Popular Mods Used For Drifting
The art of drifting encompasses specialist driving techniques to deliver a unique form of sport that has significantly grown in popularity since its emergence in the 1990s. While expert driving is required to participate in this exhilarating sport, expertly designed vehicles are equally vital. Pro drifters and their teams specifically construct and modify unique cars to suit their individual needs and personal style, so let’s take a look at some popular drifting mods.
Coilover Suspension
The first port of call when it comes to modifying a drift car is suspension. Many modification enthusiasts include coilovers for the sleek, slammed appearance; however, lowering a ride also comes with performance benefits. Drifting requires a low centre of gravity, which of course, can be achieved by lowering the vehicle. While springs are an excellent budget option for daily drivers, a high-quality set of coilovers is a worthwhile investment when it comes to drifting. Air suspension is also a suitable option due to its adjustability, although some drivers find the installation process too complex and invasive.
Bucket Seats
A bucket seat is a vital requirement for any drift car, providing the driver with superior protection and comfort. Ergonomically designed bucket seats are the standard issue for many racing cars due to their ability to keep the driver as secure as possible when rounding sharp corners. Racing bucket seats should also be equipped with robust harnesses that mount to the car at four points, keeping the driver safe and stationary. Bucket seats are also generally much lighter than standard car seats, increasing the power-to-weight ratio for improved performance and a thrilling driving experience.
Hydraulic Handbrake
When partaking in drifting, a hydraulic handbrake is vital for precise hand-operated control of the vehicle’s rear brakes. To get that all-important oversteer, a high-quality, durable handbrake makes all the difference, and while stock handbrakes are fine for getting started in drift racing, they can be weak and inconsistent. A hydraulic replacement works by allowing brake fluid to move freely through the handbrake master cylinder, meaning less pressure is needed to lock the rear wheels for accurate drift initiation.
Performance Tyres
It will be no surprise that a drift car requires a set of specialist tyres for exceptional performance. Drift car tyres need to be wider and lower-profile, meaning more surface area for better grip for more control at eye-watering speeds. Of course, high-quality tyres are naturally more durable. Since drifting is an intense sport, tyres must withstand high pressure and temperatures for safe, successful drifts at varying speeds.
Steering Wheel
Most stock steering wheels are not suitable for drift use. Many drift racers opt for a deep dish sport steering wheel to avoid finger injuries when the wheel is left to spin by itself. Furthermore, deep dish steering wheels are generally situated closer to the driver, increasing comfort and control. Regarding grip thickness, racing steering wheels vary. Although it is primarily down to personal preference, drift racers tend to favour narrower options, which are generally considered better for performance driving with racing gloves. Quick-release steering wheels may also be worth considering - preferred by many racers, quick-release steering wheels boost safety and efficiency by allowing for a speedy exit in the event of an emergency.
Limited-Slip Differential
Most standard rear-wheel drive vehicles come with an open stock differential, which in terms of drifting, can be, at best, ineffective and, at worst, extremely dangerous. Open differentials do not work well on slippery or uneven surfaces, and while they might be preferable for everyday driving, a limited-slip differential (LSD) is essential for drift racing. Limited-slip differentials ensure your rear wheels are locked together, so they spin at the same time and speed, promoting high-speed corner exits.
Roll Cage
While roll cages are legally required on cars running faster than 135 mph, some race regulations state that competitor vehicles must be equipped with a six-point or more roll cage. Roll cages are specifically designed frames, often made from micro-alloyed steel, to provide drivers with protection in the event of a mid-race incident. Racing cages are typically added to vehicles by bolting or welding and remain a vital safety feature for many high-speed motorsports. While roll cages are unnecessary in most drift cars, many are fitted with roll bars for moderate rollover protection.