So, you're thinking about drifting an automatic RWD car? Awesome! While it might sound like a challenge, and it is a bit different than drifting a manual, it's totally doable and a whole lot of fun once you get the hang of it. Drifting, at its core, is about controlled oversteer, where the rear wheels lose traction, and the driver skillfully manages this slide while maintaining control of the vehicle. Traditionally, drifting is associated with manual transmissions because they offer a direct and immediate connection between the engine and the wheels, giving drivers precise control over gear selection and clutch engagement for initiating and sustaining drifts. However, modern technology and innovative driving techniques have made it possible to drift automatic cars as well. Understanding the dynamics of drifting is crucial. It involves factors like weight transfer, throttle control, steering input, and understanding how your car responds to these inputs. The goal is to find the sweet spot where you can break traction in the rear without completely losing control. This requires practice and a good feel for your car. Before attempting to drift, ensure you are in a safe and controlled environment, such as a designated track or skid pad. Never attempt to drift on public roads, as it is dangerous and illegal. Make sure your car is in good condition, with properly inflated tires, functional brakes, and no mechanical issues. Safety gear, including a helmet, is also recommended. Remember, drifting is not just about sliding around; it's about maintaining control and doing it safely. So, let's dive into how you can make your automatic RWD car dance!

Understanding the Basics

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of how to drift, let's cover some essential basics. First off, RWD (Rear-Wheel Drive) means that the engine's power is sent to the rear wheels, which are responsible for pushing the car forward. This setup is ideal for drifting because it allows the rear wheels to break traction more easily than front-wheel-drive vehicles, where the front wheels handle both steering and power. Grasping the nuances of your car’s dynamics is key to mastering the art of drifting. Understanding how weight shifts during acceleration, braking, and cornering is essential for initiating and controlling drifts. For instance, transferring weight to the front of the car can help reduce grip in the rear, making it easier to induce oversteer. Similarly, understanding how throttle input affects the car’s balance is crucial for maintaining the drift. Too much throttle can lead to excessive wheelspin and loss of control, while too little can cause the car to straighten out. Smooth and precise throttle control is therefore essential for maintaining the desired slip angle. Now, automatic transmissions might seem like they're working against you since you don't have a clutch to kick or gears to slam. However, modern automatics are pretty smart. Many come with features like sport mode or paddle shifters that allow you to have more control over gear selection. These features can be incredibly helpful when you're trying to drift. Speaking of features, Traction Control and Electronic Stability Program (ESP) are designed to prevent wheelspin and maintain stability. When drifting, you want to be able to break traction, so you'll need to disable these systems. However, be aware that turning off these aids means you're fully responsible for controlling the car. It's a good idea to start practicing with them on to get a feel for how your car behaves, then gradually turn them off as you become more confident. Ultimately, drifting in an automatic RWD car requires a blend of technique, car control, and understanding of vehicle dynamics. By mastering these fundamentals, you can unlock the thrill of drifting while maintaining safety and control.

Techniques for Drifting an Automatic

Okay, let's get into the fun stuff – the actual techniques you can use to drift your automatic RWD car. Remember, practice makes perfect, and it's best to start slow and gradually increase your speed as you get more comfortable. One of the most common methods is the power over technique. This involves using the car's power to break traction in the rear wheels. Here's how it works: Approach a corner at a moderate speed. As you enter the turn, apply a generous amount of throttle. The goal is to get the rear wheels spinning faster than the front wheels, causing them to lose grip. Simultaneously, use the steering wheel to initiate the drift. Turn the wheel in the opposite direction of the turn (counter-steering) to help the car rotate. Once the rear wheels start to slide, modulate the throttle to maintain the drift. Use small steering adjustments to control the car's angle and direction. Another useful technique is weight transfer. This involves shifting the car's weight to unbalance it and initiate a slide. One way to do this is by using the Scandinavian flick (also known as the pendulum turn). Before entering the turn, quickly steer in the opposite direction, then snap the steering back towards the turn. This causes the car's weight to shift, making it easier to break traction in the rear. As the car begins to slide, use counter-steering and throttle control to maintain the drift. For automatic cars with paddle shifters or a manual mode, gear selection can be a powerful tool. Downshift to a lower gear before entering the turn to increase the engine's RPM and make it easier to break traction. Use the paddle shifters to maintain the desired gear throughout the drift, keeping the engine in its power band. Remember, smooth inputs are key. Avoid jerky movements with the steering wheel or throttle, as this can upset the car's balance and cause you to lose control. Practice smooth transitions and gradual adjustments to maintain a controlled drift.

