how to drift the car

There’s a unique thrill to seeing a car slide sideways through a corner, tires smoking and driver in complete control. This art form, known as drifting, is more than just reckless sliding; it’s a precise skill that combines car control, timing, and practice. While it looks complex, the fundamental principles can be broken down into manageable steps. If you’ve ever wondered about the mechanics behind the smoke, you’re in the right place to learn the basics of how to drift the car.

The Essential Steps for Your First Drift

Before anything else, safety is paramount. This practice should only be done in a large, empty, and legal area like a skid pad or a closed track. A rear-wheel-drive car is ideal, and you should always check your vehicle’s mechanical health beforehand. The most common technique to initiate a drift is the clutch kick. As you approach a corner, you turn the steering wheel in while quickly pressing and releasing the clutch pedal. This sudden jolt of power breaks traction in the rear tires, sending the back of the car outwards.

How to Drift the Car and Maintain Control

Initiating the slide is only half the battle. The real skill lies in holding the drift. Once the car is sideways, you need to apply counter-steer. This means turning the steering wheel in the direction of the slide to keep the car pointing in the right direction. For example, if the rear of the car is sliding to the left, you steer to the left. Simultaneously, you must carefully modulate the throttle to keep the wheels spinning and maintain the slide’s angle. Too little gas and the car will grip up; too much and you’ll spin out.

Choosing the Right Car and Setup

While it’s possible to drift a variety of rear-wheel-drive cars, some are more suited than others. A car with a manual transmission and a limited-slip differential is highly recommended, as it helps transfer power evenly to both rear wheels, making it easier to break traction and sustain a slide. A good starting point is a car with moderate power and a reliable chassis. Remember, the goal is to learn car control, not outright speed.

Mastering the art of the drift takes countless hours of practice. It’s a journey of feeling the car’s balance and learning to correct oversteer with smooth, deliberate inputs. Start slowly, focus on the fundamentals of weight transfer and throttle control, and always prioritize a safe environment. The path to linking corners with style is a challenging but incredibly rewarding one.