesn’t just apply to cars.

Are JDM cars legal in the US?

JDM cars can be legally imported into the United States once they reach 25 years of age or older.

Is Nissan a JDM?

Nissan is a JDM brand. The Nissan Motor Company Ltd is a Japanese multinational car manufacturer headquartered in Nishi-ku, Yokohama, Japan. Nissan sells cars to most western automotive markets.

This allowed the ’90s market to be geared towards petrol heads, with Japanese manufacturers prioritizing their newly refined technologies and designs for JDM cars before considering the international market.

As these high-performance masterpieces began hitting the streets, little did they know that these cars would maintain an impressive cult following across the world to the present day with ever-increasing prices and popularity.

If you are looking for a new car specifically to put your mark on it and tune it to your heart’s content, then check out our best tuner cars article.

With this game-changing history in mind, let us take you back to the glory days as we check out our best JDM cars of the Nineties!

FAQ

What are the best JDM cars?

Since the 90s was arguably the most impressive era in the history of JDM cars, most of the best JDM cars are already featured in this article. However, you’ll undoubtedly notice that some true classics are missing from this list.

Cars such as the “Drift King,” Keiichi Tsuchiya’s weapon of choice – the Toyota AE86, feature alongside honorable mentions such as the Mazda RX-7 FC, Honda S2000, and the various GT-Rs that fall outside of this era, notably the legendary KPGC10 “Hakosuka.”

What are JDMs?

JDMs are cars sold on the Japanese Domestic Market (JDM), some of which are exclusively sold in Japan and were never available to purchase elsewhere.

What are cool JDM cars?

We feel that all the cars we’ve featured on this list are cool. Still, newer JDM models launched since the 90s, including the Nissan 350Z, Honda S2000, and GT-R, are also fantastic choices!

What are the best Nissan JDM cars?

Many believe that Nissan is the ultimate JDM manufacturer, bringing cars such as the Nissan Silvia, Nissan Skyline GT-R, Nissan 300ZX, and the Nissan Pulsar to the JDM market.

What are JDM cars?

A JDM car comes from the Japanese Domestic Market and is often exported overseas to popular markets, such as the US and UK. True JDM cars are right-hand-drive, but over time, the term “JDM” has been used to describe any Japanese car, even the USDM (US Domestic Market) models.

jdm cars mazda rx7

Mazda RX-7 FD

  • Model year: 1991-2002
  • Engine displacement: 1.3 litre twin-turbo
  • Power output: 252-276 bhp
  • Drivetrain configuration: RWD

The FD was the third generation of the legendary Mazda RX7. This stylish front-engine, rear-wheel drive sports car attracted a substantial following due to its sleek design and powerful performance.

The RX-7 was noted for its lightweight construction and unique twin turbochargers. It was the first ever mass-produced sequential twin-turbocharger system to come from Japan. The compact rotary engine was housed behind the front axle, which gave the vehicle a 50/50 front and rear weight balance combined with a low center of gravity.

The car accelerated from 0-62 mph in 5.9 seconds, achieving a top speed of 155mph. The twin rotors gave it a wealth of torque throughout the entire rev range. Its innovative construction makes it easy to handle and a joy to drive, and it’s easy to see why so many Madalin Stunt Cars 3 players opt for it as their favorite car in the game.

The Mazda RX-7 became a key JDM car because the engine gave a financial benefit to its Japanese owners. The engine size was below 1.5 liters, making the annual road tax more affordable while offering more power than traditional inline engines.

In Britain, sales were initially slow, but a price drop and word-of-mouth recommendations led to a surge in interest. The RX-7 became so popular that more parallel and grey market models were brought into the country than Mazda UK had ever imported.

Rick’s Tuned RX-7 FD3S

red mazda rx7

If you’re a Mazda RX7 fan but can’t get your hands on the real thing, there’s a great selection of smaller, more affordable options:
mazda rx7 fd tamiya tt02d best jdm cars

For those keen to get sideways, the RX-7 1/10 scale Tamiya TT-02D drift spec car kit will be the ultimate choice.

If you’re after a cheaper RC alternative, check out this replica of Han’s Fast & Furious RC drift car.

Still a little too expensive? This Jada Toys Fast & Furious 1:32 scale die cast car offers excellent value for money.

Want to see a tuned RX-7 out in the wild? Check out “Rotary” Rick’s stunning Mazda RX-7 in this full Drifted feature.

jdm cars honda nsx

Honda NSX

  • Model year: 1990 - 2005
  • Engine displacement: 3 liters
  • Power output: 270-290 bhp
  • Drivetrain configuration: RWD

The first-generation Honda NSX bucked the trend of low-budget JDM cars as it was designed to compete against Ferrari’s high-performance models and was marketed as the first “everyday supercar.”

This two-seater mid-engine sports car was more reliable and exceeded the performance of its Italian rivals’ more expensive models despite its lower price.

Honda achieved this aim using the powerful 3.0 liter 24 valve VTEC V6 engine, which incorporated innovative variable valve timing. They also installed titanium connecting rods, which lowered the reciprocating weight and improved the vehicle’s strength.

This allowed an additional 700 rpm, which brought the engine redline to 8000 rpm. The design of the car’s bodywork was based on the inside of the F-16 fighter jet’s cockpit. It was intended to give 360-degree visibility by moving the cabin forward, and the long tail enhanced directional stability at high speed.

The vehicle accelerated from 0-60 mph in 5.7 seconds, with a top speed of 168 mph.

The NSX was designed to showcase several of the Japanese manufacturer’s automotive technologies, with many taken from its Formula One motorsports division. Honda had significant developmental resources and used them with this model.

Japanese F1 driver Saturo Nakajima and the late Brazilian world champion Ayrton Senna put the vehicle through its paces at the Suzuka race circuit, performing endurance driving to test the chassis tuning.

The Japanese domestic market continued to set trends as the Honda NSX was the first production car to feature an all-aluminium semi-monocoque unit body, which included a revolutionary extruded aluminium alloy frame and suspension components.

Using aluminium instead of steel saved nearly 200kg in weight in the car’s body alone, while the aluminium suspension arms saved a further 20kg. This lightweight construction made the NSX easy to handle and a pleasure to drive.

Other innovations included an anti-lock brake system and electric power steering. These features meant the Honda NSX was durable, offered great value for money, and quickly became one of the most popular JDM cars. This, in turn, forced Ferrari to up its game, making its cars more reliable and easier to maintain.

Given the ever-escalating NSX prices, if you’re like us, these are the closest you will get to NSX ownership anytime soon!

However, you’re never too old to enjoy building models and admiring the end product or having a die-cast model on the shelf to remind you of your life goals..

For that reason, we highly recommend checking out this Tamiya 1/24 scale Honda NSX kit, or the 1:64 scale diecast Hot Wheels Fast & Furious 2003 Honda NSX Type-R.

jdm cars toyota supra

Toyota Supra MKIV

  • Model year: 1993 - 2002
  • Engine displacement: 3 liters
  • Power output: 276-326 bhp
  • Drivetrain configuration: RWD

The fourth generation of the Toyota Supra was a significant departure from its 1980s counterpart. A sophisticated curvaceous look and a large rear wing replaced the previous boxy styling.

