# Best JDM Cars for Drift Enthusiasts: A Comprehensive List


If you're a drift enthusiast, you know that choosing the right car is crucial to your experience on the track. Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) cars have earned a reputation for being some of the best drift cars out there. These cars are known for their powerful engines, lightweight designs, and the ability to handle the intense demands of drifting. Whether you're just getting started or are a seasoned pro, there are plenty of JDM cars that can give you the performance and excitement you're looking for. In this comprehensive list, we’ll explore the best JDM cars for drift enthusiasts.

**Nissan Silvia S14**
The Nissan Silvia S14 is widely considered one of the most iconic drift cars in the world. Known for its smooth lines, balanced chassis, and rear-wheel drive layout, the S14 offers everything a drift enthusiast could ask for. Its turbocharged SR20DET engine provides plenty of power, and its lightweight frame makes it easy to handle on the track. This car has been used by many professional drifters and remains a top choice for those looking to get serious about drifting.

One of the key advantages of the S14 is its ability to be easily modified. Whether you’re upgrading the suspension, engine, or adding a turbo kit, there’s no shortage of aftermarket parts available. This flexibility makes the Silvia S14 a great car for both beginners and experienced drifters who want to push the limits of their driving skills.

**Toyota AE86**
The Toyota AE86, often referred to as the "Hachi-Roku," is a legendary car in the drift community. This compact, lightweight vehicle features a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout, making it an ideal candidate for drifting. Despite its relatively small engine, the AE86 has become one of the most beloved JDM cars for drift enthusiasts due to its handling characteristics and responsive steering. Find out here **[jdmbuysell.com](https://yandex.com/maps/?um=constructor%3Aa6c95f5da1ba372f677f269b45d151164f5fa1e40e24ce578d82064a12584016&source=constructorLinkww.2findlocal.com/b/15187178/jdmbuysell-burnaby-bc)**

The AE86's popularity grew in the 1980s and '90s, thanks in part to its success in motorsports and its prominent appearance in the anime series Initial D. While the car’s 4A-GE engine isn’t known for producing massive power, its agility and balanced design make it a joy to drive sideways. Many drifters appreciate the AE86 for its simplicity and the pure driving experience it offers. Today, the AE86 remains a favorite among both nostalgic enthusiasts and newcomers to drifting.

**Nissan 180SX**
If you're looking for a JDM car that's built for drifting from the factory, the Nissan 180SX is a fantastic choice. With its sleek body design, turbocharged engine, and rear-wheel drive configuration, the 180SX delivers excellent performance on the track. The 180SX features the SR20DET engine, which is known for its tunability and power potential, making it a popular choice for drift cars.

Many drifters favor the 180SX for its handling capabilities and the ease with which it can be modified to suit their needs. Whether you’re looking to increase horsepower, improve suspension, or upgrade the brakes, there’s no shortage of aftermarket parts available for the 180SX. This car has long been a staple in the drifting community, and its performance on the track continues to make it a top pick for enthusiasts.

**Mazda RX-7 (FC3S and FD3S)**
The Mazda RX-7 is another legendary JDM car that has cemented its place in the drifting world. Both the FC3S and FD3S models are highly regarded for their unique rotary engines, lightweight bodies, and precise handling. The FC3S, which was produced in the 1980s, is known for its agility and rear-wheel-drive layout, making it a great option for drift enthusiasts.

However, it’s the FD3S, produced in the 1990s, that is perhaps the most famous RX-7 model in the drifting scene. With its twin-rotor engine, sleek design, and near-perfect balance, the FD3S offers exceptional performance on the track. Its high-revving rotary engine produces a distinctive sound that makes it a favorite among drifting fans. While the rotary engine requires more maintenance than a traditional piston engine, the RX-7’s overall performance and handling make it one of the best JDM cars for drifting.

**Nissan Skyline R32, R33, and R34**
The Nissan Skyline is another name that frequently comes up in discussions about the best JDM cars for drifting. While the Skyline R32, R33, and R34 all have their unique characteristics, they all share the same exceptional performance qualities that make them suitable for drifting.

The R32, also known as the "Godzilla" of the drifting world, was the car that helped establish the Skyline’s reputation for high-performance driving. With its powerful RB26DETT engine and sophisticated all-wheel-drive system, the R32 is an incredibly capable car on both the road and the track. However, many drifters prefer to convert it to rear-wheel drive for better drifting dynamics.

The R33 and R34 Skylines improved upon the R32's formula, offering more power, better handling, and advanced technology. These later models are also equipped with the RB26DETT engine, which provides ample power for drifting. While Skylines are often associated with the fast and furious world of street racing, they also make excellent drift cars when properly tuned.

**Subaru Impreza WRX STI**
While Subaru may be better known for its rally heritage, the Subaru Impreza WRX STI is also an excellent choice for drift enthusiasts. With its symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, turbocharged engine, and rugged design, the WRX STI offers impressive performance on a variety of terrains, including the drift track.

Many drift enthusiasts opt to convert the WRX STI from all-wheel drive to rear-wheel drive to enhance its drifting capabilities. When properly modified, the WRX STI can deliver exhilarating drifts with impressive control and stability. Its strong turbocharged engine and reliable handling make it a great choice for those who want a more versatile car that can handle different types of motorsports.

**Honda S2000**
The Honda S2000 may not be the first car that comes to mind when you think of drifting, but this lightweight sports car offers excellent handling and rear-wheel drive, making it a solid option for drift enthusiasts. With its high-revving 2.0L or 2.2L engine, the S2000 is built for performance, and its precise steering and balanced chassis allow for great control during drifts.

The S2000 is particularly popular among those who enjoy driving on the more technical aspects of the track. Its smaller size and responsive nature make it an excellent choice for tight corners and technical drifting. While it may not have the raw power of some other JDM drift cars, its handling capabilities make it a joy to drive and an underrated option for drift fans.

**Conclusion**
When it comes to JDM cars for drifting, the options are endless. Each car on this list has its unique characteristics, but all share the same fundamental qualities that make them perfect for drifting: rear-wheel drive, lightweight design, and plenty of aftermarket tuning potential. Whether you're drawn to the iconic Nissan Silvia S14, the legendary Toyota AE86, or the high-performance Mazda RX-7, these JDM cars offer incredible drifting experiences. As you continue to explore the world of drifting, the right car can make all the difference in honing your skills and taking your driving to the next level.