So, you're thinking about drifting an automatic RWD (Rear-Wheel Drive) car? Buckle up, because you're in for a ride! While drifting is often associated with manual transmissions, it's totally possible to get your automatic sideways with the right techniques and a bit of practice. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from understanding the basics to mastering advanced maneuvers. Get ready to impress your friends (and maybe scare them a little)!

Understanding the Basics of Drifting

Before we dive into the specifics of drifting an automatic, let's cover the fundamentals. Drifting, at its core, is about intentionally oversteering – meaning the rear wheels lose traction while the front wheels maintain grip, causing the car to slide sideways. This controlled slide is what makes drifting so exhilarating, but it also requires a good understanding of vehicle dynamics and a healthy dose of car control.

Oversteer vs. Understeer

It's crucial to understand the difference between oversteer and understeer. Oversteer is when the rear wheels lose grip before the front wheels, causing the car to rotate more than intended. Understeer, on the other hand, is when the front wheels lose grip first, causing the car to push straight ahead instead of turning. Drifting is all about inducing and controlling oversteer.

RWD is Key

The reason we're focusing on RWD cars is that they're the easiest to drift. In a RWD car, the rear wheels are responsible for propelling the car forward, making it easier to break traction and initiate a slide. Front-wheel drive (FWD) cars are much harder to drift because the front wheels are both steering and driving the car. All-wheel drive (AWD) cars can be drifted, but the techniques are different and often require more power and skill.

The Importance of Car Control

Drifting isn't just about stomping on the gas and hoping for the best. It requires precise car control, including steering, throttle, and braking. You need to be able to anticipate how the car will react to your inputs and make adjustments accordingly. This comes with practice and a good feel for your car.

Preparing Your Automatic RWD Car for Drifting

Before you start throwing your car sideways, it's important to make sure it's properly prepared. This doesn't necessarily mean you need to spend a fortune on modifications, but there are a few key things to consider.

Tires

Tires are arguably the most important factor when it comes to drifting. You want tires that offer a good balance of grip and slip. Too much grip, and you won't be able to break traction. Too little grip, and you'll just spin out. Many drifters prefer to use slightly worn tires in the rear, as they're easier to break loose. Tire pressure also plays a role. Lowering the tire pressure can increase grip, while increasing the pressure can make it easier to break traction. Experiment to see what works best for your car and driving style.

Suspension

A good suspension setup can make a big difference in how your car handles while drifting. Stiffer springs and dampers can help reduce body roll and improve responsiveness. Adjustable coilovers are a popular choice among drifters, as they allow you to fine-tune the suspension to your liking. However, even a basic suspension upgrade can improve your car's handling and make it easier to control while drifting.

Limited-Slip Differential (LSD)

A limited-slip differential (LSD) is a must-have for serious drifting. An LSD helps distribute power evenly to both rear wheels, even when one wheel loses traction. This is crucial for maintaining a consistent slide and preventing the inside wheel from spinning uselessly. If your car doesn't already have an LSD, it's well worth the investment.

Other Considerations

• Brakes: Make sure your brakes are in good working order. You'll be using them a lot while drifting, so you want them to be reliable.
• Fluid: Check all your fluids (oil, coolant, brake fluid, etc.) to make sure they're at the proper levels. Drifting can be hard on your car, so you want to make sure everything is properly lubricated and cooled.
• Safety Gear: Wear a helmet and appropriate safety gear. Drifting can be dangerous, so it's important to protect yourself.

Techniques for Drifting an Automatic RWD Car

Okay, now for the fun part! Here are a few techniques you can use to drift your automatic RWD car.

The Power Over Technique

The power over technique is perhaps the simplest way to initiate a drift in an automatic car. It involves using the car's power to break the rear wheels loose. Here's how it works:

1. Approach a corner at a moderate speed.
2. As you enter the corner, apply a generous amount of throttle.
3. The rear wheels should start to lose traction, causing the car to oversteer.
4. Use the steering wheel to countersteer – that is, steer in the opposite direction of the turn – to control the slide.
5. Modulate the throttle to maintain the drift. Too much throttle, and you'll spin out. Too little throttle, and the car will straighten out.