The car was redesigned to emphasize performance and featured the legendary twin-turbocharged 2JZ engine. The twin turbos worked sequentially, boosting the engine and enhancing torque. The vehicle accelerated from 0-60 mph in 5.1 seconds, with a top speed of 156 mph.

Toyota went to great lengths to reduce the weight of this new model. Aluminium was used extensively, and other measures included hollow carpet fibers, a magnesium-alloy steering wheel, a plastic petrol tank and lid, a gas-injected rear spoiler, and a single pipe exhaust.

Despite having more features than its predecessor, such as dual airbags, traction control, larger brakes, wheels, tires and additional turbo, it still weighed in at 91kg lighter. This made it heavier than the Mazda RX7 and the Honda NSX, but it still featured fantastic handling.

The Toyota Supra is one of the most sought-after JDM cars in the aftermarket scene and had a big effect on the counterculture, featuring in video games such as Gran Turismo and Need For Speed and The Fast And The Furious films.

Are you a Fast & The Furious fan? If so, we’ve got you covered. You can get your hands on your miniature version with either the 1:24 scale version of Brian’s white Fast & Furious Supra, or this fun and affordable 1:24 scale Fast & Furious RC drift car.

jdm cars nissan skyline gtr

Nissan Skyline GT-R

  • Model year: 1989 -2002
  • Engine displacement: 2.6 liters
  • Power output: 276 bhp
  • Drivetrain configuration: AWD

The Nissan Skyline GT-R was produced between 1969 and 1973 as a touring car, with the later models known as the legendary “Kenmeri.” The model was revived in 1989 due to the brand’s desire to dominate motorsport.

Three generations of the vehicle were made and quickly became flagship Nissan performance cars.

The R32 model was designed to compete in Group A racing, the R33 updated the vehicle’s styling, and the R34 lured enthusiasts partly because of its in-depth onboard analysis system and great looks. The car showcased many advanced technologies, such as the ATTESA E-TS all-wheel-drive system and SUPER-HICAS four-wheel steering.

This product was the culmination of a decade’s worth of motor racing knowledge, cementing the model’s status at the forefront of JDM cars. The Nissan Skyline GT-R has become an iconic sports car, being named by Top Gear “as the only true Japanese contribution in the line of supercars” and by Jeremy Clarkson as “one of the best cars in the world.”

You can learn more about getting your hands on your Skyline here: Why are Nissan Skylines illegal in the United States?

Alternatively, we recommend checking out this highly-detailed Tamiya 1:24 scale Nissan Skyline R34 Z-Tune model kit.

If you’re after something a little smaller, then this fun 1:36 scale Nissan Skyline R34 GT-R pull back diecast model will provide plenty of enjoyment for all the family.

jdm cars subaru impreza

Subaru Impreza WRX STI

  • Model year: 1992-2000
  • Engine displacement: 2 liters
  • Power output: 247-276 bhp
  • Drivetrain configuration: AWD

The performance-orientated Subaru Impreza WRX STI was designed to compete in the World Rally Championship. (WRX stands for World Rally eXperimental). Innovative technology made it a rallying legend, such as an all-wheel drive drivetrain, stiffened suspension, and a turbocharged engine.

The Subaru Tecnica International (STI) models were exclusive JDM cars unavailable outside Japan. They were upgraded from the standard WRX vehicle with performance-tuned engines, transmissions, and suspensions.

The STI was very successful in rallies and popular with street racers. It even found fame on the big screen after featuring in Edgar Wright’s cult heist film Baby Driver.

colin mcrae subaru impreza wrx sti best jdm cars

Fancy yourself as the next Colin McRae? You can put your skills to the test with this awesome Tamiya TT-02D Subaru Impreza Monte-Carlo ’99 1/10 4WD Electric RC Rally Car Kit.

If you’re not interested in the RC capabilities, this Tamiya 1/24 Colin McRae Subaru Impreza model kit makes for a great alternative.

jdm cars mitsubishi evolution

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI

  • Model year: 1999-2001
  • Engine displacement: 2 liters
  • Power output: 276 bhp
  • Drivetrain configuration: AWD

This sports sedan was the Subaru Impreza’s arch-rival. It featured turbocharged inline four-cylinder engines and a five-speed manual gearbox. The sixth generation was updated to improve cooling and engine durability.

It received new bodywork, and the substantial fog lights were reduced in size and moved to the corners for better airflow.

The Tommi Makinen edition was named after the Finnish racing legend after he won four World Rallying Championships for Mitsubishi.

This version came with 17-inch Enkei white wheels, a faster-spooling titanium turbine, a lower ride height, and a quicker steering ratio.

All these improvements meant that the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution was now stronger and more impressive than ever.

These models quickly became significant JDM cars as they were initially limited to Japan. However, specific demand from grey import markets led to them being sold in the UK, Europe, and the USA.

If you’re looking for a keepsake of Tommi Mäkinen’s glory years, look no further than this 1:24 scale WRC Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI.

jdm cars honda integra type r

Honda DC2 Integra Type R

  • Model year: 1995 - 2001
  • Engine displacement: 1.8 liters
  • Power output: 200 bhp
  • Drivetrain configuration: FWD

The Honda DC2 Integra Type R was introduced exclusively to the Japanese domestic market and is widely acclaimed as one of the best front-wheel drive cars ever created. The Type R variant had a standard 200 PS engine equipped with a close ratio five-speed manual transmission and a helical limited-slip differential.

It was a significant upgrade from previous Integra models and boasted improved performance and handling.

The extensive changes included a strengthened chassis, reduced weight (this was achieved through using reduced sound insulation, a thinner windscreen, and lighter wheels), more power, a hand-built engine, revised intake and exhaust systems, and suspension upgrades. The VTEC technology allowed the engine redline to boast an impressive 8500 rpm.

Type R was updated again in 1998. The main changes were a re-designed rear bumper, 16-inch wheels, bigger brakes, and higher gear ratios. A further update in 2000 included a revised intake camshaft and more finely balanced drive shafts.

Honda lost money on every DC2 Integra Type R sold because of increased manufacturing costs due to its hand-finished production. The DC2 was critically acclaimed for its legendary handling and high-revving engine and took its place amongst the best JDM cars of the Nineties.

jdm cars nissan silvia

Nissan Silvia

  • Model year: 1989-2002
  • Engine displacement: 2 liters
  • Power output: 133-247 bhp
  • Drivetrain configuration: RWD

It was an instant hit in Japan and won the nation’s Car of The Year Award in 1989. This two-door sports coupe also made a huge impression on the drifting scene as owners modified it to compete in competitions or on the touge.

The first 90’s model was initially introduced as the Silvia S13, featuring the CA18 engine, which was later updated with the SR20, which also featured in the later S14 and S15 models.

Owners chose turbocharged or naturally-aspirated 1.8-liter engines for CA engines and 2-liters for SRs. Consumers could choose a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic gear ratio.

A six-speed manual was also added for the S15. A limited-slip differential was also available with some models, which allowed drivers to drift the car right out of the showroom. The Silvia is remembered as a low-slung sports car that helped to bring an incredibly affordable chassis to the masses.