Advanced Drifting Tips

So, you've got the basics down and are starting to feel comfortable with drifting your automatic RWD car. Now it's time to take things to the next level with some advanced tips and tricks. One of the most crucial skills for advanced drifting is throttle control. It's not just about mashing the gas pedal; it's about finesse. Learning to modulate the throttle with precision allows you to fine-tune the amount of wheelspin and maintain the perfect drift angle. Practice using small, subtle adjustments to control the car's rotation and prevent it from spinning out or straightening up. Another advanced technique is clutch kicking (even though you don't have a clutch!). Okay, so you don't have a clutch pedal, but you can simulate a clutch kick by quickly tapping the brake pedal with your left foot while simultaneously applying throttle. This momentarily upsets the car's balance and can help initiate a drift or adjust the drift angle mid-slide. It requires precise timing and coordination, so practice it in a safe environment. Brake drifting is another useful technique for initiating drifts, especially in tighter corners. As you approach the turn, gently apply the brakes to shift the car's weight forward and reduce grip in the rear. Simultaneously, use the steering wheel to initiate the drift and modulate the throttle to maintain the slide. It's important to use the brakes sparingly and avoid locking up the wheels, as this can cause you to lose control. Understanding suspension tuning can significantly improve your car's drifting performance. Adjusting the suspension settings, such as camber, caster, and toe, can alter the car's handling characteristics and make it easier to initiate and control drifts. Experiment with different settings to find what works best for your car and driving style. Remember, practice makes perfect. The more you practice, the better you'll become at drifting. Attend drifting events or practice sessions to hone your skills and learn from experienced drifters. Pay attention to their techniques and ask for feedback to improve your driving. Don't be afraid to experiment and try new things, but always prioritize safety and control.

Safety First!

Before you even think about sliding around, let's talk about safety. Drifting, while exhilarating, can be dangerous if not approached with the right mindset and precautions. First and foremost, always drift in a safe and controlled environment. This means a designated track, skid pad, or empty parking lot far away from traffic, pedestrians, and obstacles. Never, ever drift on public roads. It's illegal, irresponsible, and puts yourself and others at risk. Wear appropriate safety gear. At a minimum, this includes a helmet to protect your head in case of an accident. If you're drifting on a track, you may also need a racing suit, gloves, and shoes. Inspect your car before each session. Check the tires, brakes, fluids, and other critical components to ensure they're in good working order. Address any issues before hitting the track to prevent mechanical failures that could lead to an accident. Know your limits. Don't push yourself beyond your comfort level, especially when you're just starting out. Gradually increase your speed and aggression as you become more confident and skilled. Be aware of your surroundings. Pay attention to other cars on the track and maintain a safe distance. Avoid drifting too close to walls, barriers, or other obstacles. Turn off traction control and stability control systems before drifting, as these systems can interfere with your ability to break traction and control the car. However, be aware that turning off these aids means you're fully responsible for controlling the car.

Car Modifications for Drifting

If you're serious about drifting your automatic RWD car, there are some modifications you can make to improve its performance and make it easier to drift. While not strictly necessary, these upgrades can significantly enhance your drifting experience. Limited-Slip Differential (LSD): This is one of the most important modifications you can make to a drift car. An LSD helps distribute power evenly to both rear wheels, preventing one wheel from spinning excessively and improving traction. This makes it easier to initiate and maintain drifts. Suspension Upgrades: Upgrading the suspension can improve the car's handling and make it more predictable when drifting. Consider installing coilovers, which allow you to adjust the ride height, damping, and rebound to fine-tune the suspension to your liking. Stiffer springs and sway bars can also help reduce body roll and improve stability. Brake Upgrades: Upgrading the brakes can improve stopping power and prevent brake fade during extended drifting sessions. Consider installing slotted or drilled rotors, performance brake pads, and stainless steel brake lines. A hydraulic handbrake can also be a useful addition for initiating drifts and making quick adjustments. Steering Modifications: Upgrading the steering system can improve steering response and make it easier to control the car when drifting. Consider installing a quick-ratio steering rack, which reduces the amount of steering input required to turn the wheels. Adjustable tie rods and camber plates can also help fine-tune the suspension geometry for optimal drifting performance. Engine Modifications: While not strictly necessary, engine modifications can increase horsepower and torque, making it easier to break traction and maintain drifts. Consider installing an aftermarket exhaust system, intake, and tune to improve engine performance. However, be aware that engine modifications can affect the car's reliability and may require additional maintenance. Tires: Tires play a crucial role in drifting. Choose tires with a low treadwear rating for maximum grip and predictability. Experiment with different tire pressures to find what works best for your car and driving style. Remember to rotate your tires regularly to ensure even wear and prolong their lifespan. Always prioritize safety when modifying your car. Make sure any modifications you make are done correctly and don't compromise the car's safety or reliability.

Conclusion

So, there you have it – a comprehensive guide on how to drift an automatic RWD car. While it might seem daunting at first, with practice and the right techniques, you can master the art of drifting and have a blast doing it. Remember to start slow, prioritize safety, and gradually increase your speed and aggression as you become more comfortable. Don't be afraid to experiment and try new things, but always stay within your limits. With dedication and perseverance, you'll be sliding around corners like a pro in no time. Happy drifting, and stay safe out there!