What is how to drift?

Drifting, also known as powersliding, is a driving technique where the driver intentionally oversteers, causing loss of traction in the rear wheels (or all tires) while maintaining control and driving the car through a corner. It requires skill, finesse, and a good understanding of vehicle dynamics. Here's a breakdown of some key aspects:

  • Vehicle Setup: While almost any rear-wheel-drive car can be drifted, some are better suited. Look for cars with a good power-to-weight ratio, a stiff chassis, and a responsive throttle. Suspension modifications, such as stiffer springs and dampers, can improve control and predictability. A limited-slip differential is almost essential for consistent drifting, as it helps to distribute power evenly to both rear wheels.

  • Basic Techniques: Several techniques can initiate and maintain a drift. Some common ones include:

    • Clutch Kick: Quickly depressing and releasing the clutch while applying throttle to shock the drivetrain and break traction.
    • Power Over: Simply applying excessive throttle in a corner to overwhelm the rear tires' grip. Requires significant power.
    • Handbrake Drift: Using the handbrake to lock the rear wheels momentarily, initiating a slide. Best for tight corners or corrections.
    • Weight Transfer: Using steering and throttle inputs to shift the car's weight and induce oversteer. This is more advanced and requires precise control.
    • Scandinavian Flick (Feint Drift): Initiating a drift by steering in the opposite direction of the turn, then quickly steering into the turn. The abrupt weight transfer helps break traction.
  • Throttle Control: Mastering throttle control is crucial. You need to be able to precisely modulate the throttle to maintain the desired angle of slide and prevent spinning out or losing control.

  • Steering Input: Counter-steering, or turning the steering wheel in the opposite direction of the turn, is essential to control the drift. The amount of counter-steer required depends on the car's angle of attack.

  • Braking: Braking techniques during a drift can be used to adjust the car's angle and speed. Lightly tapping the brakes can help tighten the line, while more aggressive braking can initiate a transition.

  • Clutch Use: The clutch is primarily used for initiating the drift (clutch kick) and can also be used to modulate engine power to the wheels to maintain or adjust the drift. Smooth and precise clutch work is important.

  • Vision: Always look where you want to go. Focusing on the track ahead will help you anticipate and react to changes in the car's behavior. Peripheral vision is also important to monitor the car's position relative to the track.

  • Safety: Drifting should only be practiced in a safe and controlled environment, such as a racetrack or designated drifting area. Wear appropriate safety gear, including a helmet and proper footwear. Understand the safety measures to take for your vehicle and track.

  • Practice: Drifting takes a lot of practice to master. Start with the basics and gradually work your way up to more advanced techniques. Be patient and don't get discouraged if you don't get it right away.