It is now a popular amongst fans of JDM cars from their Nineties heyday.

Check out the Kazama Auto built Nissan Silvia S15

kazama auto silvia s15

Japanese tuners have been pushing the envelope with the Silvia S15 for years. This Kazama Auto built Silvia is one of my favorites.

Although Nissan Silvia prices have been escalating rapidly in recent years, we’ve got some good news. You can get a bargain with these miniature versions of the real thing!

Whether you’re looking for a retro 1:28 scale JDM Nissan Silvia S13 K’s model kit, or a Hot Wheels Nissan Silvia S15, we’ve got you covered.

jdm cars nissan 300zx

Nissan 300 ZX

  • Model year: 1989 – 2000
  • Engine displacement: 3 liters
  • Power output: 300 bhp
  • Drivetrain configuration: RWD

Nissan continued their emphasis on the Japanese domestic market with the 300 ZX. They utilized the Cray-2 supercomputer and a form of CAD software, making it one of the first production cars to be designed using this tool. It was a new design, with a rounded body and fewer hard edges.

This second-generation model retained the turbo-charged V6 engine of its predecessor but was more upmarket, being faster, larger, capable, advanced, and much higher priced. Four-wheel steering was available under the name Super HICAS (High Capacity Actively Controlled Steering) on the twin-turbo models.

It was also offered without the turbo-charged engine and as a hard top, T-top, or convertible, like many sports cars of the period. It accelerated from 0-60 mph in just over 5 seconds, with a top speed of 155 mph, making it one of the fastest Japanese sports cars of the 1990s.

As well as impressive speed figures, due to its well-tuned chassis, sport-orientated suspension, and active rear steering, it was an impressive all-rounder. It was a leading exponent of JDM cars and featured several trim variants unavailable on the international market.

These included the “Version R” with Recaro front seats, leather rear seats in the four-seater, and larger side skirts.

If you’re a 300ZX enthusiast, you’ll have a great time building this 1/24 model kit from legendary JDM model maker Tamiya.

jdm cars honda civic type r

Honda EK9 Civic Type R

  • Model year: 1997 - 2001
  • Engine displacement: 1.6 liters
  • Power output: 182 bhp
  • Drivetrain configuration: FWD

This is the highest-performance version of the Honda Civic, and it was at the forefront of JDM cars because it was unavailable outside Japan. It is a three-door hatchback with a lightened and stiffened body, specially tuned engine, and upgraded brakes and chassis.

The model was designed on sporting lines, with the interior featuring a wealth of red fittings and a stylish leather-wrapped steering wheel.

A red badge accentuated this distinction and differentiated it from other Honda models. This emphasis on sporting success continued in 1998 when the Motorsports edition was released. It featured steel wheels but no air conditioning, power windows, power steering, radio, and the standard Type R interior.

Like its counterpart, the Integra Type R, the Civic was modified to fit Honda’s vision of a car capable of high performance on the racetrack. Other similarities between the two vehicles were the omission of sound-deadening and other weight-reduction measures, a hand-ported B16B engine, a front helical limited-slip differential, and a close-ratio five-speed manual gearbox.

These made the model more stable and reduced wheel spin while racing. The B16B engine generated one of the highest power outputs per liter for a naturally-aspirated engine, with 182 bhp. In a further innovation, for the first time, a strategically seam-welded monocoque chassis was used to improve the car’s rigidity.

If you could tone down the paint and styling, a tuned civic could make for an excellent street sleeper.

Looking for a model version of the real thing? Check out this highly-detailed 1:24 scale replica from Japanese model makers, Fujimi.

jdm cars nissan pulsar gtir

Nissan Pulsar GTI-R

  • Model year: 1990 - 1994
  • Engine displacement: 2 liters
  • Power output: 186-227 bhp
  • Drivetrain configuration: AWD

This fourth-generation Pulsar shares many characteristics with the Nissan Skyline GT-R, such as its hardcore all-wheel drive and turbo-charged ethos. It is a triumph of substance over style – it’s certainly not the prettiest car out there!

What it lacks in style, this small pocket rocket makes up for in sheer power and driver enjoyment.
The Nissan Pulsar (its name refers to a pulsating star) built up an enthusiastic following in Japan.

Its cult status developed despite little promotion from the manufacturer. This unpretentious five-seater hatchback was specifically produced to enter the World Rally Championship. It accelerates from 0-60 mph in 5.4 seconds, with a top speed of 144 mph.

honda s2000 exhaust detail best jdm cars of the 90s

Honda S2000

  • Model year: 1999 - 2009
  • Engine displacement: 2 liters
  • Power output: 237-247 bhp
  • Drivetrain configuration: RWD

It may come as a surprise that Honda features again in our list, but it’s a testament to how impressive they were back in the ‘90s - launched in 1999, the S2000 narrowly makes the cut-off.

In many ways, we feel that the S2000 was underrated and underappreciated, with the F1-inspired F20C engine becoming the highest-powered naturally aspirated production engine ever built at the time.

Before Ferrari launched the 458 Italia to the market, the S2000 held this title for a mind-blowing ten years.

Despite the Ferrari’s higher total output, the 9,000 rpm F20C produces 123.5 HP/L, compared to the 458 Italia’s 124.5 HP/L, making it incredible value for money in comparison!

Besides its impeccable 50/50 weight distribution and awe-inspiring engine, the S2000 is indisputably pleasing to the eye.

In the same time that Honda sold 3.1 million Civics, just 66,860 S2000’s rolled out of the showroom in the US before Honda ceased production, making them somewhat rare and increasingly sought-after.

We do not doubt that the S2000 will go on to become a future classic, and if you’re considering getting your hands on one, you’ll want to check out our S2000 tuning guides to discover their true potential.

Spoiler alert: You could potentially aim for 700 hp - imagine that in a two-seater roadster

Looking to get your hands on a 1:24 scale version? We’ve got you covered. We can’t guarantee it’ll scream its way to the 9,000 rpm redline, though!

What future JDM legends are on the horizon?

These classic JDM cars are now being upgraded and modified by the next generation of petrol heads, who enjoy it all over again.

jdm cars nissan fairlady z yellow proto auto show 2022

Nissan Z

Although many initial reports expected the latest Nissan Z car to be named the Nissan 400Z, the Japanese manufacturer surprised many with its simple title – Nissan Z, with initial sales of the 2023 Z expected to start around June 2022.

It features a retro design that pays testament to the early Fairlady models. The tried-and-tested modern-day 400hp twin-turbo V6 powerplant under the hood was initially showcased in the Infiniti Q50 Red Sport.

Coupled with 350lb/ft of torque, the 2023 Nissan Z is certainly no slouch, and if you already think that it’s only a matter of time until it finds its way into the drift scene, you certainly wouldn’t be wrong.

However, it may surprise that Chris Forsberg has already begun shamelessly taking an angle grinder to his pre-release version in preparation for the upcoming Formula Drift season.

