So, you're eyeing the Subaru BRZ for some sideways action, huh? Good choice! The BRZ has garnered a reputation as an affordable and accessible sports car, especially within the drifting community. But is it really all that it's cracked up to be? Let's dive deep into the BRZ's drifting capabilities, dissecting its strengths and weaknesses, and figuring out if it's the right machine for your tire-slaying aspirations. We'll be covering everything from its engine and handling to aftermarket support and potential modifications. So buckle up, drifting enthusiasts, because we're about to get technical and find out if the Subaru BRZ is a drifting dream or a drifting disaster.

What Makes the Subaru BRZ a Potential Drift King?

Let's begin by talking about why the Subaru BRZ is considered a great platform for drifting. First and foremost, it's rear-wheel drive (RWD). Drifting is all about controlling oversteer, which is when the rear wheels lose traction and slide out. RWD cars are naturally better suited for this because the power is being sent to the rear wheels, making it easier to initiate and maintain a drift. The BRZ's lightweight design is another significant advantage. Less weight means less inertia, making the car more responsive to steering inputs and throttle adjustments. This responsiveness is crucial for controlling a drift and making quick corrections. The BRZ also boasts a low center of gravity, thanks to its horizontally opposed (boxer) engine. This gives the car excellent balance and stability, reducing body roll and improving handling. This helps maintain stability and control when the car is sliding sideways. A well-balanced car is much easier to drift consistently and predictably. Now, that doesn’t mean the car is perfect out of the box, it has some things to think about when trying to get it sideways.

Stock BRZ: Ready to Drift Out of the Box?

Now for the million-dollar question: Can you take a stock Subaru BRZ straight to the track and start drifting like a pro? Well, the answer is a bit nuanced. While the BRZ has all the fundamental ingredients for drifting, it's not exactly a drift-ready machine straight from the factory. The main limitation of the stock BRZ is its engine. The 2.0-liter naturally aspirated boxer engine produces around 200 horsepower, which is sufficient for everyday driving but might leave you wanting more when it comes to drifting. More power makes it easier to initiate and maintain drifts, especially at higher speeds. The stock tires on the BRZ are also not ideal for drifting. They are designed for grip and fuel efficiency, not for sliding around corners. These tires will likely overheat and lose grip quickly, making it difficult to control the car. The suspension on the stock BRZ is also relatively soft, which can lead to excessive body roll and make the car feel less stable during drifts. While the BRZ is good to go, you might want to change a few things to get it where you want to.

Upgrading Your BRZ for Maximum Driftability

So, the stock BRZ needs a little help to become a true drift weapon. What modifications should you consider? Let's break it down: Power is always a good place to start when you’re trying to get the car sideways. Upgrading the engine is paramount for serious drifting. Forced induction options like a turbocharger or supercharger can significantly boost horsepower and torque, making it much easier to initiate and maintain drifts. An aftermarket exhaust system can also improve engine performance and add a more aggressive sound. Don't forget about engine management! A tune is essential to ensure the engine runs optimally with the new modifications. Suspension upgrades are crucial for improving handling and control. Coilovers allow you to adjust the ride height and damping, giving you more control over the car's handling characteristics. Stiffer sway bars can also reduce body roll and improve stability. Adjustable control arms allow you to fine-tune the suspension geometry, optimizing it for drifting. A good set of performance tires is essential for drifting. Look for tires with a stiff sidewall and a tread pattern that provides good grip and predictable breakaway characteristics. Wider tires will also provide more grip and stability. An upgraded clutch is necessary to handle the increased power and abuse of drifting. A stronger clutch will prevent slippage and ensure that the power is being transferred to the wheels effectively. A limited-slip differential (LSD) is a must-have for drifting. An LSD ensures that both rear wheels receive equal power, which is essential for maintaining a consistent drift. The stock BRZ comes with an open differential, which can cause one wheel to spin while the other loses traction.

Essential Drift Mods for the BRZ: Beyond the Basics

Once you've addressed the fundamental upgrades, you can start thinking about more specialized modifications that can further enhance your BRZ's drifting capabilities. A hydraulic handbrake is a popular modification among drifters. It allows you to lock up the rear wheels instantly, making it easier to initiate drifts and make quick corrections. A roll cage is a safety modification that protects the driver in the event of a rollover. If you're planning on drifting competitively, a roll cage is a must. A bucket seat and harness will keep you firmly in place during aggressive driving, improving control and reducing fatigue. Data logging and gauges will let you monitor various engine parameters, such as oil temperature, water temperature, and boost pressure. This information can help you identify potential problems and optimize your car's performance. Upgrading the brakes is also important, especially if you've increased the engine power. High-performance brake pads and rotors will provide better stopping power and resist fade under heavy use. Cooling is an often overlooked aspect of drifting. Drifting puts a lot of stress on the engine and cooling system. Upgrading the radiator, oil cooler, and power steering cooler can help prevent overheating and ensure that your car runs reliably. These mods will help you on your way to the perfect drift build.

BRZ Drifting: Common Issues and How to Solve Them

Even with all the right modifications, drifting a BRZ can still present some challenges. Let's take a look at some common issues and how to address them: The BRZ's engine is known to be prone to oil starvation under hard cornering, especially on long, sweeping turns. This can lead to engine damage. Installing an oil cooler and an oil pan baffle can help prevent oil starvation. The BRZ's stock axles are relatively weak and can break under the stress of drifting. Upgrading to stronger axles is a good idea, especially if you've increased the engine power. Overheating can be a problem, especially in hot weather or during extended drift sessions. Upgrading the radiator, oil cooler, and power steering cooler can help prevent overheating. The BRZ's chassis is relatively flexible, which can make the car feel less stable during drifts. Installing a roll cage or chassis bracing can improve chassis stiffness and handling. Tire wear is an inevitable part of drifting. Be prepared to replace your tires frequently, especially if you're drifting on a regular basis. Experiment with different tire pressures to find what works best for your driving style and the track conditions. Addressing these potential issues will help ensure that your BRZ is reliable and performs well on the track.

Is the BRZ the Right Drift Car for You?

So, after all this, is the Subaru BRZ a good drift car? The answer is a resounding yes, but with a few asterisks. The BRZ is an excellent platform for drifting due to its RWD layout, lightweight design, and balanced handling. However, the stock BRZ needs some modifications to reach its full potential. Upgrading the engine, suspension, and differential is essential for serious drifting. With the right modifications, the BRZ can be a highly capable and rewarding drift car. It is relatively affordable compared to other sports cars, making it an accessible option for aspiring drifters. It has a large aftermarket, with a wide variety of parts and accessories available. This makes it easy to customize your BRZ to your specific needs and preferences. The BRZ is a fun and engaging car to drive, both on and off the track. Its responsive handling and playful nature make it a joy to drift. The BRZ is a good choice if you are willing to invest time and money into modifications. If you're looking for a drift-ready car straight from the factory, you might want to consider other options. Ultimately, the best drift car for you depends on your individual needs, budget, and driving style. However, the Subaru BRZ is definitely worth considering if you're looking for an affordable, fun, and capable platform for drifting. So get out there and start shredding some tires! Just remember to do it safely and responsibly, and always respect the limits of your car and your own abilities. Happy drifting!