The key to the power over technique is finding the right balance between throttle and steering. It takes practice, but once you get the hang of it, it's a very effective way to initiate a drift.

The Clutch Kick (Sort Of) Technique

Since you're driving an automatic, you don't have a clutch pedal to kick. However, you can simulate a clutch kick by quickly tapping the brakes with your left foot while simultaneously applying throttle with your right foot. This will upset the car's balance and make it easier to break the rear wheels loose.

1. Approach a corner at a moderate speed.
2. As you enter the corner, quickly tap the brakes with your left foot while simultaneously applying throttle with your right foot.
3. The rear wheels should start to lose traction, causing the car to oversteer.
4. Use the steering wheel to countersteer to control the slide.
5. Modulate the throttle to maintain the drift.

This technique requires a bit of coordination, but it can be very effective for initiating a drift in an automatic car. Practice makes perfect.

The Scandinavian Flick (or Pendulum Turn)

The Scandinavian flick, also known as the pendulum turn, is a more advanced technique that involves using weight transfer to initiate a drift. It's a bit more complex than the power over technique, but it can be very effective, especially in tighter corners.

1. Approach a corner at a moderate speed.
2. Before you reach the turn-in point, quickly steer in the opposite direction of the turn. This will shift the car's weight to the outside.
3. As you reach the turn-in point, quickly steer back in the direction of the turn. This will shift the car's weight back to the inside, causing the rear wheels to lose traction.
4. Use the steering wheel to countersteer to control the slide.
5. Modulate the throttle to maintain the drift.

The Scandinavian flick requires precise timing and a good understanding of weight transfer. It's not something you'll master overnight, but with practice, you can add it to your drifting arsenal.

Using the E-Brake (Sparingly)

The emergency brake (e-brake) can be used to initiate a drift, but it should be used sparingly, especially in an automatic car. Overuse of the e-brake can damage your car's braking system. However, in certain situations, a quick tug on the e-brake can be an effective way to break the rear wheels loose.

1. Approach a corner at a moderate speed.
2. As you enter the corner, give the e-brake a quick tug.
3. The rear wheels should lock up momentarily, causing the car to oversteer.
4. Release the e-brake and use the steering wheel to countersteer to control the slide.
5. Modulate the throttle to maintain the drift.

Use the e-brake with caution, and only when necessary. It's generally better to rely on other techniques, such as the power over or Scandinavian flick, to initiate a drift.

Tips for Drifting an Automatic

Drifting an automatic car presents unique challenges. Here are some tips to help you overcome them:

• Use manual mode: If your automatic transmission has a manual mode, use it! This will give you more control over gear selection and engine RPM, which is crucial for drifting.
• Anticipate gear changes: Automatic transmissions can sometimes be slow to shift gears, which can disrupt your drift. Anticipate when the transmission is going to shift and adjust your throttle input accordingly.
• Be smooth: Smooth inputs are key to drifting an automatic car. Avoid jerky movements and sudden changes in throttle or steering. The smoother you are, the easier it will be to control the car.
• Practice, practice, practice: Drifting takes practice, no matter what kind of car you're driving. Find a safe, open area where you can practice without endangering yourself or others. The more you practice, the better you'll get.

Safety First!

Drifting can be a lot of fun, but it's important to remember that it can also be dangerous. Always drift in a safe, controlled environment, such as a racetrack or closed course. Never drift on public roads or in areas where there are pedestrians or other vehicles. Wear a helmet and appropriate safety gear, and make sure your car is properly maintained.

By following these tips and techniques, you can learn to drift your automatic RWD car like a pro. Just remember to be patient, practice regularly, and always prioritize safety. Now get out there and start sliding!