We cannot wait to see the brand new Z-chassis shred tires in the upcoming FD season!

jdm cars toyota supra a90

Toyota Supra (A90)

Meanwhile, as time advances, the brand new A90 Toyota Supra will be released next year, following its debut at the 2018 Goodwood Festival of Speed.

It is one of the most eagerly-anticipated performance car launches of 2019, and the Supra promises to be an uncompromising vehicle.

The model is rumored to offer up to 330 bhp and 450 Nm of torque (and an additional 50Nm available with overboost) from a 3.0 liter turbo-charged in-line straight six engine. It will sprint from 0-62 mph in just 3.8 seconds.

The dimensions are 4.38m in length, 1.86m wide, and 1.29m tall with a 2.47m wheelbase. The six-cylinder version is said to weigh just under 1500kg.

Toyota describes the Supra as a “pure sports car,” and potential owners will likely modify it to fit their specifications. The provision of an automatic transmission or a manual gearbox is still under discussion.

Toyota’s new Gazoo Racing team will play a big role in developing the new vehicle, with the Supra set to enter the competition. Insiders claim that the new model will come in four variants: The basic Supra, Supra GR, Supra GR Sport, and the Supra GRMN.

mst rmx 2 0 toyota gr supra red rc drift car best jdm cars

Model makers have already started picking up on the A90 Supra popularity, with the winner of our RC drift car guide, the 1/10 scale MST RMS 2.0 RWD Brushless RTR Drift Car and the highly-regarded Tamiya TT-02 1/10 scale RC drift car both providing the chance to get the new Supra sideways.

nissan silvia s16

Nissan Silvia (S16)

The long-awaited Nissan Silvia S16 has also been rumored to be released in 2021. The model was discontinued in 2002, so aficionados of JDM cars will undoubtedly rejoice should this day come to fruition!

It is expected to be a worthy successor to the Silvia lineage and cement the vehicle’s reputation for quality and driveability.

Nissan is expected to develop a bespoke platform for the S16, which will be relatively lightweight. The result should keep with the ethos of being a light rear-wheel-drive sports car with almost 50:50 weight distribution.

The car is rumored to receive a new generation 2.0 liter turbocharged in-line four-cylinder engine, which should deliver more than 300 bhp. You can read our complete Nissan Silvia S16 guide right here.

jdm cars nissan gtr

Nissan GTR

The new generation Nissan GTR is a supercar that lives up to its name. It is fitted with a 3.8 liter twin-turbo V6 engine, and horsepower and torque has increased from the previous model, now standing at 565 bhp and 637 Nm with a whopping top speed of 196mph.

The model features enhanced aerodynamics with greater downforce and improved body rigidity for more stability and better handling. This new Nissan GTR is on sale now.

mst rmx 2 0 nissan gtr black rc drift car best jdm cars

If you’re looking for a miniature version of the real thing, this MST RMX 2.0 1/10 2WD Brushless RTR Nissan GTR drift car is ready to slide straight out of the box.

Want more JDM cars?

Now that you’ve read our JDM cars primer, are you ready to start drifting? Then check out our best drift cars for beginners feature.

Do you own a JDM car from the nineties? If you do, chances are your headlights suck! Try our best headlight bulb guide to help modernize your car’s night driving capabilities. Chipped windscreen? Check out this excellent windscreen repair guide.

Turbocharger Vs. Supercharger – What’s best? Find out the answer in our turbocharger vs supercharger guide.

New to drifting? You’ll be wanting our 101 Drifting guide.

If you’re a lover of 90s JDM cars, you must check out our kei cars guide.

Photography credits

Drifted would like to extend thanks to the following sources for the use of their images:

The post 12 Best JDM Cars Of The Nineties first appeared on Drifted.com.

]]> The Cars Of Tokyo Drift https://www.drifted.com/tokyo-drift-cars/ Wed, 15 Feb 2023 09:00:26 +0000 https://www.drifted.com/?p=45163 Love it or hate it, Tokyo Drift quite possibly played THE biggest role with bringing drifting to the public eye, and today we're going to look back at the movie's most memorable cars.

The post The Cars Of Tokyo Drift first appeared on Drifted.com.

]]> Love it or hate it, Tokyo Drift quite possibly played THE biggest role with bringing drifting to the public eye, and today we’re going to look back at the movie’s most memorable cars.

hans mazda rx7 fd3s

Introduction

Love it or hate it, The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift quite possibly played THE biggest role with bringing drifting to the public eye, we’re going to look back at the most memorable cars from the movie.

During its launch in 2001, The Fast and the Furious caused quite a stir in Hollywood. With a budget of just $38 million, it would become the 386th highest grossing movie of all time in the US and Canada, scooping $206 million in Worldwide box office earnings.

The series made the general public have a greater understanding of the car tuning scene, potentially, even accepting what it is that we know and love a little more.

It undoubtedly also converted some of your average Joe’s into lifelong car enthusiasts.

Before the movies, tuners had often been seen as a bunch of annoying kids with stupid cars and loud exhausts that posed a constant danger to the general public – Mustang drivers, we’re looking at you! (Sorry, not sorry!)

As far-fetched and off-topic as the storylines sometimes became, it helped to bridge a gap between petrolheads and the general public, in some kind of strange ‘accepting it because it’s Hollywood’-esque kind of way.

fast furious tokyo drift s15 350z

When ‘2 Fast 2 Furious’ joined the line-up in 2003, they proved that there was a substantial amount of interest in the series, but up until then, the movies hadn’t been overly focused on the drifting aspect.

For the third movie in 2006, that all changed. Fast and Furious: Tokyo Drift was born.

With drifting having a huge following in the United States, there’s no doubt that the popularity of Formula Drift would’ve played a large role, but also the popularity of drifting in Japan, popular games like Madalin Stunt Cars 3, and the JDM tuning scene would’ve contributed.

This was also screenwriter Chris Morgan’s attempt to revive the series primarily for petrolhead enthusiasts and would be the first film in the series to start its tradition of shooting in exotic locations – and where better than Tokyo?

Undoubtedly the birthplace of drifting, and arguably, still the home of the greatest drifters and cars on the planet. With the addition of some of the biggest names in drifting on-board, such as the Drift King Keiichi Tsuchiya, they set about their huge task of creating a drift-orientated Hollywood blockbuster for the first time.

nissan silvia s15 street race

Not only would Tsuchiya offer his expertize, but it would also include stunt driver appearances and technical input from the likes of U.S. drifting legends Rhys Millen, Samuel Hubinette, Tanner Foust, Rich Rutherford, Calvin Wan and Alex Pfeiffer.

After the release of the movie, some enthusiasts would argue that the movie didn’t capture the true essence of the spirit drifting, but let’s be honest, there’s no shortage of facepalm moments throughout the entire the Fast and Furious series…

It’s not perfect, but we still love it, and it always keeps us coming back for more!

The F&F series has become Universal’s biggest franchise of all time, and the ninth-highest grossing film series ever.

Us enthusiasts clearly aren’t the only people enjoying it either, as the F&F series has become Universal’s biggest franchise of all time, and the ninth-highest grossing film series ever.

At the time of creating this article, the eight Fast and the Furious movies have generated over $5 billion in worldwide gross revenue.

