Best Cheap Drift Cars: Get Your Slide On Without Breaking the Bank
Drifting is a thrilling and adrenaline-pumping form of motorsport that has captivated enthusiasts worldwide. But the thought of building a dedicated drift car can seem daunting, especially for those on a budget. Fear not, fellow petrolheads! There are plenty of affordable options out there that can unleash your inner drift king without emptying your wallet.
Here's a look at some of the best cheap drift cars that offer both performance and value:
The Classics:
**1. ** Nissan 240SX (S13/S14/S15):
- Why it's great: This legendary platform is a drift staple for good reason. Lightweight, rear-wheel drive, and available with powerful SR20DET engines, the 240SX is incredibly tunable and offers endless aftermarket support.
- Price range: You can find decent examples for under $5,000, with prices increasing depending on condition and modifications.
**2. ** Mazda MX-5 (Miata):
- Why it's great: This nimble roadster is a perfect entry point for drifting. Its light weight and responsive handling make it a joy to throw around corners, while its legendary reliability and aftermarket support make it a great long-term investment.
- Price range: Miatas are surprisingly affordable, with even first-generation models available for under $3,000.
**3. ** Toyota AE86 (Sprinter Trueno/Corolla GT-S):
- Why it's great: The iconic AE86 is the epitome of a drift car. Its legendary handling, lightweight design, and powerful 4A-GE engine have cemented its place in drifting history.
- Price range: While they can get pricey depending on condition and modifications, you can still find decent examples for under $10,000.
**4. ** BMW E30 3-Series:
- Why it's great: This classic German sedan is known for its agile handling and available powerful inline-six engines. The E30's rear-wheel drive layout makes it a natural choice for drifting, while its large aftermarket community provides endless tuning options.
- Price range: While prices have been steadily rising, you can still find good examples for under $5,000.
Modern Options:
**1. ** Honda Civic (92-00):
- Why it's great: This popular compact car is a budget-friendly option with a reliable and tunable B-series engine. While not a true rear-wheel drive, a simple swap of the differential to a limited-slip can make it drift-worthy.
- Price range: You can find solid examples for under $2,000, making it one of the most affordable options on the list.
**2. ** Hyundai Genesis Coupe:
- Why it's great: This sporty coupe offers a potent V6 engine and a rear-wheel drive setup, making it an excellent choice for drifting. Its affordable price tag and decent aftermarket support make it a compelling option.
- Price range: Prices vary depending on year and condition, but you can find decent models for under $10,000.
**3. ** Ford Mustang (Foxbody/SN95):
- Why it's great: The classic Mustang is an iconic American muscle car known for its powerful V8 engines and rear-wheel drive setup. The Foxbody and SN95 generations are particularly affordable and offer a great platform for drifting.
- Price range: You can find solid examples for under $5,000, making it a great value proposition.
**4. ** Mitsubishi Eclipse (1st/2nd generation):
- Why it's great: This sporty coupe offers a good balance of power and handling, making it a decent choice for drifting. Its affordable price tag and decent aftermarket support make it an attractive option for budget-minded enthusiasts.
- Price range: You can find good examples for under $3,000, making it a very affordable entry point for drifting.
Tips for Finding Your Drift Car:
- Focus on condition: A well-maintained car with fewer miles will require less work and money in the long run.
- Look for specific engine and transmission options: Choose a car with a powerful engine and a manual transmission to make drifting easier and more fun.
- Don't be afraid to get your hands dirty: Finding a project car and performing some of the work yourself can save you a lot of money.
- Consider aftermarket parts: Investing in affordable aftermarket parts, such as suspension upgrades and tires, can greatly improve your car's driftability.
Remember, the most important thing is to find a car you love and enjoy driving. With a little bit of research and effort, you can find the perfect cheap drift car to help you unleash your inner drift king.
