So, you're wondering if the Subaru BRZ is a good choice for drifting, huh? Well, buckle up, drifting enthusiasts, because we're about to dive deep into the world of BRZ and its sideways capabilities. Let's explore what makes the BRZ a popular choice for aspiring drifters, and also what drawbacks it might have. We'll cover everything from its engine and handling to its aftermarket support and overall fun factor. By the end, you'll have a clear picture of whether the BRZ is the right drift machine for you. So, let's get started and find out if the BRZ is a drifting dream or a potential drifting disaster!

What Makes the Subaru BRZ a Good Drifting Platform?

When considering a car for drifting, several factors come into play, and the Subaru BRZ shines in many of these areas. First and foremost, its rear-wheel-drive (RWD) layout is a fundamental requirement for controlled, smoky drifts. Unlike front-wheel-drive cars, RWD vehicles allow you to break the rear tires loose and initiate a slide with ease. This inherent characteristic makes the BRZ a natural contender for drifting. Furthermore, the BRZ boasts a near-perfect 53/47 front-to-rear weight distribution. This balanced weight distribution contributes significantly to the car's predictable handling and responsiveness, making it easier to control when the rear end steps out. A well-balanced car is crucial for maintaining consistent drift angles and transitions.

The BRZ's relatively low curb weight, typically around 2,800 pounds, also plays a vital role in its drifting prowess. A lighter car requires less power to initiate and sustain a drift, making it more forgiving for novice drifters. Its compact size further enhances its agility, allowing for quicker transitions and tighter maneuvers on the track. The BRZ's suspension setup is another key factor contributing to its drift-ability. The car comes standard with a MacPherson strut front suspension and a double-wishbone rear suspension. This setup provides a good balance of comfort and performance, offering sufficient stiffness for controlled drifting while still being compliant enough to handle rough track surfaces. Moreover, the BRZ's suspension geometry is well-suited for drifting, allowing for ample steering angle and minimal body roll.

Finally, the aftermarket support for the Subaru BRZ is extensive, making it easy to upgrade and customize the car for drifting. From coilovers and sway bars to steering angle kits and limited-slip differentials (LSDs), there's a vast array of aftermarket parts available to fine-tune the BRZ's performance. This allows you to tailor the car to your specific drifting style and skill level. The availability of performance upgrades, such as turbochargers and superchargers, can also address the BRZ's power limitations, making it an even more formidable drift machine.

Addressing the BRZ's Power Deficit for Drifting

One of the most common criticisms of the Subaru BRZ is its relatively low power output. The FA20 engine, a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated boxer engine, produces around 200 horsepower and 156 lb-ft of torque. While this may be sufficient for spirited street driving, it can feel lacking when trying to maintain long, controlled drifts, especially on larger tracks. The lack of low-end torque can also make it challenging to initiate drifts, requiring more aggressive clutch kicks and higher RPMs. This is where aftermarket modifications come into play. One popular solution is to install a turbocharger or supercharger kit. These forced induction systems can significantly increase the BRZ's power output, providing the necessary grunt to break the tires loose and sustain drifts with ease.

Turbocharger kits typically offer more significant power gains but can also be more complex to install and tune. Supercharger kits, on the other hand, provide a more linear power delivery and are generally easier to install. Another option is to swap the engine altogether. Some enthusiasts have opted to swap in more powerful engines, such as the Toyota 2JZ or the Chevrolet LS series, for extreme power gains. However, engine swaps can be costly and require extensive modifications to the car's chassis and wiring. In addition to forced induction, other modifications can help improve the BRZ's power delivery and responsiveness. Upgrading the exhaust system with a less restrictive header, catalytic converter, and cat-back exhaust can free up some additional horsepower. Installing lightweight pulleys and a cold air intake can also improve throttle response and overall engine performance. Furthermore, a professional tune can optimize the engine's performance for drifting, ensuring that it's running at its peak potential.

Essential Modifications for Drifting with a BRZ

While the Subaru BRZ is a capable drift car in its stock form, a few key modifications can significantly enhance its performance and make it more suitable for competitive drifting. One of the most crucial upgrades is a limited-slip differential (LSD). The stock BRZ comes with an open differential, which can hinder drifting performance by sending power to the wheel with the least traction. An LSD, on the other hand, distributes power more evenly to both rear wheels, ensuring that both tires break traction simultaneously for more controlled and predictable drifts. There are several types of LSDs available, including clutch-type, Torsen-type, and electronic LSDs. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages, so it's essential to research and choose the one that best suits your drifting style and budget.