It doesn’t stop there either, there are another two films planned in the pipeline, even with the huge loss of the main character, Paul Walker.

rx7 fd3s drifting around skyline

Given the popularity of the series, it was later turned into a Live show, where fans were able to witness the action first-hand. We popped along for the ride in our Fast & Furious Live review.

The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift featured a huge variety of cars, from JDM legends to muscle car classics. In fact, over 200 cars were used for the Tokyo Drift movie alone, and they were shipped in from across the world.

If you’re wondering how they required that many cars, there were eleven Nissan 350z’s alone which were shipped in directly from Japan because they required right-hand drive cars, given that it was based in Tokyo. Three of those would later be sacrificed for the greater good, written off in crash scenes.

On top of that, they also purchased ten Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX’s, most of which were converted to rear-wheel drive for their participation in the drifting scenes.

Almost all of the cars had to be purchased second-hand since they were out of production at the time. This included the likes of Nissan Silvia’s, Mazda RX7’s and even Toyota Chasers.

nissan silvia s15 drift race

Despite the Hollywood budget, many of the cars being purchased from the used market due to ceasing production, yet they still spent in excess $7 million on cars for use in the film alone.

As you can imagine, there was a huge amount of that budget would’ve been used for modifying each car to ensure that they were ideal for their role in the movie, sometimes even using completely a completely different chassis, which we discussed in-depth in our Paul Walker Skyline article.

We’re sure you’re here as you want to take a look back at some of the crazy cars which were made for the Tokyo Drift movie, and also to find out a little more about them. You’ve definitely visited the perfect place.

Let’s take an in-depth look at our favorite cars from the movie!

FAQ

What are the most popular Tokyo Drift cars?

Some of the most memorable cars from the Tokyo Drift movie were “Mona Lisa,” a JDM Nissan Silvia S15, the Nissan 350Z (Fairlady Z33) driven by D.K., and the Veilside Mazda RX-7. One of the few non-JDM cars was the 1967 Ford Mustang, but even that was powered by the JDM Nissan Skyline RB26 engine!

What was Hans car in Tokyo Drift?

Han’s car was arguably one of the most memorable in the Tokyo Drift movie – a widebody VeilSide Fortune-kitted Mazda RX-7 FD with Andrews EVO-V wheels. We cover the full list of aftermarket upgrades included on the car above.

What car does DK drive in Tokyo Drift?

Takashi (also known as Drift King, or D.K. in the movie) was best known for his widebody Nissan 350Z (a JDM Fairlady Z33). Han’s Z looks fantastic with the Ver. 3 widebody body kit from VeilSide, along with VeilSide Andrew Evolution V Series wheels. DK’s car undoubtedly helped the 350Z become one of the most sought-after JDM drift cars.

2001 Nissan Silvia S15 Spec-S – “Mona Lisa”

mona lisa s15 tokyo drift

We’ll kick off the list with one of the most familiar cars in the franchise – Mona Lisa. Despite not getting much screen time, the car earned itself a huge following from the movie.

Interesting fact – two of the staff members here at Drifted own S15’s, so it’s only right that an S15 topped our list!

Despite the C-West styling and somewhat ‘unique’ color scheme not quite being to our personal tastes, there’s no doubt that it’s an iconic car of the series and it certainly gave S15‘s a significant worldwide following.

Han mentioned that Mona Lisa was his favorite car, before handing over the keys to his associate Sean Boswell as he went head-to-head against D.K. in a car park race. Despite having a lesson in drifting before the race begins, Sean soon crashes the car into the pillars of the underground parking lot.

Following Han’s passing in the movie, Reiko later re-discovers the damaged Mona Lisa when Han’s team are looking for spares to fix up Sean’s father’s 1967 Ford Mustang Fastback in his race against Takashi.

Modifications

The original car used for the movie was a Spec-S S15, which meant it had the naturally aspirated SR20DE engine under the hood. This is common for drift cars in real life too, since the value of SR20DET-powered S15’s being much higher, Spec-S’s are a much more affordable candidate for an engine swap.

That was also the case with the Spec-S in the movie, which featured a straight-six RB26 Skyline GT-R engine.

Notable styling modifications on the exterior of the car alongside the C-West DRFT kit were the C-West GT (BGW) rear wing and Ganador wing mirrors.

For the interior, we caught glimpses of Recaro seats with Takata harnesses, which would be a common choice in Japan.

Additional modifications included a Sparco steering wheel alongside Auto Meter gauges, an aluminum instrument cluster, a custom roll cage and the signature NOS bottle.

They didn’t hold back with the wheels, opting for genuine Volk Racing grey GT-7 rims, which were 19 x 8.5″ on the front and 19 x 9.5″ on the rear. These were wrapped in Toyo Proxes T1R’s which were 235/35/ZR19 fronts and 255/30/ZR19 rears.

If you’ve ever dreamed of owning the Mona Lisa S15, you can make your dreams come true!

This Hot Wheels model of the real thing will make the perfect gift for any Nissan Silvia fan.

2003 Nissan Fairlady Z (Z33) – D.K.

dk takashi nissan 350z

Takashi, also known as Drift King (or D.K.) shows off his Nissan Fairlady Z, which is the Japanese model of the Nissan 350z, for the first time in the race against Mona Lisa, where Mona Lisa gets destroyed and D.K. takes the win.

The next time the car is seen is when D.K. confronts Sean, warning him to stay away from Neela. Takashi, who has Yakuza ties in the movie, then later chases Han for money issues, and Sean, for stealing Neela.

The car eventually meets its demise in the movie when D.K. races Sean down Suicide Mountain to decide who stays in Tokyo. In a typically suspenseful F&F race, D.K. is in the lead before he ends up taking the Z33 over a cliff-edge, landing on the roof of the car.

It’s easy to see how they got through eleven of them!

Modifications

In our minds, this is undoubtedly one of the best-looking F&F cars so far. VeilSide body kits are generally known for being somewhat excessive, but the Ver. 3 widebody aero suits the Z33 well and is surprisingly subtle, especially with the chosen color scheme. They’ve also fitted a VeilSide carbon fiber hood and Ganador wing mirrors.

For the engine, they opted to keep the VQ35DE, but it includes a twin-turbocharger kit from Australian tuners APS, with Magnaflow providing the twin-exhaust setup. This was rumored to provide around 460 hp at the wheels.

RS*R lowering springs were used to improve the stance, removing the gap between the car and the VeilSide Andrew Evolution Vs wheels. These were 19 x 9 fronts and dishy 19 x 11 rears with Toyo Proxes TR1R 245/35ZR19 and 285/30ZR19’s tires.

For the interior, they opted for Sparco seats, harnesses and steering wheel alongside a custom cage. This was a surprisingly subtle set-up once again, which kept the car simple and realistic.

If you’re looking to get your very own D.K. Nissan 350Z, then this 1:24 scale die cast model will make the perfect addition to your collection.

1997 Mazda RX-7

hans mazda rx7 fd3s at show

Han certainly wasn’t short of money, and his selection of cars proved that, one of which was this awesome VeilSide Fortune kitted RX-7.

