Can Front-Wheel Drive Cars Drift?
2 Answers
Front-wheel drive cars can drift. There are two forms of drifting: power drifting and handbrake drifting. Drifting is not just a fancy technique exclusive to rear-wheel drive cars; front-wheel drive cars can also drift, although it is more challenging than with rear-wheel drive cars. For front-wheel drive cars, power drifting is more difficult, while handbrake drifting is relatively easier. Front-wheel drive cars, where the engine is positioned at the front and the rear wheels are driven, represent a traditional drive configuration. Front-wheel drive cars do not require a rear drive shaft or rear gearbox, and the transmission system differs from that of rear-wheel drive cars, with fewer and more centralized components. This makes it easier to arrange other parts of the car, such as the braking system, fuel lines, and exhaust system, in the lower section of the vehicle. Most trucks, pickups, some sedans, and some buses adopt this drive configuration.
Just two days ago, I was drifting my manual Golf on a frozen lake. The key to drifting a front-wheel-drive car lies in weight transfer and handbrake coordination: before entering the turn, counter-steer slightly, then sharply pull the handbrake to lock the rear wheels while quickly counter-steering and applying throttle to let the front wheels pull the car out. However, regular front-wheel-drive cars aren’t as smooth as rear-wheel-drive ones—you’ll need a hydraulic handbrake or stiffer rear suspension. I recommend beginners practice on icy or gravel surfaces; asphalt roads wear tires too much, and stock brake systems can overheat easily. After drifting, always check brake pad thickness and tire wear. It’s fun for casual play, but for serious drifting, rear-wheel drive delivers more thrills.
