Can Rear-Wheel Drive Cars Drift?
2 Answers
Ordinary rear-wheel drive cars cannot drift, but modified rear-wheel drive cars can. Introduction to Drifting: Drifting is a driving technique, also known as "tail sliding." The driver causes the car to slide sideways by oversteering. This is usually compared to grip turning. Drifting is mainly used in performances or racing events with significant changes in road conditions. Due to the friction characteristics of the road surface, drifting is frequently applied in off-road rally races, while other types of speed racing rarely use drifting techniques for turning. This is because drifting on ordinary asphalt roads results in significant speed loss and increased tire wear. Unless under special circumstances, drivers do not frequently use this technique during competitions. Methods of Drifting: Pull the handbrake while driving straight and then turn the steering wheel; pull the handbrake during a turn; slam the brakes while driving straight and then turn the steering wheel; slam the brakes during a turn; for rear-wheel drive cars with sufficient power, slam the accelerator and turn the steering wheel when the speed is not too high.
I've driven quite a few rear-wheel-drive cars, and drifting is entirely possible and quite common. I remember once on a rural road, when I lightly pressed the accelerator while turning, the rear wheels immediately lost traction, and the car smoothly drifted, making the handling both fluid and exhilarating. The rear-wheel-drive design concentrates power on the rear axle, making it easier for the rear wheels to spin when the weight shifts, thus initiating a drift. This is very popular in the drifting community, with rear-wheel-drive cars being the mainstay in rally racing, for example. But honestly, for everyday driving, it's important to prioritize safety and not attempt it on public roads. If you really want to try it, find an open space to practice and experience the joy of free sliding—rear-wheel-drive cars are indeed more flexible and easier to handle in this aspect compared to front-wheel or all-wheel drives.