After Sean Boswell totals Han’s favorite car, Mona Lisa, he opts to get behind the wheel of the RX-7 instead.

When D.K. confronts Han, he flees in the RX-7 before a street race through downtown Tokyo and the Shibuya District breaks out.

D.K. ends up (rather ridiculously) driving backward in front of Han, firing into the windshield of the RX-7. Han then bumps him out of the way and goes to drive away when Deckard Shaw T-bones him.

Following this, the car lands on its roof and explodes into a huge ball of flames, writing off the RX-7 and killing Han in the process.

Modifications

This RX-7 was built by VeilSide themselves for the 2005 Tokyo Auto Salon. Universal then purchased it and changed the original red/burgundy color-scheme for the movie.

The VeilSide Fortune kit is extremely rare, and one of the most sought-after body kits out there, completely transforming the looks and lines of the RX-7, yet somehow still managing to look surprisingly impressive.

Besides the front glass, the Fortune kit changes every single panel on the car, which even includes the roof!

This is an insanely wide kit, and it’s almost a foot wider than the original car, with 5-6″ added each side.

VeilSide opted for their Andrews EVO-V wheels, but these aren’t your typical sizes due to the insane width of this thing. Despite 9″ wheels fitting up front, they needed a whopping 12″ to fill out the rear fenders.

Behind the wheels are the huge Rotora brakes and four-piston calipers. A’PEXi N1 coilovers were installed to eliminate the arch gap.

Despite completely revamping the car, VeilSide didn’t stop there with the modifications. Under the hood is the original Rotary engine, but with an upgraded HKS T04Z turbocharger strapped to it, cooled by an HKS intercooler, with the gases fired out of a VeilSide titanium exhaust. Tasty.

The interior also had a huge amount of changes, including a huge Alpine audio setup and VeilSide D1 race seats. It’s also got an 8-inch dash screen in case you want to watch the car in the movies, while sat in the car… I guess?

Although the car was totaled in the movie, this appears to have been CGI, as we’ve been told that the original car is still doing the rounds these days and looking as impressive as ever.

If you’re interested in getting your own version of Han’s Mazda RX-7, then you’re in luck as there’s RC drift car and die-cast options available.

1967 Ford Mustang Fastback

1967 ford mustang fast and furious

This is the first non-JDM car on our list, but fear not, if you’re not already aware, it has a pleasant surprise under the hood!

This fastback was owned by Major Boswell (Sean’s father), who initially found it on an army base. Sean awoke one day to find his Dad working on the car, which was in a serious state of disrepair.

When Sean challenges D.K. to a race, Sean and his friends get to work with restoring the car, eventually taking the RB26 from Han’s totaled S15.

After completing the restorations, Sean uses the car to race D.K. down the mountain where he’s never been beaten before. After several near-death moments, D.K. sends his Nissan 350z over the cliff-edge before crashing the car onto its roof in front of Sean at the bottom of the mountain.

Modifications

There was certainly no shortage of RB26’s in these movies, and the Mustang would be no exception!

Apparently, it took two months to install the Nissan GT-R RB26 engine into the Mustang bay, rumored to be around 500hp, which is certainly a decision which triggered the Mustang AND JDM purists. Sorry to say chime in on a controversial subject, but we kinda like it!

For the transmission, a 5-speed 1998 Skyline GT-S gearbox was used and bolted to a Currie Enterprises 9-inch Ford rear end, keeping the required rear-wheel drive drifting layout.

Global West provided control arms and springs, with KYB providing shocks.

They opted for JDM-styling with the wheels, (uh-oh, I can hear triggered purists again), fitting a set of 19″ Volk GT-7’s, which are 9″ fronts and 10″ rears and wrapped In 245/35ZR19 and 275/35ZR19 Toyo Proxes T1R’s.

Behind the wheels lies an impressive 4-piston Wilwood brake kit, which provides more than enough braking force.

On the interior, there’s nothing much to write home about, there are some subtle styling changes, but it has been mostly kept basic and stock.

Two duplicate Mustangs were apparently built for the movie, and apparently every Mustang they used during filming managed to avoid being destroyed and were later sold at auction.

Let’s face it, the chances of most of us owning a ’67 Fastback anytime soon are pretty slim, but thankfully Hot Wheels once again have you covered with this Limited Edition die-cast model.

2004 Mazda RX-8

neelas mazda rx8

Neela’s RX-8 didn’t make many appearances in the movie, but one of the main scenes it was involved in was something of a die-hard tuner’s wet dream (sorry, but it’s true!)

As the stunning Neela confidently and calmly drifts her way up the touge, expressing her love for drifting whilst in perfect tandem with her street crew, she explains her history with the mountain to Sean.

This car was also seen near the ending of the movie, where Dominic Toretto and Sean Boswell go head-to-head.

Modifications

It’s a surprise to see that a ‘chick car’ in a franchise like this not being too ridiculous, but despite the Veilside D1-GT body kit being a little over-the-top, it’s not too bad and even features a Team Burst-style fade in blue to black, it’s just missing the stickers. Well, and a bit of style.

It also has other VeilSide extras, such as a painted carbon fiber hood and a GT wing.

Under the hood, the 1.3 13B Rotary engine had a GReddy turbo kit added and an aftermarket engine management system alongside a Tanabe exhaust.

Suspension mods included Tein coil springs and a Cusco rear sway bar, along with a Cusco LSD for even rear-wheel power distribution.

Volk Racing GT-AV 19″ rims were wrapped in 245/35/ZR19 and 255/30/ZR19 Toyo Proxes.

On the inside were popular JDM modifications, Takata harnesses and a Nardi steering wheel.

2006 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX

evo ix tokyo drift

Further proof that Han wasn’t short of money was when he handed Sean Boswell a brand-new Evo IX after he wrote off Mona Lisa during a race against D.K.

Sean would go on to use the RWD Evo IX to hone his drifting skills, which he soon picked up and mastered, winning every race he went on to compete in, even beating Morimoto, a business partner of D.K.

After attempting to escape D.K. through the streets of Tokyo, the Evo was the next car to be crashed by Sean Boswell before Han is T-boned in the RX-7.

Modifications

Rhys Millen’s team got to work on this Evo, converting it to RWD specifically to enable it to drift in a typical way for the movie. This is surprisingly simple to do in an Evo, and simply requires disconnecting the front differential.

RMR (Rhys Millen Racing) made some subtle engine changes to the 2-liter turbocharged 4G63 engine such as an RMR air intake and downpipe, but nothing drastic.

An APR body kit, rear wing, and side mirrors were fitted for the added style, and Rays once again came through with the goods, opting for 19″ G-Games 99B’s, which are 8.5″ wide, once again wrapped in Toyo Proxes T1R’s.

The stock Recaro seats are kept alongside the JDM Takata harnesses and a Sparco quick-release steering wheel.

2002 Nissan Fairlady Z (Z33) – Morimoto

morimoto fast furious tokyo drift

D.K.’s sidekick, Morimoto’s Nissan 350z is seen for the first time as he goes up against Sean in his brand-new Evo IX in the parking garage, and subsequently loses the race.