Another essential modification for drifting is a set of coilovers. Coilovers are adjustable suspension components that allow you to fine-tune the car's ride height, damping, and spring rates. This allows you to optimize the suspension for drifting, reducing body roll, improving handling, and increasing steering response. Coilovers also allow you to lower the car's center of gravity, further enhancing its stability. In addition to coilovers, upgrading the sway bars can also improve the BRZ's handling. Stiffer sway bars reduce body roll and improve cornering stability, making it easier to control the car during drifts. Adjustable sway bars allow you to fine-tune the car's handling balance, dialing in more oversteer or understeer to suit your preferences.

Protecting Your BRZ While Drifting: Safety and Maintenance

Drifting can be hard on your car, so it's essential to take precautions to protect it and ensure its longevity. One of the most important safety modifications is a roll cage or roll bar. A roll cage provides structural support to the car's chassis, protecting the driver in the event of a rollover. While a full roll cage is ideal for competitive drifting, a roll bar can provide adequate protection for recreational drifting. Another essential safety item is a racing seat with a five-point harness. A racing seat provides better support and keeps you securely in place during aggressive maneuvers, while a five-point harness prevents you from sliding around in the seat.

In addition to safety modifications, regular maintenance is crucial for keeping your BRZ in top condition. Drifting puts extra stress on the car's components, so it's essential to inspect and maintain them regularly. This includes checking the tires, brakes, suspension, and drivetrain. Change your engine oil more frequently, especially if you're using a turbocharger or supercharger. Use a high-quality synthetic oil that can withstand the high temperatures and stresses of drifting. Inspect your brake pads and rotors regularly, and replace them as needed. Drifting can wear down brake pads quickly, so it's essential to keep them in good condition. Check your suspension components for wear and tear, and replace them as needed. This includes ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings. Finally, inspect your drivetrain components regularly, including the differential, axles, and driveshaft. Drifting can put a lot of stress on these components, so it's essential to keep them properly lubricated and in good condition.

The Fun Factor: Why the BRZ is a Blast to Drift

Beyond its technical specifications and performance capabilities, the Subaru BRZ is simply a fun car to drive, especially when drifting. Its lightweight chassis, responsive steering, and balanced handling make it a joy to throw around on the track. The BRZ's predictable behavior and forgiving nature make it an excellent platform for learning and improving your drifting skills. The BRZ's compact size and nimble handling make it easy to navigate tight turns and transitions, allowing you to explore the limits of its grip. The car's engine, while not the most powerful, is still responsive and rev-happy, providing a rewarding driving experience.

Furthermore, the BRZ's popularity in the drifting community means that there's a wealth of knowledge and resources available to help you get started. There are numerous online forums, clubs, and communities dedicated to drifting the BRZ, where you can find tips, advice, and support from experienced drifters. The BRZ's affordability also makes it an attractive option for aspiring drifters. Compared to other RWD sports cars, the BRZ is relatively inexpensive to purchase and maintain, making it a more accessible entry point into the world of drifting. The availability of aftermarket parts and upgrades also allows you to customize the car to your specific needs and preferences, making it a truly unique and personalized drift machine.

Is the BRZ Your Ideal Drift Car?

So, is the Subaru BRZ a good drift car? The answer, as with most things, is nuanced. Straight out of the box, it's a very capable platform thanks to its RWD layout, balanced weight distribution, and responsive handling. However, its relatively low power output can be a limiting factor, especially for experienced drifters or those looking to compete. With the right modifications, such as a turbocharger or supercharger, an LSD, and upgraded suspension components, the BRZ can be transformed into a formidable drift machine.

Ultimately, the best way to determine if the BRZ is the right drift car for you is to get behind the wheel and experience it for yourself. Attend a local drift event or test drive a modified BRZ to see if it suits your driving style and preferences. Consider your budget, skill level, and goals for drifting when making your decision. If you're looking for an affordable, fun, and customizable drift car, the Subaru BRZ is definitely worth considering.