The car later reappears when D.K. and Morimoto chase Han, Neela and Sean. Morimoto goes on to hit Sean’s Evo on the driver side before Sean pushes him into the oncoming traffic, where he fails to avoid a head-on crash and becomes the latest victim of the F&F death toll on the streets of Shibuya.

Modifications

This was reported to be completely stock mechanically, and the upgrades were purely cosmetic changes to make it look more impressive.

These included a Top Secret G-Force widebody kit, which makes it 2″ wider on each side.

Alongside that are a Top Secret FRP hood and a carbon fiber rear wing.

Volk GT-C’s are the rim of choice, with 18 x 9″ fronts and 18 x 10″ rears. Once again, they’re wrapped in Toyo T1R’s (you’re probably getting the hang of that bit by now!)

This car actually has a rather nice interior with stylish Recaro fixed-back bucket seats.

There’s also a NOS bottle, but it appears that it’s purely there for show. I mean, which F&F car would be complete without a big blue NOS bottle?!

1971 Chevrolet Monte Carlo

monte carlo tokyo drift

This 1971 Monte Carlo was once again owned by Sean Boswell (he sure does get to drive a wide variety of cars, right?).

After insulting douchebag Clay’s knowledge on his Dodge Viper SRT-10, Sean receives a baseball bat through the rear window of his Monte Carlo. They end up going head-to-head, which probably doesn’t come as a huge surprise, but this time around they’re racing to win Clay’s girlfriend, Cindy.

Sean keeps up with Clay’s Viper after navigating through a construction site. He’s then forced to drive through a partially built house, (as you do), before catching up with Clay. Sean then takes the lead and Clay decides to ram his shiny Dodge Viper into Sean repeatedly after being wound up by Cindy, eventually forcing both cars off the road.

Clay then gets into a nasty crash with a concrete cylinder as he and Cindy meet their demise and Sean wins the race. When crossing the finish line, he loses control of the Monte Carlo before flipping several times, and that too joins the list of destroyed cars.

Sean is then arrested and informed that the Monte Carlo is crushed.

Nine stunt cars were used, with eleven cars overall, for the 1971 Monte Carlo scenes in the movie.

Modifications

Despite not being a drift car, the Monte Carlo had a pretty extensive list of modifications!

According to the crew responsible for the cars, two out of nine of the Monte Carlo’s had a 560 hp 509 engine block.

For the main cars, it was even more impressive. It may have looked like it was ready for the scrapheap, but don’t let the appearance fool you, these were built for drag racing and featured an 800 hp engine under the Fiberglass Trends hood.

The Bill Mitchell-built 632 cubic inch block provides a ridiculous 10.3 liters of displacement, utilizing 8-cylinders to fire out 800 hp.

With fancy carburetors and fuel cells combined with NOS along with a huge spec list of supporting mods, this thing is the true definition of a sleeper.

A Richmond T-10 4-speed transmission shifts through the gears as the KYB shocks and Global West control arms, springs and weight jacks plates enable it to actually go around corners, whilst Goodyear Eagle slicks (I know, different tires, right?!) keep it firmly gripped to the ground.

For the remaining seven cars, they either stuck with small-block V8’s or had no engine at all.

It might not be a drift car, but it’s certainly something different!

you can once again get your hands on a miniature version of the real thing with this Hot Wheels die-cast model.

Conclusion

If you’re like us, you most probably have an urge to go back and watch Tokyo Drift all over again now!

At least you can approach the cars with a little more knowledge, and perhaps respect, knowing that some of them do actually feature some rather impressive upgrades and modifications.

In our Paul Walker article, which we highly recommend checking out, we reveal some rather awkward modifications of what can be done behind-the-scenes in Hollywood.

Warning, R34, or JDM purists will want to look away now!

We know that The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift isn’t the perfect movie for hardcore drift fans, but we’re grateful for the appeal that it gave to your ‘average Joe’ in bringing drifting to the mainstream. With some of the biggest names in drifting involved with the project, they certainly gave it a good effort!

Looking to add good racing movies on your watch list? Check out our ultimate NASCAR movie list here.

Photography credits

Drifted would like to extend thanks to the following sources for use of their images:

The post The Cars Of Tokyo Drift first appeared on Drifted.com.

]]> Top JDM Trucks – Our Ultimate Picks https://www.drifted.com/jdm-trucks/ Tue, 14 Feb 2023 16:37:38 +0000 https://www.drifted.com/?p=269989 This JDM truck guide covers everything you need to know whether you’re looking to buy or simply a fan of what Japan’s rare truck market offers.

The post Top JDM Trucks – Our Ultimate Picks first appeared on Drifted.com.

]]> This JDM truck guide covers everything you need to know whether you’re looking to buy or simply a fan of what Japan’s rare truck market offers.

jdm trucks

Introduction

Doing good and thorough research on a car or truck is the way to go in our opinion. There is a vast number of models out there. Especially trucks.

But, when it comes to Japanese mini truck models here in the United States, also known as JDM trucks, finding one can be a daunting task.

This is mainly because JDM models are right-hand-drive (RHD), so you’ll you have to import them into the US as an import buy yourself, or a specialist importer.

If you wish to go down the specialist importer route, first, you have to communicate with JDM importers and see more about what they have in their inventory, and then with the exporters sort out the paperwork.

This process can be a real pain that can take months, or even years to find the perfect truck. So, in these situations, patience is the key if you really want to purchase and import a Japanese Domestic Market truck.

We’ll be providing more in-depth information regarding imports at the end of the article.

First, we are going to share our list of best JDM trucks with you, including both pickup trucks and also some of the Kei truck options that are very popular among JDM enthusiasts.

Best JDM Trucks – Our Top 10 Picks

It’s worth worth noting is that we#re only including JDM models in this guid.

So, you will not see the Tacoma, Tundra, Nissan Frontier, Titan, and other models that are sold here in the USA and Canada.

Another thing worth noting is that we will include light trucks, as well as Kei trucks. So, no heavy trucks either.

Now, let’s cover the top JDM trucks.

1. Toyota Stout Second Generation (1960 – 1978)

Now let’s start our list of best JDM trucks with something really special.

This is the Toyota Stout, which is probably one of the most American-looking JDM pickup trucks on our list.

The Stout’s timeless looks have put this truck on the legendary list. This truck basically wrote the history in the 1960s when it was introduced, and went on to enjoy a 19-year production stint, where it was then replaced by the third generation.

What is worth noting is that this truck was built for the Japanese domestic market. As well as in South Africa for the African market. So, this model also came with a rare left hand drive option.

Overall, the Stout became famous for its quad headlamp design, utilizing dual headlights on both sides.

The model competed with other Japanese mini truck models like the ones that we are going to cover next.

What is worth noting is that this truck came with the legendary Type R engine. The Type R is a family of inline-4 engines that have shown to be extremely reliable.

Believe it or not, some of these trucks are still alive and kicking in the African countries where they were mass imported. Now let’s move on to the next JDM trucks.

2. Nissan Sunny Truck (1971 – 1989)

Another legendary truck on our JDM tucks list is the Nissan Sunny truck.

The Sunny truck basically was a car-truck, something like a Japanese Ranchero or El Camino.

So, they took the Nissan Sunny, also known as the Datsun 1200 for export markets. And created a multi-purpose vehicle from it.

The Datsun 1200 was everywhere in the US in the early ‘70s with more than 133,000 units imported. But the Nissan Sunny was nowhere to be seen. So, why was that?

Well, this was partly because of a law called a Chicken Tax. This tax was invented because of the chicken war between France and Germany on the one side and the US on the other side.

This was an American way to protect their manufacturers of light-duty pickup trucks like Ford, Dodge, Chevy, and GMC. So, they invented the Chicken Tax.

This was a 25% tariff on light-duty pickup trucks imported into the US. At first, this tax was for chicken. But then became a tax for trucks as well.

So, the Sunny was doomed to fail in the US market after this 25% increase because nobody would buy it at that high price. So, it was never imported here.

Nevertheless, the Sunny was produced in really high numbers. And is very known for the A12 engines. These were tiny 1.2L engines that produced about 58 horsepower, but they were very reliable. Also, there was an option for a manual, as well as automatic transmission.

It’s also worth noting that this was one of the first models to implement a MacPherson suspension that is still widely used nowadays.

Now let’s move to the next JDM trucks.

3. Mazda B-Series (1965 - 1977)

Now let’s cover something really cool on our best JDM trucks list. And when it comes to the level of coolness, the Mazda B-Series ranks up there with the best.

Especially the second generation of the B-Series produced between 1965 and 1977. This model was also produced in the US and was known under the name Ford Courier and then this model became the Ford Ranger.However, the JDM model is somewhat special.

It might carry the same engines and transmissions as the Ford Courier, but what is most important is that this model is a genuine JDM product made for the Japanese domestic market.

In the JDM market, this model was known as the Mazda Proceed or Mazda 1500/1600/1800, depending on the engine type, since there were engines starting from 1.5L and up to 1.8L in displacement.

What is even more special is that the B-Series got the Wankel engine. That’s right, this pickup truck for the US market came with the 13B 1.3L two-rotor engine, and the truck was sold with the Wankel between 1974 and 1977.

So, if you want to get yourself a rotary model in the US, you can. There are more than 15,000 units sold in the US with this engine.

But if you are into proper JDM B-Series, you will only be able to get one with the inline engines because, for the JDM market, only these engines were available.

4. Suzuki Carry Truck

Now that we covered the mini-trucks, let’s move on to Kei JDM trucks and learn more about the best Kei truck out there.

And the Suzuki Carry is probably on the top of the list of every JDM car enthusiast out there. We will not focus on a specific model of the Carry since all of the models are somewhat special.

But our personal favorites are the fourth, fifth, and sixth generation of the Carry. These were the trucks produced between 1969 and 1979. We chose these models because they carry the most sentiment among the car community.

What is worth noting is that these cars were extremely mass-produced across Asia. They were sold in millions, and they still are, since there are countless more generations released from this Kei truck.

What is interesting about these trucks is that they are basically van conversions. The front cab is taken from a van and they slapped a bed in the rear and got a pickup truck.

The Carry is extremely versatile in extremely populated countries with narrow roads. There is not a lot of space to pass through, which makes these trucks a true lifesaver.

In the US, for example, these trucks would not make it, since here the demand for big trucks is much higher than in other parts of the world.

Now, let’s move on to the next on our list of best JDM trucks.

5. Subaru Sambar

Another Kei truck that we want to add to our list of best JDM trucks is the Subaru Sambar.

The Sambar is another very popular cab-over truck produced by Subaru from 1961 to 2012. From 2012, this model is made by Daihatsu.

Similar to the Carry truck that we covered previously, the Sambar is derived from a van platform. As of today, it is produced in a total of six generations.

But, when it comes to the sentiment, probably the third and fourth generations carry the most sentiment among buyers. These models were produced between 1973 and 1990.

As we noted, the model was also available in the US at some point as the Subaru 500/500 Jet Electra-van, and this a crazy story.

The model was imported during the 1970s and 1980s by a company known as Jet Industries.

This company converted these trucks into electric. So, we can say that we had electric cars, and we weren’t even aware of them!

The converted Sambar models were equipped with a 20-horsepower General Electric motor.

Other models that they converted were the Ford Courier/Mazda B-Series pickups that we previously covered.

Now let’s move on to the next on our list of best JDM trucks.

6. Honda Acty (1977 – 1988)

Another on our list of Kei JDM trucks is the Honda Acty. The Honda Acty is another very popular model in the JDM and other Asian markets.

For our purpose, we are only interested in the first generation of the Acty that was introduced in 1977 and was produced until 1998 when it was replaced.

This model came with a tiny engine. Only 2-cylinders. In a total of 545cc, and the engine was in the Honda E-series lineup.

Engines that saw a lot of use in the Civic and other Honda models from that era. The model produced about 38hp and 40 lb-ft of torque, and it had a top speed of 71 mph.

This model was exported to the United Kingdom and Australia, but never in the US market. Therefore, this is a proper JDM truck that only came as a right hand drive.

7. Daihatsu Hijet

The last Kei truck on our JDM trucks list is the Daihatsu Hijet. The Hijet is one of the best-looking Kei trucks in our opinion.

The Hijet was introduced in 1960 and is produced until the present day. Similar to other Kei trucks, the chassis is borrowed from a microvan.

When it comes to special models, probably the fourth and the fifth generation are one of the best. These were the models produced in the years between 1971 and 1981. Also, these models are heavily used in Asian markets. But unfortunately, not in the US.

These models came with two engines a 356cc inline-2, and a 547cc inline-2. The first engine is a two-stroker. You can see how tiny engines are used in Japan compared to the US.

Anyways, let’s take a look at where you can look for JDM trucks.

Where To Look For JDM Trucks?

Now that we covered our list of JDM trucks, let’s take a look at where you can look for JDM trucks. How to find one?

Well, your first option is to import one into the US (or another country) from Japan.

Most of these models are highly desired, and there are a lot of companies in Japan that work with exporting these cars from Japan to the US.

If you don’t want to bother importing one from Japan, we recommend finding a specialist in your region that could perhaps source your JDM truck in the US, or maybe take full control of the import process for you so that you don’t have to do the work yourself.

Other places where you can find one of these models are probably Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist, but you’ll likely need to keep your eye out for a while, and set up plenty of search alerts.

Conclusion

We strongly hope that you liked our list of JDM trucks. We tried to include every popular model from the JDM pickup truck segment, as well as the Kei truck segment.

Even though pickup trucks are better looking and good for showing off at the likes of Cars and Coffee, the Kei truck is really something unique and practical that you can use as your daily driver, or possibly as your work truck. We guarantee it’ll always turn heads, even if not everyone agrees with your different taste!

Both types of trucks are not powerhouses by any means, but they get the job done while being completely different to anything else offered in the US.

Our personal favorite truck is the Toyota Stout, the truck has a real presence on the road and looks very American.

However, if you want something that screams JDM, then the Nissan Sunny may well be the way to go.

The post Top JDM Trucks – Our Ultimate Picks first appeared on Drifted.com.

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